A washing machine is one of the most important appliances in the modern home, particularly for those who have big families and plenty of washing to do on a regular basis. Given the importance of this appliance, it is vital that you opt for good quality when buying a washing machine, although you also have to ensure that you look at suitability and cost.
Before you rush out and buy a new washing machine, there are a number of things that you need to take into consideration to ensure you buy the perfect appliance for your home and your needs. For example, do you want one of the integrated washing machines on the market? Are you looking for a combined washer and dryer? There are a number of options to choose from so you need to think carefully about what you want.
Important considerations when buying a washing machine
Having to make regular trips to the laundrette can be very costly. This is partly why most households now own washing machines. In order to reap the maximum benefits from your washing machine, it is important to purchase the right one. Some of the factors you need to consider in order to make the right choice include:
- Your budget. It is important to work out your maximum budget for purchasing a washing machine, as this will enable you to focus on appliances that fall within your price range.
- Type of washing machine. There are a number of different types of washing machines, such as basic standalone washers, integrated machines and combined washer dryers. You need to work out which type will best suit your needs and decide whether it will fit in with your budget and existing decor.
- Suitable drum size. The drum size of washing machines can vary, so you need to determine the best size based on usage and the amount of washing you do. A standard wash load size is five kilograms, so for larger families, a drum size of around six kilograms to eight kilograms is probably advisable.
- Suitable spin speed. It is important to choose a suitable spin speed for your washing machine and you may want to choose a machine with a variable spin speed if you wash a lot of delicate items. Spin speeds tend to range from 800-1600 RPM.
- Energy efficiency of the machine. You can do your bit for the environment and save money on bills by choosing a washing machine that is energy efficient. Grading for energy efficiency runs from A through to G, with A being the highest.
All of the above are important considerations when making an informed decision with regards to which washing machine you choose.