front loaders save water, sewage and energy, but cost so much more
than top loaders they will never in their lifespan save any real money
since they cost so much more......

just compare the purcase cost of front load vs top load, then add in
much higher repair costs of front loaders......

drum bearing fails, need new drum bearing part of assembly, 500 bucks
installed

Agree

That's what happened to my Kenmore front loader that I
bought new in 2000.

The main seal and bearing failed after 7 yrs light use.
Would have had to replace the ENTIRE inner drum unit as
the bearing itself can not be replaced alone. Took
unit to steel scrap yard where it is now setting. Never
again