We bought this Whirlpool Duet Front-Loading Washing Machine (and its companion dryer) because they came highly recommended by the salesman and a friend, and they sport great energy reviews.  In fact, it's very difficult if not impossible to prove any energy or water savings.  The machine does an acceptable job of cleaning, and the tub is quite large. It will not, however, hold as many pair of jeans as advertised, and I'm not talking about super-large sized jeans, either.  The machine is a bit awkward to load and empty; I often drop clean clothes on the floor.  If you buy the platforms to raise...