I just put down a deposit on the new Asko compact model W6424 which replaces the discontinued W6222. I don't expect to take delivery for at least a month but will write a review in the future. According to the specs on Asko's web site, the dBA level for the wash cycle is 54 and 75 for the spin cycle. The main difference between the 6222 and the new model is that the drop-down door on the washer has been eliminated. But the 6424 has the 24-hour delay start feature which is something I wanted. Incidentally, Asko's web site indicated that the 6222 had this feature, but it's an error that I brought to their attention. I saw the 6424 at a home show recently and talked to the regional distributor. He said that the new model has a slightly larger capacity than the 6222, and then went into a discussion about differences in the advertised capacities and the real capacities. Without mentioning the name of a competitor's compact model (he was talking about the Bosch compact) he said their advertised capacity of 3.4 cubic ft. is misleading and for a true apples-to-apples comparison to check the Energy Star web site. Below is a link; click on "Qualified Clothes Washers" on the right hand side for an excel spreadsheet comparing all current washers. I hope this is is helpful. Here is a link that might be useful: Washer comparisons on Energy Star web site

Here's a link to a stand that can raise compact (24-inch) laundry machines about 6 inches from the ground: ELP Pan Stand at Home Depot There are some videos on YouTube that explain how the air cushion feature works for moving the appliance across the floor. It is made of a heavy duty plastic. The GE compact 24-inch washer/dryer set may be below the maximum weight limit for the ELP Pan Stand, however, I would have my reservations about using it to support both the washer and the dryer given that the small stacking kit brackets that hold the dryer in place don't seem to be strong enough to keep the dryer secure if there is too much movement, or tilt angle, while moving the washer/dryer set. Another option could be to talk with a commercial laundry dealer to see if they may have a 6-inch pedestal from another brand that could be drilled to hold the GE compact set with the appropriate brackets at the base of the washer.

I don't have a Bosch, have an Electrolux set mostly because of the second floor vibration guarantee. Also, I didn't like the Bosch because the washer plugs into the dryer & if one of them goes you have to replace both. I have my set upstairs in a closet on a wood subfloor & was very concerned about vibration. I had an LG set prior & even though the washer was levelled & my husband had put bracing on the floor joists it would happily dance out the front door if I didn't watch it. I've had the Elux set for almost 3 years & am happy with it for the most part. I would have bought a Miele set again as I had in our last house but not in my budget this time around.

I recently saw a laundry hint for those with a front load washer and pets which can have issues with pet hair (and I'm assuming horse hair would fall into the category). The hint was to put the garments you intend to wash in the dryer with a dryer sheet and tumble on air fluff for about 20 minutes or so to get as much loose hair off the garments and caught by the dryer's lint filter before you put the garments in the washer to wash. Haven't had an opportunity to try this out yet, but I will. I have a front loader and will eventually have several pets in my house.