GE or LG Front Load Washer

6 years ago

Hi,

I am looking at purchasing either a GE or LG washer from Costco. Anyone have any experience, thoughts or advice regarding the two models below?

GE GFW550SSNWW - I like the design, smart dispenser, and venting system, not sure about reliability... seems to be quite new so no long term reviews.

LG WM3900HWA - Seems highly rated, well built, but many complaints about display.

The difference in capacity between the two does not matter to me.

Thanks for your input!

Featured Answer

littlegreeny

6 years ago

last modified: 6 years ago

The GE is brand new, so there really isn't any long term usage or reliability information. I have looked at these new GE washers in person and was impressed with their perceived quality. The vent technology is innovative and definitely addresses concerns users have with front load laundry. What I don't like is these washers are made in China. I don't know if these are based on the old GE design and engineering or the new Haier design and engineering (the Chinese company Haier purchased GE appliances four years ago). I used previous generation GE front load washers and was unimpressed with their ability to balance loads during the spin and they were poor rinsers. As far as I know, these new washers do not have any type of recirculation pump to aid in getting the load saturated and in overall washing ability.

LG makes excellent performing and very reliable laundry appliances. The WM3900 is a top rated washer by Consumer Reports and the Wirecutter. Despite the rumors, LG washers are actually very easy to work on and parts are readily available if something were to happen. They use DC pumps which are more reliable and much quieter than AC pumps used on the competition. This LG has a built in recirculation pump with jets in the four corners that they call turbowash. When the turbowash feature is enabled, it shortens the cycle time to around 35-40 minutes for a normal load of laundry. LGs are excellent at rinsing which in my opinion is equally important as its ability to get laundry clean. And this washer is assembled in the USA.

If it were me, I'd purchase the LG 3900. Use good practices when using the machine, which includes not overdosing detergent, wiping down the boot and leaving the door open between loads. You won't have any odor or mold issues.

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Comments (6)

Toronto Veterinarian
6 years ago
I had an LG washer and dryer for over 11 years, when the washer started to not work as well.....I think I helped it to an early grave by using too much liquid detergent and never diluting it as I should have :( The performed wonderfully for me, and I would have replaced them with another LG pair except I needed to switch to 24", and LG doesn't have a 24" vented dryer. I have no hesitation about recommending LG -- they have a very good reputation for washers and dryers, and my experience was terrific with great results for 10 years, then OK results for 1.5 years; I probably could have gotten more life if I'd treated it better (dilute that liquid detergent) and if I didn't have to switch to a 24" pair.

Between GE and LG for laundry, I'd go with LG.
T C thanked Toronto Veterinarian
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T C
Original Author
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
Thanks to both of you for the input!

I bought the LG WM3900 from Costco and Pedestal from a local shop.
Rachel
6 years ago
I am in the exact same situation for a new build that should be complete in September. I'm leaning toward LG 3900 but I've been watching reviews. I like that the LG is a little smaller as we are empty nesters and do not need a huge machine. But I like the new microban technology in the GE . . . at least I think I do. I'm going to continue to look at reviews over the next few months. I also plan to purchase from Costco and if I go GE, I'll buy the 650 model. It seems like that is about $100 more than the LG for the pair.
T C
Original Author
6 years ago
We had the LG washer delivered yesterday. Delivery/installation was great, read a lot of complaints on Costco but no issues.

I like that the LG is much quieter than our old washer, it cleans the clothes really well, and the app works great (sends notifications when cycle is done and can remote start the washer).

There's some water left over in the dispenser/gasket after washing, but leaving the dispenser/door open until it dries out should avoid any mold.

Only complaint is the display is a little difficult to read.

Like you, I liked a lot of the technology in the GE, but I read a lot of reviews complaining about it being very loud and getting unbalanced, so went with the LG and very happy with my purchase.
littlegreeny
6 years ago
Glad you are enjoying your new LG! Some water left in the dispenser and gasket is normal. I would love to see pics of your new washer.