Seems to use a reasonable amount of water, as you can always see it sloshing around in the drum. Every so often, there are some fabrics or items that seem to retain the detergent suds more than other loads. Then it is a simple matter to flip the "extra rinse" switch on. For a bulky sleeping bag, for instance, we've learned to use the extra rinse, since we don't like any detergent perfumes to remain in the bag. The machine controls are so basic, however, that you must remember to flip the "extra rinse" option off for the next load as it does not reset to a "default" off setting. To counter that, we developed the habit of scanning ALL the control settings (as in all three; big deal) prior to walking away from the machine. Simple, but effective.

This was discussed very recently here. The following Google search term (sq OR "speed queen") miele site:ths.gardenweb.com will find some relevant threads.

I purchased a Speed Queen front loading washer and matching dryer about 9 months ago. Once the washer was properly balanced, the pair have operated flawlessly. The washing cycles are shorter than those used by others manufacturers. I have not understood the need to have long washing cycles. The Speed Queen washer does a fine job in cleaning our clothes. The Speed Queen washer cleans our clothes better than our previous Kitchenaid top loading washer. Granted, my family of four does not stain or dirty their clothes heavily. I prefer the shorter washing cycles because I can do more loads in a given period of time. The Speed Queen drying time is much shorter compared to the Kitchenaid pair. I placed my bet on Speed Queen to be a reliable and long-lasting product. Have you heard of Speed Queen washers with mold/mildew problems even though they are heavily abused in laundromats? Who does not want a washer and dryer that are built to higher standards using commercial parts? Do you want your washer to have a stainless steel outer and inner tubs? Not many manufacturers do that becuase it increases the manufacturing costs. For more discussion and information on Speed Queen products on this website, you can use the search function. I would think that you would be happy a Speed Queen purchase. If you plan for the long term, the higher initial cost of the Speed Queen pair will be spread over a greater number of years because the products are more reliable and longer lasting.

Comparing this and a speed queen is like comparing a car and an abrams tank! Yes they both drive, but the speed queen is IMMENSELY better built. That being said that is an EXCELLENT buy in terms of price of units alone (I don't love maytag/whirlpool, but they are decent units). Normally pedestals are $400 or so for a pair…so $1100 for a laundry pair delivered and installed is very low.