Posted on October 30, 2019
Are you trying to decide what washing machine to buy? Our appliance experts have written this handy guide to lead you along the way.
At Go Assist we understand that washing machines are one of those things where it can easily feel like there is just too much choice on offer. When it comes down to it, all we really want is a reliable, sturdy machine that cleans our clothes well for a decent price, and without the risk of breaking down.
But when it comes to the crunch, there is actually more to choosing the right washing machine than immediately meets the eye. Here’s a quick run-through of some key things to consider when making your decision.
3 things to consider when buying a washing machine
1. Type of machine
Think all washing machines are made equal? Well, not quite. There are actually a number of different designs and model types to weigh up. While most of us nowadays are most familiar with the front-loading type with the door on the front panel, older style top-loading models are still made. Then there is the choice between freestanding and integrated machines, and finally the option to get an all-in-one washer-dryer.
If you are short of space, a top-loading machine or washer-dryer can be useful alternatives to your standard models. Top loaders tend to be more compact but have smaller drum capacities as a result, while washer-dryers obviously save you the need to have two separate appliances. Freestanding units are more flexible in terms of where you can place them and are easier to install, but if you have an expensive fitted kitchen (or you’re about to have one fitted), an integrated washer will look neater.
2. Drum capacity
Put simply, drum capacity translates to how much washing you can fit into your machine, although slightly confusingly it is measured in kilograms - few of us are likely to know how much our average load weighs! The standard drum sizes range from 5kg to 12kg, which indicates the maximum weight of a dry cotton load the machine can handle. The important thing to note here is ‘dry’ and ‘cotton’, because laundry weighs a lot more when it is soaked in water and different fabrics absorb water at different volumes. As a rule of thumb, a machine can usually handle about half the amount of woollens as it can cotton items. So if you regularly need to wash lots of woolly jumpers and blankets, you will need a bigger machine.
Another consideration with drum size is that the heavier the load a machine is designed to handle, the more power it consumes, so bigger washers are more expensive to run. You, therefore, want a machine big enough to save you having to put on more loads than you need, but not one that will add to your electricity bill unnecessarily because you never fill it. And one final thing - bigger drums also mean bigger units overall, so you need to make sure you have the space to fit it in.
3. Spin speed
Finally, in the ‘faster is better’ world we live in, there’s often an assumption that machines capable of the fastest spin cycles up to 1800rpm are the automatic choice because they will do the best job of cleaning your laundry. But this is a misconception, as spin cycles are more about getting rid of the excess water from your clothes than actual cleaning. And the drawback with faster spin cycles is that they eat up a lot more energy, so again are more expensive to run, and can also be very noisy. So for what it is worth going for that flasher, more expensive model, you might as well save your pennies - and your ears!
Washing Machine Repairs
No matter how well you look after your washing machines, breakdowns can happen. When this happens rely on Go Assist for your repairs. Go online and book your washing machine repair today.
For more information and answers to popular washing machine questions, check out our FAQs page.
For more information and answers to popular washing machine questions, check out our FAQs page.