A guide to buying a washing machine
Modern washing machines have a lot of features that were not available with older machines. Here, we show you what to look out for when buying a washing machine.
Larger Load Sizes
Modern washing machines can handle much larger loads than older machines, and are able to wash an extra 5kg on average, the equivalent of twenty five mens shirts. With a larger capacity, you could wash the same amount of clothes with far fewer loads. Some of the larger machines have settings for big items like duvets, saving you time and money at the dry cleaners. Many also offer a half load setting, saving energy and water on smaller amounts of clothes, and some of the pricier machines detect the weight of the load and automatically adjust the spin times and water amounts accordingly.
Faster spins
Spin dryers are one of the most power hungry appliances in the home, so you can save a lot of money by minimising their use. Some new machines offer a variety of spin speeds, and the higher speeds dry out the clothes a lot more, so you can use the tumble dryer for less time. Faster spins can damage more delicate clothes, however, so being able to adjust the speed can help to protect this type of garment.
Quick Wash
Most modern machines offer a quick wash setting for when you need to get a small amount of clothes in a hurry. Some washers also offer a setting to reduce the wash time, which you can use to bring down the washing times of some programmes by sixty percent.
Delayed Wash
Some washers offer a delayed wash function. Having the option to delay the start of a wash offers some major advantages. For example, you can set it to finish when you get in from work, or to begin overnight when electricity is cheaper.
Choose a Washer to Suit the Clothes You Wash Most Often
Another factor to consider when choosing a washing machine is the kind of fabrics that you have in your wardrobe. Some newer washing machines have a range of programmes to suit different types of garments, for example synthetics, cottons, and wools, and this allows you to tailor the wash to the care requirements of these items.
This washing machine buyers guide was authored by Jon Simonsen. For cheap washing machines, visit currys.co.uk.
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