I noticed last week that the agitator in my top load washing machine machine wasn't really agitating--it wasn't spinning. It was the washer that was in the house when I move in 8 years ago. I knew I wanted to replace it with a high efficiency a front load washer, I just wasn't ready to do it just yet--I was planning to replace it when I remodeled the laundry room.
So I bought a new washer/dryer pair this past weekend. I bought a Bosch Nexxt 500 series washer and dryer, they were a Consumers Report recommendation. The washer is bigger than I need as a single guy but the smaller models just don't have all the features of the larger models (e.g. water heater). Front loaders still cost a lot more than top loaders but they are a lot more efficient in terms of energy and water usage. Seattle utilities has a $100 rebate to help offset the cost of the more efficient models. Even with that rebate, the less efficient top loaders are still cheaper. I realize the profits from top loaders funded the development of the more efficient front loaders but there needs to be more incentive to buy more efficient models. With cars, we're starting to see the incentive because of high gas prices. While higher electric and water prices could be an incentive to buy more efficient washing machines, they are not the biggest users in your typical household. What about a tax on less efficient washing machines with all proceeds going to subsidize the more efficient models?
So far, I'm very happy with my new car. I think Audi has made a great car. That said, I think their Ipod integration is terrible--maybe even a waste of money. When you plug in your ipod, the system recognizes it as CDs 7-12. Supposedly, those are associated with your playlists. All I can say is, don't pay extra for the iPod integration.