At a product show in fall of 2019, we got to see GE's new and improved front load washer lineup coming out in late 2019 into 2020. If you're searching for a new front load washer, GE's new models with the UltraFresh Vent system are a must-see! (For more info on choosing a new washer, check out our washing machine buying guide.)
2020 Update: The Good Housekeeping Institute put model GFW850SPNRS through testing of its wash performance and the Ultra Fresh Vent tub drying cycle. The results? This washer is now their top pick for 2020 as the best overall washing machine! They found that the UFV technology is effective for drying the washer interior, and that the wash cycles are quick and effective.
2021 Update: We added a quick video about using bulk detergent dispensers like GE SmartDispense!
Table of Contents
New Features Overview
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Easier installation. Although many front load washers have reversible doors, with some models it can be a difficult process that's best left to a professional. These new GE front loaders have easily reversible doors, so you can DIY! Plus, recessed connections in the rear of the washer allow it to sit closer to the wall, ideal for installations where space is limited.
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The UltraFresh Vent System. Click the link to read our full article on the topic. Basically, GE has improved the front load washer drainage system and implemented a new tub drying technology to make front load washer maintenance a lot easier!
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Matte colors with chrome accents. Alongside classic white and gray, GE is also offering these washers in premium finishes inspired by trends in the world of high-end automobiles: satin, low-gloss finishes combined with brilliant chrome accents. These new finishes include Sapphire Blue and Satin Nickel.
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Smart Dispense bulk detergent reservoirs. Along the same lines as Whirlpool Load and Go, GE's Smart Dispense holds up to 50 ounces of detergent (enough for 32 loads) and dispenses the right amount automatically for each wash.
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More heavy-duty interior parts. One part we got to hold for ourselves at the product show was the drive motor shaft: it's been re-designed to be a lot more robust!
- Load balancing improvements. Has your washer ever started thumping and shaking during a cycle? That's a common sign of an unbalanced load - clothes aren't distributed evenly in the tub. Typically when a load becomes unbalanced, the washer has to spin down and then spin back up again. This can extend cycle times, especially if a particularly finicky load doesn't re-balance on the first try. GE's new washers have improved algorithms to handle an out-of-balance load without completely pausing the cycle. So it's saving you time while keeping your washer quiet!
Watch our exclusive video on this great new lineup!
Review: The GE GFW650 Front Load Washer (MSRP $999+)
Let's start with the new 650 washer, which has a fresh updated look for 2020 - see model GFW650SPNSN in Satin Nickel! You'll find a variety of great features, including Smart Dispense, time-saving Dynamic Balancing Technology, and even wifi connectivity. Start your washer remotely, or receive notifications when a cycle is complete so damp clothes won't sit in the tub too long. Oh, and that tub is a massive 4.8 cubic feet, by the way!
If you can't get to your wash right away, Tumble Care can help: intermittent tumbling keeps damp clothes fresh. Other cool options include Power Steam to help loosen stains, PreWash for heavily soiled items, and the UltraFresh Vent tub drying option to be used after a cycle. The 12 cycles include helpful specialty programs like Sanitize + Allergen to kill bacteria and dust mites, and a 20-minute Quick Wash cycle for small, lightly soiled loads.
This model is an inch wider than the traditional 27" front load washer platform but maintains a closet depth design at 32" deep. Advanced dispensers release bleach, fabric softener, and detergent at the right points throughout the cycle for maximum effectiveness. GE offers a one-year parts and labor warranty plus 10 years on the basket and motor.
Features:
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12 Cycles: Active Wear, Bulky/Bedding, Cold Wash, Delicates, Normal, Power Clean, Quick Wash, Rinse + Spin, Sanitize + Allergen, Self Clean, Towels, Whites
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9 Options: Delay Start, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse, Power Steam, PreWash, Smart Dispense, Time Saver, Tumble Care, UltraFresh Vent
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Max spin speed: 1,300 RPM
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Wifi connectivity
- Smart Dispense bulk detergent reservoir
Dimensions:
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Width: 28"
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Depth: 32"
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Height: 39.75"
Click here to read over 85 real customer reviews of this product!
Review: The GE GFW850 Front Load Washer (MSRP $1,099+)
GE's premium 850 series front load washer includes model GFW850SPNRS in Sapphire Blue. You'll find a slightly larger 5.0 cubic foot tub (and a 2" increase in depth compared to the 650 models, from 32" deep to 34"). Overall the cycles, options, and features are very similar to the 650 series.
The main addition is the 1 Step Wash + Dry option. Maytag and Whirlpool's premium front load washers also offer this feature (as of this writing): the ability to wash and dry a small load overnight. If you need a sports uniform or maybe a work outfit ready to go for tomorrow, this option will tumble the clothes for 8 hours after the wash cycle is completed while introducing a constant stream of fresh air into the tub.
This model is also 2" deeper than the 650 model at 34" deep, so it may not work for closet installations.
Features:
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12 Cycles: Active Wear, Bulky/Bedding, Cold Wash, Delicates, Normal, Power Clean, Quick Wash, Rinse + Spin, Sanitize + Allergen, Self Clean, Towels, Whites
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10 Options: Delay Start, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse, Power Steam, PreWash, Smart Dispense, Time Saver, Tumble Care, UltraFresh Vent, 1 Step Wash + Dry
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Max spin speed: 1,300 RPM
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Wifi connectivity
- Smart Dispense bulk detergent reservoir
Dimensions:
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Width: 28"
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Depth: 34"
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Height: 39.75"
Click here to read over 135 real customer reviews of this product!
Review: The GE GFW550 Front Load Washer (MSRP $899+)
Following the release of the 650 and 850 washers, GE followed it up with the 550 models to replace their popular GFW450SSMWW washer that was available at a similar price point. The GE GFW550SSNWW also features the Ultra Fresh Vent system with OdorBlock and Microban, as well as wifi connectivity. This 4.8 cubic foot capacity model has a lot of the features present in the 650 model, but it lacks steam, the bulk detergent dispenser, and a couple of cycles.
The 650 model comes with a Power Clean cycle and Active Wear cycle, which the 550 lacks. If you're looking for a front load washer at a lower price point, this model still has the premium looks and essential UFV features of the rest of the GE front load lineup! It's available in classic white or diamond gray, while the 650/850 models come in satin finishes.
Features:
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10 Cycles: Bulky/Bedding, Cold Wash, Delicates, Normal, Quick Wash, Rinse + Spin, Sanitize with Oxi, Self Clean, Towels, Whites
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9 Options: Delay Start, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse, More Water, My Settings, Pre Wash, Time Saver, Tumble Care, UltraFresh Vent
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Max spin speed: 1,300 RPM
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Wifi connectivity
Dimensions:
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Width: 28"
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Depth: 32"
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Height: 39.75"
Click here to read over 120 real customer reviews of this product!
These new Ultra Fresh vent models in GE's front load washer lineup are fully rolled out as of January 2020. We're interested to see how these cool new models will perform! What do you think? Are you interested in a front load washer that is less susceptible to mold and odors? Leave us a comment below - We'd love to hear from you!
Editor's Note: This blog was originally written in January of 2020 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy as of the publication date noted above.
