Kitchen Large Electric Appliances - New Fridge Brand Reliability diffs?

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robs10
06-14-09, 08:16 AM
Unfortunately my 20 year old Kenmore fridge compressor sounds like it's ready to self-destruct and no replacement is even available, so it's off to buy a new one...

First of all, seems like all the new, top freezer models have really cheapened in the feel of the plastics used, big disappointment :-( Both Sears and a independent store said anything made by the Whirlpool family is worth paying extra for better reliability, and Frigedair should be avoided. Any truth to that? Is a Whirlpool made Amana or Kenmore as good as a straight Whirlpool, or are all brands the same now that everybody has bought out everybody else?

daddyjohn
06-14-09, 09:31 PM
stick with WP- avoid GE, Frigidaire, LG. Can't really comment about Amana although I have always liked the bottom pull out freezer. A Kenmore WP is a model 106.xxxxxx What is the number on the Kenmore you have now?
robs10
06-14-09, 10:47 PM
stick with WP- avoid GE, Frigidaire, LG. Can't really comment about Amana although I have always liked the bottom pull out freezer. A Kenmore WP is a model 106.xxxxxx What is the number on the Kenmore you have now?

I'll take a look....BTW, are the newer eletronic temp controls much worse than the mechanical dial?

daddyjohn
06-15-09, 12:57 AM
When they work they're fine but $$$$$ when they break. An exception is the temperature thermistors, they not expensive.
pugsl
06-15-09, 04:59 AM
I agree with everybody I only recommend Whrilpool built products for reliability, cost of repair, availability of parts .
the_tow_guy
06-15-09, 05:56 AM
Did a quick look on Consumer Reports and they list Whirlpool at the top of reliability as well.
robs10
06-15-09, 07:16 AM
I've checked out Consumer Reports too, but wondered if the Reliability reports are accurate (sounds like they are), but also if they still stand true now that these companies have consolidated, and if there is much difference. I like one of the Frigedair made Kenmores on sale at Sears because of the features for the money. Similar features in a Whirlpool are $200 or so more and it's hard to avoid the icemaker and electronic controls. But if Frigedair is made noticeably worse than Whirlpool, I'd be willing to spend a little more.
robs10
06-15-09, 08:14 AM
avoid GE Huh, thought GE was supposed to be good.What is the number on the Kenmore you have now?
It looks like a Coldspot made unit, model 9608784, made in 1990. The repairman I called said the compressor was a bad/flawed design that was no longer being made. Besides, if one were available, it would cost upwards of $400 installed.