Frigidaire Affinity ATF6000ES1
by Dave
(Moncton, NB, Canada)
When my wife and I bought our first house, we decided it was time for new laundry equipment. After doing some research and on the advice of a helpful sales person we decided that the Frigidaire Affinity series would fit our needs. On paper it had the quality, durability and energy efficiency we required. Ultimately we feel we made the correct choice in purchasing this washer.
Selection of wash cycles are made easy by using the large dial in the center of the controls. Choosing additional cycle options (via push button controls) while somewhat cumbersome at first, was made easy once we got used to how the controls functioned.
While the machine uses much less water than conventional (top loading) laundry equipment, I have found that this washer performs surprisingly well. The wash and rinse cycles leave clothes exceptionally clean. Only the most soiled of clothing requires the use of the heavy duty cycle and/or extra rinse and extended spin options.
Using the high speed spin cycle, most articles of clothing are nearly dry (when compared with traditional top-loading laundry equipment), requiring minimal drying time afterward. If items washed are heavier material, an 'extended spin' option is available, leaving even the heaviest of materials nearly dry.
As our child uses cloth diapers, getting them clean the first time is a top priority for us. The washer (using the heavy duty cycle with extra rinse and extended spin) does an excellent job of cleaning them.
While my experience overall is positive, there are some points that I believe Frigidaire could improve on this series in the future:
- The bleach dispenser drawer almost always has standing water in it. According to the documentation this is normal, but it rather irks me as it take up room for the bleach.
- The automatic door lock on the door does not unlock immediately after you cancel (or pause) a cycle. I've had to un-plug the machine in order to open the door to add an additional item to be washed.
Overall, I find that the Frigidaire Affinity series to be highly efficient and exceptionally quiet. I also find that the washer seems to be very solid overall and well built.