In January 2024, we purchased a GE front-load washer and dryer (models GFW850SPNRS and GFD85ESPNRS) from the Best Buy on International Drive in Danbury. We had high hopes that this would be a solid, long-term investment. The units were installed by Best Buy on January 17. Unfortunately, that’s where the problems began.
Just two months into using the washer, we noticed something off during the spin cycle. It was extremely loud—far beyond what we expected for a modern, high-efficiency machine. We contacted the Geek Squad service team to check it out. Over the next year, we had multiple service visits. They replaced the inverter, then the main board. Despite all of these repairs, the washer eventually failed entirely after just 13 months of use.
Because the original model had been discontinued by that point, we were forced to accept a different, newer model as a replacement. But this wasn't a straightforward swap. We had to pay the difference in price between the old and new model and were also required to purchase a brand new Geek Squad protection plan, even though we already had one in place for the original washer. On top of that, we were told we had to purchase new water hoses for the installation—regardless of whether they were needed. I was told I could return them to the store if unused, which I did, but it just added to the confusion and hassle.
Meanwhile, the dryer also started giving us trouble. The display panel stopped functioning properly and had to be replaced. On top of that, we’ve been getting a persistent error code 29. I called Best Buy service several times, and each time, someone came out only to tell us everything was “normal.” It absolutely isn’t. I requested a replacement, but they refused, leaving us stuck with a product that still doesn’t work as it should.
The replacement washer was installed on April 4, 2025. As instructed, I ran an empty cycle first. Then I did my first actual load—and immediately, the washer started banging and rocking during the final spin cycle. Turns out, the Best Buy installer hadn’t even bothered to level the machine properly. This is such a basic part of installation—it’s frustrating that it was overlooked, especially given everything we’ve been through already.
I went back to the Danbury store to explain the situation, hoping for some level of understanding or support. Instead, I was told that if the store sets up the service call, we would be charged—but if I call Best Buy’s national number, it would be free. This seems like a ridiculous policy. How is a customer supposed to know which route to take? It feels like a trap to make people pay for service they shouldn’t be charged for.
At every stage—purchase, installation, service, follow-up—there have been unnecessary roadblocks, miscommunication, and unexpected costs. What should have been a smooth appliance purchase turned into over a year of stress, lost time, and ongoing frustration.
I’m sharing this in detail because I hope others can make an informed decision. This experience has completely eroded my trust in this store’s ability to support customers after the sale. We will not be shopping at Best Buy Danbury again.
Response from Best Buy
April 06, 2025
Good Afternoon, Alp,
We absolutely understand how you are feeling after multiple issues occurred after your recently purchased washer and dryer were installed. We would love to connect with you and work to better assist you. Please feel free to send our team a private message via social media with your full name, phone number, email address, and Google review reference number: #65013417.
- Facebook (https://facebook.com/BestBuy)
- Twitter/X (https://twitter.com/BestBuySupport)
- Instagram (https://instagram.com/BestBuy)
Kindest regards,
^Bobby