Kenmore

Why r/BuyItForLife recommends Kenmore

104 mentions from real owners

• #1Dec 31, 2025

  What product category has gotten worse in quality, even at the premium level?

  This comment thread should make you all think twice about getting advice from this subreddit. Cars? Fucking cars? They all go 200k miles now. Are you INSANE?! They're much much better and more reliable. When was the last time you had to adjust your carb? Distributor? Check your tire's air? Man even oil changes last 3 times longer. Refrigerators? They're extremely power efficient. Non smart ones last as long as they ever have. People have been saying this stuff about longevity for our entire lives. We had a 50s fridge until the 70s, a 70s one until the 80s, an 80s one until the 90s, a 90s one until 2002, and from 2002-2014 we had one, and now I have another one since 2014. It's lasting longer than average. All Kenmore. Sometimes units last a long time, sometimes they don't. I had the exact same model fridge as my uncle in the 90s. His is chugging along in the garage still. Mine died the weekend The Two Towers came out.  Headphones?! Have you LISTENED to an old pair? They suck. The sound is bad. The cables were short and tangly. They also constantly lost connection and you had to jiggle them to get them to play stereo. They are obviously better now. Free airplane headphones are better than $15 headphones from 2000. Jesus Christ. Laundry baskets? Is this a joke? Those old Rubbermaid baskets cracked if you looked at them funny. They're much tougher now, easier to hold, and half the price. Holy shit this subreddit clearly has no idea what quality used to be on things. We used to hear "they don't make them like they used to" about EVERYTHING. It's called survivorship bias. You know why things used to be so repairable? Cause they had to be because they were constantly breaking. You know we used to have washtubs and washboards as backups when the washing machine would break. Everyone did. That was normal. Appliances are extremely reliable now. People don't feel that need for a manual backup.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #2Dec 31, 2025

  My Grandmother’s Dryer

  I'd say it's a top of the line 70's model. Does it had a dryness sensor for automatic shut off? If so, that's an early one. I liked the lint filters on the top! I had a Kenmore washer that looks similar to the one you have. It was not a water saver but it sure washed clothes very well because water use was not an issue back then. If something went wrong with it, I'd flip on it's side, see what was wrong and order a new part from sears and fix it. The gas dryer was the same way, nice and simple. I have LG washer and gas dryer now, like all low water use washers they are not as good at washing as what my 25 year old Sears was. For me the LG wash cycle takes over two hours to get things clean and clothing needs to be spot treated. The LG dryer tangles things up. Consumer Reports rates LG as the best and I have had no trouble with them for the last ten or so years. The longest lasting washers and dryers out there now are Speed Queens, but they are more expensive and are American made. I recently bought a new Kenmore upright vacuum and really like it and I have a small Kenmore for the camper. It has a disposable bag which I really like, no more bagless and getting dirt all over dumping the bin.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #3Dec 31, 2025

  Are these worth it for $1200?

  I have an old kenmore series 80 washer bought over 15 years ago. Had some minor issues but easy to fix and parts are cheap. Same with a Maytag gas dryer. Don’t have to worry about a circuit board going bad.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #4Dec 30, 2025

  What product category has gotten worse in quality, even at the premium level?

  When I moved into my current house there was (still is) an old Kenmore washer that was original to the house. 37 years old and still going strong.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #5Dec 30, 2025

  What product category has gotten worse in quality, even at the premium level?

  I never thought they were buy it for life----but in the old days, speakers, microphones, wired headphones of good quality lasted and lasted now---ear buds, wireless headphones--not going to last long. Refrigerators Washer machines One thing that did improve--gas cars in the past 30 years got better than predecssors (honda toyota subaru etc.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #6Dec 28, 2025

  Used Subzero - still tons of life left

  Agree, but to be fair parts are becoming thin on the ground for that vintage other than Speed Queen. I'm still rocking a Kenmore Ultimate set from 2005. Best appliances I've ever owned. Efficiency standards entirely killed longevity.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #7Dec 27, 2025

  Unpopular opinion: The 'BIFL' mindset is becoming a luxury most people can't afford, and that's by design.

  I agree with this viewpoint. Some manufacturers make it easy to DIY by making replacement parts available. For example, I know Kenmore Elite appliances are mostly just rebranded LG or Samsung, but their website makes identification of part numbers so easy. They even have a feature where you can upload a picture of the product tag and it will pull up your item and all the various sub-parts. I have kept all of my Kenmore Elite products chugging along for many years because of this, and I am a big fan.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #8Dec 5, 2025

  Is there anything you're convinced is "the cheaper the better"?

  Bought one of those old basic white Kenmore washers from a used appliance place like 7 years ago. Only thing I've had to do to it was replace the pump after a sock got stuck in it. Had the dryer too. Only thing I had to fix was a thermostat/thermal fuse replacement

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #9Dec 5, 2025

  Is there anything you're convinced is "the cheaper the better"?

  I have a pair of Kenmores from the 80s. I had to buy some "dogs" for the washer last year. Five or ten bucks? An hour of my time for a big water lux wash.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #10Dec 3, 2025

  If you have a counter-depth refrigerator that has lasted longer than 15 years, what make and model is it?

  we have a Kenmore side by side that has been going for 20 years now and I loathe the day that thing ever breaks. I love a good side by side fridge because of ice and water in the door without the tiny ice maker in today's French doors.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #11Dec 2, 2025

  Dishwasher with no smart features

  My early 1990s era kenmore is still chugging along fine. I'm doomed when it dies.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #12Dec 2, 2025

  KENMORE Coldspot upright freezer made to last for DECADES in Feb 1991

  These things are excellent! There's so little to go wrong with a freezer like this, and they're extremely efficient. There is no way this draws a full 5 amps when running.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #13Nov 7, 2025

  My Kenmore Refrigerator from the mid 80s. Still running strong.

  I have the same fridge. Still chilling and making ice like a champ.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #14Nov 3, 2025

  I know there is no such thing as a BIFL appliance, but what are your thoughts on this washer? Please no speed queen recommendations, they are too expensive and don't hold enough.

  Personally, I would avoid LG, and lean towards Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Speed Queen, Kenmore, Frigidaire, Electrolux, and more. I know a few of those fall under the same parent companies, but they all specialize in appliances. If you want a Speed Queen but can't afford one now, maybe look at marketplace, nextdoor, etc for a local used one cheap and then save for a bit until you can afford the Speed Queen. I've seen washer dryer sets sell for $40 online and they'll usually run for a year or two at least and you could use that time to save and find a deal on what you actually want and something you know will last.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #15Oct 4, 2025

  Washer and dryer pairs (US) that are worth it, but on a budget?

  I've had good luck buying older second hand machines that have been refurbed. Maybe check and see if there's someplace like that in your town? I'm talking old school Kenmore top loading washers with an agitator and the corresponding dryers. It's a cheap initial investment, they're crazy easy to repair, and there's a ton of Youtube videos showing how to repair them.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #16Sep 6, 2025

  Brands That Used to Be BIFL — But Aren't Anymore?

  RCA,Skil,Kenmore

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #17Sep 6, 2025

  What refrigerators last the longest. The compressor stopped working on my two-year-old KitchenAid.

  I work for an appliance part distributor. Kenmore models starting with 111 are Daewoo or Harwick. Models starting with 106 or 110 are Whirlpool. There's an entire list of Kenmore model prefixes. I'm not saying you didn't work for Sears. I am saying that I work for the part distributor Sears buys their parts from.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #18Sep 3, 2025

  My Kenmore Refrigerator from the mid 80s. Still running strong.

  My brother bought all Kenmore appliance back in the 80's- has NEVER had an issue in over 30 years!!!! Had to change the bulb light in the oven once! So sad we had to have China take over.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #19Aug 13, 2025

  What's the oldest thing you still use daily that works like new?

  I have a Kenmore dryer and it’s still going from the 80s as well.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #20Aug 13, 2025

  What's the oldest thing you still use daily that works like new?

  A mid 80s Kenmore for Sears sewing machine.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #21Aug 10, 2025

  Looking for a fridge… but can a fridge even be BIFL?

  Probably a Kenmore

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #22Aug 10, 2025

  Looking for a fridge… but can a fridge even be BIFL?

  Oooooo I’m doing something similar ~~if~~ when my current fridge dies. It’s a Kenmore from 1997 so probably as BIFL as you can get.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #23Aug 8, 2025

  My Neighbor’s 1985 GE Microwave

  Looks similar to my parent’s first microwave they had in the 80s, it was a Kenmore. The control panel looked similar to this, so most likely it was manufactured by GE. The sides of the microwave were fake wood grain, which was popular at the time. This brings back memories.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #24Aug 7, 2025

  Looking to replace every single item we own

  Cookware - [Heckles Capri Granitium skillets](https://www.costco.ca/henckels-capri-granitium-skillets%2c-3-piece.product.4000097206.html?langId=-24&province=AB&sh=true&nf=true) Costco. As indestructible as I could find for a mostly non stick pan - Instant pot - [Kitchenaid mixer](https://www.costco.ca/.product.4000104696.html?province=AB&langId=-24&preselect=colour:red&COSTID=iosapp_25.7.5&TRACKING=NO&sh=true&nf=true) Costco - [Kenmore Immersion Mixer](https://www.costco.ca/.product.4000240918.html?langId=-24&province=AB&COSTID=iosapp_25.7.5&TRACKING=NO&sh=true&nf=true) Costco. - Le Creuset mugs (sometimes at Costco) - Bodum double wall glasses (Zwilling is good too) - Brita water filter jug (still going 13 years later if cleaned properly) Beds - [Berkeley Ergonomics Matresses](https://berkeleyergo.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopev7Y-NptDlztyj7ZpFYnythozP7BXvZ5RSaTjf11U_S1v4K09) Spent 2 years hunting down the optimal mattress to maximize our sleep, best bed we’ve ever tried.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #25Aug 7, 2025

  This grill spent 4 years with me...

  I have a Kenmore gas grill, my *ex-girlfriend* bought me from **K-Mart**. I've used it for over a decade.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #26Aug 2, 2025

  What products used to be well built back in the day but now are low quality?

  My Kenmore labeled Whirlpool Duet washing machine is over 25 years old and still going.  I dread buying something new. 

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #27Jul 11, 2025

  Splurge on the washer, save on the dryer

  Wait, were you 17 or the dryer? I was 25 when I got a Kenmore washer and dryer as a discounted scratch and dent from Sears Outlet store - in 1995. The washer lasted 19 years, but I've had two since. I just replaced the belt on the dryer two weeks ago. My daughter wanted me to get rid of it - it's 10 years older than she is.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #28Jul 10, 2025

  Is this worth $350 still? Found out I'm gonna need a new one and of course they recommend a $1500 brand (speed queen). My current is a maybe 10 year old kenmore elite and only issue is the bottom is starting to rust out.

  I have a front-load Kenmore which was a Whirlpool Duet. Still running fine 25 years later. Had to replace a panel clip from somebody slamming the door too hard, but that was years ago. Still running strong. Although I will have to open it up at some point to clean some pipes inside.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #29Jul 10, 2025

  Is this worth $350 still? Found out I'm gonna need a new one and of course they recommend a $1500 brand (speed queen). My current is a maybe 10 year old kenmore elite and only issue is the bottom is starting to rust out.

  If your old Kenmore is a Whirlpool built direct drive, mechanical control machine, it's worth trying to arrest the rust and keep it a few years longer.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #30Jul 10, 2025

  Splurge on the washer, save on the dryer

  I am on year 27 on a Whirlpool-built Kenmore dryer with the lint filter up top. It received a new belt/idler pulley/rollers in 2018, and maybe one thermal fuse and one high temp fuse. A true workhorse.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #31Jul 10, 2025

  Splurge on the washer, save on the dryer

  My 15yr old Kenmore gas dryer wasn’t heating. While I had it opened, I just decided to replace everything. I replaced the gas coils, both thermostats, the drum drive belt, the flame sensor, and the igniter for less than $100 total. That’s pretty much all the wear parts. So, I’m good for another 15 years.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #32Jul 10, 2025

  Splurge on the washer, save on the dryer

  Dryers are stupid simple. Whirlpool/Maytag/Kenmore all share parts and they’re all less than $50. Most are like $20. Unless the control unit circuit board fries, you can basically repair them yourself for <$50 and they’ll last a lifetime. Washers on the other hand…. Lots more pumps and seals and hoses and gunk. Buy a good one

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #33Jul 8, 2025

  Any recommendations for over range microwave brands?

  Look guys, I hate to dogpile over here. I know the space issues with the countertop, but my dudes please avoid OTR ones at all costs, it's gonna end up costing more money and sanity than its worth. If you don’t have the space for a countertop, get a small easy install one that’s cheap and build a tiny little shelf for it, just not over the range please. Look at something from chef wave, magic chef, kenmore, black and decker, the world is literally your oyster here. Preferring [the magic chef one](https://grassrouteguide.com/dp-B0C6R9YKBQ) here cos it's really lightweight, so you just need a wooden plank somewhere in your kitchen, get one from Ikea and frickin nail it to the wall and dump this on top, works great and lasts a good while. Bit pricier than black and decker tbh but not by that much.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #34Jul 6, 2025

  What are your opinions on GE washer?

  I know this is a year later, but for anyone who stumbled into this thread I thought my information might be of use. See what appliance stores are in your area. Find a good one that sells used refurbished ones. Chances are they will have an older model washer that comes with a limited warranty. The older ones are far more reliable, and are ridiculously cheap. Like, 200 dollars cheap. If I were unable to find one, I'd probably go with a commercial speed queen top load, and cry about it after emptying my bank account. I've had the same 1994 Kenmore top loader for 4 years now, and I think I'll cry when it dies. The damn thing is reliable, serviceable, and doesn't have all the environmental restrictions that modern washers have.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #35Jul 4, 2025

  My childhood microwave is 37 years old and going strong!

  Just bought an old 1992 Kenmore washer for cheap. Replaced one $4 seal and good to go. That thing is a monster.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #36Jul 1, 2025

  Name your top 5 BIFL items

  My nalgene water bottle Citizen ecodrive watch Correll dishes 47 brand ball cap And my avocado green lady Kenmore dryer!!! Bonus: my little 52 cape cod!!!

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #37Jul 1, 2025

  Best vacuum cleaner?

  When I was growing up, my mom had a Kenmore vacuum that she would take every couple of years to get fixed at the little service center inside Sears, and I swear she had that vacuum for over 20 years altogether. They just don’t make them like that anymore! I agree with the other posters here who have mentioned the Miele brand (which I believe is German?). I think it’s the closest you’ll get to a BIFL option.  When I was shopping a while back, I came across this [vacuum comparison list](https://www.reddit.com/user/lacking_foyer48/comments/1lj76h3/vacuum_cleaners_compared_comprehensive_datasheet/) on another subreddit where someone listed out all the different available vacuums. I ended up with a C1 (pretty basic model), but they have lots of options that I’m sure would suit you.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #38Jul 1, 2025

  Best vacuum cleaner?

  When I was growing up, my mom had a Kenmore vacuum that she would take every couple of years to get fixed at the little service center inside Sears, and I swear she had that vacuum for over 20 years altogether. They just don’t make them like that anymore! I agree with the other posters here who have mentioned the Miele brand (which I believe is German?). I think it’s the closest you’ll get to a BIFL option.  When I was shopping a while back, I came across this [vacuum comparison list](https://www.reddit.com/user/lacking_foyer48/comments/1lj76h3/vacuum_cleaners_compared_comprehensive_datasheet/) on another subreddit where someone listed out all the different available vacuums. I ended up with a C1 (pretty basic model), but they have lots of options that I’m sure would suit you.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #39Jun 12, 2025

  BILF / USED SEWING MACHINE - BRAND / MODEL ?

  I have my aunt’s old Kenmore that’s from the 50s or 60s. Still works great.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #40Jun 12, 2025

  BILF / USED SEWING MACHINE - BRAND / MODEL ?

  It's not just the original manufacturer, it's the use and care. I have a 30 year old Kenmore and a 40 year old Singer that work beautifully and have enough bells and whistles for anything I want to do. Mechanical, not computerized. Go to a well-established sewing machine dealer/repair shop and ask about used mechanical machines. My guy has worked at the same place for 50 years and can tell you the history of the machines he's maintained over the years. His favorites are Berninas bought new in that shop and finally traded in on a computerized something; i.e. a machine that cost $700 20 years ago, now selling for $350, traded in on a $5000 machine. And very likely the store will take it back if you decide to trade up in a few years. If you have a choice, buy from the shop that takes you most seriously as a potential long-term customer. Then sign up for any classes the store offers to make sure you use the machine correctly. Your prices and availability will differ from my experience but I like to think Europe has even more craftspeople than the US.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #41Jun 12, 2025

  BILF / USED SEWING MACHINE - BRAND / MODEL ?

  I got a nice full steel Kenmore I’m a custom cabinet for $40 off the classifieds. Saved me tonnes and I don’t even really sew, but a mend here and there all adds up!

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #42Jun 12, 2025

  BILF / USED SEWING MACHINE - BRAND / MODEL ?

  Best part is all of the internal parts are metal and thick so they’re unlikely to fail until the heat death of the universe. I just picked up a 1970s Kenmore (made in Japan) and this thing can go through 8 layers of denim.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #43Jun 4, 2025

  Refrigerators - according to most comments on all media, all the major brands suck ...

  I bought a Kenmore 25 cubic foot side by side in 2010,and last year ( 2024) had to replace the temperature regulator switch cause I noticed ice cream in freezer was soft. Did some research and got replacement switch from Ebay, did it myself, took about an hour, now everything is going well in 2025. How long this Kenmore will last ? That's the question, going on 15 years so I hope another 5yrs, but I know I won't be alive then. Anyway try to get any appliance made in usa that's simple no fancy shit and make sure you can get parts easily to diy.SEE YA

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #44May 6, 2025

  What’s something you’ve had so long it feels like it’s legally part of your family

  I have the same Corningware baking dishes that my grandparents got for their wedding in 1961, well the ones my grandma didn't break. I've since found most of the rest of the collection at thrift stores and estate sales. I also have my great great great grandparents fine china set, originally purchased sometime in the 1800s. Again, the pieces that survived my grandma at least. Replacing those pieces has proved to be much more difficult and expensive than the Corning ware. I have the same pots and pans set my great grandma gave my parents for their wedding in 1989, and when my grandma passed, I inherited her set as well. I also inherited her vintage KitchenAid mixer. I've been lugging around a 1960s-70s Kenmore sewing machine since my mom found it at the flea market 21 years ago. I have since acquired a modern sewing machine and a 1952 singer. The two vintage machines are going to be projects this summer since the Kenmore has never been serviced in my ownership (I didn't know I needed to until I started sewing again two years ago) and the singer was a thrift store find this year. I have multiple blankets and doilies made by my great grandma. That includes my and my brothers baby blankets, ones I stole from my parents as a kid, and ones that I inherited after my grandma passed.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #45May 6, 2025

  What’s something you’ve had so long it feels like it’s legally part of your family

  We bought a Kenmore upright freezer in 1976 and used it continually through 2007 when we decided to unplug it and not use it any more. It’s been sitting in the basement, empty since then. Last week unhappily, our refrigerator/freezer broke down. All the food in the fridge was ruined but the freezer hadn’t been opened and food was still frozen. I ran downstairs, plugged in Old Faithful, it started running and off we went. I was thrilled that it still works. Take my advice and I don’t care how ugly your old appliances are, if they still work, do not replace them with new appliances. We replaced the entire kitchen setup in 2017 and have had nothing but trouble with them since then. Everything but our induction cooktop has either been repaired or replaced. In only 8 years. It sucks.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #46May 6, 2025

  Best air filter to remove pet odor?

  kenmore charcoal pre filter

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #47May 1, 2025

  What's one item you've owned for years that's still going strong-and was totally worth the money?

  Kenmore upright freezer. Have it for over 30 years. Keeps on going. It’s fairly efficient too.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #48May 1, 2025

  What's one item you've owned for years that's still going strong-and was totally worth the money?

  My Dad has a top freezer kenmore in his basement. Gets plugged in at Xmas when we’re all home. Still works just fine.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #49Apr 11, 2025

  Looking for a microwave.

  I have a Kenmore microwave/convection oven combo and I love it. I'm sorry, these 2 in 1s are $500 which is way more than you said you wanted to spend, but the ability to cook in the microwave instead of firing up the whole oven is great.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #50Apr 5, 2025

  Refrigerator without smart/wifi without ice maker or water dispenser?

  I have an old Kenmore that has crushed or cubed in the door, but you can also access the ice from inside the freezer. The ice maker is separate from the ice storage/dispenser. Other than cleaning it there have been no issues.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #51Apr 2, 2025

  Vaccuum For A Broke College Student

  What’s your flooring like? A Kenmore Intuition BU4050 would be perfect if you have a mix. If you only have hard floors, Eureka Mighty Mite

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #52Apr 1, 2025

  What to buy for upkeep of house as a 22M?

  Target threshold bedding is regularly recommended as a budget bifl option. Dude is paycheck to paycheck, that's his best option for the money ime. Also, no battery powered vacuum is bifl. Kenmore canister is a solid budget option

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #53Apr 1, 2025

  What to buy for upkeep of house as a 22M?

  Get a canister vacuum. Kenmore if you're budget constrained.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #54Mar 12, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  We have my grandparents Kenmore electric roaster. We still use it and it works great. I'm guessing it was made around 1940.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #55Mar 10, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore gas dryer from the early 80's.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #56Mar 9, 2025

  This Sears Kenmore “Coldspot” refrigerator has been chugging along since 2004.

  I bought this my house 3 years ago and came with a near mint condition 1992 Kenmore Coldspot 25 refrigerator. It works great! Has an ice maker with cubed or crushed ice as well as cold water dispenser  with a working light.  It's black so I'm thinking it was probably an upper level model for 1992

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #57Mar 9, 2025

  Best vacuum cleaner?

  I also prefer bagged. I have experience with the miele classic c1 and kenmore elite 21814. Both are great. Miele is super light and easier to carry. Best choice if you have stairs. But I like how close to the ground the kenmore gets (but it is fairly heavy to carry up or down stairs). If you can afford it, it's definitely worth investing in a high quality vacuum especially of you have pets.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #58Mar 8, 2025

  Best vacuum for pet hair?

  R/vacuumcleaners Realistically it depends on budget. A good one that won't destroy the bank is the Kenmore BC4030 especially if you can get it on sale for <$200 but you can usually find it for ~279. Next best one would probably be a Miele cat&dog or Sebo but those are very pricey.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #59Mar 7, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore oven. 1972. Still works and looks brand new.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #60Mar 7, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  I'm starting to see a Pattern. My Kenmore washer and dryer were purchased at sears in August 2001. Both still going strong.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #61Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  1950 hair dryer , a kenmore , still working almost daily

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #62Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore Washer and dryer set from Sears bought in 1998. Still going strong and have never been repaired. Also a circa 2000 Whirlpool fridge. Samsung canister vacuum from 2010. I love it. Only had a hose replaced by the store I bought it from.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #63Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore washer and dryer. Bought new 17 years ago. Repaired minor stuff a couple times and they’re still going strong.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #64Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Shockingly it was a Samsung Dishwasher, replaced with a Bosch 800. It’s a Whirlpool Fridge with a regular door, bottom chest drawer freezer. It’s a Kenmore dryer. And we have a Samsung washing machine, top loader, and it’s been a trooper for 8+ years. We got really lucky with the Samsung stuff, I think we just missed out on the really bad motherboards and such being older and pre Covid. But we won’t buy them anymore with all their current issues.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #65Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore he4t front load washer that's 20 years and 2 months old. It still works but it's in need of some work. I am very happy with it overall. I have had to solder on the board twice and replace a few sensors. Spent less than $30.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #66Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  1983 Sears Kenmore refrigerator that we bought with our wedding money, she’s our garage refrigerator now, works great.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #67Mar 6, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  I’m rocking a Kenmore set from 1990 and love them!

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #68Mar 6, 2025

  Chunky metal woodgrain dehumidifier

  I miss Kenmore appliances so much

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #69Mar 5, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  heat pump (trane), water heater (dunno), and fridge (kenmore) are all original to our home, but that’s only 2006.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #70Mar 5, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmoore dishwasher from 2008. Still going strong

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #71Mar 5, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore refrigerator from 1991

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #72Mar 5, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore refrigerator/freezer. Bought in 1991. Still works great (but I can’t buy new door handles, they’re discontinued).

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #73Mar 5, 2025

  What's the oldest appliance you own?

  Kenmore bottom freezer refrigerator. I think we got it in the mid-1980s. We had to replace the door seal about 20 years ago. The repair person told us to keep it as long as possible because it was one of the best made fridges around. We still have it and it's going strong.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #74Mar 5, 2025

  Chunky metal woodgrain dehumidifier

  I swear my parents had the exact same thing That they got in the late 80s, early 90s. It was efinitely a Kenmore, But at this point, I really don't remember anything else about it, It looked similar to yours, but not exactly.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #75Mar 4, 2025

  BIFL, but also BISecondhand. What are some things that everyone should keep an eye out for, but can commonly be found for cheap when preowned.

  Shit, I buy most big ticket stuff used, I'll do a quick list of the things that comes to mind: **Electronics:** * Laptop - refurb Dell Precision * Desktop - used HP Z2 G4 plus RX 5700XT * Terra master NAS and surplus HGST hard drives * Xbox controllers * Camera - Canon 5D MkII + Tamron 28-75mm f2 * Watch - Pebble Time **Household stuff:** * Kenmore laundry center * Frigidaire dehumidifier * Panasonic microwave * Swing-a-way can openers * Cuisinart food processors * KitchenAid mixers * pots and pans * bakeware * Clothes, mostly Eddie Bauer, Chacos, LL bean **Tools:** * Toro lawnmower (from the side of the road) * Used spare parts for lawnmower * Bosch jigsaw * DeWalt router * Milwaukee weedeater * Pole saw attachment * Sawzall * Impact wrench * JBC soldering station * HP oscilloscope * Tektronix power supplies * Kikusui DC loads * REED LCR meter * surplus RF cables and connectors Most of these didn't require any fixing beyond some light cleaning, and in most cases I would say that I got a good deal. Even paying the upper end of market value for the used market, you still get a much nicer product than what the same money would buy new, and you get to help keep more unnecessary stuff from being produced Its a bit intimidating to start buying expensive stuff online, but once you get a feel for how sellers in a particular niche tend to advertise and document things, you can get a very good idea of how the things will function.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #76Mar 4, 2025

  BIFL, but also BISecondhand. What are some things that everyone should keep an eye out for, but can commonly be found for cheap when preowned.

  Hey now my singer is going on 4 generations... (as a fancy table for my Kenmore to sit on.)

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #77Mar 4, 2025

  Best washing machine under $600?

  Used older Whirlpool or Kenmore Direct drive top loader washing machine. Used Maytag Dependable Care top loader. Well under $600 and it will likely outlast any new machine you can buy at any price.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #78Mar 4, 2025

  Best washing machine under $600?

  Go to a used appliance store…. Buy an early 2000s direct drive washing machine from Whirlpool, Kenmore (made by Whirlpool), or a Maytag. These machine are based on a timeless design, durable, and very simple to repair. The one I bought will last at least another 15 years…… Whereas the modern electronic version with the mandated “Guberment” efficiency standards may very well last 7 years at most. Manufacturers design these machines last about that long. They also price them so that it’s cheaper to buy new than to repair….. As for my 20 year old “new to me washer” any part I need for it is still readily available from the manufacturer.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #79Mar 4, 2025

  Best vacuum cleaner for dog hair?

  I’ve had  3 upright Kenmore Elites and I think there great. I have 2 Labs and hair real bad 2x a year with this vacuum you get attachments but also you can vacuum along your baseboards and it pretty much picks up everything along there. It has a dial to make adjustments for your carpet thickness. The only thing is Sears closed down, maybe you can order from Walmart ..I do mine from Amazon and also… it comes from China and you need bags and filters eventually. I have no regrets.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #80Mar 3, 2025

  My 24 years old and counting Kenmore 90 series washer and dryer.

  I have a Kenmore Elite Series set from Sears from 1996-2000(not sure on exact year). They were my great grandmothers and I got them when she passed years ago and they are BEASTS. I will fix them if they ever break and they will be immortal. You couldn’t pay me to buy the new junk they make now.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #81Mar 1, 2025

  What used to be buy it for life but is now more questionable?

  I have a 20 year old white Kenmore fridge that still keeps my food cold. Also have the same year kenmore washer and dryer. Crazy. Just keep going.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #82Feb 10, 2025

  Good and reliable refrigerator brands - 2024 edition

  I had a Sears refrigerator for fifteen years and was still working excellently, when we got rid of it. My wife got tired of the mustard yellow color. That was the only reason we bought a new one , this one with a white exterior,  a new Kenmore side-by-side was bought in 2004 and still keeps my ice cream rock solid. Well, this is the last of the Mohicans; if I last longer than it, I’ll buy a reconditioned Kenmore, before buying a “Made In China”.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #83Feb 9, 2025

  1974 Lady Kenmore dryer. Still working like a champ!

  50yrs plus 🙌🙌👏👏

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #84Feb 8, 2025

  1974 Lady Kenmore dryer. Still working like a champ!

  This is no less efficient than a new dryer. The heating elements are 100% efficient whether it's from 1950 or 1974 or 2025.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #85Feb 7, 2025

  1974 Lady Kenmore dryer. Still working like a champ!

  Air dry only, the heating element/gas burner is not activated. It's kind of a nice feature the way this has it setup. Most dryers have a special dedicated cycle on the timer for air dry that limits its time anywhere from 10-20 minutes only. This one, you can run it a full 60 minutes.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #86Feb 7, 2025

  What brands do you trust to always deliver a high quality product?

  Weird. Most whirlpools are made in the Midwest. I also have whirlpool appliances (mostly Kenmore MADE by whirlpool, but some whirlpool name brand) almost exclusively. I even have one of their air conditioners from the 1970s, and they're always basic models. Anyway they are all going strong from the 90s, with a few replaced in the 2010s when the 1970s models broke. Like the water softener and the refrigerator. Replaced a dishwasher in 2012 maybe. Seems to be okay still.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #87Feb 7, 2025

  1974 Lady Kenmore dryer. Still working like a champ!

  One of my petsitting clients has on in Harvest Gold! Works like a charm

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #88Feb 7, 2025

  1974 Lady Kenmore dryer. Still working like a champ!

  I can still hear the buzzer when the dryer finishes.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #89Feb 6, 2025

  What’s one product you bought that has lasted forever and was totally worth it?

  I’m hanging onto my old Kenmore appliances after all the horror stories about newer ones. My kitchen & laundry room may not be instagram worthy but everything works !

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #90Feb 6, 2025

  What’s one product you bought that has lasted forever and was totally worth it?

  I’m hanging onto my old Kenmore appliances after all the horror stories about newer ones. My kitchen & laundry room may not be instagram worthy but everything works !

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #91Feb 2, 2025

  This dryer from the 90s we inherited from the original owners of the house we bought 1 1/2 years ago

  In 2011, when I got my first apartment, a family friend sold me a Kenmore Washer and Dryer that he had just repaired/refurbished. He was a professional appliance repairman. They were from 1997. The original owners just bought new appliances because they wanted bigger appliances. I had the washer from 2011 until 2022 when it finally suffered a complete motor and pump failure from fully ingesting a baby sock. The dryer held on until 2024, when it finally gave up the ghost. From 2011-2024, I replaced a lid switch on the washer and a thermostat on the dryer. Nothing else. Amazing appliances.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #92Feb 1, 2025

  What products do you find it most difficult to find a buy it for life option for?

  Old Kenmore's are about as reliable as appliances get. Modern Samsung or LG are awful. GE, kitchenaid, and a few more brands still bake basic fridges that should last much better.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #93Feb 1, 2025

  This dryer from the 90s we inherited from the original owners of the house we bought 1 1/2 years ago

  I have a Kenmore dryer from 1980s. They never die. Back in the day, every rental apartment and house had old Kenmore washers and dryers. I'd overhaul them as part of my move-in routine. The dryers all had burnt-out light bulbs in the drum, defective off-switches in the door, and heavy lint build-up in the heater coils & exhaust duct. Occasional cracked drive belt. Rarely a bad rear drum bearing. The washing machines all had the factory-set water level too low.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #94Feb 1, 2025

  How to research large appliance options (washer, dryer, and dishwasher).

  Washer / Dryer find an older Maytag, or Kenmore that are in decent shape. My wife and I spent $250 on a used maytag/kenmore washer dryer from her friend 31 years ago. Replaced the pump in the washer once, and the belts on the dryer twice. The heating element once. Both are still working as they did they first day we used them. Most new appliances are built to fail. Plastic parts are always breaking.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #95Feb 1, 2025

  This dryer from the 90s we inherited from the original owners of the house we bought 1 1/2 years ago

  An older dryer will last you forever, I was lucky enough to inherit an old Kenmore the same way. It was made in 86!!!! And still running like a champ

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #96Feb 1, 2025

  This dryer from the 90s we inherited from the original owners of the house we bought 1 1/2 years ago

  Seriously. Our house came with a 1970s Kenmore dryer and the only thing it's needed was a new belt when it dry rotted and snapped last year. Like a $10 repair after a trip to the locally owned appliance repair shop.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #97Feb 1, 2025

  This dryer from the 90s we inherited from the original owners of the house we bought 1 1/2 years ago

  I just retired my 25 year old Kenmore washer and dryer. Great products.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #98Feb 1, 2025

  This dryer from the 90s we inherited from the original owners of the house we bought 1 1/2 years ago

  I love my Kenmore!

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #99Jan 10, 2025

  What did you buy not realizing you bought it for life?

  A second hand Kenmore refrigerator manufactured likely in the late 90s for $50 that keeps going and going and going. I'd like to upgrade but part of me cannot because I don't know what my luck would be with a new one and have no use for two fridges.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #100Jan 10, 2025

  These are the most recommended vacuum cleaners on Reddit (r/VacuumCleaners VS others) as of Jan 2025

  I have that Kenmore Intuition upright vacuum... It's freaking great!

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #101Jan 8, 2025

  A new washing machine in 2025. What can I buy for life?

  I just asked my dryer repair guy this. He said to just keep my ancient, simple Kenmores because they actually clean your clothes and you can still get parts for them.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #102Jan 8, 2025

  A new washing machine in 2025. What can I buy for life?

  Nothing. Not unless you buy an old school set.  My cousin has repaired appliances for 30+ years. He told me the new machines are built to break; they'll have one major break in the first 6 months to 1.5yrs or so.  He told me to get an old Speed Queen set or a Kenmore set with the Maytag motor. Whrn I lived in S FL just a few years ago the set I had was from the 70s and ran like clockwork.  Get a set from the 90s, 2000s. They're all mechanical, cheap to repair and last forever. 

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #103Jan 4, 2025

  Need a dishwasher that lasts more than a year or two.

  Absolutely not. As someone who is educated in appliance’s I can say Bosch is the same as everyone else selling dishwashers, they are very computerized and prone to electronic failure. They aren’t what they were 15 years ago unfortunately as Bosch used to be quite reliable of a brand. This writer is looking for something that will actually last without repair for several years and won’t be prone to electronic failure. The only dishwasher in America we still have that meets their criteria is the Whirlpool Powerclean module dishwashers made from 1985-2011 which includes Kenmore Ultrawash dishwashers, Kitchenaids Inglis Estate some Maytags made within that timeframe. They had big induction motors that cleaned and dried dishes within an hour and the latest versions weren’t even very loud with a tuned sound absorber whirlpool installed, they had a truly self cleaning filter module unlike any other dishwasher & they were notoriously reliable. I have two that are still running, they just never give up on their owners and everyone within the appliance enthusiast and experts community will tell you this is the go to machine for strong reliability and high performance. The only shit there is with them is that you can’t buy them new anymore obviously as they were discontinued in 2011 and if you were to have an issue like needing a new rack or a new control panel or motor it can be replaced very easily and there’s so many parts still available for them it’s all about how you go and find a used one you must inspect it & ensure it’s in good condition still as you would buying anything used.

  View on Redditopen_in_new
• #104Jan 4, 2025

  Need a dishwasher that lasts more than a year or two.

  Yes it’s called the Whirlpool Powerclean module dishwasher. Made from 1985-2011. Americas most powerful, notoriously reliable & popular dishwasher in dishwashing history! It was available in all of whirlpools other brands at the time like kitchenaid, Kenmore, estate, inglis. There are used ones that pop up constantly because they were so popular at the time and they are built to last and can clean the rust off a trailer hitch. I have one from 2006 and another one from 2003 that run and run and run and never fails, neither have I had a single issue with them either my 06 even has a control board instead of a timer dial and that hasn’t even failed yet! New dishwashers simply don’t last because of how terribly they are made & all the unnecessary electronics installed into them. Just look up “Whirlpool Powerclean dishwashers Automaticwasher.org” so you can see what they look like so you know what to look for. Find one that’s clean and in great shape. The Kenmore models were called the “Ultrawash” so that’s another way to find one and the Kenmores usually offered more options and features. If you want a dishwasher that will last this is the platform to buy, plus you’ll save so much money going the used route.

  View on Redditopen_in_new