Choose The Right Washing Machine

Today's washing machine wash better and are more efficient. But given the range of models offered, the consumer must be able to navigate.

The washing machine does not finish evolving. Among the followers of economy and the pros of washing, between those who want to make life easier for users and others that expand the range of programs, each of the new models has its strengths. So the innovation must still be real. The first question is whether that will locate the unit. With the opening on the top, "top" take up less space in width (40 to 45 cm). Their price vary. With its 60 cm wide, "front" they are intended to be placed under a worktop or other furniture, or even to be overcome of a dryer (if using a special kit between the two). The price range is wide.

 

Then assess the quantity of laundry. A small machine is perfect for a single person, but a washing machine with a capacity of 7 or 8 kg allows a large family to reduce the number of rounds. Models over 10 kg (or up to 13 kg) occur in most brands but attention to their size, they are generally not Built in a work plan. You should know also that most users rarely fulfill their drum at its maximum capacity. Do not overestimate your needs. Finally, almost all devices offer an automatic variable system of capacity which adapts the wash in the loading of laundry. Compare the performance. Manufacturers must display those of their devices in the form of three letters ranging from A (very good) to G (very poor), the first representing the power consumption, the second, washing efficiency and the third, spin. Now, almost all washing machines are displayed in class A from the point of view of power consumption that does not mean that all washing machines consume little.

Manufacturers now offer classes A+ or A++ for the most efficient appliances but these energy classes are not yet officially existing from the point of view of the European energy label.

At the request of customers, all manufacturers have made ​​a big effort on the spin. It is him who sets the device in range: today, washing machines upscale wringing 1 500 r/min or more become commonplace even if these devices are more expensive to purchase, intensive dewatering reduces the time spent in the dryer or drying in the bathroom, without letting the clothes completely wrinkled. Some machines provide indeed effective crease systems, based on a progressive lowering of the temperature or larger amounts of water to rinse.

False economies

In terms of available features, the choice can be radically different. The multiplication of functions can refine the program depending on the quantity of linen and textile type. But between the additional or half-load programs wool, silk, easy ironing, rinse, there is sometimes something to lose.

Manufacturers have also made efforts towards consumption. By limiting the quantity of water used, some devices also show less energy consumption. However, this economy is often felt on the quality of rinsing, weakness recurring machines tested by manufacturer. 

Better to limit the quantity of laundry and do not hesitate to use the "extra rinse" button if it exists, especially when washing child clothes. To avoid overdosing of detergent, some washing machines now offer a laundry liquid integrated. The sensors of washing machine can estimate the quantity of laundry introduced and determine the optimal quantity of detergent. On the same principle, other models show the quantity of detergent to be introduced into the washing machine or activate at the end of a cycle an indicator of overdose on the dashboard. A good idea to extend the savings to the laundry.

A seamless service

Finally, check the ease of use. The door should open easily and 180° for the "front" in order to facilitate the filling and emptying. Some "top" have a drum stop system with systematic opening on the top. Orders must be accessible and transparent to avoid consulting the manual every time. Delay start allows you to shift the start of the washing machine. A particularly useful option if you have an electric subscription to "peak".

Finally, some machines offer LEDs to track the progress of the cycle. Some even have a display of liquid crystal (LCD) showing the washing time or guiding the user in choosing the program.

There remains the problem of failures. Washing machines are always called the most fragile "white" appliances... and there are functions to manage, the greater the risk of failure is high. Know that preferring washes at 40°C to those at 90°C, you will not only save energy, but also reduce scaling. However, a high temperature wash per month can "clean" the washing machine of detergents residues which may be deposited in the lines or tank.

Since November 2006, the waste of electrical and electronic equipment is subject to an eco- contribution. You pay it at the time of purchase, it should appear on your bill. In return, the dealer who sells you a washing machine shall resume free your previous machine, even useless.