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powrbruh

Don't Do LG Topload Washer Recall Unless You Want Wet Clothes

Powrbruh
11 years ago

I had the LG topload washer recall done a few weeks ago and now my washer does not spin at 1100rpms. When I select the Extra High spin speed it spins a little faster than a gentle spin speed. Clothes are very heavy with water due to slow spin speed. Unacceptable especially after spinning for 20 minutes.

I was told by Brandon (customer service supervisor) that this normal because the new control board software does not allow the washer to spin at such high speeds due to recent explosions, and he was "sorry" because there is nothing he could do. I stated to him that this is not the consumers' fault. I purchased this washer because it is an H.E. washer. It is supposed to save water and energy. My clothes take over an hour to dry now because of all this damn water not spun out of them.

I spoke to someone in another department and he is sending an in-house specialist on Monday to inspect my washer. LG was courteous enough to give me an extended warranty for this problem only. My washer was working fine until this recall work was done.

Comments (56)

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    The technician came this morning and saw for himself how slow my washer was spinning. He rewrote the software update program and did a Spin Only cycle test and the washer did spin a tad faster. However, I decided to do a load and observe what happened during the final spin. The same slow spin speed occured once again.
    I contacted LG and told them I was unhappy with the recall software and the representative (a very nice lady name Jenna) spoke to her supervisor. The supervisor suggested the software be removed at my permission. I agreed. A technician is coming next week to remove the recall software and we will see what happens then.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    The same LG technician from last week came today to repair the stator and rotor on my topload washer. He said LG engineer said I was the only consumer complaining about the new recall software. I told him to check the internet and he would see differently.
    He performed some test and found out my washer final spin is only 700rpms. He called LG and was told that 700rpms was normal for the new software. He stated to me that I would have to take up my issues with LG because there was nothing else he could do.
    I called LG and told them that I HAVE HAD ENOUGH. Fix the damn washing machine or replace it. The rep, Jessi, infomred me that LG is sending yet another technician out in 3 to 5 business days and he/she would determine if a replacement is possible. I told her that I would continue to write, call, or email whomever until this matter is resolved because I will not accept otherwise.

  • knot2fast
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    For reference, my Speed Queen non-HE top loader spins at 710 rpm. The most expensive GE non-HE top loaders spin at 700 rpm. The less expensive GE non-HE models spin at 630 rpm.

    GE specs show the best of their current HE top loaders spin at 1000 rpm and the lesser HE models spin at 700-900 rpm.

    It sounds like GE has punted the extra high speed spin. 710 rpm doesn't leave the clothes "wet" in my washer, but spin duration and distribution of clothes on the drum are other factors. Also, "wet" is a subjective measure.

    Four pair of heavy denim jeans and assorted socks/whatnot take 40-50 minutes to dry in my gas dryer. This is tough to compare because the dryer add all sorts of other variables, but how long does such a load take to dry in your dryer now? Before the change?

    This post was edited by knot2fast on Tue, Mar 12, 13 at 13:24

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    knot2fast,

    I wear alot of heavy clothes such as jeans, sweaters, thick shirts, etc. I, also, use alot of towels. It took a load of about 3 heavy bath towels, 5 pairs of thick cotton socks, 2 washcloths, 2 thick sweaters, 3 pairs of jeans, 6 pairs of undies, 6 t-shirts, and a couple of dish towels about 35 minutes or less to dry BEFORE this recall work was done. Now I want you to keep in mind my washer now spins about 500(something) rpms during the final spin. I have recordings to prove it. The 700rpm speed is what the tech said he was able to detect during a test mode. This same load takes about an hour and fifteen minutes to dry. Not exaggerating. The washer spins for 20 minutes at this slow ass speed and it still takes this long to dry my clothes. You multiply that time times the cost of energy and see how the costs will add up over time.

    I am really not trying to get my money back from LG. I loved my washer before this recall wreck was done. I just want them to exchange my set for different set. I really do not like frontloaders all that much, but I do not want another LG toploader. No sirs and mams. I will try my luck with one of their frontload sets and make that work for me and my family. At least will continue to save money and energy as I was before.

  • SpringfieldMH
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    We've experienced this problem with the recall "repair" on our LG WT5001CW washer. The "repair" is a firmware (software) reload, nothing physical, which appears to primarily slow the washer down in order to avoid the vibration problem (which we never experienced).

    Washer was fine. Now performs significantly worse:
    - longer run times
    - uses little warm water, even when specify HOT HOT HOT
    - leaves clothes much damper when "done"

    Additionally, is now routinely displaying "uE" (improper balance") errors, which it never did before. It often displays the code but keeps running (slowly) while it apparently tries to rebalance the load or some such. On occassion, it just stops with the code displayed. Never had that problem before.

    Bought it from Sears (with extended warranty), so LG just keeps passing the buck to Sears... and Sears is stuck with only being able to try reloading the new/bad firmware again.... and passing the buck to LG. And around and around it goes.

    May try one more time to get satisfaction, but basically turned an excellent washer that never gave us any problems into a mediocre routinely problematic washer.

    Personally, regret having let the recall "repair" be done, as never had a problem of any sort with the washer till the "repair". There may have been legitimate issues that forced the recall and perhaps it is safest to have it done, but this seems like a lose lose situation with no good outcome.

    Doubt that LG will, or would let Sears, reload original firmware, due to legal concerns.

    Have reported it to the federal agency that is involved with (initiated?) the recall (thanks a lot folks!), to LG and Sears.

    Will probably just give up, junk it and go buy a plain simple electromechanical non-Energy Star non-High Effeciency washer, without an extended warranty.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    SpringfieldMH,

    I would not give up if I were you. I think if enough of us start to complain maybe we will get some results. I emailed the president of LG Electronics in North America. His name is Wayne Park and his email is wayne.park@lge.com. I plan to keep emailing, calling, writing letters, and contacting other consumer agencies until I get this matter resolved. LG messed up on the these washers and now we have to pay the price. NO NO NO!!!! We need hold these manufacturers accountable for making this junk. I plan to carry this fight out as long as I have to. Wayne Park and others at LG can ignore my emails, calls, and letters all they want. They will keep hearing from me until I get this matter resolved.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    After emailing LG's CEO Wayne Park, I received a call from LG offering to buyback my washer for the price I paid. I accepted. I sent Mr. Park an email thanking him for his assistance.

    I am considering buying another LG set. I saw the mega-capacity on sale at Sears for $1250 each with an additional 20% off because I am buying four or more pieces. That means I would get the set for about $2000. I cannot decide between the LG set or the Speed Queen frontload set. The LG has a bigger capacity and spins faster (1300rpms); however, I cannot get the washer to use more water. I feel I need more water for better rinsing due to my skin sensitivity. The Speed Queen set will last forever, but it has a smaller capacity and a slower spin speed (1000rpms); but, I can get it to use a little more water for better rinsing. Not sure what to do.

  • dianne47
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I can't believe you would consider buying LG again. At any price.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    11 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Actually I decided not to. I do like the style and capacity but I am realizing these new machines do not last long. Only a few years then they break. If I decide to get a new set, it will be the Speed Queens.

  • impliedconsent
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Amazing story. Thanks for sharing. Please take this story with a grain of salt. It's a bit of anecdotal evidence of problem, not a testament to LGs overall performance/products. I could write up equal praise and examples of how you are wrong, but it would do no good. I'm not an LG employee, they (like ALL manufacturers) have problems and praise. This is just a story of a problem. You'll find stories of praise as well - what do you expect on an open forum?
    That being said - "if" I had your problem and the CEO took the time to fully refund full price - I might have gone with LG again. FULL Refund?? That's unheard of. Would other manufacturers done the same? -

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    impliedconsent,

    LG's CEO authorized an exchange for my set. I was contacted last week by an rep. who stated I could do an exchange at very little cost. I decided to get the mega-capacity washer and dryer. I only had to pay a very small fee. Nothing compared to what I would had to pay for to purchase a new set of Speed Queens. This is a blessing because I have just purchased my first home and budgeting is essential.

    This will be my first frontload washer. I am still concerned about the lack of water frontload washers use. I don't see how they get clothes washed and rinsed well with so little water. People have stated they perform very well, so I decided to give it a chance. I hope I am happy because they are so stylish.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    My new LG frontload washer and dryer set was delivered yesterday, and I couldn't wait to do a load of clothes. I thought I would not like it because it didn't use enough water. I was very happy with the amount of water it used and it washed my clothes very well. I kept turning on the light for most of the load to see what was going on. Clothes were washed much better than in my LG topload. Tumbling back and forth with constant movement. The rinse cycles used notably more water. I use Tide Free And Clear but I still selected an extra rinse. I thought the cycle was going to be much longer. I anticipated around 1.5 hours. That's usually the time it took my topload to wash a load. With Turbowash being selected, my load was finished in under 50 minutes. The washer didn't seem like it was spinning at 1300rpms but my clothes were very dry when I took them out. I am very happy with the washer.

    Now for the dryer, the delivery men scratched up my dryer and my stair railings while trying to move it downstairs. I took off the railings to avoid more damage. They couldn't get it through the utility door because they said it wouldn't fit. I told them to just leave it. I was getting pissed. My friend and I turned the dryer around the other way and we were able to get it in the laundry room. The delivery guys damaged the front right side of my dryer. On top of that, the dryer would not operate properly when I first turned it on. I had to unplug and plug it three times before it would work properly. I contacted LG this morning and they agreed to exchange it. After i got it to work, it did dry my clothes fast. I think I am going to love this set for a long time.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    My new LG frontload washer and dryer set was delivered yesterday, and I couldn't wait to do a load of clothes. I thought I would not like it because it didn't use enough water. I was very happy with the amount of water it used and it washed my clothes very well. I kept turning on the light for most of the load to see what was going on. Clothes were washed much better than in my LG topload. Tumbling back and forth with constant movement. The rinse cycles used notably more water. I use Tide Free And Clear but I still selected an extra rinse. I thought the cycle was going to be much longer. I anticipated around 1.5 hours. That's usually the time it took my topload to wash a load. With Turbowash being selected, my load was finished in under 50 minutes. The washer didn't seem like it was spinning at 1300rpms but my clothes were very dry when I took them out. I am very happy with the washer.

    Now for the dryer, the delivery men scratched up my dryer and my stair railings while trying to move it downstairs. I took off the railings to avoid more damage. They couldn't get it through the utility door because they said it wouldn't fit. I told them to just leave it. I was getting pissed. My friend and I turned the dryer around the other way and we were able to get it in the laundry room. The delivery guys damaged the front right side of my dryer. On top of that, the dryer would not operate properly when I first turned it on. I had to unplug and plug it three times before it would work properly. I contacted LG this morning and they agreed to exchange it. After i got it to work, it did dry my clothes fast. I think I am going to love this set for a long time.

  • arceeguy
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Remember a company called "Gold Star" back in the eighties and nineties? You know, the company known for cheap, unreliable TV's and VCR's?

    Well, they rebranded themselves as "LG" (Lucky Goldstar) and somehow, through slick marketing, have positioned themselves as a semi-premium brand.

    They have improved quality somewhat, but the "cheap" still remains.

    As a former repair tech, I wouldn't buy one. But I did make a lot of money fixing them back in the day when people actually fixed things instead of replacing them.

  • Powrbruh
    Original Author
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    arceeguy,

    I do remember Gold Star. Very well. However, I believe paying a couple of hundred dollars for a brand new set is worth it. I spent around $1700 for my LG topload set and only had it for 2.5 years without any problems. If I had not had that recall work done, I would have kept it. I will say I like the style and washing performance of my new set alot better than my LG topload set. If my new set lasts 10 years, I will be very happy. I pray it does.

  • nbpretzelfans
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I read on one of these posts that they had to give permission to LG to remove the software change for their washer! If that is true...SHAME ON THEM! DON'T DO THIS! My LG top high efficiency washer exploded in my basement last week! Exploded is not to be taken lightly. People laugh until they see the photos. The top blew off, the back blew out and the front and sides are completely bowed out. There was no warning, no sound of an unbalanced load just the spinning and then what sounded like a bomb blowing up in my basement. Parts of the machine flew over six foot away and there was water all over the walls. It dented in the entire side of the dryer and destroyed my wire rack next to it. Soap, bleach and other items were thrown across the room. This is a dangerous problem. If I would have been standing next to it folding clothes like usual, it could have caused serious injury to me. A child it would have killed. Youtube LG washer Explosion. Those were contained in a small room. Mine was in a basement and was able to move and pretty much launch itself. The recall is more to add a warning sticker of what you shouldn't wash in it. All top loading high efficiency machines now have this sticker on them. Mine didn't and LG has not mailed recall letters to people. They are getting to that or so they told me. A lot of people think the warning is for "waterproof" clothing like slickers and other items. NO, when it gets off balance even from a linen item such as a mattress pad, it can do this. This is what bothered me most is they have a setting for these items "Bulky Bedding" which is the reason I purchased it. But there fix is to turn down the spinning speed and put a warning sticker on.

  • georgect
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    This is why I can't trust LG (anything) to be in my house.

  • sparky823
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    nbpretzelfans:What were you washing when your machine exploded? Seems they need to put in a stronger suspension system(less plastic)IMO

  • mymeme
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I just got a recall letter today 6/26/13. I started researching and found this!!!
    What has happened to anyone now? I do not want this appliance in my house. Has LG replaced anyone else's washer? I will fight this. I bought 2 1/2 years ago. This is unacceptable! Please post if you have had any further dealings with LG. I purchased at Home Depot.

  • crimsongator
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I had the same issue nbpretzelfans described with my LG washer exploding. I just received the recall notice today (6/30/13), and my washer blew about 6 months ago.

    My wife and I were in the den and heard a loud explosion. Both our boys were sleeping in their rooms. It sounded like a car crashed in front of our house (because it was so loud, that was all I could imagine), but the noise sounded like it was coming from inside. Therefore, my first fear was that one of my sons was climbing on furniture and it had fallen on them. I entered their rooms, and they were still in their beds. So I started running through the laundry room to go outside . . . but of course I stopped dead in my tracks upon entering the laundry room.

    The washer had collided with the dryer, popped it's top, and it dented the dryer in the process. The washer was also making a mechanical grinding noise because it was still trying to run. I can't imagine what might have happened if I had not been home to unplug the machine . . . or worse, if my kids had been in the room. Miscellaneous machine parts were thrown everywhere.

    I was very disturbed. I called LG and because I had purchased an extended warranty (it was literally a matter of weeks past the manufacturer 1 year warranty), they passed me off to that company. When I explained how dented and banged up the machine had become in the process, the warranty company said they would not cover it. I was furious, and told them (again) it wasn't banged up because the machine fell off my truck, it was because the drum suspension failed, and the drum forcefully rammed the wall of the washer.

    Anyway, long story short, after many long, frustrating calls with LG and this terrible warranty company, I finally got fed up and filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. Originally, I just wanted the washer replaced (because repair seemed impractical given the extent of the physical damage). At that point, I decided I wanted both machines out of the house. I bought a matching pair, and I was going to replace these terrible products with a different matching pair. LG "bought back" both my washer and dryer for my original purchase price.

    Take heed, these machines are dangerous if not repaired. And the drum suspension that apparently is NOT being changed out as part of this recall is a huge part of the problem. They are cheap, flimsy PLASTIC brackets. I was stunned to see this. Of course, the plastic brackets just broke. Over time, this will happen, no matter how slow they make your machine. This plastic will get hot with the operation of the machine, and it will dry out and get brittle. Then it will break. And you will have something very similar happen.

    Don't accept this recall that does not even address the core problem! Get RID of your machine. File a complaint with BBB and make them buy it back. It is unsafe, and it will NOT LAST!

  • nynikki
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    crimsongator - What advice can you give about getting LG to purchase these machines back?

    We got the notice a while back that there was some repair that needed to be made, but being I just started a new job, I hadn't taken the time to deal with it. We just got another notice, with the new warning and stupid sticker, and honestly, I am not happy about their solution. We have been experiencing unbalanced loads since we first got this machine and I simply thought I was doing something wrong. But even a small load of towels will cause the load to go out of balance. I never thought in a million years a washer could explode like this. I am also finding it extremely insulting that if I want to wash a shower curtain, or a mattress pad, my brand new high tech machine can't seem to handle that, but the $400 washer that I replaced never had any problems!

    I want these things out of my house, and I want my money back! When we purchased them we expected that reasonably with only two adults in the house, these should last 10 years. And it now seems apparent that those plastic parts will not make it that long.

    What a huge disappointment. :(

  • jpattison
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I just got my LG washing machine fixed abt 2-3 weeks ago as part of the recall. I didn't have any issues with my washing machine before the recall except for occasionally (did the same w/ my old non-he washing machine), but that was so infrequent that it didn't bother me. My husband felt that the fix would be good and prevent any issues in the future. Now I am incredibly frustrated w/ my washer and want to throw it out the window and in the trash. It seems like EVERY load I do since the fix gets unbalanced and it will take hrs to do 1 load of laundry. I am currently washing a blanket (a crocheted/knitted blanket - only 1) and it keeps going out of balance every 2 min. I don't have the time to stand at my washer and make the fix. It is ridiculous - I never had this issue before the fix. The fix is also just a computer software fix, as the repairman just hooks it up to a computer and does nothing else. Frustrated and we will be calling LG in the next couple days to complain.

    I understand it is a safety fix, but now it is more frustrating to wash clothes and takes forever. Also, not to be able to wash certain items in my wash lien my old washer is frustrating as well - I didn't buy this set to have to do several loads at a laundry mat, but to be able to do them from home. Not being able to wash mattress pads in this washer is annoying and some of the many other things - my non-he washer didn't have this issue...

  • montel (CA US 10b/Sunset 16)
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    We are in the wait and see mode on this - we had the recall software update a few weeks ago.

    I haven't checked on the spin speed recently (but will).
    In addition, we are upset about not being able to do bulky or waterproof items. That seems like a downgrade...hmmm this was bought on AMEX wonder if they would do anything with regards to the warranty? It will be 2 years old in November.

  • dleanhar
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Just had the recall fix installed today. We immediately started seeing the same issues noted by jpattison above. This is totally unacceptable. How long before LG sees a class action suit regarding this fix? Where are the lawyers?

    LG should have explained in the recall letter what to expect after the fix was installed and offered customers the option of accepting the recall or getting their money back and having the unsafe machines removed from their home.

    The recall technician told us that as long as we use the machine per the owner manual instructions, we should see NO difference. This is NOT true.

  • enduring
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I am so sorry owners of this machine are having this problem. It certainly has been an eye opener for me! I have been reading over the last 6 months or so on the Laundry Forum in preparation to get a machine set. Thankful I did. This is really frustrating to hear about these machines!!! Shame on LG

  • ptcyankee
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I just had the recall s/w update done this past week. I had no problems other than an occasional off-balance before this occurred. My first wash load was just a set of sheets and some underwear. It went off balance about 6 times and when I started it again, it would take another 32 minutes and stop in the same place. I decided to then run the spin only so that could get around the cycle of rinse+spin. Then the laundry came out and I could still wring the water out of it by hand and it's taking forever to dry in the dryer. I bought this machine for its high capacity and now with this issue I don't even know if I can wash a comforter anymore. Is it even worth going back to the folks that serviced this machine in the first place? All they did was install software that has screwed it up, but protected LG from getting sued for damages or injuries. What should my course of action be?

  • LSP21
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I had the same issue as everyone else. My machine worked great until the software was updated. After that, I couldn't do a load of laundry without getting the uE message consistently during the spin cycle. I called LG back and after trying to convince the customer service person that this issue is related to the recall, I had to finally ask to speak to a supervisor because she was telling me that my issue wasn't due to the software update. The supervisor agreed to send out a technician to look at the machine. It was the same technician that installed the software update. He didn't even try to fix it ... he told me that this was happening to everyone and it didn't have anything to do with washing waterproof items. He took down my serial number and called LG ... I don't know what he said but the following week I got a brand new washing machine delivered. I have a newer model and it works great. It spins just as fast as my old machine before the update. LG took care of the issue every quickly and it was nice to get some satisfaction.

  • enduring
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I hope all you guys get new washers!!!

  • montel (CA US 10b/Sunset 16)
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Well we had a hard time getting LG to do anything. So far they have increased our warranty so they can do further work to the unit at no charge. Finally after getting a call from a few people, including LG Executive services, we got a call from an appliance company who was ordering parts to fix our washer. Several weeks later they called with the new parts.

    They installed the parts last week - said he had a truck full of them and they were doing tons of these retro-fits. Everything according to him tests good now. The repair was a new "rotor stator".

    We are taking a bit of a wait and see approach to see if it improves anything - I guess the biggest disappointment is the change to no water resistant clothes being able to be washed. I am very active and have an active family - so lots of sports clothes for running, biking etc...So now I can't spin those??

    Amex wasn't helpful since we needed an appliance company to give us a repair estimate. No one can 'repair' the machine so we are stuck on that potential avenue.

    Our next choice if it still fails is to try to get LG to work with us on a buy-back (preferred) or replacement...

  • ZoapBox
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Depending on the drum diameter, and drum speed, a washing can sometimes generate lateral acceleration forces exceeding 100g during the spin cycles. Translating this into practical terms, it means that 20 pounds of wet laundry can end up exerting 2,000 pounds or more of force against the walls of the washing machine drum. That's why you see all that damage when the drum becomes dislodged during high speed operation.

    If it was me, I would rather take the slower drum speeds until I could replace the washer. It is not only the hassle of a few broken things beyond the washer if the machine "explodes", it also the risk that the drastic damage could cause a short circuit and subsequent fire, or a significant flood, if a wire of hose gets ripped apart.

  • whirlpool_trainee
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    300G, more likely.

  • Ash-Tuttle
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Has anyone that had the recall done had the LE error. Im wanting to see if this recall fix will also fix the LE error.

  • SQAWN542
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    This is a good post and should serve as a lesson for all concerned.
    When you "trend" towards eco nazi certified machines like this, you might be saving some water but look at the results you must put up with. I find it absurd that most HE machines actually result in LONGER cycles, require some form of cleaning monthly, have "error" codes that require reboots, software updates and the like.
    Laundry is not a complex process. Nor should it require a tech degree to figure out cycles and error codes,

  • laundryvet
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I hope all the LG owners are eventually satisfied with the corrections being made on their machines or with the replacement machines. It's a shame their tag line Life's Good, has not been a reality for you.

    I am surprised to hear that the clothes are sopping wet with a 700 rpm spin. That should be about 140 G for the average 27 inch wide top loader and I would be surprised if there was more than a cup or two of additional moisture in the load compared to a 1000 rpm (280G+) spin speed, and likely no more than 3 cups versus a 1200 rpm machine.

    Top loaders, up until about 1992/1994, were typically 100G or 120G, with the first 150G models out about that time. Only spin speeds of less than 60 to 80G would typically produce a sopping wet load, so I highly doubt you are even getting 700 rpm. That 700 rpm is probably for an empty machine or for only the most perfectly balanced loads.

    A 12-14 lb top load clothes load will typically dry in 45 minutes in a modern 7 cubic foot gas or electric dryer, 50 min at the most. I guess if this machine really has a mega capacity, say 20 to 22 lbs, maybe you could see an 75 minute drying cycle.

  • dadoes
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Whirlpool and Kenmore belt-drive washers of years ago (1950s through mid 1980s) spun at 500 RPM and they didn't leave the load "sopping-wet." Low speed was only 335 RPM.

  • laundryvet
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Kenmore and Whirlpool had about a 620-640 spin speed in the late 80s and early 90's, 120G extraction, which at the time was best in the industry for the domestic players, most were 560 rpm extract (100G) at the time.

    Steve

  • whirlpool_trainee
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    The manual for the upcoming 5.2 cubic foot LG WT5680HVA says it's okay to spin water-proof items as long as you keep the spin on low:

    NOTE:
    Using the Bulky/Bedding Cycle with a low
    spin speed is recommended when washing
    waterproof or water-resistant items,to help
    protect the fabric’s properties.

    "The fabric's properties"... More like your property from damage by flying objects. We'll see how this turns out.

    Alex

    Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.lg.com/ca_en/support-product/lg-WT5680HVA#

  • dadoes
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Fast spin speeds in toploaders is not a new thing. GE and Frigidaire both had 1,140 RPM spin on the first automatic toploaders they marketed in the late 1940s. Frigidaire continued a few more years with their unimatic mechanism, then changed to their belt-drive multimatic design for a few years which reduced the spin to 1,010 or 1,000 RPM.

    Fisher & Paykel has featured 1,000 RPM spin in their toploaders since ~1997 (they actually topped-out at 1,010). Their latest models are 1,100 RPM.

  • laundryvet
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Dados,

    I believe those f-p machines are about 24 inches wide, and the drum is 3 inches smaller in diameter, so 1100 rpm in an 18 inch basket is not much more G force than a 21 inch at 710 rpm. I can't speak toward those old units you describe, again, maybe a very small basket diameter.

    Really old washers sometimes had twin tubs, one for washing with an agitator, one for spinning out the load at high speed. Unimac still makes one that spins out at something like 400 or 500G for the car wash industry. They want a slightly damp cloth, but not a totally dry one that might scratch a car.
    It probably spins at 1720 rpm, but with only a 16 inch or so diameter basket.

  • montel (CA US 10b/Sunset 16)
    10 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Update from us: We are in the last few days of using our LG washer before it is picked up.

    LG ended up deciding our machine was too costly to keep "repairing" and so decided to buy it back - we were actually hoping for the buy back, however we would have taken a newer replacement model if they had offered it at no charge.

    This week is our last with the washer. Since we won't be buying another LG washer we will now be proud owners of a mismatched washing suite...hopefully our new Maytag unit will give us years of good service (crossing fingers and toes!)

    Thanks to everyone here for the information and help.

  • LGhorrorstories
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    My LG washer model WT5101HV is the worst product of any nature that I have ever bought. I have had the recall "fix" completed and is worse now than it ever was. I feel a little cheated though because the recall repairman did not leave a little sticker on my washer, maybe that is why it is still not working right.
    This machine refuses to complete a spin cycle without going out of balance and refilling, spinning, and all over again and again. I am on well water so I can't tell you how much more water is being used or how much more energy is being wasted but I am sure that it is overburdening my septic drain field. They should have a warning on these machines that people with septic systems should not buy this type of machine.
    I complained to the DOE "Energy Star" about the waste. Not much they are going to do because LG isn't making this model any more. Obviously Energy Star was duped by LG to get this label on the machine. Energy Star uses independent labs to test products I am certain that LG must have supplied the testing lab a pristine one off special purpose built machine just for lab testing because they certainly didn't test this washer in a real world environment or they would never have been able to certify this machine.
    . the gov agency consumer product safety commission that is behind the recall is more concerned about the exploding machines than the operational deficiencies of the machine and really can't do anything about. 4 hours to do a small load and wasted energy water is not a safety issue. LG's corporate board room obviously made a conscious decision to stop making the machine and do as little as possible to save what ever profits they made selling these cheap machines. LG's response is to resist to do anything they can to make right the 450,000 machines that had this problem.These machines are nothing but junk disguised by pretty lipstick, makeup and good marketing. Shame on you LG for your greedy atrocious behavior.

  • Joe_inBoston
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Today I've been playing the good customer and going through the paces to address this issue with the LG Washing Machine I purchased via BestBuy in January 2012.

    In the fall of 2013 I received a notice in the mail that my unit needed to be upgraded (you know the story). At that time we would get an occasional unbalance code. I wasn't aware of all the back-story on this washer.

    I called LG Recall (1-855-400-4639) and they had a local service provider come out and "upgrade" the software in October 2013.

    Very soon afterwards the machine consistently gave a uE code and often as not able to finish a single wash cycle, even after attempting to re-balance several times, and finally giving a UE code.

    We put up with this through the holidays and spring time of 2014 by running the washer and always choosing the "no spin" option. Then when the cycle finished (sometimes with a UE and sometimes not) we would then run a 13 minutes "spin only" cycle which we would have to monitor throughout the entire 13 minutes to stop the machine and attempt to re-balance the load if a uE code was given again. Most often this DID give a uE code meaning that we'd have to start the 13 minute spin only cycle again. In most cases we usually get to a point where we think most of the water had been removed, still very wet by normal standards, and just give up and throw the clothes in the dryer where they go through an extra long drying cycle since there is more water in the clothes than there should be anyway.

    Today I called LG Recall again and told them that the "upgrade" made the situation worse. They sent me through to the "special diagnosis" team who had me put the phone next to the washer, listen for fax-like tones and discovered that, yes, I was telling the truth. There are uE and UE codes being alerted.

    They then scheduled a visit from a local contractor and told me that I should expect a confirmation call from the contractor. The contractor called and said they would be charging me $89 for a diagnosis. I was not told this by LG, so I refused the service and called LG back.

    The recall line (who had set up the appointment) told me that they couldn't help me any further and I needed to speak with Customer Service. I called customer service (1-800-243-0000) who told me they could get the "A&E Service" to come out for a "one-time repair" at not cost. They gave me a case number and the phone number for A&E Service (888-433-3892) to schedule this visit. A&E said they couldn't accept a call from me, and could only schedule the visit if Customer Service was on the line.

    I called Customer Service again. (for today that is already 2 calls, and another two calls to LG Recall, and one call to A&E).

    This time Customer Service told me that they would cancel the previous service call request, and set up a new request for a local service to come out on Monday to service the washer, at no charge.

    I will come back to continue to record the events, as a means of reference for my own purposes, but also in hopes that it is useful to others.

    I haven't seen that anyone has had this problem resolved through these local contractor service visits, but at least I'm going through the paces and will be able to convince LG that I've been cooperative and done everything I can on my side in case I have to insist on a buy-back or replacement.

    I see that some others have had some success in that regard and I'm trying to follow the model.

  • jgemberton
    9 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Please keep us posted. I'm currently noticing the problem, too. Whatever you do, don't attempt a tub cleanse... you'll just waste water as it goes to the spin cycle, then UE, then fills the tub with water again in an attempt to rebalance the clothes that aren't even there.

  • lgistheworst
    8 years ago

    LG has made trying to wash clothing our living hell on earth. They should provide all people that purchased this product a full refund and another $10,000 for pain and suffering. My wish is that the President of LG and his family have only this same washer in their home to wash clothing. Only the exact same washing machine that we purchased new and has made our life a living hell. I have spent a multitude of hours contacting LG and trying to resolve with no satisfaction. I have never, never, ever spent so much money for a new product and had such lack of responsibility by a manufacturer. The LG president is cashing his bonus check which is comprised of the profit he made on our purchases of faulty product that he is not backing up. If he gains a hint of moral fiber, I would like to see a check in my mailbox. Otherwise, he can continue on his path of greed and his lack of concern for his customers.

  • montel (CA US 10b/Sunset 16)
    8 years ago

    Good luck, we are 2 years into using our "replacement" Maytag washer, and up til this point - granted a relatively short amount of time - we have had zero problems!

    I am now totally avoiding anything made by LG - our last phones we could have had really nice LG phones for half the cost of our Motorola choice -- I refused. I won't buy their TV's, Solar Panels, DVD Players, Phones etc...I have sworn the company off entirely.

  • User
    8 years ago

    I had an old fashioned Whirlpool upright agitator for years without issue. 'upgraded' to these and now have severely pilled clothing, outright damaged fabric and horrendous water bills. The idea of flooding the basin numerous times for a "UE" load is ridiculous and hugely wasteful. At the very MOST I would expect a UE error code and a chime requesting I attend to the machine and re-position the load.

    I'm mechanically and electronically inclined and understand how to properly load a washer and still have a major problem with UE codes every wash! Even if the basin isn't moving around much it still goes into UE! I leveled the machine properly and followed the instructions to a T. Still no dice. And what is up with the cycle programming? 1:10 for a regular load? are you kidding me? Why? so the basin can spin real slow, then a little faster, then stop then then go fast again.. Watch this thing in action, and you'll notice how bi-polar it is, it wastes a lot of time just playing with the load.
    Life is NOT good with these in the laundry room. JUNK!

  • lamontalvo2000
    6 years ago

    Does someone have the email to the CEO of LG ? They are giving me a hard time . My washer was part of the recall and they are denying me the service to fix it. My work orders keep getting canceled ... My washer has never been serviced ...

    Thank you,

    Laura

  • Jeffrey Caban
    6 years ago

    Laura,

    Not the CEO but Powerbruh, who started this discussion, contacted the President of LG-

    "I emailed the president of LG Electronics in North America. His name is Wayne Park and his email is wayne.park@lge.com"


    Jeff

  • lamontalvo2000
    6 years ago

    Thanks ! I'll be sending him an email hopefully they'll get this resolved ....