At a Glance:
Pros and Cons of Buying an Impeller Washer
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Washer technology is constantly improving. Today’s leading brands develop washers that can effectively remove stains without wearing out clothes. They increase the speed of the clothing cycles while reducing the amount of water used. Clothes last longer and feel cleaner with this modern washing technology.
Discover the Best Impeller Washers
Find out the benefits of what an impeller washer can bring to your home at Spencer's
Shop Impeller WashersDespite all of the advances, there are still debates over which washer types are best. Some people love front-load washers while other homeowners prefer top-load models. Top load washers use either an impeller or agitator to churn clothes. Which is best? What is an impeller washer, anyway? Learn more about this technology and explore a few top models that use impeller systems.
What is an impeller washer?
Top-load washers can either have agitator or impeller models. The most common type of washer is an agitator model. When you look in the washer, there will be a spindle in the middle of the basket. It is usually as high as the washer basket and may have fins or vanes built into it. This is the agitator. It twists back and forth to break up clothes so everything gets lathered and washed.
An impeller washer uses a low-profile cone that doesn’t take up the middle of the appliance. Some also have discs or other smaller features at the bottom of the washer. With this model, the clothes are rubbed against each other to break up stains. There is less motion but clothes are still pushed to the center of the washer.
While there are significant differences in how an agitator vs. impeller washer work, most appliance companies create models that are effective and long-lasting in both these styles. Buying one over the other is a matter of personal preference.
Pros and Cons of Buying an Impeller Washer
There are many differences when choosing an impeller washer over an agitator model. Here are a few pros of selecting this option:
- Impeller washers provide a gentler clean because clothes only touch each other.
- There are shorter dry times because impeller washers use less water and have higher spin speeds.
- You can easily load and unload bulky items. You don’t have to worry about scarves, bras, and sleeves getting wrapped around the agitator.
Of course, there are some drawbacks when investing in this option. While many customers are happy with their impeller washers, they can see why some people choose agitator models. For example:
- Impeller washers tend to have longer cycle times in order to clean clothes, which means your chores will take longer.
- Agitators are known for getting out tough stains, which makes customers nervous about choosing impeller models.
- Impeller technology is new for most people, and some homeowners don’t want to switch to a different style of washer.
While an impeller washer provides a change to your household, it can improve your laundry experience. Once you understand how your appliance works, you can get the most out of it. Many customers who switch to this style continue to prefer impeller washers whenever they need to replace the system or move to a different house.
Top Washer Models to Consider
If you are in the market for a new washer, you may come across impeller options. Here are a few different washers you can add to your home from various brands and at a variety of price points.
Maytag® 5.3 Cu. Ft. Metallic Slate Top Load Washer
This is one of the best impeller washing machine options if you are looking for a large-capacity washer. It can store more than five cubic feet of clothing, which is ideal if you have a large family that generates a lot of laundry. This model can wash the dirt off sports uniforms while sanitizing baby onesies.
This is the top impeller washer in its class. It comes with an Extra Power button that increases the time and intensity of the wash in order to fully clean your clothes. There is also a Deep Fill option which adds as much water as possible to the system. If you are in a hurry, the Quick Wash cycle can handle lightly-soiled clothes and finish in just 30 minutes. This reduces your energy and water use while still getting your clothes clean.
This washer is ENERGY STAR® certified to help you save on your electric bills while reducing energy consumption. Customer reviews mention the large capacity and say how they would buy this washer again.
Whirlpool® 4.6 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
There are also mid-range impeller washer machine options for people who want a standard appliance in their homes. This washer by Whirlpool can hold 4.6 cubic feet of clothes, which is enough for a small family or a couple living together. It can handle sweaty summer clothes after a dusty hike in one of Arizona’s stunning parks or bulky winter clothes that take up space.
This model comes with a faucet that allows you to prewash clothes before you run them through the washer. If you accidentally wore your dinner instead of eating it (through a mustard stain or tomato sauce on a white shirt) you can rinse the stain to ensure it is completely removed in one wash cycle. There is also a presoak option that starts your laundry 30 minutes after you run the water.
There are plenty of features that make this washer desirable. You can get to know the various systems as you need to use them, from delicate washes to intense cycles. This machine comes in white. Read customer reviews to learn more.
Amana® 3.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
If you still aren’t sure if an impeller washer is right for your home, consider this model by Amana. It comes with a Dual Action Agitator which brings clothes down to the bottom of the basket. With this system, clothes on the top are constantly being brought down and replaced, creating a cyclical motion. This is why the washer doesn’t need water filled all the way to the top.
However, if you do want some extra cleaning power in your washer, there are setting you can choose from. This Amana model comes with a Deep Water Wash option, which adds the maximum amount of water for your laundry load. If you have a large pile of dirty clothes with various stains, this washer can clean them quickly.
There are more than eight wash cycles to choose from and five settings for the water temperature. This means you have more than 40 different options for running your laundry. This washer is one of the most popular on the market. Customer reviews mention the useful features and how quietly it runs.
FAQ
What is better: a washer with an agitator or impeller?
Impeller washing machines use modern technology to clean clothes without damaging them. While appliances vary by make and model, impeller washing machines are considered higher quality and better for removing dirt from clothes. That said, agitator washing machines are still preferred for large-capacity models.
Which is faster: a washer with an agitator or impeller?
Washers with impeller styles take longer to complete loads on average. However, many also come with settings that allow you to shorten the cycle if you only have a smaller load or need a lighter wash. Different brands should have information on cycle times.
How do you load clothes with an impeller washer?
Regardless of the type of washer you have, you shouldn’t overfill it. Avoid packing clothes in too tightly or filling your washer to the brim. For effective cleaning, loosely pack your washer and stop filling it before you reach the top.
Why Trust Spencer’s TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencer’s TV & Appliance has grown to 10 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Impeller Washing Machines at Spencer’s
At Spencer’s TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop for impeller washing machines online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the best Impeller washer for your home. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!
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