Washing machines are essential in any household, yet there are so many options to choose from that buying a new one can be a little overwhelming. You should consider a few things when purchasing a washing machine, as you want to make sure you choose one that suits your specific needs.
Drum sizes range from 5kg to 12kg and determine how much clothing you can fit inside it when dry. Washing machines work best at maximum capacity, so you don’t want to choose a size that will be too big. If you live on your own, then a 5kg drum should be enough, although you’ll want something much larger if you have a family of four.
The spin speed of your washing machine determines how much water it can remove from your clothes at the end of a wash. Speeds range from 1,000rpm to 1,600rpm. You’ll pay more for a higher spin speed, but this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right option for you. Higher spin speeds are often less efficient and are a noisier option. They can also damage some clothing, so only choose a high speed if you’re sure this is what you need. Otherwise, an average spin speed of 1,200rpm will suit most households.
The energy rating of your washing machine is based on its water and electricity consumption. Current models range from A+++ to A+, and as of December 2013, it’s been illegal to sell a new washing machine with a rating less than A+. You can find out the annual consumption of your appliance before you buy it. Generally speaking, higher spin speeds and larger drums will cost the most to run.
Some extra features that you might want to look out for include LED displays showing how much time you have left on your wash and customizable programs that suit your needs. Time delay features are beneficial, as you can program a wash to start late at night when energy costs are lowest or to finish at a particular time. Some machines feature a quiet wash mode, and these can come in handy if you have guests staying or live in a small house where sound travels easily. It’s worth looking at the extra features your machine has, as many of them will make your life much easier.
