How do you live without a washing machine? Simply put, you can’t. So, choosing the right one is no small task. Thankfully, our handy buying guide will help you choose between freestanding or integrated, and help you pick out which features or wash programmes you’re after.
Choose Your Drum Size
Did You Know ?
Washing machines are a standard height and width. It’s only the depth that changes depending on size of the drum.
Find Your Fit
Freestanding
A freestanding washing machine sits on its own, stacked or under the counter. You can place a freestanding machine anywhere there’s a connection to electricity and plumbing, which means they’re great if you move house as you can just disconnect and go.
Integrated
Integrated washing machines hide under your kitchen counters behind a cabinet door. They’re a great choice if you like that modern, clean look, or if you only want to see the washing machine when you have to do the laundry.
Washer Dryer
Washer dryers are a washing machine and a tumble dryer all in one, and you can get them either freestanding or integrated. They’re the perfect space saving choice, when space is premium.
Key Features
Energy Rating
A washing machine’s energy rating will tell you how energy efficient the model is. Ratings range from A – G, and a more efficient appliance means you’ll save more money on your energy bills. Look out for a washing machine with an energy rating of C or above, these will be some of the most energy efficient models on the market.
Spin speed
Spin speed refers to how many times your washing machine’s drum spins per minute. A faster spin speed will remove more water from your clothes, meaning they’ll dry quicker. You should only use a fast spin speed for synthetics and cottons, wool and delicates will need more special care.
Quick Wash
The perfect setting for when you need to do a spot of last-minute laundry. Quick wash programmes typically tend to be 30 minutes; however, some models can wash a load in as little as 15 minutes. It’s good to know that these functions should only be used for small loads or slightly dirty items.
Quite Motors
Washing machines can be loud, couple that with an open planned kitchen and that movie night might not be so fun. So, you’ll want to look out for a model with a quiet mark, they have special brushless motors that hardly make a peep.
Auto Dosing
Take the guess work out of laundry with Autodosing technology. It works out just the right amount of detergent based on your wash load and then automatically releases at the perfect time. This means you’ll use less detergent and get the best results.
Smart
Laundry from the sofa? Yeah, you heard that right. Washing machines with smart features will let you hook up your appliance to your smartphone or tablet via your WiFi and an easy to use app. This means you can check progress, adjust settings and start a wash programme all from the palm of your hand.
How Much Does It Cost To Run ?
A standard washing machine will use roughly 650W per hour, which will cost around £0.11 per hour used.
FAQ
What should I look for when buying a washing machine or washer dryer?
When choosing your new washing machine or washer dryer, there are a few things you should look out for. First is the fit type, do you want freestanding or integrated? They you’ll need to think about drum size and how many people you’ll be washing for. Then you’ll want to consider what programmes and features you want from standard wash settings and quick washes to more niche features, such as fuzzy logic and auto-dosing.
How big is a washing machine or washer dryer?
Most washing machines tend to have the same height and width, it’s just the depth that changes because of the different drum sizes available. Typically, the standard depth is around 60cm, the same as the average kitchen counter.
How much energy does a washing machine use?
This will vary between models. Look out for a washing machine’s energy rating, this tells you how energy efficient it will be. We only sell washing machines from A – A+++, so you’re guaranteed an energy efficient machine. These energy ratings may only apply when using eco programmes, which tend to wash your clothes at a lower temperature and will take longer to complete.
How many litres of water does a washing machine use?
This can vary depending on the size of your model and how energy efficient it is, but on average washing machines tend to use around 50 litres of water per wash.
How long does a quick wash take?
This can vary between models and manufacturers, but most tend to last between 15 to 30 minutes.
Which are the quietest machines?
Look for washing machines with inverter motors. Unlike normal motors, these models use frictionless magnets instead of noisy brushes to power the machine - perfect for open plan living. They also make your washing machine more energy efficient and last longer than normal motors.
What is a steam washing machine?
Steam washing machines use a combination of water and steam to clean your clothes effectively. Look for additional features like sensors which analyse fabrics and adjust the settings to match your laundry needs.
Which is better - a front loading or top loading washing machine?
Front loading washing machines tend to be better than top loading models as they give your clothes a more thorough clean, they’re more energy efficient and they usually have more wash programmes.
What is a direct drive washing machine?
Direct drive washing machines use a motor to spin the drum instead of belts, chains or gearboxes. They’re more energy efficient, quieter and will last longer than standard models.
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