Washing Machine Buying Guide
Buying a washing machine nowadays can seem like a pretty straightforward task until you step into the local electrical store or visit an online retailer. You’ll be faced with lots of terminology and jargon that can often be quite confusing and may hinder the decision you make. Our washing machine shopping guide will cut through some of this fog and help you make you a much informed product purchase.
Understanding your own basic requirements will certainly help you find the right product and having a response to the following types of questions may be worthy.
- How big is your family? Having a larger family may result in you using your washing machine more frequently than someone living on their own. This will help determine the size of washing machine and the wash load capacity you may need.
- Where will the washing machine be situated? The location can play a key part in your decision for example if it is going in the kitchen if so where in the kitchen or in will be tucked away in the utility room.
- Is the space factor a major concern for you?
- Apart from washing your clothes do you need the machine to dry them?
Types of Washing Machines
Most commonly you will come across two main types of washing machines these are:
- Top Loader – a washing machine where the user loads the machine from the top.
- Front Loader – a washing machine where the user loads the machine from the front.
A Front Loader washing machine can also be available in integrated and semi integrated formats if you are considering hiding your appliance behind a matching door that exists within your kitchen to create that clean and uncluttered feel. Integrated appliances generally incur additional costs and your choices may be limited as not all products may be able in this format.
Front loader washing machines can be little more expensive than a top loader washing machine.
Machine Features
Every manufacturer will offer their own interpretation of similar features so don’t let that confuse you, concentrate on what you need the washing machine to do then read into the more advanced functionality.
The key features you need to understand are the following:
Washing Machine Load Capacity - The washing load capacity is definitely worth investigating as washing machines will vary right from 3-4kg found on more compact washing machines through to 10kg on Full Size larger types. Choosing the right sized machine will really depend on your usage and how big the loads are likely to be. If you have a big family then a larger load capacity may be more suitable.
Washing Machine Spin Speed – Remember!The spin speed of the washing machine will determine how much water is removed from your wash load. In principle, the higher the wash spin speed, the less water will remain in your clothes. Obviously you need to check the washing labels in your clothes before setting any garment on a wash cycle to avoid ruining it.
Most washing machines should feature an auto spin option where the machine will determine optimum speed and some will offer you full control by allowing you the variable spin functionality.
Washing Machine Programmes
The washing programmes on offer can be very diverse from product to product and manufacturer to manufacturer - choice, preference and needs will help you make the right choice.
In summary washing machines will offer you functions such as:
- Quick Wash – offering reduced wash time cycle
- Rinse Hold – For soiled fabrics that require extra time to soak
- Timer washes – allowing you to set the washing machine to start at a particular time or at a time when the energy rates are lower.
- Variable temperature controls – Allowing you to control the temperature downwards only.
- Hand Wash – Allowing the washing machine to offer a delicate programme that is as good as a physical hand wash
- Special Fabrics – Silks and other delicate fabrics that usually require hand wash
Combination Washing Machines – Washer/Dryers
Combination washing machines more often known as Washer/Dryers offer the added functionality of drying your wash load. These types of machines can be useful when you do not have the space or finances for a separate dryer.
With Washer/Dryers it is important pay attention to detail at the maximum load capacity as a 7kg full load will be limited by a dryer load of 3.5k, the technological movements are going in the right direction and some brands may offer a better wash dry ratio.
Washing Machines – Other Considerations
When purchasing a washing machine or washer dryer look at the environmental implications - check the energy ratings to see how efficient the product is. The ratings are measured on a scale that is spread from A- G with G being the least energy efficient.