This could be a few posts in different topics, but since it is all the same saga…
The LG washer died at 6+ years. Mr Google was sure it was a particular sensor and no big deal, so I rang my friendly repairman who showed me the underlying problems with an ambit cost to repair quoted at $400~650; the potential parts list included bearings, the sensor, and related bits. The current new equivalent LG is on sale today for $848 as a reference point. I passed. The call out and look-see was $98, reasonable in metro Melbourne.
Choice suggests mid-range washers should go 8 years and are cheaper to repair until 12+ but decided not to pursue it. Even though a repair would be cheaper than a replacement would it be the smart thing to do (save for recycling issues)?
The repairman was not big on LGs and said they are going about 8 years for the most part these days, and felt recent Electrolux washers (including Westinghouse and Simpson) were better made today based on his service business, this after a few years of being behind the curve. That was his opinion of one.
My personal salesman (in the family and who sold us the LG) said his store records (from their extended warranty program) indicated LG washers are tending to have problems starting at 5~7 years, which supports the repairman’s advice.
Moving on to buying a new one, the Choice reviewed model of choice is shown at an RRP of $1,088 in the test. The manufacturer’s web site shows it on ‘promotion’ with no pricing just links to the major online retailers. The ‘promotional’ prices varied from $1,079 to $1,347 with most offering to price match with their pesky asterisks, eg if they could.
I got a better deal from ‘my salesman’ but it reflects so much of our pricing is spin on RRP although there are indeed discounts on clearance items or last years models and sometimes even on a current one - if you know the price to be sure.
As always, caveat emptor and never assume an online price is the best you can get since it is looking more and more like another instance of a lazy tax. As with accommodation booked directly with the property, ring the business and talk to them for the best deal they can offer.