Best Top Load Washers for Rental Properties: Durable and Low-Maintenance Options
For landlords and property managers, selecting the right appliances is crucial to ensure tenant satisfaction and minimize maintenance hassles.
Top load washers are often the preferred choice for rental properties due to their durability, ease of use, and straightforward maintenance. In this guide, we’ll explore the top models that combine robustness with low upkeep, making them ideal for rental settings.
Table of Contents
Why Top Load Washers Are Ideal for Rentals
Top load washers offer several advantages that make them suitable for rental properties:
- Durability: Designed with fewer moving parts, they tend to have a longer lifespan.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls make them user-friendly for tenants.
- Maintenance: Less prone to mold and mildew compared to front loaders, reducing cleaning requirements.
- Cost-Effective Repairs: Parts are generally more accessible and affordable, making repairs straightforward.
Top Load Washers Recommended for Rental Properties
1. Whirlpool WTW5057LW 4.7 cu. ft. Top Load Washer
- Features:
- 12 wash cycles for various fabric types.
- Built-in faucet for pre-treating stains.
- Removable agitator for flexible washing options.
- Why It’s Great: Known for its reliability and straightforward design, this model is easy for tenants to operate and simple for landlords to maintain.
2. Maytag MVW7232HW 5.3 cu. ft. Smart Top Load Washer
- Features:
- Extra Power button for enhanced stain-fighting.
- Smart features for remote monitoring and diagnostics.
- Stainless steel drum for durability.
- Why It’s Great: Combines robust construction with smart technology, allowing landlords to monitor usage and address issues proactively.
3. GE GTW465ASNWW 4.5 cu. ft. Top Load Washer
- Features:
- Deep Fill option for larger loads.
- Dual-action agitator for thorough cleaning.
- Heavy-duty cycle for tough stains.
- Why It’s Great: Offers a balance of performance and simplicity, making it a reliable choice for rental units.
Maintenance Tips for Landlords
To ensure the longevity of your washers and minimize tenant complaints:
- Regular Inspections: Check hoses and connections periodically for signs of wear or leaks.
- Educate Tenants: Provide clear instructions on proper use to prevent misuse.
- Routine Cleaning: Advise tenants to leave the lid open after use to allow the drum to dry, reducing mold risk.
- Prompt Repairs: Address issues quickly to prevent minor problems from escalating.
Final Thoughts
Investing in durable and low-maintenance top load washers can lead to long-term savings and increased tenant satisfaction. Models like the Whirlpool WTW5057LW, Maytag MVW7232HW, and GE GTW465ASNWW offer the reliability and ease of use that make them excellent choices for rental properties.
By selecting the right appliances and maintaining them properly, landlords can ensure smooth operations and happy tenants.
One of the first things I look for when choosing washers for rental units is simplicity in controls. Tenants come and go, and not everyone wants to read a manual. A washer with clear settings and no complicated displays makes life easier for everyone.
From my experience as a property manager, stainless steel drums are a must. Plastic tubs wear down faster and can absorb odors over time. Stainless steel not only lasts longer but also resists chipping and scratching — a big plus for high-use rental units.
You’ll also want a washer with a solid agitator or at least one that gives you the option to remove it. Agitators clean better, which tenants appreciate, and in a rental, that added cleaning power matters more than fancy wash options.
Another great feature is auto water level sensing. Tenants may not always think about efficiency, but this feature ensures your water usage stays under control, reducing utility costs if you pay for water.
Many landlords I know overlook the importance of machine noise levels. If the washer is located near common living areas or shared walls, a quiet operation can prevent tenant complaints. Look for models that advertise “quiet spin” or “low vibration.”
Maintenance is another deal-breaker. Washers with self-cleaning cycles can help prevent mold buildup, which is common when machines are overused or the lid is always closed. It’s a small feature that can save hundreds in cleaning and repairs.
It’s also smart to think long-term. A washer with fewer digital components generally lasts longer in high-turnover units. While smart features are cool, in a rental setting, fewer electronics usually means fewer problems.
Another tip: opt for top loaders without a locking lid if possible. Some locking lids can jam or malfunction, especially in older units, leading to more service calls. Non-locking lids are safer in shared spaces and faster to fix if something goes wrong.
In larger rental homes or units with multiple tenants, it’s smart to install a model with a high-capacity drum. It reduces the number of cycles tenants run, saving wear on the machine and your utility bill if it’s included in rent.
I’ve also had success offering a simple laminated instruction sheet next to the washer with do’s and don’ts. Tenants appreciate the clarity, and it cuts down on misuse — especially helpful for machines with delicate cycles or removable agitators.
Another way to protect your investment is to place anti-vibration pads under each machine. This reduces noise, protects floors, and minimizes shaking that can damage internal components over time.
And finally, don’t forget about the warranty. Look for machines with at least a 10-year warranty on the motor. In rental properties, that peace of mind is worth every penny, especially if you’re outfitting multiple units.
If you’re managing multiple units, I also recommend keeping the same washer model across all properties. This way, replacement parts are easier to stock and repair calls become more predictable. Trust me, it simplifies your workflow tremendously.
I’ve also found that tenants are more likely to take care of appliances that look newer. Choosing a top load washer with a modern, durable finish like white enamel or graphite steel not only resists scratches but also keeps your rental looking fresh and updated.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the value of a washer with a clear cycle status display. Tenants often leave clothes sitting for hours. A simple progress indicator or end-of-cycle signal helps avoid mildew smells and keeps laundry moving efficiently.