How to Choose a Washing Machine
HOW TO CHOOSE A WASHING MACHINE
Washing machines are trusty and dependable kitchen appliances that most of us own. However, they can come with lots of complicated and new features that we’ve probably never heard of.
We can now buy budget models with the bare essentials, or we could look at high-end models with extra features and plenty of added space for bigger loads of laundry.
As you can imagine, picking the right washing machine is difficult, so we’ve boiled it down to a few important points that we’re going to dissect and explain.
Think of the Types of Fabrics That You Wash
The more diverse your fabrics are the more features you’ll need on your washing machine. Most washing machines can clean cotton fabrics, synthetics, delicates and woolens, but some are more specialized at cleaning one or the other.
Some are even large enough to fit things like pillows and comforters, while some have special options for sportswear and even jeans.
So the first thing you should really be doing is considering your own circumstances. Think of the fabrics you wash on a daily basis and consider the options available.
For instance, if you have a busy lifestyle then you may want to look into quick wash options that allow you to throw in your washing and get clean clothes with the push of a button.
Quick wash options are usually short cycles that are great for quickly removing stains or freshening up garments, but the option usually isn’t important for families that do large batches of washing.
Economy options may also be important for those that are looking to save a bit of cash on their everyday washes. This setting usually reduces the wash temperature to save money, but it extends the time taken to ensure that all of your clothes and garments are thoroughly cleaned.
Spin Speed is Not a Factor
Many washing machines will advertise their spin speed in RPM. High-end machines can usually reach up to speeds of around 1,800 RPM, but this is a pointless number to consider because your fabrics require different speeds for optimal cleaning.
Just because your machine has a high RPM spin speed it doesn’t mean it’s better or more efficient than other models. In fact, washing machines with a lower spin setting can provide equally clean results.
The important thing to consider here is that your washing machine offers multiple spin speed settings for different loads and fabrics instead of just focusing on the fastest speed.
In short, don’t let those marketing tricks fool you. Just focus on looking at the features and ignore the RPM number that is advertised.
Washer Dryer Combos
If you’re lacking space then a washer/dryer combo unit is the perfect investment to make. Of course, it’s good to mention that you won’t get the best performance (it’s always better to have a dedicated washer and a separate dryer) but if you’re tight for space then there’s really no complaining.
You’ll save a ton of effort and time by just having a combined unit that can wash and dry your clothes in the same cycle. However, they’re also incredibly slow.
A single load of washing can take twice or even three times as long because combo units aren’t very efficient compared to two single machines. While it can reduce the amount of effort required to clean your laundry, it’s certainly not the fastest or most efficient method to do so.
You also can’t use the washer and dryer separately because it’s in the same unit. As a result, we would only recommend a combo unit if you’re seriously hurting for space and have nowhere else to put a separate dryer.
Feature Considerations
- Delay Setting – This setting enables you to start the washing at a certain time. The wash can be set to finish at a time of your choosing. This helps you guarantee that your washing is ready by a certain time, or you can use it to take advantage of lower electricity tariffs late at night.
- Energy Efficient – If you want to save money operating your washing machine then you’ll want to look at the energy efficiency rating labels. The more efficient your washing machine is, the friendlier it is to the environment and the less you’ll pay for the electricity to operate it.
- Wash Stage Indicator – This is just a simple light that shows you the stage of the current wash cycle. It’s helpful to see it from a distance or to estimate how much time is left on the cycle.
- Extra Rinsing – This is a feature that adds an extra rinse (or several) to a wash cycle. This is to ensure that all of the detergent is washed away correctly and helps to reduce allergies and skin problems.
- Imbalance Spin Protector – This is a feature that helps to regulate the length and speed of the washing machine spin. This only activates if the load is unevenly distributed (for instance, heavier clothes pushed to one side of the washing machine drum). This prevents the machine from trembling unnecessarily and helps to keep the drum stable to prevent further damage.
- Large Load Drum – Larger drums are capable of holding more washing. This is essential for larger families or for people that want to wash large items such as duvets or pillows. This isn’t a good feature if you just want to have smaller loads of washing because you’ll end up wasting more electricity than needed.
Maintenance and Installation Considerations
You’ll want to ensure that your washing machine is installed properly and has the right maintenance carried out to keep it running properly.
This should come included with the cost of the washing machine itself, or it could come as an additional service. Make sure you purchase from a reputable retailer like Sale Appliances that offers installation options.
For more information, advice, or guidance on choosing your next washing machine, get in touch with the Sale Appliances team today.