Hotpoint

Buying a Hotpoint Washing Machine

Hotpoint as a Manufacturer

Now part of the Indesit Company, Hotpoint has an enviable reputation for the production of high quality domestic appliances. Much of this reputation has been built upon their range of washing machines and washer dryers. Hotpoint produces machines which are practical and designed for the real world. Despite their competitive pricing, their products also have a reputation for durability.

Energy Efficiency and Hotpoint

Efficiency ratings are one of the hottest topics in the battle amongst manufacturers for market share. Most people are concerned with saving money, electricity, natural resources and the planet although perhaps not in that order. However, it is also fair to say that most washing machine buyers probably don't have energy efficiency at the very top of their requirements lists. Simply stated, the more energy saving devices a machine has, the more there is to go wrong.  This means that you need to balance the additional cost price and the wear and tear on the energy saving components against any savings that you may achieve in the consumption of water and electricity. If you are not going to use the machine very heavily then the energy issue will in all likelihood be of little consequence, unless you have a ecologically focused philosophy. If you are a heavy user, then you do need to think about the energy and water consumption, balancing it against the additional cost of the machine and the greater maintenance costs.  It is worth remembering that there is a great deal of energy to be saved even on a standard machine by ensuring that you wash only full loads and that you choose programmes at lower temperatures for clothes that are not heavily soiled.

Other Key Features and Things to Consider

Types of Machines

There are two principal types of wshing machine - front loading and top loading. Front loading is the most common and thus generally lower cost, fitting well into most modern kitchen designs. Top loading offers narrower dimensions where there are particular space constraints.

Ease of Use

Despite the huge array of functions on many current machines, all machines really perform the same functions if you ignore some of the optional extras. If you are looking for simplicity, it is better to go for models at the lower end of the price range. The fewer options, the less there is to go wrong.

Manufacturers Guarantee

A 12 month parts and labour guarantee is standard with all manufacturers. Some offer extended guarantees but may ask that you to use their own engineers which may be at a premium cost.

Load capacity

For full size washing machines a 4kg load can be regarded as small and a 6kg load as large.

Noise

Hotpoint machines are built to run quietly. When reviewing machines, remember that 70 db or below on the main spin cycle is classed as quiet.

Reliability

Hotpoint machines are built to give many years of reliable service. When looking at reliability, consider that although some machines are cheaper, they may not last as long and may require more engineer call-outs.

Dimensions

A standard front loading automatic washing machine is 60cm wide. If you need a narrower machine, consider a top-loader. Most front loaders are 85cm high but there are some variations so be sure that you have measured the space accurately! Depths also vary.

Spin Speed

Most machines start at about 800rpm and some go up to about 1600rpm. The most popular spin speed is around 1000rpm, which should be fast enough for most people. Bear in mind that the faster machines will wear out more quickly.

Washing Time

This is not particularly important to most. Machines with the longest programmes tend to have 'A' energy ratings, using less energy to heat by extending the wash time. Many machines offer a 'quick wash' programme or a 'timesaver' option to speed up a standard wash. If you are buying a 1000 spin model with an average energy rating, a 60 degree wash will require around one and a half hours depending on the temperature of your hot water supply.