If washing machines suddenly disappeared from the life of modern housewives, this would be akin to the onset of the apocalypse. But even 50 years ago, only every third Soviet family could boast of having a “washing machine”.
Today, this household appliance has become simply indispensable. A good washing machine provides high quality washing and spinning, does not make too much noise, and also saves water and energy. We offer everyone who is going to get a new housekeeper Top 10 Tips for Choosing a Washing Machine.
Or read our 2016 rating of washing machines. The best washing machines in terms of price and quality.
10. Download Type
Machines with vertical loading require a minimum of space, but they cannot be built into the kitchen, so you can place such a machine in the bathroom or in a separate laundry room. In addition, when laying laundry in a vertical machine, you do not need to bend over and strain your back. Another plus of such machines is the ability to add laundry during the program. But the front models are considered more reliable.
9. Dimensions
The standard dimensions of the washing machine - height 80-85cm, depth - 50-65cm, width - 40-60cm. However, there are low models that, for example, can be installed under the sink. You can also choose a narrow model, with a depth of 33 - 45 cm.
8. Determine with the installation
The built-in washing machine has a recess for the kitchen ramp, the ability to fasten the door and a removable top cover. As a rule, embedded models are more expensive. If you really need to install the machine under the countertop, you can choose a freestanding model and remove the top cover from it. However, with this option, you need to make sure that the powder loading tray extends strongly enough to peek out from under the edge of the countertop.
7. Maximum load
Modern household machines are able to wash from 3 to 10 kg of laundry. As a rule, a family of 3-4 people has enough cars with a load of up to 6 kg. Well, for two it will be enough a compact machine for 3-4 kg.
6. Energy class
The most economical washing machines have an A + energy class. Such models spend 0.7-0.9 kW / h on washing when washing at a temperature of 60 degrees. Class A machines consume about 1 kW / h of energy.
5. Wash and spin class
Most modern machines provide washing class A, less common are models with washing class B, although visually distinguishing things washed in different machines is almost impossible. Spin class A means that 40-45% moisture will remain in the laundry, for comparison, class C means 60% residual moisture.
4. Spin speed
The spin speed of the washing machine can vary from 800 to 2000 rpm. But the optimal indicator covering the needs of the average housewife is 1000 rpm. At higher speeds it makes sense to wring out unless terry products and dense bedspreads.
3. Number of programs
Less than a third of housewives use more than 3 different washing programs. As a rule, it is enough to have separate programs for cotton, synthetics and light fabrics with the possibility of changing the temperature and spin speed. A program for washing cotton items at a temperature of 90 degrees is useful for young mothers.
2. Leakage protection
Such protection can be full and partial. Low-cost models have hose protection that shuts off the water supply if the hose is damaged. Full protection means that the model is equipped with both hose and housing protection.
1. The noise
If the car turns out to be excessively noisy, then it will simply be impossible to be in the room. When choosing your model, you need to pay attention to the noise level in the washing mode, as well as spin. When washing, the noise should not exceed 55 dB, while spinning - 70 dB.
