I went into buying Whirlpool gear with skyhigh hopes all its a trusted name, in home appliances. In reality my own runin with the brand has been a letdown. I first picked up a Whirlpool washing machine. Later added a refrigerator assuming both would smooth out chores yet they turned out to be more of a headache, than a help.
Let me start with the washing machine. At first it seemed to work clean clothes came out. The sleek modern design was appealing. After a few months the hum grew louder and the spin cycle grew erratic. Occasionally it would halt midcycle for no reason. I phoned customer care times; a technician eventually showed up. The problem kept resurfacing. They replaced the motor once. The issue never truly disappeared. Given the brands premium price I was inclined to assume it would boast durability.
The refrigerator ended up being another letdown. It had a sleek spacesaving design. The temperature control was, over the place. Occasionally the lower shelves would actually freeze my vegetables. Times the cooling seemed barely perceptible. To my surprise rust began to appear along the edges within a yearhardly what you’d expect from an unit. The promised energy efficiency never showed up on my electricity bill.
One of the frustrations Ive had with Whirlpool is its customer service. The helpline drags on forever before you finally get through and then the reply feels like a robot reciting a script. The service centers, in my area seem stockedmost parts are listed as ", out of stock ". The technicians keep postponing their visits. I once waited ten days to get a minor repair done.
I also ran into a problem, with spareparts pricing. Even the tiniest itemsa knob or a trayare marked up absurdly. You wont find them easily in shops. When the warranty finally expires it really feels like youre on your own.
I can see that perfection is a myth, for any brand. What left me most let down was the inconsistency. While a Whirlpool unit dazzles at glance its performance and reliability start to erode sooner than one would expect. For a name that commands respect I was hoping for construction and an aftersales service that actually tells it like it is.
If you’re setting out to snag a washing machine or fridge give Whirlpool a thought, before sealing the deal. Sitting in the price slice, LG, Samsung and Bosch typically outpace it offering superior performance and sturdier aftersales support.
I went in with enthusiasm, for Whirlpool. A cascade of recurring glitches and subpar service have drained my confidence in the brand. Even the slickest design and flashiest ads cant rescue a product that crumbles, in use; the marketing becomes meaningless.
Rating: two, out of five
Would I endorse Whirlpool? In a word noits glossy upscale veneer doesnt translate into the longterm reliability or the aftersales support that truly matter.