Complete guide for choosing the washing machine

Today washing machines are complete and multifunctional and can differ in some elements such as intelligent functions, energy efficiency class, space and load capacity.

When we go to choose the washing machine model it is advisable to dwell on the technical characteristics such as:

• Load capacity
• Spin speed
• Energy consumption
• Possibility of delayed departure
• Program availability
• Security systems.

Regarding the choice of a particular brand, the most important aspect we must worry about is verifying that there is an assistance center in your area of residence and that it is able to respond as quickly as possible, for example by sending us a technician at home.

Load capacity

To choose the load capacity it is advisable to refer to how many washing machines are done on average in a week and adjust accordingly. On this aspect, a clarification needs to be made immediately: the indicated load capacity refers to the weight of the damp clothes, once washed, and not dry when inserted. It should also be remembered that the load weight and the level of dirt can affect consumption. In fact, supersize washing machines with a capacity of over 10kg can cause higher final costs than a washing machine with a minimum load of 3.5kg.
Furthermore, to optimize space, various formats are available on the market ranging from the standard to the slim one up to the possibility of stacking washing machine and washer dryer.
Model standard front oa big load it is suitable for large families, for loads between 5 and 15kg, for those who don't have space problems and want to save on the overall cost.
Model narrow front in depth it saves space, reduces bulk and is ideal for modest loads and low consumption.
Model top loading it is functional for small spaces and is especially suitable for those who have difficulty lowering down.

Spin speed

The power of the spin dryer, expressed in revolutions per minute, therefore represents the capacity to remove the water from the laundry the higher the number of revolutions, the drier the clothes will come out. But a too powerful spin tends to wrinkle the clothes, making it more difficult to iron them later. It is preferable to opt for a model that allows you to adjust the spin speed and not go below a spin capacity of 800 rpm.

Check the energy efficiency class

A solution to cut consumption and at the same time respect the environment is the energy efficiency class, a mandatory scaled-up evaluation of consumption, regulated by European legislation.

This label indicates the annual consumption expressed in KWh of an appliance using letters from A+++ (low annual consumption) at the G (high annual consumption).
The consumption ranges vary according to the appliance and the pictograms below identify technical data such as annual water consumption, load capacity for the standard program, spin energy class and noise emission in decibels during the spin phase. washing and spinning.

By choosing, for example, a class "A+++" model, we will be able to spend one third less on electricity than we would with a class "A" model, and about half of an old class "D" model.

The time, the use of the spin cycle and the heat of the water can be modified to optimize energy consumption. If the washing machines are not already programmed with Eco functions, it is possible to independently program the short cycle (15-45 min.), wash at low temperatures (15-20°) or set the delayed start from 1 to 24 hours to take advantage of the cheapest of the day. It is advisable to always check the instruction manual to best adjust the specific characteristics of the washing machine for optimal performance.

Possibility of delayed departure

Delayed start is now such an important function in saving that almost all new washing machine models allow you to program the start of the wash from 1 to 24 hours later, allowing you to take advantage of the cheapest hours for washing, depending on the contract.

Availability of programs

At the time of purchase it is advisable to check the washing machine programs that allow you to save money. The programs that save the most are the short ones, those at low temperatures and the Eco ones of the most advanced washing machines.

• THE short programs (from 14 to 44 minutes) could be indicated in the manual or by the seller as not suitable for washing clothes, but they are perfect for all that not excessively dirty mixed laundry that does not require special care.
• Washing at low temperatures (from about 15 to 20°) allows you to save money. There are many models that offer excellent washing results with very low temperatures thanks to special functions such as steam or bubbles.
• THE Eco programs allow you to set the least expensive program in terms of energy according to the laundry. The washing machine, thanks to the internal sensors, weighs the laundry by calibrating the wash based on the amount of laundry, the dirt and the quality of the fabrics. The washing machine models that have this function are more expensive, but allow for good savings.

Security systems

Washing machines are generally equipped with anti-overflow and anti-water leakage safety measures: these are automatic drain and water blocking systems in case of malfunction. In addition, there is also an anti-foam system that prevents washing machine breakdowns by preventing the accumulation of foam. And the anti-child system that locks the washing machine controls during operation to prevent children from changing the programming.

Hot water connection

If your priority is saving, then it is advisable to choose washing machine models that have a hot water connection, provided that you have the system set up with both hookups, both hot and cold water. The principle is simple, if the washing machine doesn't have to heat the incoming water because it draws from the condominium water or that of its own independent system, then it will consume much less.

Quietness

Another condition not to be underestimated is the noise of the washing machine during the spin cycle. Washing machines are now designed with noise lower than 100dbA and are therefore silent. Some washing machines also have specific silent programs for the night.

Inverter motor and traditional motor

The washing machine with running motor Inverter makes the washing machine quieter and more stable and also guarantees minimum consumption. The use of the Inverter motor is simpler than the traditional motor, as it does not use brushes and is therefore more silent.

The Inverter motor decreases electrical absorption allowing you to save up to 20% of energy compared to the traditional one. It is therefore certainly more convenient to direct the purchase towards a washing machine with an Inverter electric motor rather than a washing machine with a traditional motor. The initial price will be higher, but you will save on final costs.

Washer dryer or dryer?

The washer-dryer or tumble dryer is an excellent solution to particular drying time needs or lack of space on which to hang clothes.

If there is no possibility of overlapping the washing machine and the dryer, the washer dryer, compared to the latter, has the advantage of being less bulky.

However, the maximum drying load is lower than the maximum washing load: in this case, you will need to reduce the load quantity or dry your laundry in stages.

In this case, you need to know right away that:

The washing programs of the washer dryer are generally less numerous and varied than those of a washing machine.

In washer dryers, the maximum washing load is higher than the maximum drying load. In continuous programs therefore, where the drying program immediately follows the washing one, the washing load must be less than the maximum load of the appliance. Otherwise you will need to dry your laundry in two stages.

Lastly, given that the items to be dried must be spun at at least 1,000 g/m, in continuous washing (washing-drying) you must be careful not to insert delicate items that can be damaged by spinning.