high efficiency washer and dryer in laundry room

Before You Buy a New Washer and Dryer, Read This

/11 Comments/in , , /by Mary Hunt

If your washer or dryer is on its last spin, take a deep breath. Replacing them doesn’t have to drain your savings or your sanity. Before you get lost in a maze of “smart” features and fancy price tags, learn what actually matters. From maintenance must-knows to tips from a repair pro, here’s the practical guide to making a smart, confident laundry upgrade.

high efficiency washer and dryer in laundry room

Nothing says “adulting” quite like realizing your washing machine is officially done for. Ben recently found himself there and wrote to ask a great question.

Dear Mary: The pump in our older washing machine has gone out so rather than the big repair bill to have it replaced we’ve decided it’s time for a new washer and dryer. Are high-efficiency models worth it? And which brands do you recommend? Ben

Dear Ben: Ah, the crossroads every homeowner faces: fix the old machine or take the plunge into something new. Let’s dig in…

Are High-Efficiency Washers Worth It?

High-efficiency (HE) washers do an excellent job for everyday laundry. The main benefit over traditional top-loading machines is water use. They need far less of it, which is why they’re called “high-efficiency.” Less water means shorter dry times, smaller utility bills, and a lighter environmental footprint. That’s good news whether you’re watching your budget, your energy bill, or your carbon footprint.

Front-Load vs. Top-Load: What to Know Before You Buy

Front-load washers have earned a loyal following for good reason. They’re efficient, gentle on clothes, and built to last. While traditional top-load agitator models are familiar and reliable, they use a lot more water and can be rougher on fabrics over time.

High-efficiency (HE) top-loaders offer some improvements over agitator models, using a low-profile impeller to move clothes through the water more gently. They’re a reasonable compromise if budget or familiarity is your priority, but they don’t match the long-term efficiency and performance of front-loaders.

Front-load HE washers, on the other hand, provide the best of both worlds: gentle yet thorough cleaning, faster spin speeds that cut dryer time, and significant water savings. Many can also be stacked with a dryer to free up floor space, ideal for compact laundry rooms or apartments. Just make sure to use the proper stacking kit so your dryer stays securely in place. Nobody wants a tumble mid-cycle.

How to Avoid Mold and Odor in HE Washers

High-efficiency washers do need a little TLC to stay in top shape. The rubber gasket around the door, which keeps water inside during cycles, can trap moisture and become a hotspot for mold or mildew if it’s not cleaned regularly. Wipe it down after each load and leave the door slightly open to let air circulate. This simple habit goes a long way in preventing funky odors.

You’ll also want to stick with HE detergent. It’s formulated to produce fewer suds, which helps your washer operate efficiently. Regular detergent can confuse the sensors, leave residue, and even shorten your machine’s lifespan. Not worth the risk.

How to Choose the Right Washer and Dryer for Your Budget

If your dryer is still working well, there’s no need to replace it just for the sake of a matching set. Function matters more than looks. A well-maintained older dryer can keep churning for years. Just clean the lint screen after every load and make sure the vent stays clear.

Before shopping, it helps to know a few numbers. The average washer lasts 10–14 years, while dryers typically run 10–13 years, assuming moderate family use (around eight loads a week). Prices vary, but here’s what you can expect:

Appliance Type Average Cost

  • Washing Machine: $700–$1,300
  • Dryer: $800–$1,200
  • Washer & Dryer Combo: $1,200–$1,700
  • Full Set: $1,000–$2,300

Installation usually adds $100–$300 depending on your setup.

After swapping notes with a repairman who’s fixed every washer under the sun and answering more reader emails about this than I can count, here’s the plan I’d follow myself:

1. Set a Budget

Decide what you’re willing to spend and stick to it. This keeps you focused and prevents impulse buys, especially with all those “premium” models with bells and whistles you might never use.

2. Identify Must-Have Features

Make a short list of your top three priorities. A basic top-load washer usually covers load size and temperature management. Anything beyond that is bonus. Ask yourself: Do I really need the extra features, or will the basics get the job done?

3. Take a Store Tour

Head to a retailer like Costco or Best Buy with your list of must-haves. Pay attention to the machines that match your needs, and don’t get distracted by flashy extras. Listen to what the sales staff say, but let your list guide you.

Pro Tip: Check your local big box store regularly. The scratch-and-dent inventory changes constantly. You can score a high-quality appliance at a significant discount.

4. Make the Decision

Once you’ve found a model that fits your budget and meets your must-have requirements, commit. Arrange delivery and installation, and don’t second-guess yourself. Waiting for the “perfect” machine can keep you searching indefinitely and add unnecessary stress.

Our Real-Life Pick: Best Inexpensive Washer & Dryer

LG front load washer and dryer combo bundle

When our 15-year-old LG top-load washer started clanking like it had a small marching band in the drum, we knew it was time for a serious decision. Sure, we thought about taking it apart and fixing the broken ball bearing ourselves, but the tutorial promised a one-hour-and-30-minute adventure that neither of us had the patience for. Sometimes, even the most determined DIYer has to call it.

So, we bit the bullet and did what I always recommend: we set a budget, made a list of must-have features, and spent three weeks researching our options. The goal wasn’t just to replace a clunky old washer. It was to step up to a high-efficiency front loader that could handle everything from delicates to king-size blankets, save water, and operate quietly.

After weighing features, reliability, and price, we landed on a bundle from Costco: the LG 4.5 cu. ft. Front Load Washer with TurboWash 360° paired with the 7.4 cu. ft. Gas Dryer with TurboSteam and Built-In Intelligence.

Could we have gone cheaper? Sure. But this set offered a competitive price for the performance, durability, and features we were looking for. We were also ready to make the switch to a high-efficiency front loader. Right now, we don’t have them stacked, but that’s part of the grand plan once the garage is a bit more organized.

Things We Love About This Washer and Dryer Set

After living with this set for a while, here’s what’s really stood out:

  • Smart notifications: The app pings you when a cycle is done, so no more “oh no, I left the wash overnight” moments.
  • Maintenance reminders: It nudges you to run a tub-clean cycle every 30 washes and reminds you to clean the dryer lint filter with water every 10 dry cycles. Little reminders like these keep the machines running longer and your laundry smelling fresh.
  • Remote start: Load the washer before heading out and start it later from your phone. Perfect for avoiding that damp, musty smell when clothes sit too long.
  • Customizable cycles: Download new cycles like Single Garments (quick wash for one item), Denim, Half Load, and Overnight Wash. These options reduce noise, prevent wrinkles, and let you tailor each load to your needs.
  • Quiet and efficient: The spin cycle pulls out so much water that drying time is noticeably shorter. And it’s quiet enough that you can run it during dinner without shouting over it.
  • Roomy and convenient: Large loads fit comfortably, and the optional pedestal drawers make loading and unloading a breeze.

This washer and dryer deliver exactly what we needed: reliable performance, thoughtful features, and the kind of quiet confidence that comes from knowing we made an informed, practical choice.

 

Question: What’s the longest you’ve ever kept a washer or dryer running and what finally made you replace it? Share in the comments below.

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11 replies
  1. Sue says:

    original whirlpool duet – made in Germany purchased in 2005. Lasted with zero repairs/3 sons who played sport and 3 moves. The dryer is still running well but we replaced the washer in 2024 with a speed queen. The washer would still be with us but was overloaded by a houseguest :). Loved that Duet. Speed queen was pricy and just like the laundry mat front loaders Not whisper quiet but they say we will have to put it in our will.

    Reply
  2. Amanda says:

    I’ve had my GE washer (top load) and dryer for about 15 years. I’ve had to make one repair on my dryer (my dad helped me) and one repair on my washer (by myself). My washer is making a HORRIBLE noise now when it is agitating, but I’ve looked into it and I think I can fix it myself. It’s still working right now and I just haven’t had the time.

    Reply
  3. Karin Gazda says:

    I just traded in the washer & dryer my Dad had. It was a Kenmore 600 series from 2009 it still ran but the inside galvanized washer tub was showing signs of rust so yes they still were running when I sold them. Purchased a GE set & love them so far.

    Reply
  4. Wendy says:

    I absolutely love front loaders, one big reason is the ability to stack them, not having to bend over to pull items out of the dryer is literally a back-saver.

    One thing to keep in mind is that when stacking machines they must be the same. When our dryer gave out but the washer was fine we still had to buy both in order to stack them, which is a necessity for us. In the intervening years changes had been made and a new dryer would not stack with our old washer, even the same brand.

    Reply
  6. Mrs. Mary V Butcher says:

    We have purchased only two washer/dryer sets in 63 years of marriage. First was Kenmore top loader which lasted over 25 years. Subtract 2 years of renting prior to purchase, then some 40 years later, subtract 4 years to build a new home. Bought Maytag front loader in 1994. This machine has had heavy use with many, many family members living long-term with us and is still going strong. However, I replaced the washer motor with help of U Tube and my grandson (who is more flexible and can bend in ways to reach places I could not), and my husband (who hands are stronger and could undo bolts I could not) but the repair itself was pretty simple; take the old piece out, put the new piece in, hook it up according to instructions. If I can do it, anybody can do it. Then after a short period of time, the machine started making noises that are from the bearings, but I just ignore them and the machine still works fine albeit noisily. We will see how long this machine will last!!

    Reply
  7. Kelley says:

    We wanted a reliable, sturdy, American made pair…without the bells and whistles. Preferably with a dial instead of technological buttons. We purchased a matching set of Speed Queens with a five year warranty on both the washer and dryer. We’re very happy with them! They cost more but are not throwaway appliances.

    Reply
  8. Linda Wilson says:

    I’m not handy, so I always have a service tech give me a repair quote, especially for dryers. They can be cheap & easy to fix lasting many more years. Washers can be more “beat up”, but it’s still worth checking. I’ve saved thousands over the years. Love the front load washers. Won’t go back to top loaders 🙂

    Reply
  9. Lynne says:

    My newlywed husband and I bought our first washer and dryer set in May of 1988 – Sears Kenmore brand. We finally had to replace the washer in January of 2024 and the dryer in May of 2025 – 35 and 37 years service respectively. Not too bad, huh? 🙂 We raised two boys who were active in sports, etc. so this set saw a LOT of laundry during all those years including cloth diapers when our babies were born. Yes, we did have to make minor repairs in the machines’ lifetimes, but we were able to DIY most of those repairs. After much research and comparing, we replaced both the washer and dryer with Speed Queens – purchased from a local family-owned appliance sales and repair store. So far, I’m very pleased with our purchases. I can only hope that we get half the years service out of these Speed Queens that we got out of the Kenmores.

    Reply
  10. Jan T says:

    The first washer/dryer I owned came with the house we bought in 1974. Top loader, lasted until 2024, at least 30 years. I replaced it with the washer/dryer I have now and it still works well, 21+ years. Also top loader. I can’t get over my preference for top loading washers: if you have a cup of water upright, the water stays in it. If you tip the cup on its side, the water spills out. I know there are supposed to be water-tight seals on the front loaders, but in my experience with other “watertight” seals, those degrade over time. The necessary regular maintenance and having to stoop over to unload make me less than keen to try anything else. I’ll stick with this until it utterly gives up.

    Reply

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