Understanding who makes Roper washing machines and where they are manufactured is a common question for many consumers. The Roper brand has a long history, but its current presence in the appliance market is quite distinct from its origins. If you are researching a new appliance purchase, knowing the manufacturer behind the brand can provide valuable insight into product quality and support. This guide will clarify the ownership, manufacturing locations, and overall standing of Roper appliances.
We will explore the details of the company that produces these appliances, giving you a clearer picture. Knowing who makes Roper washing machines can influence your buying decision. We will also address where are Roper washing machine products made and what that means for consumers.
Table of Contents
Who Owns Roper
The Roper brand is currently owned by the Whirlpool Corporation. Whirlpool is a well-known American multinational manufacturer of home appliances. This acquisition brought Roper into a much larger corporate family.
Whirlpool acquired the Roper appliance division in 1989. Before this, Roper was an independent company with its own manufacturing operations. This acquisition integrated Roper products into Whirlpool’s extensive portfolio.
Main Manufacturer of Roper
The main manufacturer of Roper appliances, including their washing machines, is the Whirlpool Corporation. Since the 1989 acquisition, all Roper branded appliances are produced within Whirlpool’s manufacturing network. This means that when you buy a Roper washing machine, you are essentially buying a Whirlpool-made product.
Whirlpool manufactures a wide range of appliances under various brand names. Roper serves as one of Whirlpool’s entry-level, budget-friendly brands. The manufacturing processes and quality controls are managed by Whirlpool.
Is Roper Made by Whirlpool?
Yes, Roper washing machines and other Roper appliances are indeed made by Whirlpool. The Roper brand operates as a subsidiary brand under the Whirlpool Corporation umbrella. This means Whirlpool designs, engineers, and manufactures all products sold under the Roper name.
The appliances often share components and technology with other Whirlpool brands. They are typically streamlined versions, offering essential features at a more accessible price point. This manufacturing arrangement provides a level of consistency and reliability.
Other Manufacturers of Roper
Historically, Roper was an independent manufacturer before being acquired by Whirlpool. However, in its current form, there are no “other” manufacturers producing Roper branded washing machines or other appliances. All new Roper appliances come directly from Whirlpool’s production lines.
The brand strategy for Roper involves leveraging Whirlpool’s established manufacturing capabilities. This approach simplifies the supply chain and ensures consistent production standards. Therefore, when considering who makes Roper washing machines, Whirlpool is the sole answer for modern units.
Consumers might find older Roper appliances that predate the Whirlpool acquisition. These units would have been manufactured by the original George D. Roper Corporation. However, for any current or recent models, the manufacturing link is exclusively with Whirlpool. The table below illustrates common model number prefixes for Roper appliances, all pointing to Whirlpool’s influence, particularly for washing machines.
| Model Number Prefix | Manufacturer | Appliance Type |
|---|---|---|
| RTW | Whirlpool Corporation | Top-Load Washing Machine |
| REL | Whirlpool Corporation | Electric Dryer |
| RGD | Whirlpool Corporation | Gas Dryer |
| RT | Whirlpool Corporation | Various Top-Load Appliances |
| RG | Whirlpool Corporation | Gas Appliances (e.g., ranges) |
Where Are Roper Products Made?
Since Roper is a brand of Whirlpool, its products are made in the same facilities as other Whirlpool brands. Whirlpool has a significant manufacturing footprint, particularly in the United States and Mexico. The specific location depends on the appliance type and model.
Understanding where are Roper washing machine products made helps in appreciating the global supply chain. Many of Whirlpool’s primary appliance factories are located in North America. This geographic focus impacts logistics and parts availability.
Refrigerators
Roper refrigerators are manufactured in Whirlpool’s refrigeration plants. Many of these facilities are located in the United States, such as those in Amana, Iowa, or Fort Smith, Arkansas. Some production also occurs in Mexico.
The exact location can vary by model and production line. These facilities produce refrigerators for multiple Whirlpool brands. Quality control standards are applied across all brands made at these sites.
Washers and Dryers
Roper washing machines and dryers are primarily manufactured in Whirlpool’s major laundry appliance facilities. Key locations include Clyde, Ohio, which is one of the largest washing machine factories in the world. Marion, Ohio, is another significant site for dryer production.
Additionally, some laundry appliances are made in Amana, Iowa, or Mexico. These sites are responsible for producing a vast number of laundry units for various Whirlpool brands. This ensures a consistent supply of Roper washing machines to the market.
Dishwashers
Roper dishwashers are produced in Whirlpool’s dishwasher manufacturing plants. The primary facility for many of Whirlpool’s dishwashers, including Roper models, is located in Findlay, Ohio. This plant specializes in dishwasher production.
The manufacturing here benefits from specialized equipment and expertise. Products from this factory are distributed throughout North America. This ensures that Roper dishwashers meet the standards set by Whirlpool.
Grills
The Roper brand primarily focuses on major kitchen and laundry appliances today. While the original George D. Roper Corporation did produce outdoor products, including grills, the current Roper brand under Whirlpool does not. Consumers looking for Roper-branded grills will likely find that they are no longer manufactured.
If you are searching for a grill, you would need to look at other brands specializing in outdoor cooking equipment. The Roper brand has evolved its product focus significantly since its acquisition. The product line no longer includes grills.
Vacuums
Similar to grills, Roper does not manufacture vacuum cleaners under its current brand identity. The Roper brand, as managed by Whirlpool, is dedicated to large home appliances. It does not extend to small appliances like vacuums.
Consumers looking for vacuum cleaners would need to consider brands that specialize in floor care. The historical Roper company produced a variety of goods, but current Roper branding under Whirlpool is specific. You will not find new Roper vacuum cleaners on the market.
Who Sells Roper Products?
Roper products, including their washing machines, are typically sold through major retail chains and independent appliance dealers. These brands are positioned for the value-conscious consumer. Therefore, you will often find them in stores that cater to a broad market.
Common retailers include big-box stores like Lowe’s and Menards. Some independent appliance stores also carry the Roper line. The distribution strategy aims to make Roper appliances widely accessible.
Online retailers also offer Roper appliances, often through their partnerships with these large physical stores. Availability may vary by region and specific retailer. Checking retailer websites is recommended for current stock.
Is Roper a Good Brand?
To assess if Roper is a good brand, it is important to understand its market position. Roper is positioned as an entry-level, value-oriented brand within the Whirlpool family. This means it prioritizes affordability and basic functionality over advanced features or premium finishes.
For consumers seeking reliable appliances without unnecessary frills, Roper can be a good choice. Roper washing machines, for example, offer essential washing cycles and straightforward operation. They are designed for everyday use and durability.
The primary benefit of Roper is its price point, which is typically lower than other Whirlpool brands like Maytag or KitchenAid. While they may not have the quietest operation or the most extensive feature sets, they are generally dependable. When considering who makes Roper washing machines, the Whirlpool backing adds credibility to its reliability.
Customer satisfaction often depends on expectations. If you expect a high-end, feature-rich appliance, Roper might not meet those expectations. However, if you need a basic, functional, and affordable appliance, Roper is considered a solid option in its category. Many users find their Roper appliances to be long-lasting for the price.
Is Roper Still in Business?
Yes, Roper is still very much in business as a brand. It continues to operate as an active and important part of the Whirlpool Corporation’s brand portfolio. Roper appliances, including washing machines, are still being manufactured and sold today.
Consumers can find new Roper models in appliance stores and online. The brand focuses on providing affordable and reliable options. Its continued presence confirms its role in the appliance market. Therefore, if you are asking, “is Roper still in business?”, the answer is yes, under Whirlpool’s management.
Is Roper Owned by China?
No, Roper is not owned by China. The Roper brand is owned by the Whirlpool Corporation. Whirlpool is an American multinational company with its global headquarters located in Benton Harbor, Michigan, United States.
While Whirlpool, like many global companies, may source components internationally, the ownership and strategic direction of the Roper brand remain firmly American. This is an important distinction for consumers concerned about national origin of ownership. Understanding who makes Roper washing machines clarifies its roots.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Roper brand, including its range of washing machines, is owned and manufactured by the Whirlpool Corporation. Since its acquisition in 1989, Roper has served as Whirlpool’s entry-level appliance brand, focusing on affordability and essential functionality. This clarifies who makes Roper washing machines today.
Roper products are primarily manufactured in Whirlpool’s facilities located in the United States and Mexico. This ensures that where are Roper washing machine products made aligns with Whirlpool’s extensive North American production network. They are sold through major retailers and independent dealers.
For consumers wondering, “is Roper a good brand?”, it represents a reliable and budget-friendly option backed by the manufacturing expertise of Whirlpool. The brand is still actively in business, providing a solid choice for those seeking basic, dependable appliances. Lastly, Roper is not owned by China; it remains under the ownership of the American-based Whirlpool Corporation.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.