Provides basic drying cycles that can be used on many different types of clothing. Does not offer some standard or advanced options found on high-efficiency matching top-load or front-load dryers.
Cycles
Number of cycles and options is 44% lower than average and ranks in the bottom 5% of new dryers for POOR program selection and flexibility. Fewer cycles sometimes makes it harder to meet your fabric care needs.
Drum
Drum material is comprised of adequate but less desirable materials such as steel, plastic, or porcelain. Stainless steel is more durable and less resistant to damage, odors, discoloring, or static build-up.
Capacity
Capacity is 10% lower than average and ranks in the bottom 5% of new smaller size dryers. The WGD5100VQ holds about 0.7 cu ft less laundry than the average new dryer. Smaller is cheaper, but less convenient.
Sensor
One of the few new dryers that does not deploy moisture sensors to automatically stop the dryer when clothes are dry. Clothes can potentially become damaged due to overheating and energy can be wasted.
Price
Price per cubic foot is 51% lower than average and ranks in the top 1% of new clothes dryers for BEST affordability. Based on the MSRP, each cubic foot costs about $76 less than the average new dryer.
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Performance Ratings
Temp Settings
Less than average number of temperature settings. Most new dryers have five settings, and some even have six. The more settings available, the better the choice and care for your fabrics.
Steam Cycle
No Steam Cycles – Does not have the ability to generate steam and refresh lightly worn garments, or remove the wrinkles from clothing. About 60% of new dryers on the market now include a steam cycle.
Sanitize Cycle
No Sanitize Cycle – There is no special cycle that uses high-temperature heat or steam to sanitize pillows, stuffed animals, or other non-washable items. Helps remove bacteria and allergens.
MSRP
Manufacturer’s Price (MSRP) is 57% lower than average and ranks in the top 1% of new clothes dryers for BEST overall price. You should also consider the Whirlpool WGD5100VQ cost per cubic foot.
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Warranty
Industry standard warranty for clothes dryers. A few manufacturers offer a two-year warranty on parts, but dryer warranties are generally not as good as washers.
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Dryer Convenience Ratings
Stackable
Not Stackable – Cannot be stacked vertically with a companion washing machine to save space in your laundry room. Only an issue if you have a smaller laundry room without space for side-by-side models.
Reverse Door
Reversible Door – The dryer door is flexible and can be switched to open from right-to-left (with a washer sitting on the right side), or left-to-right (with a washer sitting on the left side).
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Drum Light
Includes an internal light that automatically switches on when the dryer door opens. Almost all new dryers come equipped with this nearly essential feature so you can see to unload your clothes.
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Filter Indicator
There is no visual reminder to change the lint filter. Most of us are remiss in this area and a clogged filter light is very helpful. Available on about 50% of new dryers.
Dryer Rack
No Dryer Rack – Does not include a dryer rack that allows tumble-free drying for items such as tennis shoes, ball caps, sweaters, or stuffed animals. Dryer racks can usually be purchased separately.
Venting
Must Be Vented- Over 95% of new dryer models must be vented to the outside of your home with a duct running from your dryer. A few ventless models are available if an outside duct is not practical.
