What's this? This score is based primarily on washing ability, efficiency, capacity, and noise. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Price range:
$1,098.99 - $1,449.99
Summary:
This Whirlpool Front-loader washing machine has
• Auto temp. control
• Auto detergent dispenser
• Auto fabric softener dispenser
• End of cycle signal
• Rotary dial
• Stainless-steel tub
• Stackable
• Manufacturer recommends low-sudsing detergent.
• Comes with a 1 year warranty.
The Whirlpool Duet WFW96HEA[W] is part of the washing machine
test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, front-loading washing machine
models like the Duet WFW96HEA[W] are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
Washing performance:
This reflects the degree of color change to swatches of fabric that were included in an 8-pound and maximum capacity test load of mixed cotton items using the machines' most aggressive normal cycle. (We do not use special cycle or option buttons.)
Energy efficiency:
This score is based on the energy needed to heat the water for 8-pound and maximum loads using a warm wash and cold rinse. We consider both gas and electric water heaters, and include electricity needed to run the washer and energy needed for drying. Washers that extract more water are scored higher.
Water efficiency:
This score denotes how much water it took to wash our 8-pound load and each machine's maximum load. On models that didn't set the fill level automatically, we used the lowest fill setting that sufficed for the 8-pound load. We then calculated water used per pound of clothing.
About This Brand
As with Kenmore, Whirlpool has a number of lines: Whirlpool Duet HT, Whirlpool Duet Steam, Whirlpool Duet Sport HT, and Whirlpool Duet Sport. In the coming year, Whirlpool will be promoting and advancing the use of steam on more of its models across the line. Prices range from $800 to $1,600. Whirlpool washers are known for the wide range of model choices and the variety of features on those machines.
Energy star The federal Energy Star program, administered by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, identifies a wide range of home appliances that use 10-50% less energy and water than standard models. These appliances can help you use less energy at home and save money on your utility bills.
Energy star
Yes
Stainless-steel tub Tubs constructed of stainless steel are likely to be more durable than plastic or porcelain, and they allow for higher spin speeds. Plastic is the next most durable choice.
Stainless-steel tub
Yes
Auto temp. control This feature automatically mixes hot and cold water to reach the chosen wash temperature (which differs on various makes of washers). It's a good way to compensate for normal variations in tap-water temperature and prevents problems caused by water that's too cold, which keeps detergent from working properly.
Auto temp. control
Yes
Auto bleach dispenser Automatic Bleach dispenser releases the bleach at the proper point in the cycle, giving the detergent additives sufficient time to work.
We have 2 toddlers, so we use the washer a lot. About a month after we bought the machine (a year and a half ago), I started noticing F errors (F-17, F-21, etc.) appearing in the middle of a cycle. We'd unplug the machine and restart the cycle and it'd work if we switched the load setting to heavy duty. But about a month ago, we lost the ability to run a washload on any cycle other than heavy duty, and finally had a repairman out. Turns out there were half a dozen toddler socks sucked into the drain out-wash. If you're going to wash small things, make sure they're in garment bags.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By jdg
from Boston, Mass.
(7 of 7 customers found this review helpful)
4.0
So Far, So Good
3/9/2013
Pros
Adjustable Settings
Energy Efficient
Large Capacity
Quiet
Spins Clothes Dry
Cons
Best Uses
Comment:
I was really worried about spending nearly $1,100 for a washing machine, but I really wanted a HE front-loader. So far, I've been impressed with how quietly it operates and how dry clothes are at the end of the wash. My only issue is the force of the spin cycle can leave wrinkles in some items that even the dryer doesn't release easily. (To be fair, we have a really old dryer.) That said, I love the features, esp. delay start and detergent auto-dispense, and the regular cycle is at least 15 minutes shorter than other models. We were able to get a five-year warranty for a price that made it hard to turn down in case we end up with bearing trouble, which seems to plague the Whirlpool brand. It's only been a few weeks, but I'm looking forward to many years of great service.
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.
By Dagwood
from Green Valley, AZ
(9 of 9 customers found this review helpful)
5.0
Best washer ever
3/1/2013
Pros
Clean Clothes Well
Large Capacity
Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
Everyday Clothes
Comment:
I am in the process of selling my home and the buyers want the washer and dryer to stay with the home. Strange how after two years I have become attached to my waher and dryer. This washer is quite, gentle and yet cleans clothing very well. It is the best washer I have ever had and well worth the money. It is also beautiful with its blue lights and unique sound tones to let you know what is happening. My only critisism is, when washing a single heavy items such as a bath towel it doesn't spin dry as well as it should. Washing several heavy items together works best. <br />I will definitly be buying this machine for my new home.