Whirlpool Washing Machine Model Number L55 Capacity

Capacity

• The Whirlpool L55 was classified as a super capacity machine, which at the time meant it was 27 inches and could hold up to 16 pounds of clothes, with a maximum capacity of 3.8 cubic feet. This is the same size as standard top-loading machines today.

Cubic Feet

• The agitator and basket are the main components of the Whirlpool L55 directly related to the machine's capacity. The agitator is a rotating arm that moves the clothing and water back and forth in order to clean them. Agitators are located in the center of washing machine baskets. If an exceptionally large object is placed in the machine -- such as a comforter -- it can become tangled around the agitator, causing it to become stuck. Therefore, although the maximum capacity may be 3.8 cubic feet, it is sometimes prudent to put less than the maximum load in the basket.

Weight

• Weight also must be taken into consideration when determining the capacity of a washing machine. The L55 had adjustable legs, which meant owners needed to raise or lower the legs until the machine was level. If the machine was not level, it would not run properly. This was especially true if the load was heavy. Heavy, unbalanced loads can sometimes cause a washer to "walk" across the floor -- even in washers built today. Although the L55 washer had a maximum capacity of 16 pounds of clothes, washing a lighter load was probably better.

Today's Capacities

• The Whirlpool L55 was advanced for its time. In fact, the washing machine was not much different than today's washers. Today's top-loading machines are about the same size, although they are much more energy efficient. Front-loading washing machines are only slightly larger. Although 27 inches -- just like the L55 -- today's front-loading washers have a larger capacity at as much as 4.2 cubic feet and 20 pounds.