bit-tech Shopping: LG Electronics WM2016CW Washer

• Adjustible Leveling Legs
• Bleach Dispenser
• Child Lock
• Delay Start
• End of Cycle Signal
• Fabric Softener/Dispenser
• Noise Reduction
• Status Indicator

Rating: 2

Time with product: 15 Months

Strengths: front loader, easy to operate

Weaknesses: noisy

Summary: I purchased this from home depot 15 months ago..last week started noticing longer cylcle times...today it took the washer 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete a medium load. When I spoke to home depot they said I need to call a repair service since it was older than a year..I did..they said they need to charge me $155 for the service call and it sounds like the timer panel went..another $250...I definately would not recommend this machine to anyone..I am looking at paying $400 to get a practically new machine to work again!

Rating: 4

Time with product: 7 Months

Strengths: Saves water and energy. Quiet operation. Cleans well.

Weaknesses: Mildew smell builds up when washer door is shut between washes. The machine broke and is unable to be repaired after seven months.

Summary: After seven months of trouble free use, my LG front Loader displayed and IE error code, meaning that water was not entering the inlet valve. After following the instructions in the owner's manual to no avail, we contacted the company. They sent a local LG certified repair service, who found that they needed to order a replacement part, which took a week to arrive, since it came from Korea. When that did not work, they tried again with another part and then again...all on the instruction of LG's Tech Services. Each time the repairman came, he had to consult tech services, who gave him instructions on what part to order next. It was a needlessly long process which has taken about a month now. The repair service was finally able to submit its report stating that the machine was unable to be repaired and I still have to wait several days for LG's investigative department to contact me before I will even find out when I will get a new washer. I was also informed that the warranty date will be the same as when I purchased the washer. LG's cusomer service is sluggish and inefficient. The product's durability is definitely questionable. I would be leary about buying this washer.

Rating: 4

Time with product: 2 Weeks

Strengths: Dries out clothes

Weaknesses: Long wash cycle, capacity seems smaller than our same size top loader. Shakes house.

Summary: This thing is rather pretty and it's fun to watch it wash! Except when you put it on extra high spin and there's a banging noise (CSR was surprised at this sound) even after all leveling attempts have been made and you've spoken with customer service and tried everything else out. It also shakes the whole house, making the chandelier in the dining hall wobble and act like a wind chime ringing to it's own music. The washing machine is also incredibly heavy (175 pounds!!) So if you're thinking about buying, buy with caution. I'm sure it's fine if you keep it on the first floor, but according to the installation people, all of the laundry rooms have been upstairs for them. I'm sure everyone is experiencing the same problems. We were contemplating returning the product, but that involves hauling it back yourself. As in, pulling down a gigantic 175 pound washing machine down the stairs, into a truck, out of the truck, and back into the store. LG has wonderful customer service though and 4 technicians near my house. They gave me a confirmation number and gave me the list of technicians to call so I could get a more approximate time of arrival. I'm hoping they can fix the machine if there's something wrong. If not, I'm stuck with a huge thing that makes will never have anyone question its presence. On the cleanliness of clothing.. I have not noticed any difference, however, my mom claims it's not getting the dirt out. I don't know, I'm not the one who usually does the wash.An update after the technician came in: Basically he suggests us to return/exchange it and of course, there's nothing broken about it. However, that involves a 15% restocking fee with Home Depot. I tried out all of their suggestions including the Spin Sense but the shaking is really unbearable still. Depending on who you talk to at Home Depot, they'll tell you that you can't return/exchange it at all, there's a 48 hour return limit (how are you supposed to get a technician out to check first within 48 hours), you can return within 30 days but you have to lug it back to Home Depot yourself, or (my last CSR) they'll come pick it up but there's a 15% restocking fee. In the end, we'll eat the 15% so that our house stops shaking. Make sure to ask reps everything about the machine before you buy. Ours was unfortunately, not in the least bit knowledgeable. If they don't know every aspect about it, find another place that does.

Rating: 8

Time with product:

Strengths: Quiet, easy to operate

Weaknesses: small capacity

Summary: I enjoy this washer for its look, it washes well, i do find it small at times when i want to wash comforters or small rugs. Overall it is quiet and easy to program .

Rating: 8

Time with product: 5 Weeks

Strengths: Uses water (and therefore energy, for heating the water) very efficiently, thus saving money and the environment; very quiet; cleans really well; rinses well; very good customer service

Weaknesses: Takes a little while to figure out all the options on the dial but not difficult.Good size, but not for huge loads.Need to dry off seal after every wash, like for all front loaders - not hard.

Summary: My new LG washer is great! I love that it is not wasteful with water, while doing a great job on my laundry. It takes a bit longer than my last washer, but is well worth the time as the clothes are washed gently and come out very clean. I am very happy with this washer - no complaints!