Washing Machine Agitators - New Vs. Old Style!

Washing Machine Agitators - New Vs. Old Style!

What is there to know?

In this new video of ours, our neighborhood technician, Keith Anderson, explains the difference in agitators in different washer appliances. Visually, he is able to present the differences for anyone who might still be a bit confused!

Straight Vane Agitators

Straight vane agitators are common on most top loading washing machines. These agitators consist of a single piece of molded plastic fit over the agitator hub. Vanes project from the side of the agitator. The entire agitator spins inside the washing machine tub, providing the cleaning action for the clothes inside. These types of agitators sometimes have problems with circulating the clothes that float near the top of the wash.

Dual Action Agitators

Dual action agitators are similar to straight vane agitators, but more efficient. Instead of a single piece of plastic, the dual action agitators are formed of two different pieces of plastic, a top piece and a larger bottom piece. The purpose of the top piece is to help circulate the clothes floating on the surface of the water in the washer and force them down toward the larger fins at the bottom so the clothes inside the washer tub circulate not only in a circular motion but also between the upper and lower levels of the wash chamber.