Mine broke today, and i'm trying to find a new one for $350 or less. Anyone have any advice on what brand to get (or not get?)
We've had good luck with Kenmore, from Sears. They've lasted for years and we usually put too much in them (which you shouldn't do). The one we have now is probably 7 or 8 years old and works like it did when it was new. I don't know if you need the capacity, but we got an extra large one, and are really glad we did. Much easier to wash beach towels, bath rugs, and blankets... not to mention just stuffin' it full of clothes.
Hey you would be better off getting a good one than a cheap one that will break down in a few years. A good washing machine can last for a decade. I would suggest u to check out the washing machine by Whirlpool
This is the one I got a little over a year ago and it still works great: http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=206309-46-RTW4340SQ&lpage=none The brand is Roper but it is made by Whirlpool. If you choose this one be careful because there are two different types and once costs about $15 more but with that $15 you get some useful extra features like a fabric softener dispenser and some other things.
Don't buy Whirlpool. There's a big class-action lawsuit going on right now, and it's impossible to get them serviced if they break down. A friend of mine just had to replace a three year old water heater that was under warranty because nobody would work on it. She tried calling Whirlpool but she couldn't get past their telephone support people in India.