How To Choose a Washing Machine
When choosing a washing machine, are you unsure about the difference between front or top filling, what programs will save you time and the meaning of terms such as Fuzzy Logic, Aqua Stop and energy class A +++? We will help you find your way around the menu and advise you on which washing machine will reliably serve your needs.
Tips for choosing a washing machine
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Think about how much and how often you do laundry.
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The most economical washing machines are marked A +, A ++ and A +++.
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The capacity of the washing machine you should choose depends on the size of the household.
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Take into account the spatial layout of the room in which you will put it. The SLIM variant with a depth of up to 50 cm is suitable for smaller spaces.
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Washers with a dryer save space, time and work and are suitable for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
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The various functions of a washing machine also affect its price. Think about what features will be most useful for you.
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If you have a dryer or are considering it, choose a washing machine with a higher speed.
Basic parameters for washing machine selection
Washing machine depth
Front-loading washing machines are usually manufactured to a size of 85 × 60 × 60 cm. If you have a smaller space to house your washing machine, you will appreciate the SLIM variant with a depth of 33 to 50 cm. Smaller models of washing machines with smaller capacity are suitable for individual users or couples.
You can usually buy top-loading washing machines with a height of 90 cm, a width of 40 cm and a depth of 60 cm. Choosing these will depend on your financial and spatial possibilities. Before buying, carefully measure the space in which the washing machine will be located.
Consider a washing machine to be an investment. If you are planning to expand your family, choose larger models
Washing machine capacity
Front-loading washing machines have a larger drum than the top-loading washing machines and can wash up to 13 kg of laundry. For individuals and couples, a capacity of up to 6 kg will suffice, for families of 3 or more members, we recommend choosing a washing machine with a capacity of over 6 kg.
Although top-loading washing machines have a smaller drum than front-loading washing machines, they still wash up to 10 kg of laundry and comfortably serve even a medium-sized household. For households with 2 members, a capacity of up to 6 kg will suffice, for families with 3 or more members, we recommend choosing a washing machine with a capacity of 9 kg and more.
Speed
If you often wash jackets, sweaters, towels and other larger pieces of laundry, you will need a washing machine with a higher spin speed. Most of the moisture from this laundry can be removed by washing machines with 1,200 revolutions.
Are you planning to buy a dryer, or do you already own one? Then we recommend a washing machine with a minimum of 1,400 revolutions to remove most of the excess moisture. The laundry will then dry much faster and will be ready to be folded into the cabinet after just one drying cycle. If you spin the laundry at a slower speed, drying in the dryer will take much longer and will consume a lot of energy.
The speed on the washing machine can be regulated downwards, so you don't have to worry about buying a washing machine with 1,400 or more revolutions and washing delicate laundry in it.
Washing machine motor
When choosing a washing machine, it is advised to pay attention to the type of motor as well. The motor affects the noise level of the washing machine as well as the energy consumption.
The classic engine consists of four components - the engine, the belt, the pulley and the drum. This is an obsolete type of engine. It is located off-axis of the drum and electricity is transmitted to the motor by means of carbons, which wear out over time. Compared to newer types, the classic engine is therefore noisier, less efficient and has higher energy consumption.
Although the inverter motor consists of the same components as a conventional motor, and its location is the same, it is quieter and more economical. It is electronically controlled, so its regulation is smoother. Manufacturers often provide an extended warranty for it.
A direct drive motor is the most modern type of motor and you will find it in only the best washing machines. It is located on the axis of the drum, which leads to direct drive and it is not necessary to use a belt and pulley. This means less vibration, better stability, and above all better power transmission. The direct drive motor is therefore more powerful, more economical and less noisy than other motors. Manufacturers provide an extended warranty of up to 10 years with relatively high certainty.
Noise of the washing machine
It should be noted that washing machines will run almost daily and often in the evening. Therefore, take into account its noise level during washing and spinning when making your choice.
The noise level of washing machines is decreasing more and more. At present, the most modern washing machines can reach a volume level of up to 50 dB when washing. Noisier washing machines reach approx. 50-60 dB when washing. The spin noise ranges from approx. 60 dB to approx. 85 dB.
Energy class of the washing machine
The energy class indicates the grouping according to the energy consumption of the appliance’s operation. For easier selection, there is an energy label, which is mandatory for each washing machine. Annual water and energy consumption is derived from 220 standard wash cycles per year with half the drum load at 60 ° C and 40 ° C. The most economical washing machines are currently marked A+++.
Energy consumption |
Consumption in kWh |
Costs in CZK |
|---|---|---|
| A+++ | 0,65 | 3,1 |
| A++ | 0,70 | 3,4 |
| A+ | 0,75 | 3,6 |
| A | 0,85 | 4,1 |
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* Calculated with the price of CZK 4.80 / kWh * Energy consumption is affected by the quality of the washing machine motor, the selected program, the volume of the drum and other factors. |
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Features and programs
In addition to basic washing programs and functions, some washing machines are also equipped with additional features, which may be useful for you.
The Aqua Stop system has prevented catastrophes in many households. It prevents water from leaking from the supply hose due to washing machine failure or hose damage. This protects your apartment and the apartments of neighbors below you from flooding. To do this, it uses safety measures such as a float switch, which detects the accumulation of water in the safety container and then stops the washing machine, closes the water supply and the pump drains the water from the tank.
Do you have your electricity divided into day and nighttime currents? Isn't it convenient for you not to start the washing machine right away? Do you perhaps need to postpone washing until the afternoon? Thanks to the delayed start function, you can set the time the wash cycle should start (and end on some models). You can postpone washing for up to 23 hours.
A very useful feature for those cases when you turn on the washing machine and find that you forgot to put a piece of laundry in the drum. Press the button to pause the wash cycle and refill the forgotten laundry. Depending on the model of the washing machine and the selected program, this function is available for approx. 80% of the duration of the washing cycle.
The automatic weighing function means that the washing machine weighs the contents of the drum itself and, according to the measured result, optimally dispenses the amount of water and adapts the washing program.
Fuzzy Logic technology is a sensor technology that weighs the laundry itself and detects when the washing will be done. It then sets the length of the wash cycle, water consumption and detergent according to the measured values. Washing machines with this technology wash more efficiently and can save electricity and water.
This is a technology based on a very similar principle to Fuzzy logic. However, the sixth sense is governed not only by the weight of the laundry, but also by the type of fabric you choose. The washing machine then chooses the appropriate temperature, the length of the wash cycle and the number of revolutions for the spin.
If the washing machine has automatic dosing in its labels, it means that there are sensors in it that calculate the appropriate amount of detergent and fabric softener needed to wash the laundry. This prevents you from misjudging the dosage yourself. Too little a dose of powder won’t wash the laundry well enough, too much powder can prolong the washing, and in addition, detergent residues can remain on the laundry.
If the washing machine has a stain function, it is basically an intensive wash, where the course of the program is adapted for the removal of stubborn stains i.e. the prewash is switched on and the main wash time is extended.
Models of washing machines with shortened programs are very popular. Instead of the usual washing cycle, which lasts at least an hour, it offers shortened washing programs lasting 15-30 minutes.
Steam washing is a technology that, with the help of steam, naturally releases the fibers of clothing and thus allows the washing powder to penetrate deep and remove even very resistant stains. It also guarantees better removal of powder residues.
Steam programs, called SteamCare, by some manufacturers, are used to freshen delicate items, remove creases, and eliminate odors and allergens. The steam can enter the washing process at the beginning, during washing or as an additional program at the end of a normal wash. The steam naturally loosens the fibers and fluffs the laundry. Thanks to it, the detergent penetrates deep into the fabric of the laundry and can remove stubborn stains and unpleasant odors. The steam program at the end of the wash helps to sterilize the clothes due to the high temperatures in the drum, which is especially useful for allergy sufferers or (particularly during the coronavirus epidemic) for ridding clothes and cotton masks of viruses and bacteria (How to make a mask - PHOTO GUIDE).
You can control smart washing machines using your smartphone or tablet, to which you can download the manufacturer's application. Then you will have a perfect overview of your home appliance and you can control it remotely. You can also download new washing programs, which are constantly updated. You can also get a perfect overview of energy consumption or troubleshooting instructions.
Front-loading washing machines are the most common type of washing machine on the market. They offer huge functional and dimensional variability and are suitable for individuals, couples and large families. You can choose from narrow washing machines with a depth of 33 cm and a capacity of 4 kg of laundry, to large-capacity washing machines with double the depth, which can wash up to 13 kg of laundry. If you don't like the white color of the washing machine, some manufacturers also offer silver or black models.
The top-filled washing machine is especially suitable for small apartments and studios, where every inch of space is precious. They are narrower than front loading washing machines and can fit into tighter spaces. Thanks to their height, top-loading washing machines are also suitable for seniors who do not want to strain their backs when removing laundry and filling the washing machine. As there is no need to make room to open the door, you can surround top-loading washing machines with other items. Although there is a much smaller selection of top-loading washing machines on the market than front-loading washing machines, you should have no problem finding a model that suits you, both in terms of capacity and function, and at the same time will not be too expensive.
Steam washers use not only water but also steam for washing. The steam naturally loosens fibers, which allows the washing powder to penetrate to the depth of the fabrics and remove even very stubborn stains. At the same time, it saves energy and water. The steam washer consumes a third less water when washing, and thanks to its faster heating, less electricity. Special steam washer programs allow you to freshen up clothes that do not need to be fully washed/ remove the smell of cigarette smoke and body sweat from them. Laundry from A steam washer will be fluffy, fragrant and more easily ironed.
Built-in washing machines have one major advantage over conventional washing machines, and that is the possibility of incorporating the appliance into furniture. The washing machine is then hidden behind the cabinet door and does not spoil the aesthetic of the kitchen or bathroom. These washing machines are equipped with standard programs like all classic front-loading washing machines.
Small and mini washing machines are ideal for individuals or couples, in a cottage, dormitory or apartments, where there is no space left and too much unwashed laundry. They can hold from 2 to 6 kg of laundry, and thanks to that they also offer smaller dimensions and low energy consumption. Just pour water into the washing machine, add powder and you can wash. Some models do not have a heater, so they are completely dependent on the temperature of the water you add to them. Small and mini washing machines are not equipped with a centrifuge in most cases, so if you do not want to spin the laundry by hand, read the description of the appliance carefully.
If you have space for two large appliances in your home, the ideal is to buy not only a washing machine, but also a dryer. The dryer will help you dry your laundry faster and will save you the work of hanging it out to dry, collecting and ironing it. After removing the laundry from the dryer, it is fluffy and almost uncrumpled, so you don't even have to iron some pieces of clothing, and those who still need an iron it will iron much better. Sets of washers and dryers are more affordable than buying both appliances separately. In addition, they harmonize in design and in most cases you can place them on top of each other without having to measure whether they fit together or not.
If you do not have space in your apartment for two large appliances but in addition to the washing machine, you would also like to take advantage of a dryer, the ideal solution is to buy a washing machine with a dryer function. You wash and dry the laundry in one appliance. The selection of models of washing machines with a dryer function is large, so both individuals and couples, as well as small and large families, will enjoy them. You can choose from a wide range of sizes, front and top filling and software of the appliance.
The most popular manufacturers of washing machines
Frequently asked questions when choosing a washing machine
What washing machine capacity should I choose?
For households with 1 or 2 members, a capacity of up to 6 kg is suitable. An ordinary family with 4 members can do with a load of up to 9 kg and for larger households we recommend washing machines with a capacity of over 9 kg.
Does a large washing machine also consume a large amount of energy and water?
Not necessarily. Many models of washing machines can assess the laundry, thus adapting the wash cycle, the amount of water and the overall energy consumption. Such a function is called Fuzzy Logic or the 6th sense. With washing machines with this function, you don't have to fill the entire washing machine and wash as much laundry as you need in one go.
Which energy class of the washing machine is the most advantageous?
Energy class expresses energy consumption, water consumption and washing efficiency. Very economical washing machines are marked A +, A ++ and A +++. With a higher energy class, the price of the appliance also often increases, which is why washing machines in class A+++ are suitable for frequent washing, as it will pay off in energy savings relatively quickly.
Do the dimensions of the washing machine also affect its properties?
Conventional front-loading washing machines have dimensions of 85 × 60 × 60 cm, but there are also narrow washing machines with a depth of up to 50 cm. These models are designed for smaller rooms and have a lower load capacity. If you do not have a problem with space, we recommend choosing standard dimensions with a higher capacity.
Is there a difference between washing in a top-loading washing machine and a front-loading washing machine?
In general, there is no difference in the washing quality of top and front washing machines. The quality of washing is determined mainly by the functions and technologies of the specific model of washing machine.
Can it be steamed without washing powder?
Some steam washers are equipped with steam wash programs without washing powder, which removes the smell of cigarette smoke and body sweat from clothes within twenty minutes. At the same time, the clothes soften and smooth. This program is ideal for removing odors from jackets, jackets or trousers, for example, after a boisterous party.
Is it better to buy a washing machine with a dryer function or two appliances separately?
Both choices have their pros and cons. The main advantage of a washing machine with a dryer function is the saving of space, thanks to which even the owners of small flats, in which two large appliances would take up too much space, can afford the comfort of the dryer. However, their disadvantage remains the fact that in a combined dryer you dry less laundry than you can wash. You can solve this by washing a smaller volume of laundry than the capacity of the drum, or by running two drying cycles.
If you have enough space in the apartment, we recommend a free-standing washer and dryer. This offers more capacity, a choice of programs for drying clothes and a little more efficiency. If you have space in the apartment for two large appliances, we recommend buying a washer and dryer separately. The above-mentioned washer and dryer sets are then more cost-effective. If you need to save as much space as possible, the combination of washing machine and dryer in one appliance is ideal for you. For some models, the difference is almost unknown.
What dimensions must the washing machine have in order for the dryer to stand on top of it?
The possibility of placing a dryer on the washing machine varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. In general, a dryer can be placed on a washing machine with a depth of 58 to 65 cm and more. At the same time, the width of the washing machine also plays a role - a dryer cannot stand on the 45 cm wide SLIM version. The successful combination of washer and dryer also depends on the installation of a suitable adapter, which is usually necessary if you wish to purchase a washing machine.
What does it mean when the washing machine motor is placed directly on the drum?
One of the weakest links of the washing machine is the belt. It can eventually pull, break or fall off the pulley. In this case, there is nothing left but to call a service technician who will take care of the belt replacement. Washing machines that have a motor located directly on the drum’s axis do not need a belt to transfer energy, so such a failure cannot occur. Other advantages of the motor being located on the axis of the drum include:
A motor located on the axis of the drum is called a stepper motor. This means that the washing machine can stop it at any time and change the direction of rotation. Thanks to this function, washing machines with a motor on the drum axis offer 6 additional washing movements that you will not find in washing machines with a belt. With such a washing machine, you will find special programs, such as aeration, swaying, scrubbing, etc.
Glossary
