What Should You Keep in Mind Before Buying a Washing Machine?
Washing machines surely makeup an important part of your household, which only makes buying the right one that much more important. While you can find several models in varying price ranges in the market, understanding your needs is perhaps the best way to go about this process.
All variants of washing machines often vary in certain features, load, capacity and also functions. Some of them might even come with certain unique features, like quick wash programs, child lock, digital displays, protective mesh, etc. reading this article can further help you make this decision quickly and ensure you have made the right decision.
What Are Some Major Differentiating Factors Of Washing Machines?
When talking about washing machines, you can differentiate each washing machine based on some characteristic features. Washing machines can get differentiated based on how they function.
Types of Washing Machines
While semi-automatic machines need some user intervention for the best results, a fully automatic washing machine minimises that requirement. Further mentioned here are details about both.
- Semi-Automatic Washing Machines:
These are entry-level washers that predominately come with two tubs, one for washing and the other for drying. You start by putting the clothes in the washing tub.
Once done, you have to manually transfer them to the drying tub. Even when it comes to the different wash settings, a semi-automatic machine will require much more manual labour. The only thing that makes this a great choice is their inexpensive pricing.
- Fully-Automatic Washing Machines:
As is evident from the name, these machines are made to make every process automatic. Unlike the prior mentioned type, this uses only one tub for both drying and washing. All you have to do is put the clothes in the drum, choose a setting and start the washing machine.
You are not required to pour in the water or move the clothes from the washing to the drying tub later. Once the machine starts, you just sit back and relax until it is time to take them out.
Loading Types in Washing Machines
There are mainly two kinds of loading types that you can find in the industry. Loading type essentially refers to how you can put your laundry in the washing machine. Based on that, the options you can choose from include top-load and front load washing machine. Both of these have their pros and cons.
- Top Load Washing Machines:
In this type, the laundry gets loaded from the top since the drum sits vertically inside. It uses a single tube for washing as well as drying, and you do not need to move the clothes between tubs. A water inlet is attached to the washing machines.
This helps it automatically decide when to take or stop water, maintaining the required level. However, it has lesser features when it comes to washing programs in comparison to front-load machines. Nevertheless, they are quite easy to use and economical, making them a great choice.
- Front-Load Washing Machines:
Here, the drum sits horizontally inside the machine, so you will have to load the laundry from the front side. These are some of the most advanced washing machines you will find in today’s market.
It also comes with several advanced features, including a timer to start and stop the machine, a hot water supply, and several wash programs, advanced child lock and clothe soaking features.
Washing Machine Capacity
Lastly, how small or large your washing machine is and what kind of load it can wash in one session is what can tell you a lot about what you are buying. The washing machine capacity is measured in kilograms as it is directly associated with the weight of the clothes you are washing.
While some clothes might be lightweight but they can take up much more space and vice versa. It is best if you fill about one-third of the total available space. This way all the clothes can move around easily, ensuring a better cleaning. The washing machine capacity is best chosen by considering your washing frequency and family size.
For instance, if you have a family of four and wash clothes two times every week, a 5-6 Kg washing machine will do just fine. Even with a smaller capacity, you can wash higher loads. You will just have to divide the clothes into proper segments. However, choosing to get multiple wash cycles might make it time-consuming and increase your electricity bill.
With this information, you will surely be able to find the best washing machine on the market right now. Once you have shortlisted your choices, make sure that you compare the prices and features of each.
Paying attention to the reviews and reputation of the manufacturer can also be a good idea. Understanding your requirements for the washing machine is as important as finding the best washing machine brand.
