Whirlpool - Duet Frontload Washer

Posted by trmn8r on 2012-12-29:

If this is an HE washer, was the correct detergent used? I believe use of the wrong detergent can cause bearing failure, which certainly is shocking at first notice.

Posted by ok4now on 2012-12-30:

I also had a bearing failure in my two year old out of warranty Kenmore washer. Yes 8r I used the HE detergent. The repair cost was almost as much as a new washer so I junked it. Not wanting to spend big bucks on a new machine with potential big problems I went the no frills route.

Appliance repair shop recommended Bosch as having the fewest problems. A local shop had the $800 washer for $650 on a closeout sale. For an extra $100 I got the full 5 year zero deductible extended warranty. This is a simple machine with a dial for settings and just a few buttons that I rarely use. The entire wash cycle uses only 15 gal. of water, compared to 40 gal. that the old top loaders used. My clothes come out clean and so far no repair issues. If after 5 years it dies I'm ahead of the game.

Posted by At Your Service on 2012-12-30:

For the most part, I like the entire line of Whirlpool Duets. They're well built and generally very reliable. Do they break? Sure they can. It's frustrating when they do and when it's so soon from the purchase date.

I've got a considerable amount of background in appliances. Although Samsung does some decent appliances, I prefer the Duet front loaders any day. As trmn8r has mentioned, it's vitally important to only use HE labeled detergent within theses units, and preferably that of a higher concentration. Some HE detergents are only 2x but there are now detergents as well designed as 6x. This is important as to protect the seal around the bearings. If this seal becomes damaged, it can lead to the destruction of said bearings.

Unfortunately, most manufacturers only provide a one year, limited warranty with their products. Some even less than that. Is that acceptable? Not in my book, but that's where I advocate shopping for extended service coverage in the process of making the purchase. Being upset after the fact, doesn't seem to do a great deal.

Whereas it is so recent after the purchase, you might try contacting the retailer you purchased the product from. If you elected to purchase extended service coverage with the unit, I'd bet they've kept a record. As such, they may be able to help you getting the service(s) covered. If it isn't covered, I'd still consider getting it serviced. They're a nice enough design that I think they're worth it.

If you do replace the unit, consider LG. They have a 3740 model that is pretty nice. And Frigidaire with their Affinity line -- 3001 up through their 4073 models. All worthwhile to consider.

Let us know what you end up doing. I'd be interested to know.

Posted by saj80 on 2012-12-30:

We have had our Whirlpool Duet washer for over 5 years, have never used HE detergent, and haven't had any problems, outside of the normal issues with front load machines. The bearings are outside of the tub, and should never come in contact with water and/or detergent unless there is a leak. This is more of an issue with substandard parts than anything else.

Posted by At Your Service on 2012-12-31:

With respect, from acandappliancecare.com ...

"Traditional laundry detergents used in an HE washer will destroy the seals in most cases and once the detergent has ruined your seals the bearings are subject to water leading to an expensive repair. Your washer could start to sound like an F-14 taking off from an aircraft carrier before it just stops spinning all together but it did not happen overnight, it happened because the laundry detergent left residue on the seals which broke them down over time and allowed water seepage onto the bearings."

From applianceoutletservice.com ...

"These suds can actually get into the bearings of your front load machine or leave a film that will eventually mold. A front load machine is made for high efficiency washing and therefore only high efficiency (HE) detergents should be used."

From oldfields.biz ...

"Not only is the soap difficult to remove from the fabric, the detergent will 'wick' through the bearings that hold the inner and outer tubs together and wear them out."

From repair.com ...

"High-efficiency (HE) washers require HE detergent. Using a non-HE detergent can cause oversudsing, longer cycle times and washer errors. Using too much regular detergent in non-HE washers can create the same problems, as well as residue buildup from too many suds."

The list goes on and on. Can you use non-HE labeled detergent in a front loading washer? Sure you can. But you do risk damaging the seals and harming the bearings.