bit-tech Shopping: Frigidaire FTF530FS Washer

• Adjustible Leveling Legs
• Bleach Dispenser
• Door Lock
• End of Cycle Signal
• Fabric Softener/Dispenser
• Noise Reduction

Rating: 10

Time with product: 10 Years

Strengths: Cycles are not as long as new front end loaders.Better than my new Bosch

Weaknesses: Knobs break.

Summary: I have 12 of these machines. The oldest one is 10 years old. Most of these are in student rentals, where they are heavily used. The worst problem that we have with the machines is that the knobs break. The knobs are easy to fix and I keep a bunch on hand. I personally had one in my own house for 7 years and the knobs never broke, but in student rentals it is a different story. Out of the 12 machines that have been in service I had 1 that I had to replace the struts in. It is an easy job that did not require a repair man. I had another washer that needed a new wiring harness which is in my shop right now being fixed. College kids are an excellent test in durability for any appliance and these washers have held their own. I am impressed with these machines. In fact I got a Bosch set for myself as a treat and I want to switch back to my old fridgidaire. The Bosch has a mold problem (I heard this is a common problem with front end loaders) which I never had with the frigidaire. This machine is a value for the price.

Rating: 2

Time with product:

Strengths: The buzzer is loud.

Weaknesses: Poor quality product.

Summary: Washer motor worked longer than the dryer. The washer is done and is only 3 years old. The matching dryer motor didn't last even a year. Don't buy a Frigidaire. The repair man said it isn't worth fixing and that Frigidaire isn't a quality product.

Rating: 4

Time with product: 3 Months

Strengths: N/A

Weaknesses: Pls see comments

Summary: I had a similar front loading washer from Frigidaire before (GLTR167AS control panel is on the top and same capacity, I believe) and compare with the two, I like the old one. The main reasons are:1. This one has louder noise2. Less wash selections3. Takes longer time to washI only use the washer two to three loads per week. With the old washer, I usually load up to 3/4 full with bath towel, and the machine last for about 10+ years. One repairman told me that I am lucky because I shouldn?t load that much or the machine wouldn?t last long. Now I only load up to ½ full, see how long this one will last.I paid $500 for this machine. For the money I paid, I think the manufactory should give a stronger and better product.

Rating: 2

Time with product: 1 Years

Strengths: None

Weaknesses: Breaks down a lot!

Summary: On 7/14/06 I purchased a FTF530ES Washer and with in 1 month on 8/24/06 it had to be repaired. They replaced its first timer and speed control. It worked again. By December the timer had to be replaced again. Then it went a few more months and they replaced another timer. Then they replaced the second speed control again on 7/5/07. When they were unable to resolve the problem and replaced it with the same model on 7/12/07. I am now having the same problem with the new model. FTF530FS. Every time I have this problem I go 2 ? 4 weeks without a washer and have to depend on other means to washer my laundry. This washer has my lowest rating and I would and will never by another Frigidaire appliance. Go to something else...this model is a lemon.

Rating: 2

Time with product:

Strengths:

Weaknesses:

Summary: Our machine broke after only 3 years. The bracket connecting the inner tub to the motor corroded and broke this repair costs $350 in labor alone. The parts were still covered by the warranty. If not they would be another $350. If you look on the inernet this is a common occurance with this model. (experts.com and ebay for sale broken are 2 examples). Fridigdaire would do nothing to help us. I will never buy another frigidaire product.