A recent survey by Whirlpool Corporation, found that 60 percent of consumer who use front-load washers are most concerned with controlling odors - especially in laundry that is left in the washer too long. The new Maytag Performance Series front-load washer with Fresh Hold™ option solves this problem and makes doing laundry less stressful. No more anxious realizations that you've forgotten a load overnight. No more need to re-wash the neglected load to remove sour odor.

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The new high-efficiency, ENERGY STAR qualified Maytag Performance Series washer incorporates Dynamic Venting Technology™, an industry-first available within the 450, 550 and 950 model washers, incorporating a fan to circulate air to help prevent odor. The Fresh Hold option helps keep freshly laundered clothes from developing sour odors when left in the washer up to 10 hours. Maytag Dynamic Venting Technology, coupled with durable Maytag engineering will provide households with years of reliability, powerful cleaning and fresh laundry.

"Maytag brand's new Performance Series washer with Dynamic Venting Technology addresses one of consumer's toughest laundry problems," said Monica Teague, senior manager of public relations for Whirlpool Corporation. "This new Maytag high efficiency front load washer is part of our continued commitment to bring better built appliances to market and provide our customers with years of superior performance"

The exclusive Fresh Hold™ option with Dynamic Venting Technology™ starts after the wash cycle is complete. It combines intermittent tumbling action with air circulation from a quiet fan in the rear of the washer to reduce moisture in the load. With this new technology consumers can delay drying for up to ten hours as clothes actually begin to dry while still in the washer. The extraction of moisture while in the washer helps increase the life of the dryer by up to 11.5 percent* and saves energy by decreasing drying time.

In addition to the Maytag Performance Series washer's odor-fighting Dynamic Venting Technology™, the machine also offers a variety of standard features to enhance the laundry experience. The Performance Series 450, 550 and 950 model washers come equipped with a 4.5 cu. ft. I.E.C. capacity which accommodates larger loads, for fewer total loads per week. The new Power Wash option, delivers extended wash time, extra cleaning action, higher water temperatures and a deep rinse to better address stains and ground-in dirt.

The Maytag Performance series washer with Dynamic Venting Technology with Fresh Hold will be available Fall 2009 at a suggested retail price starting at $1,299 and comes with a ten year warranty on certain parts. The washer motor and stainless steel wash basket are covered for ten years from the date of purchase. Additionally the fan used in Dynamic Venting Technology is covered by a five year parts warranty. Please visit www.maytag.com for more information.

About Maytag Brand

For more than a century, Maytag brand appliances have been synonymous with dependability and durability. Through the commitment of Whirlpool Corporation, Maytag brand's enduring tradition of quality production and performance continues to thrive. Exceptionally durable, commercial-grade components are found in many Maytag brand appliances - including Maytag Performance Series front-load and Maytag Centennial top-load washers and dryers; Maytag Gemini double-oven range; Maytag Ice2O French-door bottom-freezer refrigerator, the first of its kind with external ice and water; and Maytag Jetclean dishwashers. Maytag brand is part of the Whirlpool Corporation, the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $19 billion, 70,000 employees, and 68 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. For more information on any Maytag brand appliance, visit http://www.maytag.com/.

* Based on a 12 year average dryer life, when option is used for full 10 hours on an average load for 392 cycles per year.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: angela_m_hersil@whirlpool.com

SOURCE: Whirlpool Corporation