If you are in the market for a top-loading washer, you are probably weighing the pros and cons of traditional vs. high-efficiency machines. Traditional machines cost less to buy but consume more energy, while high-efficiency washers slash utility bills but lack the deep-cleaning power of agitators. If you would rather not make this decision, you may want to consider the Whirlpool WTW8127LW. This Whirlpool top-loading washer offers the best of both worlds because it has an agitator and an impeller. But does that make it a good choice? That’s the question this review will answer with detailed specifications, pros and cons, and comparisons with competing models.
Want to skip the details? See a summary of the Whirlpool WTW8127LW washer here.
Whirlpool WTW8127LW 5.2-5.3-Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer Review
Description and Specifications
The Whirlpool WTW8127LW is a top-loading washer packed with features that have been developed to make doing laundry less of a chore. Its Load & Go Dispenser holds enough detergent to clean 20 loads of laundry, and its Pretreat Station Plus features a dual-temperature faucet and built-in brush to tackle tough stains. This Whirlpool washer offers the benefits of traditional and high-efficiency machines with its innovative 2 in 1 Removable Agitator, and its smart home features work with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Load sizes are not something you will have to fret over with this washer because it automatically senses how much laundry is in the tub and adapts water levels and washing actions accordingly. There are 12 wash cycles to choose from.
Load Type (Top/Front-Load)
The Whirlpool WTW8127LW is a traditional top-loading washer that you drop clothes into from above. Unlike front-loading machines, top-loading washers are not stackable, but this design approach does have a few advantages. Top-loading machines can handle larger loads because they have bigger tubs, and this Whirlpool features an agitator that can be removed to create even more space. Top-loading machines are also easier to clean, and Whirlpool has made things even simpler by including a Sanitize cycle with Oxi that takes the elbow grease out of this chore. The company has also taken the mystery out of top-loading washers by placing a glass window in the lid, so you will always know what is going on inside.
Agitators vs. Impellers
Agitators and impellers both clean clothes, but they do it differently. Agitators are rotating pillars in the center of the washtub with vanes that rub against clothes to loosen dirt and break up stains. Impellers are small discs at the bottom of the tub that spin at high speeds to create motion in the water. Agitators are excellent cleaners but can be hard on delicate fabrics, while impellers are gentler but less effective at removing stains. Fortunately, this is not something that you will have to think too much about with the Whirlpool WTW8127LW as it has both an impeller and a removable agitator. You can try both methods and see which you prefer.
Agitators vs. Impellers — What’s the Difference?
Agitator vs. Impeller Washing Machines
High-Efficiency vs. Traditional
Many people think high-efficiency washing machines lower electricity bills because their motors are more advanced, but that is not their secret. Most of the energy a washer consumes is used to bring water up to the correct temperature, and high-efficiency washers are so named because they use far less water to get clothes clean. Once again, Whirlpool offers consumers the advantages of both approaches. You can remove the agitator to enjoy the benefits of a high-efficiency machine, or you can leave it in and choose the Deep Water Wash option for more traditional cleaning.
High-efficiency Washers vs. Traditional Washers — What’s the Difference?
High-Efficiency vs. Traditional Washing Machine Pros And Cons
Capacity, Dimensions, and Weight
Whirlpool WTW8127LW is 27.25” wide, 42.5” tall, and 27.88” deep, which is pretty much the standard size for a top-loading washer. Just bear in mind that you will also need space for a dryer because this machine is not stackable. This Whirlpool washer tips the scales at 145 lbs., which is also par for the course for a machine of this type. While the dimensions of the Whirlpool WTW8127LW are fairly standard, this washer stands out with a tub that offers an impressive 5.2 cubic feet of space with the agitator in place and 5.3 cubic feet with the agitator removed. That’s enough space to fit an entire king-size bedding set, including the comforter, with room to spare.
Controls and Panel Features
The horizontal control panel of the Whirlpool WTW8127LW has a power button on the left, a start button on the right, and a 2.4″ LCD display in the middle. There are six wash cycle buttons on each side of the display, and you can create an additional 36 custom cycles. Custom cycles can be given any name and edited at any time, and you can even access them remotely if you download the Whirlpool app. The app can also be used to operate the machine remotely and obtain specialty cycles like swimwear, activewear, and sleeping bags. This machine has three wash speeds, two rinse cycles, and five water temperatures.
The factory wash cycles are:
- Regular
- Delicates
- Bulky Items
- Whites
- Colors
- Towels
- Normal
- Wrinkle Control
- Heavy Duty
- Sanitize with Oxi
- Cold Wash
- Quick
The control panels of some advanced washing machines include a baffling array of dials, buttons, and lights, but this Whirlpool top-loading washer has been engineered to make things easy. It takes care of a lot of basic functions automatically, and its controls are designed to guide you through the settings. You can even use this machine’s Delay Start feature to schedule a laundry cycle 12 hours in advance.
Installation and Maintenance
This Whirlpool washer is a non-stackable top-loading model, so all you will need to install it is a water supply and a three-prong outlet. Getting this machine up and running is a snap thanks to its simple controls, and even connecting it to the Whirlpool app is easy since all you have to do is follow a series of screen prompts.
Whirlpool has also made keeping this machine fresh a simple process with two cleaning cycles. The Sanitize with Oxi cycle will remove 99.9% of household bacteria, and the Clean Washer with Affresh cycle thoroughly cleans the machine. You should run this cycle after every 30 loads or so.
Annual Energy Consumption and Voltage
The Whirlpool WTW8127LW is an Energy Star certified appliance, which means it meets strict standards for efficiency laid down by the U.S. Department of Energy. If you look at the yellow Energy Guide label on this washer, you will see that it uses about 260 kWh of electricity each year. This means that it will cost about $29 to run if you have an electric water heater and about $15 to run if your water is heated by natural gas.
Certifications and Warranty
In addition to being an Energy Star appliance, the Whirlpool WTW8127LW is UL Certified. This means that UL, which used to be known as Underwriters Laboratories, has thoroughly tested this machine and determined that it meets stringent standards for safety, quality, and performance. Whirlpool backs this top-loading washer with a one-year limited warranty that protects consumers against defects in materials or manufacturing. Extended service plans are also available. Consumers do not have to register Whirlpool appliances to be covered by the warranty, but it is recommended.
Additional Features
Whirlpool is known for making appliances with advanced technology, and the WTW8127LW is no exception. Clever features and thoughtful touches that make this washer stand out from the crowd include:
- 2 in 1 Removable Agitator: You won’t have to decide between traditional and high-efficiency machines because this Whirlpool top-loading washer has both a removable agitator and an impeller.
- Load & Go Dispenser: Fill this dispenser up, and the Whirlpool WTW8127LW will have enough detergent to wash 20 loads of laundry.
- Pretreat Station Plus: This Whirlpool washer lets you pretreat stains right inside the tub with a temperature-controlled faucet and a built-in scrubbing brush.
- Deep Water Wash Option: This useful feature adds more water automatically to make sure that heavily soiled clothes get thoroughly cleaned.
- Automatic Presoak: This option adds water and detergent and then lets clothes soak for up to 120 minutes. When the soak cycle is finished, the washing cycle begins automatically.
- Delay Start: This feature lets you program the Whirlpool WTW8127LW to start up to 12 hours ahead.
- Quick Wash Cycle: This cycle will clean small, lightly soiled loads in just 30 minutes.
- Fast spin cycles: The Whirlpool WTW8127LW spins at speeds of up to 850 rpm. This means lower energy bills because your clothes will spend less time in the dryer.
- Whirlpool app: The Whirlpool WTW8127LW is a smart appliance, and connecting it to the Whirlpool app does not require a subscription. This washer can also connect to Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices.
- Adaptive wash technology: This Whirlpool washer’s Bloom Wash Action senses the size of each load of laundry and then adjusts water levels and washing actions for optimal cleaning.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5.2-5.3-Cu. Ft. |
| Dimensions | 27.88″ x 27.25″ x 42.5″ |
| Weight | 146 lbs. |
| Annual Energy Consumption | 260 kWh |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Stackable | Not-Stackable |
| Steam Function | No Steam |
| Wash Cycles | Bulky Items, Cold ,Colors, Delicates, Drain & Spin, Heavy Duty, Normal, Rinse & Spin, Sanitize, Towels and Sheets, Whites |
| Rinse Cycles | 2 |
| Wash Speeds | 3 |
| Wash Temperatures | 5 |
| Smart Home Enabled | Yes |
| Special Features | Removable agitator |
| Certifications | Energy Star, UL Certified |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Price
The Whirlpool WTW8127LW has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $1,249, which makes it one of the priciest top-loading washers on the market. This washer justifies its hefty price tag with a long list of useful features, one of the largest capacities available, and Whirlpool’s reputation for durability and quality. You probably won’t pay MSRP if you choose this washer because Best Buy and The Home Depot generally discount this model by about $125. If you do a lot of laundry and appreciate features that will save you time and lower your energy bills, this machine could be a good choice. If you are looking for a basic washer and don’t really care much about bells and whistles, you may want to consider other options.
What Are Consumers Saying About the Whirlpool WTW8127LW?
Consumers who have purchased the Whirlpool WTW8127LW seem to be happy with it. This machine has been reviewed hundreds of times, and most of the customer feedback is positive. The features most often mentioned in reviews are this washer’s large tub and removable agitator, and quite a few reviewers say the impeller worked better than they expected. A few negative reviews of the Whirlpool WTW8127LW complained about the noise the machine makes when running, and some reviewers said they had trouble connecting to the Whirlpool app.
Based on customer reviews, the pros and cons of the Whirlpool WTW8127LW are:
Pros
- Large tub
- Removable agitator
- Advanced cleaning features
- Smart home ready
- Pretreat station
- Load & Go Dispenser
- Quality construction
Cons
- High MSRP
- Loud motor
- App not always available
Additional Resources
Is the Whirlpool WTW8127LW for You?
If you are looking for a washer that offers the latest in appliance technology from a premium manufacturer, the Whirlpool WTW8127LW could be the machine for you. It is sturdily built, Wi-Fi enabled, and packed with advanced washing features. However, this all comes with a hefty price tag attached. If you don’t need a washer with a 5.2-cubic-foot tub, pretreat station, customizable laundry cycles, and a downloadable app, you may be better off with a more affordable alternative.
Whirlpool WTW8127LW 5.2-5.3-Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer
Whirlpool WTW8127LW 5.2-5.3-Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer
Matching Companion Models
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Whirlpool WED8127LW / WGD8127LW 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Whirlpool WED8127LW Electric 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Whirlpool WGD8127LW Gas 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Whirlpool WED8127LW / WGD8127LW Description and Specifications
The Whirlpool WED8127LW electric dryer and WGD8127LW gas drier are perfect companion appliances for the company’s WTW8127LW top-loading washer. Like the WTW8127LW, both of these dryers are smart appliances that can be operated remotely using the Whirlpool app, and they both have features that protect your clothes and lower your energy bills. These dryers offer a generous 7.4 cubic feet of drying space and an impressive 36 drying cycles, so they will be more than capable of handling anything the WTW8127LW can throw at them.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 7.4-Cu. Ft. |
| Dimensions | 29.88″ x 27″ x 42.75″ |
| Weight | 121 lbs. |
| Voltage | 240V |
| Stackable | Not Stackable |
| Drying Cycles | Bulky Items, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Timed Dry, Towels and Sheets, Wrinkle Free |
| Drying Temperatures | 5 |
| Vent Type | Vented |
| Smart Home Enabled | Yes |
| Special Features | Advance Moisture Sensing Technology, EcoBoost |
| Certifications | Energy Star, UL Certified |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Why the Whirlpool WED8127LW / WGD8127LW Is Great
You won’t have to worry about overdrying with these Whirlpool dryers as they have three sensors that track both temperature and moisture, and their Wrinkle Shield Plus Option with Steam feature could greatly cut down the amount of time you spend ironing. This feature keeps wrinkles at bay by using steam and tumbling for up to two and a half hours after the drying cycle ends. If the clothes in your closet need sprucing up, these dryers have a refresh cycle that can bring them back to life without rewashing. There is also a quick dry cycle for small loads, and you can even operate these dryers with voice commands if you have a device that is voice-enabled.
Whirlpool WED8127LW Electric 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Whirlpool WED8127LW Electric 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Whirlpool WGD8127LW Gas 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Whirlpool WGD8127LW Gas 7.4-Cu. Ft. Dryer w/ Steam
Washer Tips
The Whirlpool WTW8127LW’s simple control panel provides access to a host of useful features. If you want to know how to get the most out of them, you should click on the owner’s manual link in the additional resources section. You can also visit our Washer Tips page to read about ways to get your clothes cleaner and save time on laundry day.
Washing Machine Tips: Buying, Usage, Maintenance & More
Why Choose Whirlpool?
Whirlpool is an American brand that has been making washing machines for more than 100 years. They introduced the first fully automatic washer, electric dryer, and toll-free customer support line. One glance at the Whirlpool WTW8127LW’s long list of features will be enough to tell you that the company has not lost the spirit of innovation that made it a household name. Whirlpool washers and dryers have always offered consumers durability, reliability, and cutting-edge technology, which may be why the company has grown from modest beginnings to become a global behemoth.
Private: Whirlpool Appliances
FAQs
The WTW8127LW is finished in white, but you can get the same machine in a dark finish called Chrome Shadow. The model number of that machine is WTW8127LC, and its MSRP is $100 higher.
This is a small scrubbing brush that fits inside a slot on the outside of the laundry tub. It is used with the Whirlpool WTW8127LW’s dual-temperature faucet to remove stains and ground-in dirt before washing.
Agitators work really well, but they can be tough on clothes. You may want to remove the agitator and use this machine’s impeller when you wash delicate items or need a little more space in the tub.
The Whirlpool WTW8127LW is a high-efficiency washer, which means you must use detergent that has been formulated to produce fewer suds. Just look for containers with an HE symbol when you buy laundry detergent.
Whirlpool has been making washing machines for more than a hundred years, and they are considered one of the world’s best appliance makers. The WTW8127LW is a very durable and reliable washer.
