The GE GFW550SSNWW is a large washer, offering up a capacity of 4.8 cubic feet. This makes it a good choice for family homes or those that simply do a lot of washing. Rivaling some of the best front load washers on the market, the GE GFW550SSNWW’s standout feature is its UltraFresh Vent system - a functionality that aims to eradicate the need to leave your washer door open after each cycle. Available with a matching pedestal, this GE washer is suitable for stacking too.
GE GFW550SSNWW: Size and installation
- Width: 28-inches
- Height: 39.75-inches
- Depth: 32-inches
The GE GFW550SSNWW has a capacity of 4.8 cubic feet, making it larger than the Maytag MHW5630HW. A capacity of this size means the GE is suitable for washing a king-sized comforter with ease.
In terms of its external size, the GE GFW550SSNWW has a 32-inch counter depth and it’s possible to fit this washing machine yourself, without the need for a professional. However, many retailers do offer an installation service if that’s more convenient for you.
If you do want to install the GE GFW550SSNWW yourself, full instructions are provided but you’ll need to ensure the flooring where the machine is installed is hard enough. Washers are not suitable for carpet flooring. This machine, like most, requires hot and cold water faucets and you’ll need to remove the shipping bolts before installation. It is relatively easy to switch the door opening direction on this washing machine too, you’ll just need a screwdriver for this bit.
GE GFW550SSNWW: Features
The GE GFW550SSNWW is a popular model and one of the reasons for that is its UltraFresh Vent system. How this works is by finishing the washing machine door edge with a trim that has been designed to banish excess moisture that could otherwise build up to create unwanted odors. For many, leaving the washer door open after use is pretty standard to prevent smells from building up, so the GE GFW550SSNWW is a welcomed option for those that find that irritating.
Inside the drum, there’s also a coating of Microban - a protective layer that fights against the bacteria that actually makes the machine smell in the first place. With the GE GFW550SSNWW, there’s a choice of ten wash cycles. These cycles are mostly what you’d expect to find, but there’s a handy sanitize setting and specialist settings for bulky items. There is a rinse and spin cycle, but there isn’t a separate spin cycle - something some users might find frustrating. The maximum spin speed is also 1,300 RPM which is respectable but not the fastest we’ve seen.
What we do like is that this machine lets you add a garment even after the machine has started, great for if you spot a stray sock you left behind on your way to do the laundry. An Oxi cycle is a great feature of this GE washing machine as it increases the effectiveness of the laundry detergent and aims to remove 99.9% of bacteria from your wash load.
As you’d expect from modern washers, the GE GFW550SSNWW has a delay start function and it also has a quick wash cycle that takes just 20 minutes to wash lightly soiled clothing. For a more thorough clean, there’s a 35-minute cycle that can take on clothing that’s pretty dirty. We’re disappointed to see there isn’t a steam cycle included with this washer, however.
To make life easier, the GE GFW550SSNWW is smart-enabled. This means you’ll be able to monitor your washing from your phone, and the app will also send you a notification when your washing is done.
GE GFW550SSNWW: Design & performance
The GE GFW550SSNWW is available in two colors - white or diamond gray. It has been designed to be stackable with a dryer, and its reversible door gives you more flexibility.
If you need to raise this washing machine up off the floor, there is a matching pedestal available for it too. The other good news is that this GE washer is ADA compliant, which means it has been designed for easy operation under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The GE GFW550SSNWW is fitted with balancing technology which aims to make the spin part of each cycle quieter. Whether it actually does that though, is debatable according to reviews from users who have bought this machine.
There’s a one-year warranty covering the entire machine which is pretty standard for an appliance in this price range. In terms of energy efficiency, the GE GFW550SSNWW is a great choice. Energy Star certified, this washing machine has estimated annual running costs of $19 - which is pretty great!
GE GFW550SSNWW: User reviews
Overall the GE GFW550SSNWW has amassed a huge amount of user reviews and is a pretty popular choice with many shoppers. On Home Depot’s website, the washer scores an average of 4.7 out of five stars from over 2,000 user reviews.
Positive reviews for this model include users commenting on how convenient the WiFi-enabled functions are, how easy this appliance is to install, and how clean clothes were when they came out of the machine. Others also added the capacity is roomy and is ideal for families.
There were, of course, some negative reviews too. Quite a few reviews noted that the GE GFW550SSNWW is loud when it’s operating - especially on the spin cycle. Some also criticize the effectiveness of the UltraFresh Vent system, and others were disappointed to see there wasn’t a separate spin cycle.
Should you buy the GE GFW550SSNWW?
The GE GFW550SSNWW is a good, solid option if you want a family sized washer that you can control from your phone. It is energy efficient and offers a range of quick wash cycles which are great for busy lifestyles. Its main feature, though, the UltraFresh Vent system isn’t as effective as some users were expecting and this is somewhat disappointing.
