The main differences are generally believed to be better longevity of clothes, less water used, but longer wash times in a FL; the gap is closing though.

lglg...(this is my point of view).
ALL specs can't be the same when comparing FL's vs. TL's.
Most (not all) FL's have on board heaters, I believe only HE type TL's have heaters. The on board heaters can hold or raise the water temp for more effective cleaning.
Capacity is bigger...you just can't wash a thick bed comforter in a traditional TL, no matter what the capacity. There just isn't enough or any turn over. (Turn over is very important to get clothes clean in a TL.)
Half or more than half, water consumption compared to a TL.
Using less water saves you on your water bill.
Using less water means less water to heat (gas,electric,oil consumption) i.e. lower gas, electric or oil bill.
Supposedly they are gentler on clothes than TL's, lengthening the life of garments.
Quoted on this site:
"Laundry cleaning is generally thought to be the product of three inputs of energy: Thermal energy (hot water), mechanical energy (agitation or tumbling), and chemical energy (detergent mixtures). A front loader can result in more even cleaning of full loads, and can maximize washing efficiency more easily and economically than a top loader, by heating a smaller amount of wash water for more thermal energy, extending the wash cycle time for more mechanical energy, and concentrating the detergent for more chemical energy."

Boy, now you opened up Pandora's box! LOL In this forum many people are very defensive of their washer(s).

A lot depends on which top loader you're comparing to which front loader. I wouldn't agree that a Danby will hold more than the 4.6 cf Cabrio! So don't take blanket statements. Compare machine to machine.

I'm not sure that most front loaders have heaters. You have to double check. And on many (probably most?) of them, the heaters do NOT work on all cycles! This is a fact that is often overlooked. The heater can be a good thing for removing certain types of stains, and for doing a "profile" wash that starts with cold water and works its way up to use different temperatures of water to remove stains that won't be removed at lower temps, but not having the other stains "set" by the higher temp. That said, FLs vary on the temperature they can obtain. Some, I believe are as low as 150 or maybe less? Some go over 200°! That's quite a variation. I'm not sure that 150° is a very significant contribution since I can easily get 140+° (and actually much more if I wanted) with my old top loader simply by turning up the water heater! I can simulate a profile wash, but yes, I'll use more water. How much more? Varies by the load.

Front loaders will usually use less water, virtually always. And yes, because of this you should use less detergent. Some people make a big thing out of the massive amount of money you'll save on water and detergent by using a FL. I wouldn't save that much and certainly not enough to save upward of $1000 or more. But again, it will vary by machine. But I will say that there's not many places where those savings will pay for the generally much higher cost of the machine, so compare by features and "cost savings" are more of a perk than a reason to buy unless water conservation is a personal issue to you rather than an unbiased cost comparison.

If you're like me who cannot bend over to reach into the machine, you'll need a pedestal on a front loader and that will add a couple hundred dollars to the machine cost and will further make the cost savings lessened, or I should say take much longer to pay back with the savings. One thing I find interesting is that FLs seem to use about 1/3 or possibly less water according to many claims, yet they require 1/2 the detergent amount. Doesn't add up to me. Molly has recommended to many people to start with 1/4 which would be logical, but I see so many that use much more in a FL so I'm not sure if it requires more detergent proportionately than a top loader or what the deal is.

Agitation of a machine varies from machine to machine and again there's no blanket statements that can be made. Many have problems with FL twisting clothes, but some have that problem on certain TL models too.

No matter what machine you have, you need to learn how to use it for best results. Oh, and the other thing is the cycle times are generally much longer on a FL than on a TL. For many this is a consideration. For many, it's not. I generally put in a load and come back later - not waiting for it so I'd just wait longer if I had a FL. Often, it can take less time to dry the load than it takes to wash. With mine, it takes longer to dry than wash, unless I do extra rinsing but that's not very often.

The specs being the same? Well, which specs? Spin speed, capacity are good comparisons, however I recall someone explaining the difference in a top load vs. a front load for spinning and as I recall there was a difference in effectiveness on them. I don't recall the details, nor the scientific explanation so I won't go into it. Could be something to research. Regardless, if you have a machine with 1000 RPM spin speed you're going to extract a LOT of water, shorten your dry time and one other thing, many won't use those high speeds all the time anyway so again it's a potentially very limited use feature so don't be misled.

Very few top loaders have vibration issues if used on an upper floor. It's quite common with front loaders. That can be another issue to consider.

High efficiency top loaders do a good job of saving money up front and as you go. Again, it depends on the actual machines being compared, but if you have physical issues to consider, it could make a difference.

Let's see, what else off the top of my head... Front loaders generally fit into a kitchen cabinet scheme appearance-wise better than a top loader. But then you couldn't use the pedestals.

Sometimes you can't add a garment once the cycle starts on some front loaders. Many have the ability for a while at least. To me it's not a big feature but is much easier on a TL.

Some front loaders require a 220 volt connection. Another up front expense to consider if you have to have one installed.

I do use the top of my washer for folding clothes. Many don't. I think with a pedestal it would not be as convenient and probably eliminate this feature.

Front loaders are far more finicky on airing out after use than are top loaders, mostly because they seal tight (hopefully!) when in use where top loaders don't have to. The smell and mold issues are far less common on a top loader but again is an issue of proper use more often than not.

I share your confusion! I'm trying to decide what will be my next purchase when the time comes and I'm wavering. For me a pedestal is necessary, I use the basement, concrete floor so vibration shouldn't be an issue. Water cost is not a big thing, nor is detergent. I like the idea of a heater for an occasional use but I think something like the Fisher & Paykal or a Harmony would be a good compromise for me. But I'm also watching the reviews on the Epic so I really don't know which way I'll go.

Let's face facts, this isn't rocket science, it's only some chemistry. It's a machine that dunks clothes in water and detergent, moves them around and spins some of the water out of the clothes. And any properly working machine will give you clean clothes when used properly. Some machines have more bells and whistles and might make some things easier.

Good luck in your choice. Be sure to let us know what you decide!

I think Cynic covered all the basics. Some points to consider are going to be 1. how much laundry you do, 2. where the machine will be located, and 3. if anyone has skin problems.
1. If you do a lot of laundry, a larger HE TL machine could be a better choice. The cycles are generally longer on FLers, and most of the machines at my local stores are around 3.5 to 4.0 cf. My Cabrio HE is 4.5 cf. The 3.8 cf FLer I tried did not hold much more than my old Kenmore Super Capacity Plus washer, the Cabrio does hold a lot more. I now do half the number of loads a week than I did with my old Kenmore.

2. If the machine is not going to be on a cement slab (or basement), make sure it can be exchanged for a TLer free of charge if you have vibration issues (many stores will charge a restocking fee on the exchange). If the machine will be on the first of second floor (over a basement or crawl space on first floor) you might not want to get a pedestal because they can make vibrations worse.

3. If anyone has skin issues, the very small amount of water used in FLers for rinsing could be a problem. I speak from experience. I have exema (allergic atopic dermatitis) and rosacea. I had to use 3 rinses on most loads with the FLer to remove enough detergent residue (using 1/2 to 1 TBSP of detergent) so my skin problems were not too bad. With the Cabrio a single rinse works for me on all loads but bedding and towels (I have not had a real flair up since two weeks after I got the Cabrio, and that flair up was lingering from the FLer), this is the same as I used with the traditional TLer I had. The Cabrio HE does use less water than the old TLers, but more water than a FLer.

I also tend to think that it will probably take longer than the machine will last to save the amount of money on water and detergent that you spend up front if you buy one of the fancy (expensive) FLers.

Joanne

I think that the major US manufacturers (Whirlpool/Maytag and GE) have chosen to redesign the TL washer to become HE's instead of retooling their production lines to make FL washers. They are now importing their FL's from Germany.

If you are spending your rebate money, buy US manufactured products !!

I personally like FL's better. I had used TL's for the longest time. I decided to switch to a FL due to the fact I do more laundry now than before and our village raised our water rates per gallon of usage quite substancially. I wanted to save on my water bill. On top of that, the FL cleans my clothes far better than any TL I have ever used.

To give you specifics, my water bill was averaging $500.00 every three months. I got my FL washer, including a 5 year protection plan, no stand, for $900.00. Concidering my new FL uses half or less than the water used in my TL, and that I no longer have to do rewashes because the FL cleans better, I figure I will be saving about $300.00 off my water bill every 3 months. Therefore, within a year, my new FL will have paid for itself and after will be profit saved in my pocket.

Mind you, those figures do not include money saved on electric, gas, laundry detergent and buying new clothes to replace ones that wore out to quickly.

Due to all these factors, it was well worth saving up for a FL. I will say this much, not all FL's are equal. I did a lot of research on washing machines before I decided which I would purchase. I compared price, performance reviews, and attributes on many models. I found some very expensive FL's that got bad reviews and did not have as many options as what I would class as my moderately priced FL.

Ultimately, one's choice of washing machine varies as to need and cost. So what may be a good choice of washing machine for one may not be the right for another. In the end, it's entirely up to the individual which would suit them best. For me, my FL suits me and my needs best.

And I'll offer an alternative to this statement from above: "If you're like me who cannot bend over to reach into the machine, you'll need a pedestal on a front loader."

Many of us have sat on small stools parked in front of washer for years -- since before pedestals were on the market.

My FH had a bad back. He found the FL and folding camp stool (used for unloading the dryer too) to be MUCH easier on his back than pulling out wet clothes from the old TL. Your mileage may vary.

I find that I can toss the wet clothes into the dryer more easily when I'm sitting at the level of both machine's openings. Of course, I line dry a lot too!

Awesome feedback! Thanks everyone. Very impressed.

L.G.

For me, mine uses less water. I'm on a well and that makes a big difference. My FL is much quieter than any of the top loaders I've had over the years, and my daughter noticed the same thing with her new FL. I wanted a stacked WD, so a FL was the logical choice.

FWIW....the big new TL's have a deeeeeep well to reach into. I've never understood how that's easier than FL. Other than that, the horizontal-tumble action of the FL's seems to me to be inarguably superior to what the TL's are showing. Assuming mechanical reliability (jury's still out on that...for all HE designs) I think the FL's are flat-out better-cleaning machines.

I've had Duet for a little over three years, now. My first experience. Thing's been more-or-less flawless. Decided against GE Harmony at the time because the agitation concept seemed weird to me. Very satisfied to date.

>asolo wrote: FWIW....the big new TL's have a deeeeeep well to reach into. I've never understood how that's easier than FL

You must be short. I am very tall, and it's EASY for me to reach into a TL - MUCH easier than stooping all the way to the floor to unload a FL. To each their own!

FLs are supposed to clean clothes better, but there are still complaints about towels 'smelling'. And sometimes, depending on the person, you may need to change your laundry habits to make the switch to a FL.

I, personally, decided to buy a new TL last week, after lots of research here and elsewhere. My main reason was due to vibration issues with FLs. We have a 2nd floor laundry room and I didn't want the aggrevation that I've heard others have experienced with their new FLs.

Good luck with whatever you decide!

...water bill was averaging $500.00 every three months...

HOLY MACKERAL!!! How many gallons do you use in a month? Does it come to you bottled? LOL

Just goes to show differences and why you have to examine your situation rather than just accept a blanket theory. My combined bill for water, sanitary sewer, no-sort recycling, street light utility, storm sewer, electric line fees, and a couple other assorted taxes and fees runs about $45 every three months, of which about $8 I think was for water.

In fairness though, a decrease in water use would result in a lower sewer bill to since that's how it's calculated here, but again, that's not done that way everywhere.

>asolo wrote: FWIW....the big new TL's have a deeeeeep well to reach into. I've never understood how that's easier than FL

IMO it is very easy to remove items from my Cabrio HE (big new TLer), easier than it was to remove items from my old TLer, or from the FLer I had for a couple weeks. Since there is no aggitator in the middle it is very easy to reach in and remove items even from the back of the machine, and I am only 5'1". You would have to try out the machine you had in mind though. The Cabrio has a very wide opening at the top, the GE Profile HE TLer has a smaller opening and that might make it harder for a small person to reach the back of the drum (it is generally a smaller washer though).

Joanne

Conditions vary. My water/Sewer bill is $68 per month and that's with a front loader and enery efficient DW and I just heard that we are getting a rate increase. Hate to think what it would be with an older TL.

Be careful though, sewer is normally higher than the water costs. I just opened my current water bill a few minutes ago and I'm paying $0.00155 per gallon of water. So let's see, if I save 25 gallons per load it would be less than 3.9¢ per load which would mean I'd need to do 11,045 loads to pay for the pedestals... which would happen in about 92 years by my calculations. :)

So, I guess it's back to my other point, that the "savings" is a perk, not a rationale for most people. Good grief if I were paying $500/mo for water, I'd spend a few thousand and put in a well!

Like I said, bringing up FL v. TL is Pandora's box. You'll get agreement on abortion, politics, religion and the Middle East before gaining a consensus on a washing machine. I figure it this way, if you are in love with a front loader, get one. If you prefer a topper, get one. Use a washboard if you like. Just be fair and straightforward about it when people ask for advice. Nuff said. No lecture or offense intended.

My best advice for people in the market: Do some planning and make a list of your needs, use, wants and budget. Consider space needs, physical limitations if any or other unique things to your situation. For some people with vision impairment the dials or readouts could make a difference. Then do some reasearch, and you should be able to find something to fit your needs. Then hopefully you'll have good reliable service out of it too. There's clearly no one machine that is perfect for everyone. It'd be nice if people could at least agree on that. I'm still open to either type. There's pros and cons to each and right now I can't say for sure which I'll buy when the time comes. I just like to think I'm educating myself to look at the big picture instead of just a name or color of the machine. Hopefully it'll be another 30 years before I have to decide!

Good post, cynic. Everyone has things that they like about TLs and same goes for FLs.

What I can't figure out is I see posts from people that say, "I LOVE my FL...but all my clothes smell!". Well, if the washing machine - which is supposed to CLEAN your clothes (that's really the MAIN purpose, CORRECT?) makes the clothes smell - WHY do you LOVE it?

Then you get people that RAVE about how much water they save by using a FL machine, and then they jump into their big soaker tubs for a nightly bath or have a daily shower with a non-water-saving shower head. There are TONS of ways to save water that don't have to include getting a FL washing machine (how about doing LESS loads? You'd be surprised how many people wash clothes that aren't even really all that dirty in the first place).

My conculsion (based on what I've learned in my research) is that people tend to buy FLs more for asthetics and modern technology more than for any other reason. They are really 'blasting' you at the appliance stores about how these are 'energy savers' - and in Canada we even get to save PST on the washers - but we'd have to own them a very, very, very long time for the excessive up-front cost of the FLs to ever match the savings of a TL. Most buyers don't do their homework and get sucked into this without really knowing how much money they are going to 'save'.