Zanussi

Buying a Zanussi Washing Machine

Zanussi as a Manufacturer

Antonio Zanussi, the enterprising 26-year-old son of a blacksmith in Pordenone in Northeastern Italy began the Zanussi business in 1916 by making home stoves and wood-burning ovens. Zanussi continues to focus upon innovation as its cornerstone of success. A brief glance at the bold design of Zanussi products, their advanced technology and user-friendly performance of the whole range proves as much, supporting the company's "Excellence in Design and Innovation" positioning. Zanussi continues to be recognised for the quality of its innovative washing machines and other products and their distinctive modern design.

Zanussi Manufacturers Warranties

All manufacturers give twelve month parts and labour guarantees. Many offer an additional guarantee on parts for a number of years, but this is nearly always dependent on your using their own service engineers, for which you are likely to have to pay a higher call-out and labour rate. Extended guarantees are also available from most manufacturers, and the details of these are generally included in the paperwork that comes with the washing machine.  You can always buy an extended guarantee after you have bought the machine, so it is not generally necessary to buy an extended guarantee at the point of sale unless you are convinced that it is needed and that the deal being offered is better than the manufacturers own offer - both of which are unlikely.

Other Key Features and Things to Consider

Machine Types

When looking for a machine, bear in mind that there are two principal types - front loading and top loading. Front loading is by far the most common and thus generally costs less and fits well into the majority of modern kitchen designs. Top loaders generally have narrower dimensions and are appropriate where space is at a premium.

Usability

Although at first glance, modern machines appear to have a frightening array of functions, all washing machines perform the same basic functions in reality if you discount some of the optional extras. If you want simplicity, it is generally advisable to go for models in the lower price range. Less options, less to go wrong!

Efficiency Ratings

With the current focus on environmental issues, manufacturers are emphasising energy saving features. These can sometimes make the machines more complicated and therefore more prone to errors. It is probably advisable to look at a middle of the road energy rating.

Load Capacity

For full sized washing machines a 4kg load is regarded as small and a 6kg load as large.

Noise

Zanussi machines have a good reputation for running quietly. When looking at different washing machines, bear in mind that 70 db or lower whilst on the main spin cycle is regarded as quiet.

Reliability

Zanussi is a long-established manufacturer with years of experience in producing reliable washing machines. When considering reliability, bear in mind that although some machines may be cheaper, they may not have Zanussi's longevity or may require more engineer call-outs.

Dimensions

Standard front loading automatic washing machines are 60cm wide. If you require something narrower, consider a top-loader. The majority of front loaders are 85cm high but there are minor variations - make sure that you have measured the space for the machine accurately! Depths also vary.

Spin Speed

Machines range from around 800rpm up to some 1600rpm. The most popular are around the 1000rpm mark, which should be fast enough for most. The faster the machine the more quickly it will wear out.

Wash Cycle Time

Most people don't regard this as of particular importance. The washing machines with the longest programmes tend to have 'A' energy ratings because they use less energy to heat by elongating the wash time. Many manufacturers offer a 'quick wash' cycle or a 'timesaver' option to speed up the standard wash. If you are purchasing a 1000 spin model with an average energy rating, a 60 degree wash will take approximately 1.5 hours depending on the temperature of your hot water feed.