Washing Machine Buying Advice
The market is filled with loads of washing machines of various sizes made by various brands. In this case, it is often difficult to choose a washing machine that best suits one’s needs. Before purchasing any product, the first thing to consider is your personal requirements. Depending on our requirements, we need to narrow down our search and finally arrive at a machine. Here are some tips that a consumer should consider before buying a washing machine.
Types of washing machines
There are two types of washing machines: – front-loading and top-loading. If you are thinking of placing a washing machine under the kitchen counter, the best option is the front-loading one; however, if you are looking for a narrower machine. Compared to front loaders, top loaders consume more energy and water, however they have a higher capacity.
Wash load capacities
The wash load capacity determines the load the machine can handle for a single wash. It is recommended to use the machine at full load capacity for optimal energy conservation. There are three categories based on the washing load capacity of a washing machine.
Machines weighing less than 5 kg are best suited for small families with one or two members
Machines between 5 and 7 kg are the most suitable for families of 3 to 5 members.
Machines with more than 7 kg are suitable for large families.
spin speeds
The spin speed of a washing machine determines the speed at which the machine will spin the clothes to remove water while washing and drying them. It is measured in revolutions per second (rpm). Most washing machines only determine the maximum spin speed capacity of the machine. A higher spin speed is required for cotton garments, while a lower spin speed is suitable for synthetic and delicate garments. Users should check the option to vary the spin speed so that the machine can be used with all types of clothes.
1000 to 1800 rpm is the highest speed required for cotton clothing
400 to 800 rpm is the lowest speed required for synthetic and delicate garments
washing programs
Users should refer to the various washing programs provided. The main ones are hand wash, wool wash, delicate wash, silk wash, quick wash and anti-crease option. The secondary ones are prewash, intensive wash, extra rinse, economy wash, antibacterial wash, etc.
Many newer washers include a Fuzzy Logic program where users only need to add clothes into the washer and then built-in sensors select the correct settings based on the clothes’ requirements.
Efficiency
Efficiency is usually rated on a scale of AG where A is the highest and G is the lowest. Therefore, an A-rated machine will offer the highest efficiency compared to a G-rated one which offers the least.
These ratings are provided for each washing machine based on energy consumption, water consumption, and drying capacity. The best ones are usually the AAA rated ones that offer the most energy, washing and drying efficiency.
washing temperatures
Different types of clothes need to be washed at different temperatures; For example, silk and delicate clothes cannot be washed at high temperatures, while cotton clothes clean better if they are set to a higher temperature. Therefore, it would be better if the washing machine came with some temperature settings that can be used for different types of clothes. Most washing machines offer at least 3 or 4 washing temperatures, for example, 30°, 60°, 90°, etc.
Water supply
Most machines are designed to accept cold water, which is suitable for delicate clothes and fabrics and helps remove stains better. These machines are considered more energy efficient.
Some machines are designed to accept hot and cold water, so two valves must be connected to the machine; one for cold water and one for hot water. However, these machines are less energy efficient.
Noise level
All washing machines make some noise. The amount of noise the machine makes is measured in decibels (dB). In general, they are classified as: Less than 40dB, 40-50dB, 50-60dB and more than 60dB of noise. Most washing machines on the market today are in the 50-60 dB category, which is equivalent to the noise of a doorbell.
Although washers offer many cool features, you should buy one that has the features you commonly use, as extra features come at a price. So the best step is to check individual requirements and then browse through the features of various washing machines and select the one that best fits the bill.