Whirlpool Duet Steam Washer Guide: Should You Still Consider Duet?

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Barry Juma

Barry began to teach himself to repair appliances as a teenager. In later years, his love of cooking led Barry to learn to troubleshoot kitchen appliances around his home. His background in education allows him to combine his love of repair work and passion for writing to bring the most helpful troubleshooting and repair guides to this site. He encourages appliance owners to plan ahead, think about their goals, and always read the manual!

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When it comes to doing laundry, many people believe that the only way to clean clothes is by using a washer and dryer that use hot water and high heat. However, another option is becoming increasingly popular, and that is to use a steam washer. Whirlpool makes some of the best steam washers in the market, and in this Whirlpool Duet steam washer guide, we will take a look at what these washers have to offer.

The first thing you need to know about steam washers is that they use less water than traditional washers. This is because the steam penetrates the fabric of the clothing and breaks down the dirt and stains. This means that you do not need to use as much water to get your clothes clean as you would in traditional washing cycles.

Another benefit of using a steam washer is that they use less energy. This is because the steam does all of the work, so the washer does not have to use a lot of energy to heat the water. This can lower your monthly energy cost. Finally, Whirlpool steam washers are gentle on clothes. The steam does not damage the fabric, so you can wash delicate items without worrying. 

Interested in getting a Whirlpool Duet steam washer? Keep reading to find out all you need to know about these models.

Bottom Line Up Front

The Whirlpool Duet sub-brand was discontinued so you won’t easily find any brand-new Whirlpool Duet steam washers. I’ve listed a few recommendations below, but these are likely to be unavailable by the time you’re reading this.

So, I wouldn’t recommend getting a Whirlpool Duet washer but I do recommend getting a steam washer under the standard Whirlpool brand. My top recommendation is the Whirlpool WFW5605MC Front Load Washer, which is reasonably priced and offers excellent cleaning performance thanks to the steam option.

My Top Steam Washer Recommendations at a Glance

Below, I’ve recommended the top Whirlpool steam washers instead of the Whirlpool Duet models, because of the latter’s unavailability.

Whirlpool seems to have discontinued its Duet line of appliances, so there are no Whirlpool Duet washers available on the company’s official website.

You can still, however, find some models for sale in stores like Lowes and BestBuy. Do note that the availability of Whirlpool Duet steam washers is never certain; most of the stores I checked had these models out of stock.

Main Features of Whirlpool Duet Steam Washers

Main Wash Cycles

The Whirlpool Duet washer models have different wash cycles, but some are common across the lineup. The table below breaks down the main wash cycles in Whirlpool Duet washers.

Steam Cleaning

Cycles like Sanitize, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Normal, and Whites, have the option of using steam. This feature is branded differently in the different Whirlpool Duet models. For instance, it’s known as Clean Boost with Steam on this model, Deep Clean with Steam on this model, and Steam Clean on this model.

No matter what it’s called, the feature works the same across all models; it uses steam to boost the cleaning performance of a cycle without ruining the fabrics.

Vibration Control

Found in the more expensive Whirlpool Duet washers, vibration control (also known as Quiet Spin 360) is a feature that keeps the washer balanced to reduce vibrations. It’s made up of an accelerometer that detects whenever the washer is out of balance. There are also ball-balancing mechanisms that always make sure that the tub is centered. 

EcoBoost

This feature helps lower the energy used by using cooler water. To maintain the wash quality, the washer will increase the cycle time and tumbling action to ensure that the load still comes out clean. You can activate EcoBoost in cycles that use high temperatures, like Normal, Whites, and Heavy Duty, if you’d like to save on energy use.

FanFresh Option

If you run your cycles at night or when you’re not at home, the FanFresh feature is one you should consider. It’s made up of a built-in fan that runs at the end of a wash cycle while the washer intermittently tumbles the load. This ensures that the load remains fresh if you’re not able to remove it from the washer immediately. 

This feature can also dry the load if the fabrics are light and the load is small.

TumbleFresh

TumbleFresh has a similar function to FanFresh, except this one doesn’t use a fan. If you’re not able to remove a load from the washer immediately after the cycle ends, TumbleFresh will keep it fresh for up to 6 hours by intermittently tumbling the clothes.

Precision Dispense

This is a detergent dispenser that’s designed to inject the right amount of detergent at the precise time, thus the name Precision Dispense. This ensures that the wash quality is kept high.

PreSoak Option

You can choose a Whirlpool Duet steam washer with this feature if you are always washing heavily soiled loads. The PreSoak Option will soak the load for a specified period before automatically starting the cycle. You can set the washer to soak for up to 8 hours.

Adaptive Clean

This feature consists of sensors that can determine the size of a load. This enables the washer to use enough water for a specific load size, ensuring that the washer doesn’t use too little or too much water in a cycle.

Choosing a Steam Washer: What to Consider

Energy Efficiency

Using steam helps to lower the energy and water used, as we’ve already determined. However, you won’t always want to incorporate steam in the wash cycle, so it’s important to consider a washer that’s energy efficient. 

Check certifications like Energy Star and the CEE Tier to be certain that the washer uses little energy. Models ranked CEE Tier 1 use more energy than those with Tier 2, 3, and 4 rankings. The most efficient are CEE Advanced Tier washers. 

Also, check the washer’s Energy Guide label to see an estimate of how much you might spend annually to run the appliance. 

Temperature Levels

Consider the highest temperature at which the washer heats water in a cycle and whether this is adjustable. This gives you some control over how much energy a cycle will use. I recommend a washer with at least four temperature levels for a wider range. 

Spin Speed

Also, consider the maximum spin speed of a washer. I always recommend getting a washer with at least 1000 RPM. Washers with lower than this leave clothes damp resulting in more time spent in the dryer. This means that the dryer will use more energy to dry your load. 

Thankfully, the Whirlpool Duet steam washers that I’ve recommended below all have spin speeds above 1000 RPM.

Noise Level

Consider washers with a sound level of 60dB or lower. This is the level of normal conversation, so if you get one that’s more than 60 dB, the noise might be distracting. Features like Vibration Control in Whirlpool Duet models also help to lower the sound level and are worth having in your washer. 

Find out about other things to consider in our article on finding the best washer for your home.

Whirlpool Duet Steam Washer Recommendations

Selection Criteria

• Performance – I considered washer models with high performance, based on user reviews and extra features available. 
• Energy Efficiency – All these models are energy efficient, with either an Energy Star certification and/or a CEE Tier ranking.
• Price – To share models for users with different budgets, I considered washer models at different price points.

Note: Some of these Whirlpool Duet washers may be unavailable when you read this since the Duet line was discontinued by the company. If you’re okay with a pre-owned model, you can still find these at a lower price.

Whirlpool Duet WFW8740DW Stackable Steam Cycle Front-Load Washer

Main Features

• It has a capacity of 4.3 cubic feet.
• Its width is 27 inches, depth is 33 inches, and height is 39 inches.
• The washer’s maximum spin speed is 1400 RPM.
• There’s Clean Boost steam cleaning.
• It has 10 wash cycles.
• There are 5 wash temperatures.
• This model has a Presoak option.
• There’s a 6-hour TumbleFresh feature.
• Its tub is made of stainless steel.
• This model is Energy Star certified.
• It has a CEE Tier I ranking.

The Whirlpool Duet WFW8740DW is a steam washer worth considering if you manage to find it on sale. When researching for this article, this model was available at Lowe’s. But, by the time I’m writing this section, it’s no longer available. You might find some luck at Best Buy, or if you’re okay with a used model, eBay is a great place to check.

If you do find this washer, you’ll be happy with its steam function that’s known as Clean Boost. This works with the wash cycles to boost the cleaning performance. 

Whirlpool Duet WFW95HEDC High-Efficiency Steam Front-Loading Washer

Main Features

• This model has a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet.
• It has 12 wash cycles.
• There are 4 temperature levels.
• Its width is 27 inches, height is 39 inches, and depth is 33 inches.
• There’s the EcoBoost feature.
• The washer has vibration control.
• It has Adaptive Wash technology.
• There’s Precision Dispense.
• It has a 12-hour FanFresh option.
• This model has a Presoak function.
• The washer’s maximum spin speed is 1400 RPM.
• It has a CEE Tier III ranking.

The Whirlpool Duet WFW95HEDC is a highly efficient washer, with an impressive CEE Tier III ranking. It’s also Energy Star certified, but that goes without saying. This is why I think the WFW95HEDC is worth considering if you can find it still in stock. 

You’ll get 12 wash cycles, with EcoBoost as an option that will help you save energy. However, your main interest will be in the steam function, which gives the cycles extra cleaning power. Granted, this model is over 6 years old, so you might struggle to find it in stock brand new. 

Whirlpool Duet WFW9640XW High-Efficiency Front-Load Washer

Main Features

• The washer has a capacity of 3.9 cubic feet.
• Its width is 27 inches, height is 38.25 inches, and depth is 32.5 inches.
• It has 12 wash cycles.
• There are 5 temperature levels.
• It has a stainless steel basket.
• This model has EcoBoost.
• Its maximum spin speed is 1400 RPM.
• There’s a 6-hour TumbleFresh feature.
• This model has EcoBoost.
• It has a CEE Tier III ranking.
• The washer is also Energy Star certified.

This model is ideal for a smaller household of about 2 to 4 members thanks to its sub-4-cubic-foot capacity. Inside, you get a stainless steel basket, which is common for steam washers. Speaking of steam, this feature is branded as a Deep Clean option in this model. And, as the name suggests, using the steam feature greatly boosts the cycle’s washing performance. 

Another interesting feature is the washer’s 6th Sense Technology, which is made up of sensors that can determine the load size. This enables the washer to use the appropriate amount of water for each load.

Whirlpool Duet WFW94HEAC Steam Front Load Washer

Main Features

• This washer model has a capacity of 4.3 cubic feet.
• It has a width of 27 inches, a depth of 32.75 inches, and a height of 38.5 inches.
• There are 12 wash cycles.
• It has 5 temperature levels.
• This model has a maximum spin speed of 1400 RPM.
• There’s a Quiet Wash Noise Reduction System.
• It has an 8-hour PreSoak function.
• The washer has EcoBoost.
• It has Precision Dispense.
• It also has a 12-house FanFresh option.
• This model has a CEE Tier III ranking.

With a sleek stainless steel exterior and an LED display, this model has an elegant look. Granted, the Whirlpool Duet WFW94HEAC is about 7 years old, so its design isn’t revolutionary in the 2020s. While we’re on the subject of its age, it’s important to know that finding one of these models in stock will be like finding gold; it’s unavailable brand new. However, if you’re okay with a used unit, you might find some at an affordable price.

This model has features like Precision Dispense, an Adaptive Wash System, and Eco Boost. Plus, it’s a highly efficient unit that boasts a CEE Tier III ranking. 

Because these Whirlpool Duet steam washers are largely unavailable brand new, you might want to consider the alternatives available to you. 

Below, I’ve listed some standard Whirlpool alternatives that you may consider in place of the Whirlpool Duet models.

Alternative Steam Washer Models

Whirlpool WFW5605MC Front Load Washer

Main Features

• It has a steam clean option.
• Its capacity is 4.5 cubic feet.
• The washer has 37 wash cycles.
• There are 9 wash options.
• It has 5 temperature levels.
• There’s a Presoak Option.
• The washer has a 12-hour Tumble Fresh feature.
• This model has Vibration Control Technology.
• It is Energy Star certified.
• Its maximum spin speed is 1160 RPM.

Consider this Whirlpool washer because it’s readily available brand new and it offers all the features that the Whirlpool Duet models offer. This unit’s regular price is $1050, but there’s a sale at the time of writing, with a 23% discount on this model. Whirlpool regularly has such sales so you’re likely to find a discount on this model, whenever you’re reading this.

Whirlpool WFW6605MC Front Load Washer

Main Features

• The washer has a Steam Clean option.
• It has a capacity of 5.0 cubic feet.
• There are 37 wash cycles.
• It also has 9 wash options.
• This model has 5 temperature levels.
• The maximum spin speed is 1160 RPM.
• It is Energy Star certified.
• It has Vibration Control Technology.
• There’s a stainless steel basket.
• It has a 12-hour Tumble Fresh option.

For a larger steam washer, consider the Whirlpool WFW6605MC. This model is a step up from the Duet models I’ve featured above because it offers mode wash cycles – 37 to be precise. Some of these cycles work with the steam function.

You also get the Presoak option and Vibration Control, all of which are part of the Duet models. The best part is that this washer is available for sale at most retailers.

Whirlpool WFW9620HBK Smart Front Load Washer

Main Features

• The washer has Steam Cleaning.
• Its capacity is 5.0 cubic feet.
• This model has WiFi connectivity and smart features.
• There’s a Load & Go XL Plus Dispenser.
• It has intuitive touch controls.
• There’s a 12-hour FanFresh option.
• It has a Presoak option.
• This washer has a 15-minute Quick Wash cycle.

This model is for those who would love the convenience of a smart steam washer. Thanks to WiFi connectivity, you can use the Whirlpool app to remotely monitor and operate the washer. Still, it has an intuitive touchscreen control that will help you find the right cycle for your load.

If you have a budget of about $1700 then I recommend the Whirlpool WFW9620HBK model.

Find out more about these and other Whirlpool washers in our Whirlpool washer model guide.

FAQs

Should You Consider a Whirlpool Duet Steam Washer?

No, mainly because they’re no longer available for sale brand new so you won’t get a warranty or support. However, Whirlpool still sells some excellent steam washers under the standard Whirlpool brand – I recommend considering these. 

My top recommendation is the Whirlpool WFW5605MC Front Load Washer, which is reasonably priced at about $1000. It can also cost less than this if there’s a sale running. This washer offers all the features available in the Duet models, plus it has a couple more wash cycles.