With every appliance that you add to your house comes a lot of research. If you want them to serve you for as long as possible and invest in high-quality products then you need to spend time and energy searching and identifying the best one for you and your family.
Washing machines are no exception. Yes, you do need an appliance that does your laundry and lets you know when it’s over, so it should be relatively easy to pick one. It would if you don’t care about anything and you are ready to sacrifice quality and buy another one soon after this purchase.
The market is full of washing machines: cheap and expensive, big and small. How can you make up your mind in this big selection? Well, that’s what we are here for. In this article, we will discuss some criteria that will help you choose a washing machine that will serve your needs.
Type
The type of the washing machine is not just about the looks. There main difference in terms of type is front-loaders and top-loaders. The type usually doesn’t affect functionality but it is a matter of convenience that as a buyer you should keep in mind.
The benefit of top-loader washing machines is that children can’t reach it and front-loaders are easy in terms of putting and getting laundry out. Top-loader washing machines fall behind front-loader ones in terms of quality but the difference is not that big. So, keep type in mind and it will help you shortlist models.
Size
When it comes to washing machines, size is a decisive factor. The size of the washing machine will determine both its capacity and whether or not it can physically it can fit in your laundry room, kitchen, bathroom or wherever you are planning to install it.
If you have a place in mind where the washing machine will go, make measurements and follow them. Secondly, pay attention to the capacity meaning how much laundry it can do per cycle. The bigger your household, the more capacity you need.
Functionalities
Once the type and the size of your future washing machine are identified, you can proceed to the functionalities that your “candidates” have. Of course, there are the basic functionalities that you want the washing machine have and everything else is a bonus. We are talking about those bonuses such as automatic dispensers and temperature control, or a stainless steel tub. The biggest one is probably the dryer function. You can save on a dryer by getting a washing machine that dries too.
Ask the retailer of all the features that the washing machine has and prioritize the features that you absolutely need versus the ones that are not so necessary.
Installation
The next thing to consider with washing machines is the installation process that the model requires. The majority of washing machines will require new plumbing installations. But if there is no way you can get it done then the good news is there are washers that can work via the kitchen faucet.
We already talked about the size and installation but once again, be sure that the washer you pick can fit and function in the space you chose. Keep in mind that front-loaders and top-loader require a different kind of space for the door to open.
Energy Efficiency
No one wants to receive a huge electricity bill at the end of the month. Buying an energy-efficient washer can relatively decrease your energy use. Ask the retailer or read the washer manual to find out how energy efficient the washer is. Typically front-loaders save more water and energy than top-loader washers but check for the energy ratings.
Price
And of course, the price. Not everyone can afford to research options without paying attention to the price. We recommend you to buy a washer you can afford but don’t make the price the only criterion. There are perfectly fine washing machines that are both affordable and with great quality.
If you want to want your investment to work for a long time then you’ll need to invest time as well besides money. With these criteria in mind, you can pick a washer that meets your needs and serves you many years.
And always remember, you can get good advice from good specialists, appliance repairmen, and appliance repair companies.