Buying Guide Washing Machine

Read our buying guide washing machine information to find out what you should be looking for in a washing machine to best fit your requirements.

Front or Top Loader

A front loader is good for fitting under worktops and easily accessible. A Top Loading machine has a larger drum capacity but need more space such as in a utility room or garage.

Spin

Its easy to get carried away about buying a really fast spin speed. It is true that the faster the spin the more water is removed from the clothes. But the faster the spin the more your clothes will crease! So before you purchase an 1800 spin machine, try to think how many times you would use such a fast spin? Mainly you would only be able to use such a fast spin on items like sheets and towels. So for every day clothes you may only use a 1000 spin, to protect the clothes from creasing. Another thing to remember here apart from the cost of a faster spin speed, is the durability, the faster the spin the more stress is put on the machine. An average spin speed is 1100-1200 and is usually more than sufficient.

Spin speed is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). The faster the spin speed, the more water will be extracted from the wash load and the less drying the washing will need. Each 200rpm increase in spin speed represents a 10 minute reduction in tumble drying time, resulting in lower overall costs. Spin drying performance is also measured on a scale of A rated appliances achieving the driest results, and G the wettest. If you use a tumble drier, choosing a washing machine with A-rated spin, instead of one with a G-rated spin, will halve your tumble drying costs. Tumble drying clothes usually uses more energy than washing them.

Remember to check our buying guide washing machine energy efficiency information to find out how to save money on your washing electric bills.

Load Capacity

The average load size is fast becoming 6kg as there seems to be less and less 5kg machines on the market. There are machines on the market that can take up to 8 or 9 kilos, but there are things to consider with the large load machines. Some of the very large machines are out sized like the American style Whirlpool machine, and they are also top loading. Whirlpool also make the Dream space machine which is an 8kg load, and although these are a front loader they are bigger than a standard machine. For a standard machine which is up to 60cm wide and will fit under a standard worktop 6 - 7 kilos is the largest machine. On these larger loads it may be worth checking the wash results and energy ratings, as in the past we have found some makers like to publish the results on only washing a half load. Wash results do seem to improve when there is less washing in the drum, as this allows the clothes room to move which helps remove the dirt. So whatever size drum you choose it pays not to overload the machine. Also, if you have a tumble dryer, check that it can hold the same size load as the washer.

Energy Efficency

Washing machines are rated on a scale of A++ to G according to their energy efficiency. A++ appliances are most efficient and therefore cheaper to run, while G rated appliances are least efficient. The best machines achieve a first class 'A' rating for actual washing performance, in addition to 'A' energy rating for the least amount of electricity and water consumed; which is also better for the environment.

Energy Consumption

All washing machines are tested for energy consumption based on a standard 60oC cotton cycle, measured in kWh per cycle. The level of energy consumption will however vary depending on how the appliance is used and where it is located. The more energy efficient machines will be rated more highly as per our energy efficiency buying guide washing machine information above.

Ou buying guide washing machine information is designed to help you select the best machine for your needs.

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