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What Is an Agitator Washer?

Agitator washers are incredibly robust washing machines that top-load and rely on a central post, called an agitator, that twists back and forth to remove stains from clothes and linens. This creates friction between the water, clothes, and detergent, capable of removing difficult stains like grass, coffee, and tomato sauce that frequently don’t come out when washed in less robust machines.
The agitator’s oscillating motion ensures that detergent is evenly distributed throughout the load, so you aren’t unpleasantly surprised by stale or musty smells after pulling the clothes out of the dryer later. The agitator in the washing machine also thoroughly beats out any remaining detergent before the rinse cycle.

Agitator Washer vs. Impeller Washer

One key choice when shopping for a new washing machine is whether to opt for an impeller or agitator model. Both are widely used, but they function differently. Agitator machines feature a central post that moves back and forth, while impeller machines have a rotating disc or cone at the bottom of the drum.
Impeller washers are effectively clean, but their gentler rotation doesn’t generate as much friction as an agitator washer. As a result, they may not be as powerful when removing tough stains. However, they offer a larger capacity and are generally gentler on fabrics.

Pros and Cons of Agitator Washers

Are you thinking about installing an agitator washer now? Here are SD Appliance Repair’s pros and cons to consider.

Pros of Agitator Washers

Tough on Stains

The biggest advantage of agitator washers is their superior ability to eliminate stains, odors, and other tough residues from everyday life. If your household regularly deals with food stains, dirt from outdoor activities or work, or pet-related messes on linens, an agitator washer might be a better choice than a high-efficiency machine.

Short Wash Cycles

Agitator washers typically have quicker wash cycles than other models. The process is simple: the machine fills with water, mixes in the detergent, agitates the load to remove stains, drains the water, and rinses the items. If you must tackle multiple loads daily, this efficiency can significantly speed up the laundry process.

Low Upfront Costs

The price of a new washing machine typically ranges from $340 to $1,040, with agitator models generally being more affordable. These washers are built to last and require fewer repairs than more advanced models. When an agitator washer eventually shows signs of wear, replacing it can sometimes be more cost effective than paying for repairs after the warranty expires. This makes them an ideal option for those looking to save money.

Cons of Agitator Washers

Tough on Fabrics

Although agitator washers are highly effective at removing stains and dirt, they can be rougher on fabrics. The vigorous action of the agitator can cause materials to wear out more quickly than other washing machines. If you have delicate or high-end clothing, an impeller washer might be a better option.

Use More Water

Agitator washers tend to consume more water compared to other models. Depending on your household’s laundry needs, this can lead to higher water bills, which may offset the initial savings on the machine’s purchase price.

Lower Load Capacity

The agitator in these washers occupies more space than the discs or cones found in impeller machines. For larger households that need to maximize load capacity rather than focusing on faster cycles and intense stain removal, an impeller washer might be a better choice for handling larger volumes of laundry.

Few Wash Cycle Options

An agitator washer could be a step back if you’re accustomed to various settings and options when doing laundry. These machines offer fewer wash cycle choices and customization features, such as extra rinses, delicate cycles, or allergen-sensitive washes. While some people appreciate the straightforwardness, those with more specialized laundry needs may find this lack of flexibility frustrating.