How to Choose a Washing Machine – A Complete Guide
Buying a washing machine can be challenging, especially since every household has different requirements for laundry. But, before purchasing a washing machine, there are a few aspects that need to be considered. Let us help you with the washing machine buying guide so you can have the one which is for you.
We’ve divided the task of selecting the most popular mechanical appliance into five subsections. They are-
- Capacity and Size
- Fully-Automatic/Semi-Automatic Washing Machine
- Front-Loading vs. Top-Loading Washing Machines
- Wash Programs
- Other Factors to Consider
Capacity and Size
The primary thing to consider when buying a washing machine is its load capacity, which is measured in kilograms and is correlated to the number of people in a household.
But, the load capacity must be such that all your laundry gets washed in a single cycle, and you don’t need to repeat the wash cycle again and again.
It is also essential to consider the space available in your home and the size of your door too, and carefully read the entire washing machine dimensions before purchasing to ensure that the machine can fit inside your home comfortably.
Fully-Automatic vs. Semi-Automatic Washing Machine
Based on the operations they perform, there are two types of washing machines. One is fully automatic, and the other one is semi-automatic. But each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Semi-Automatic Washing Machines
It’s a traditional device that has two compartments or tubs, one for washing and the other one for drying. So, in this type of machine, a lot of manual work is needed.
First, you need to fill the tank by hand using a pipe or bucket, then add the detergent in the tub and set the washing time and type of fabric.
After the washing cycle is completed, the machine produces a sound, which indicates that the washing process is completed. Following that, you will need to take out all of your clothes from the washing tub and manually move them to the drying section.
In a sense, it provides greater control over the washing process, but it’s generally considered labor-intensive. Semi-automatic washing machines are always top-loading washing machines.
Fully-Automatic Washing Machine
It’s a modern device fully loaded with the latest and most appealing features. It makes washing easier without human involvement since all the processes, from washing to drying, happen completely on their own through an automated program.
To use the machine, just put on the clothes and press the start button, and the machine will automatically fill in the water needed for wash from the tap connected to it. Select the appropriate wash cycle, rinse, drain the water, and then finally do the drying to get rid of any remaining moisture, that too in the same drum.
Front-Loading v. Top-Loading Washing Machines
Fully automatic washing machines can be further classified into Top-Loading and Front-Loading machines. As the name implies, in the top-loading washing machines, clothes are loaded from the top side. In this model, the tub is set in a vertical position.
On the other hand, clothes are loaded from the front in the front-loading washing machines. Choosing the best type of washing machine depends upon your washing styles and preferences.
The Top-Loading washers are typically more convenient because they don’t require you to bend over to load or unload your clothes, making them ideal heights for older buyers in those with joint issues, i.e., it’s ergonomically friendly.
It also comes with other useful features like loading clothes in the middle of the cycle or immediately after starting the cycle since the door doesn’t lock. It disperses the detergent and clothes softener more evenly than front-loading washers.
Wash Programs
Since we wear various types of clothes in different seasons and reside in different climatic regions, we need multiple wash programs. This is among the most important aspects to consider while buying a washing machine.
The machine should provide various wash programs to ensure that you can use it to wash all types of clothes without any difficulty.
Other Factors to Consider
The tub’s material
Tubs are generally made up of Stainless Steel, Porcelain Enamel, or plastic. Tubs made of plastic last longer than enamel which may chip, crack, or rust. Tubs made of stainless steel are the most durable, last longer, and can withstand high spin speeds.
So, our order of preference for the material of the tub is Stainless Steel > Plastic >Porcelain Enamel.
Spin Cycle or RPM
The spin cycle is used to dry clothes after washing. So, it is the main factor that determines the time a machine will require to dry the clothes. It is measured in RPM( Revolution Per Minute).
Machines with a higher number of revolutions per minute have better drying capacity and take less drying time compared to machines with lower revolutions per minute.
Inverter Technology
It does not refer to washing machines that can operate on the home inverter. It’s basically a technology to conserve electricity in all appliances that have a moving part.
In conventional washing machines that are designed for a fixed load and operate best when running at the optimal load, the motor runs at a steady speed regardless of the load inside the machine.
Hence, the machines consume the same amount of electricity even if the load is significantly low.
However, a washer with inverter technology operates at optimal loads based on the load placed on the machine. In addition, the machine has sensors that can detect the load on the washing machine.
Based on the amount of load, it determines the optimum speed at which the motor should run to optimize electricity usage. But, this is only possible if the machine is equipped with Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) motors or Brushless motors that provide the machine with the capacity to run at different speeds.
Direct Drive Technology
In traditional motors, which comprise belts and gears as moving parts, there is a lot of friction that makes the washing machine energy inefficient. Additionally, it also produces more noise and vibration.
However, to overcome these challenges, Direct Drive Technology was introduced. In this technology, the motor is attached directly behind the Drum, and there aren’t movable parts. This results in the removal of friction and thus conserving energy.
Direct-drive technology-based motors weigh a little more than conventional motors. However, they generate less noise and offer an extended performance.
Temperature Control
A temperature-control feature lets users control the water’s temperature and remove the toughest stains. For instance, it plays a crucial role in disinfecting the clothes of small babies or a patient on a regular basis.
Auto Detergent Dispenser
This is one of the most important features that one must look forward to if one is unsure about the optimum quality of detergent needed in a washing cycle because less detergent can affect the quality of cleaning. It can also cause discoloration and an unpleasant smell, while the higher quantity not only increases the water required but can also reduce the amount of detergent stock faster.
Therefore, selecting an auto detergent dispenser washer is recommended as it can automatically determine the required quantity on the basis of advanced load-sensing sensors.
Budget
It is a crucial factor to consider which type of washing you can get. The first step is to set a budget and then look for a machine that has all the desired features. However, you can still get the required features, functions, and benefits even in a machine that comes within a reasonable price range.
