A Buying Guide for the Insignia Top Load Washer

As a busy mom of three kids, I rely on my washing machine to keep our family in clean clothes. But when my old top load washer started leaking and shaking violently during spin cycles, I knew it was time to start researching a replacement.

After measuring my laundry room and setting a budget of $500, I narrowed my search down to the Insignia top load washing machine. It seems to have great features for the price, but I wanted to dig into the details before making a purchase. Here’s what I learned after days of obsessive research on the Insignia washer!

Key Features of the Insignia Top Load Washer

The Insignia 3.6 cubic feet stainless steel washing machine packs a lot of functionality into a streamlined design. Here are some of the features that stood out to me:

• 10 preset wash cycles – This includes all the essentials like normal, heavy duty, delicates, and quick wash. The variety of options makes it easy to customize cleaning for each load.
• Sanitize cycle – This super hot cycle is perfect for sanitizing really dirty, sweaty sports gear. Kills 99.9% of bacteria without using harsh bleach.
• Auto load sensing – The washer automatically adjusts water level and cleaning time based on the size of the load. Helps optimize cleaning and resources.
• Delay start – I can delay the start of a wash cycle by up to 24 hours. Perfect for programming the washer to run when energy rates are lowest.
• Self-clean cycle – This occasional cycle helps keep the washing machine fresh and clean itself. No more wiping down the top and gaskets manually!
• Quiet operation – With features like a direct drive motor, the washer runs at a low decibel level that won’t disrupt the whole house.
• 1-year warranty – Parts and labor are covered in case anything goes wrong. Provides peace of mind for a big purchase.

What’s the Price for the Insignia Washer?

The Insignia top load washing machine costs $499.99 at most major retailers like Best Buy. This felt like a great mid-range price point for a full-sized washer with solid features.

I considered cheaper brands, but the plastic tubs and lack of cycles ultimately led me to increase my budget for the stainless steel tub and cycle versatility of the Insignia model.

Wash Capacity Accommodates Any Load

With a drum capacity of 3.6 cubic feet, this washing machine can hold quite a few clothes and linens. The product specs estimate it can wash around 18 t-shirts in one load.

As a busy mom, I love that I can wash most of my kids’ clothes in just 1-2 loads. The large capacity will also come in handy for washing bulky items like comforters whenever needed.

While not huge, the tub opening is a wide 12.5 inches – wide enough for me to easily load and unload laundry.

Energy Efficiency Saves Resources

The Insignia washer has an ENERGY STAR certification, meaning it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines to help consumers save money and electricity.

Specific energy-smart features include:

• Auto water level sensing to use only the water needed for each load.
• Multiple wash cycle settings like quick wash for smaller loads.
• Delay start option to run washer during off-peak energy hours.

With the ENERGY STAR rating and smart settings, I can feel good about the washer saving me money over time.

Compact Size for Easy Installation

Here are the overall dimensions of the Insignia top load washing machine:

• Height: 44 inches
• Width: 27 inches
• Depth: 25.5 inches

With a low profile and narrow footprint, this washer can fit into small laundry rooms and closets. I measured my current space to confirm it would slide right in with a few extra inches all around.

The compact sizing also makes it easier for a single person to move into place without help. At only 68 pounds, I was confident I could maneuver this washer on my own.

Customize Every Wash with Cycles

One feature that really impressed me was the 10 preset wash cycles on the Insignia model.

Beyond the basic normal and heavy duty options, you also get more specialized cycles like:

• Delicates – Safely cleans silks, satins, and lace with a gentle tumble.
• Activewear – Designed to wash performance fabrics without damage.
• Whites – Boosts stain removal on white fabrics.
• Bulky/Bedding – Extra water flow for cleaning bulky items.
• Quick Wash – For lightly soiled loads that need a fast 30 minute cycle.

With so many choices, I can really customize the wash performance for each load. The extra cycles make this feel like much more than a basic washing machine.

Sanitize Cycle Keeps Gear Fresh

As an avid runner and workout enthusiast, one feature I was thrilled to see on the Insignia washer is the Sanitize cycle.

This super hot cycle heats water up to a steaming 162°F. The high temperature eliminates 99.9% of bacteria to deeply clean and sanitize gear.

No more dealing with smelly gym clothes or mildewy towels! The sanitize option keeps all my activewear fresh and bacteria-free.

I’m excited to have a simple way to sanitize my workout gear between wash days. This cycle makes it so easy to keep a clean and healthy active lifestyle.

Delay Start for Washing on Your Schedule

The addition of delay start is a great convenience feature on the Insignia washing machine.

I can delay the wash cycle start time by increments of 1 hour, up to a maximum of 24 hours. Whenever I have plans for the day or will be away from home, I can simply program when I want the wash to begin later on.

Setting a delayed start time is also useful to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. I plan to run larger loads overnight or during work hours to cut down on energy costs.

Having full control to customize when the washer runs provides both convenience and potential savings.

Simple Maintenance Keeps It Running Smoothly

To keep my washer in good condition, I’ll need to perform a few basic maintenance tasks periodically:

• Wipe down exterior – I’ll use mild soap and water to keep the washer exterior and lid clean from dirt, dust, and grime buildup.
• Clean interior – Every few months, I’ll run a tub clean cycle and wipe out the drum. This prevents mold, mildew, and odors.
• Inspect hoses – Check wash hoses yearly for cracks or bulges indicating wear. Replace any deteriorating hoses.
• Clean pump filter – Lint and items get caught in this filter, so it needs cleaned every 6 months.
• ** descale cycle** – Hard water can cause mineral buildup over time. A periodic descaling keeps the components clear.

With easy access to the drum and components, maintenance on this top load washer seems very manageable. I won’t mind the occasional upkeep to extend the machine’s lifespan.

Intuitive Controls and Display

Navigating settings on the Insignia washer is made easy with the rotary cycle selector knob and digital display.

The mechanical knob clicks through each cycle option, allowing me to turn to the desired wash setting. Simple and straightforward.

The digital display clearly shows cycle status, remaining time, and any errors. I like that all the info I need is presented in a bright display for easy viewing. No more guessing if a cycle is still running!

Together, the knob and digital display create intuitive controls for selecting cycles and seeing wash status. Just what I want – something simple that gets the job done without fuss.

Quiet Enough for Any Room

One important factor for me is having a washer that won’t disrupt the whole house when running. Excessively noisy appliances drive me crazy!

Luckily, the Insignia top load washer operates at a quiet 59 decibels. For reference, normal conversation is about 60 decibels.

The direct drive motor and proper insulation result in mere background hum rather than aggravating noise. I can even run a cycle while my baby is napping without worry of waking him.

This washer can blend right into the background – perfect for laundry rooms, closets, or wherever your washer needs to go. The quiet operation ensures it won’t be a nuisance.

Self-Clean Cycle Prevents Mold and Mildew

Any wash routine can leave behind dirt, bacteria, and soap scum leading to odor and mildew buildup. Yuck!

That’s why I love that this Insignia machine has a special self-clean cycle using higher water volumes and speed.

The intense wash motion removes grime and residue from wash tub, door seal, and other areas that are prone to buildup.

No more scrubbing the gasket and dispensers! This cycle does the tough cleaning for me, so the interior stays fresh.

The self-clean is suggested monthly for best results. One less chore for me!

Troubleshooting Tips for DIY Repairs

While I hope any issues can be resolved under the 1-year warranty, I also researched tips on troubleshooting common problems myself:

• Leaking – Check door seal and hose connections. Make sure drain line is kink-free.
• Won’t drain – Clean out the pump filter which may be clogged with debris.
• Won’t spin – Try redistributing load to balance the tub. The auto-balance system may stop spin with an unbalanced load.
• Won’t agitate – Check that electrical connections are intact. The agitator might need lubrication or replacement.
• Error codes – Consult the user manual for specific issues associated with any numeric error codes displayed.

The troubleshooting advice gives me confidence I can tackle minor repairs. Hopefully just simple tune-ups will be needed to keep the washer running smoothly for years.

Where to Buy the Insignia Top Load Washing Machine

The exclusive retailer for the Insignia brand is Best Buy, either at their store locations or online.

I’ll probably purchase online for convenience, and also to check if any sale prices or coupon codes can lower the $499.99 cost a bit more. Free delivery is included!

Buying directly from Best Buy gives me peace of mind I’m getting the real Insignia model and can utilize the included 1-year warranty if ever needed.

Warranty Coverage Provides Peace of Mind

The Insignia top load washer comes with a 1 year warranty covering parts and labor in case of defects or malfunctions.

It’s reassuring this major appliance purchase has a warranty as backup. Even quality products sometimes fail prematurely.

Coverage includes diagnosis of problems, replacement parts, labor, and return shipping. I just need to contact an authorized service center to start a repair claim.

Here’s hoping I never have to use it! But the included warranty is greatly appreciated.

Positive Reviews Reflect Quality and Value

Before settling on the Insignia washer, I scoured customer reviews from various sources. I was pleased to find consistently positive ratings and feedback.

On the Best Buy site alone, the washer has over 1200 reviews averaging a 4.5 star rating. Multiple reviewers praise the cleaning performance and versatility of cycles. Many mentioned it’s very quiet, too.

Common compliments include excellent value for the price, easy to use controls, and great features. People noted the 1 year warranty provides added buying confidence as well.

Of course, there are a few complaints mixed in about issues like leaks or rattling noises. No product is absolutely perfect. But the overwhelmingly positive consensus left me assured this is a quality washer ready to tackle my family’s laundry needs.

A Worthy Alternative to Front-Load Washers

Initially, I only looked at front-load washing machines. The big viewing window seemed really convenient!

But after more research, I realized a top load model offers advantages, too:

• Easier access for loading and unloading. No crouching required!
• Can safely wash bulky items that might not fit in a front load.
• Often a more affordable price point.
• May have shorter cycle times.
• Less issues with mold or mildew buildup.

While I still think front-load machines are slick, the functionality and price point of the Insignia top loader just made more sense for my needs. I never realized a basic top-load design could include so many perks until learning about this model.

Soft Close Lid Prevents Slamming

A small but hugely appreciated feature on the Insignia is the soft close lid.

Many top load washer lids can slam down loudly when closing. The soft close mechanism gently lowers the lid – no more loud bangs!

This is much quieter and safer, especially in homes with kids and pets. I won’t have to worry about fingers getting caught or the lid slamming down.

It’s a tiny detail that makes a big difference in everyday use. The soft close lid adds great convenience when doing laundry.

Use Only HE Detergent

Because this is a high efficiency washing machine, it’s important to use only HE detergent.

HE detergents are formulated to produce fewer suds, which is essential for the washer to operate properly and achieve optimal cleaning.

Standard detergents will create an oversudsing mess! Stick to Tide HE, Gain HE, Persil ProClean, and other HE-compatible detergent brands.

Using the right laundry soap prevents waste, mess, and potential damage to the machine. Be sure to tell visitors and babysitters the key is using only HE detergent in this washer.

The Perfect Washing Machine for My Family

Well, after hours spent comparing all the options, I’m convinced the Insignia 3.6 cubic foot top load washer is a fantastic choice for my family.

The number of cycles, stainless steel tub, delayed start, and other great features really stand out from competitors. And I can rely on the trusted Insignia name and included warranty for peace of mind.

Considering the reasonable price, wealth of cycles, stellar reviews, and right-sized drum, this looks like the ideal washing machine to handle all my family’s laundry demands. I can’t wait for the convenience and performance upgrade this will bring to our laundry routine!