Bad news on the Washer front
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| Wed, 09-16-2009 - 11:23am |
The appliance guy just left. Here's the diagnosis.
We have a Maytag Neptune. Maytag made this washer and it had tons of problems. So many problems that they had lawsuits filed against them. This was an $1800 dollar Super Washer! Maytag tried to fix the problems with this machine 6 different times until they finally admitted defeat and stopped making it. Because of this failure, they went into bankruptcy and Whirlpool bought them. Great!
The appliance guy said that people either loved these machines or hated them and had nothing but problems with them. The most common thing that goes wrong is the motor wears out. The motor kit costs $250 dollars. Our problem is different, our computer board (1 of 3 boards) is fried. There's really no reason for it frying, he merely said that computerized parts just go. He hasn't quoted us a price yet because there were some conflicting numbers, but this could cost anywhere from $250-350 for the board and $150 for labor.
I have conflicting thoughts. We spent so much on this washer, it would just be a sad, sad thing to just trash it and buy another one. But at the same time, should I continue to put money into this crappy piece of equipment? If we could get it fixed for around $350-400 dollars at the cheapest, the motor could potentially go next week, next month, next year? I straight out asked the guy what he would do if this was his washer. He had a hard time answering it because he's in the business of fixing washers, but after some hemming and hawing he said that he wouldn't fix it (and that was off the record).
So here are my options.
#1 - get this one fixed, which I've been advised against by the repair man and my mother!
#2 - take that $350 dollars we'd need to fix it and buy a new washer. We could use the dryer in our stackable unit because that still works and put the washer right next to it, but would probably need longer hoses. My laundry room is very small and would be a crammed disaster, but this could work. As my mother put it, 'This is about function, Abbie! Not perfection!'
#3 - buy a new stackable unit. This would be more expensive than just getting the washer and we would probably have to leave the unit in the apartment when we sold it to go to a house. A regular stackable washer does not have the capabilities I need for a washer either. I wash A LOT of clothes.
#4 - Find a used washer - The appliance guy admitted that todays factories really only make units that last 5+ years. What if the used washer broke on me too? But used would be much cheaper than new.
#5 continue to use the laundry mat. At approx 15 dollars per week, that would cost me $780 dollars a year. I'd much rather invest that money in a machine.
What would you do? At least I know what's going on now and can make an informed decision. At least I have some money to fix this problem. Not a lot of money, but more than I've ever had before! How sad! My poor, defunct washer!

Hi, I'm sorry about your washer! I know how stressful this can be. I had my previous washer for 19 years. It was the first I ever bought. I had the motor replaced at least three times. I probably spent $1000 total on repairs. This sounds like it was a bargain next to your experience!
When my washer quit the last time, I knew it would be the same old thing, and I priced a new motor and labor at $350. Then I went on Craigslist and discovered I could buy a 2-year-old washer/dryer, with several speeds of washer and a gazillion other settings for $400. I went for the second option. It has worked well without snags for 2 years now. If my 'new' set needs repair, I have resolved to do it once as long as the cost is less than $400. Otherwise I will just go back to craigslist!
I understand why you wouldn't want to part with your high end appliances. They are enjoyable to use. Did I give up something by going for the craigslist washer/dryer? Yes. I didn't get to choose my favorite washer/dryer. But I don't miss it, in the end.
Good luck!! I hope you get something quick and at not too much expense.
This is my suggestion.
Norma
"Patience is the best remedy for every trouble"- Plautus
I would go with Option #2.
Abbie, I feel your pain. I was in your situation a year ago, only I didn't have the efund set up
Bex -
Sometimes you can get brand new washers, for cheap $$ at the big box home stores (Lowes, Home Depot) that are floor models, dinged on delivery etc.
Personally I'd go with an older used washer. Ours is approx. 20 years old and still going strong. It's had some problems here and there but nothing dh hasn't been able to fix himself with parts he got from an appliance parts store down in Lowell.
stacy
Easy one - buy a used one on Craigs list.