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Buying a Washing Machine

Are Today's Washing Machines Complex to Use?

When you look at the array of functions on a modern machine, you could be forgiven for thinking that they must be complex to use. In practice, however, all machines perform basically the same main functions. You can often ignore the additional options and adhere to the basics. However, if complexity is something that worries you, you may well be advised to stick to models at the budget end of a range as they are likely to offer fewer options and therefore less complexity. Some people find traditional control knobs too stiff or difficult to use. In this case, look at the models offering digital push buttons.

The Main Types of Washing Machines

Generally speaking, there are two main types – front loading and top loading. Front loading washing machines can usually be easily integrated with most modern kitchen designs. As the most popular type, front loaders are generally more keenly priced. Top loaders differ in that the drum is accessed from the top and the controls are almost always located on the top too. This design allows for overall narrower dimensions which is ideal when space is at a premium.

Other Key Features and Things to Consider

Efficiency

In general terms, the more complex the energy saving functionality offered, the more components there are to potentially fail!

Guarantee

All manufacturers offer a twelve month parts and labour guarantee. Many of them offer extended guarantees but these may require you to use the manufacturer's own engineers at a higher cost than independent engineers.

Load

As a guideline, for full size washing machines a 4kg load is regarded as small and a 6kg load is deemed to be large.

Noise Levels

Most modern machines are fairly quiet. As a rule of thumb, 70 db or below on the spin cycle is quiet.

Reliability

Again, modern manufacturing and quality control techniques ensure that most current washing machines should give years of relatively trouble-free service. Do bear in mind that machines that are perhaps cheaper to buy may not last as long and may require more engineer call-outs. Lifetime costs with the cheaper machines may therefore in fact be higher.

Physical Size

The standard width for front loading automatic washing machines is 60cm. If your room design dictates something narrower you should consider a top-loader. Height-wise, most front loaders are 85cm high but there are minor variances. Do make sure you have measured the available space accurately! Depths vary.

Spin Speed

The majority of machines start at about 800rpm and ranges often go all the way to 1600rpm. The most popular spin speed is round about 1000rpm - more than enough for most people. Do bear in mind that, in general, the faster machines are likely to wear out more quickly.

Wash Cycle Time

This is of relatively little importance to most buyers. Machines with the longest programmes tend to be 'A' energy rated, since these work with less heat through extending the wash time. Many washing machines now offer a 'quick wash' programme or a 'timesaver' option to shorten a normal wash cycle. As a rough guideline, if you are buying a 1000 spin speed model with an average energy rating, a 60 degree wash will take around one and a half hours (depending on the temperature of your hot water supply).