Maytag Brand Celebrates 100 Years of Dependability With Launch of Centennial Top Load Washer and Dryer LineThe introduction of Centennial Line Marks the 100th Anniversary of the First Maytag Washing Machine

    BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (Feb. 7, 2007) Maytag® brand introduces the CentennialTM top load washer and dryer line, marking the 100th anniversary of the first Maytag washing machine and celebrating the brand's lasting commitment to durability and dependability.

    The Centennial Marks the 100th Anniversary

    From the heavy-gauge steel lid to the Dependable CleanTM Wash System and Smooth BalanceTM suspension, Maytag Centennial top load washers and accompanying dryers offer uncompromising, commercial-grade strength that withstands the test of time. The working mechanisms of the washers - including the transmission, coupler, base frame and stainless steel wash basket - have been proven time and time again in commercial Laundromat settings.

    The Centennial aesthetics give a nod to Maytag brand's rich history with styling that features a central control knob and metallic accents. And the Maytag Centennial hits home with American preferences for traditional top loading washing machines; about 70-percent of all washers sold in the United States are the traditional top-load format.

    "It's no surprise that Maytag washers have lasted longer than any other leading brand," said Bill Thomas, senior category manager for Maytag laundry products. "We have a century-long heritage of producing top performing washing machines. We've specifically named this Maytag laundry line 'Centennial' in honor of the brand's first 100 years of dependability, and quite frankly, for the next 100 years as well."

    Dependable cleaning performance
    The Centennial line is built to deliver dependable cleaning performance, with quality you can see, feel and rely on. For example, its Dependable Clean™; Wash System provides outstanding cleaning performance and keeps clothes looking new longer. The LoadFlexTM Agitator, rinse cycles and drain work together to clean clothes right the first time--even those with tough, ground-in dirt--for a reliable cleaning, wash after wash.

    The Centennial top load washers incorporate commercial grade stainless steel or porcelain-on-steel wash baskets, depending on the model. These wash baskets are chip- scratch- and odor-resistant, with a smooth surface to protect fabrics from snagging or pilling. The dryer also offers durable performance with features that ensure efficient operation while being gentle on clothes. The GentleBreezeTM Drying system dries clothing in a counterclockwise loop for more consistent drying results. And clothes gently glide off the surface of the white powdercoat DuraCushionTM Dryer Drum, providing years of dependable tumbling with less friction and wear.

    The Centennial line features Maytag brand's Smooth Balance Suspension System. In the washer, this system of commercial-grade springs and steel base frame reduces vibration and noise by keeping loads balanced, even while spinning at top speed. In the dryer, the system features permanently lubricated rollers that work with front drum glides for quiet operation and low vibration.

    Washers range in price from $499 to $649 for MTW5600T, MTW5700T, MTW5800T and MTW5900T models, respectively. Maytag Centennial dryers are available in gas and electric models, and range from $399 to $549 for the MED5600T, MED5700T, MED5800T and MED5900T electric models, and $429 to $579 for the MGD5600T, MGD5700T, MGD5800T and MGD5900T gas models, respectively.

    Maytag Centennial washers and dryers will be available at home improvement stores and appliance retailers throughout the United States in February. For more information, please visit www.maytag.com or call (866) 385-4370.

    About Whirlpool Corporation
    Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of more than $19 billion, more than 80,000 employees and more than 60 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. Through superior manufacturing practices, Whirlpool Corporation continues to nurture the Maytag heritage of dependability and quality consumers have come to expect from Maytag brand appliances. For more information about any Maytag brand appliance, visit www.maytag.com or call (866) 385-4370. Additional information about Whirlpool Corporation can be found at www.whirlpoolcorp.com.

    Contact:
    Jessica Egerton
    Maytag Brand
    (269) 923-5276
    Jessica_Egerton@Whirlpool.com

    Kristine Vernier
    Carmichael Lynch Spong
    (269) 923-3978
    kristine.vernier@clynch.com