I researched W/D for a while and LG is considered one of the top by Consumer Reports. I went with the top of the line LG that isn’t a Steam set. I really didn’t think I’d use the Steam option to justify the cost so don’t get sucked into the pretty colors. One of the biggest differences between the sets that save you a few hundred bucks and a slightly more expensive one is often the stainless steel drum. I have read that the stainless steel drum is an upgrade well worth spending. I think most of these W/D will have electrical problems down the road with all of their sophisticated panels, but this is the world we live in, from cars to W/D. So any one you get, budget a few hundred bucks over the next 10 years to swap out that circuit board.
The bad reviews on a lot of the front loaders has to do with people not using common sense on their washer. I believe a lot of people complain about the mildew. You HAVE to leave the door open. I was wiping it down religiously when I first got it and leaving the door open but found that if I didn’t wipe it down, it would still air dry very quickly.
I checked out Sears outlet and they don’t offer that great of prices, as well as a number of the smaller shops. You get maybe $50-100 bucks off retail. You can get those same discounts just shopping a sale of brand new appliances.
Negotiate! I bought my set from Best Buy and negotiated the deal for 20% off and free delivery.
If you buy energy efficient, there is a rebate from the water district.
