Washing Machine Guide: How to Choose the Right Washing Machine For You
Washing machines are complex appliances that every family household needs in their daily lives. We’re here to show you the basics of choosing a washing machine, from the size and load capacities, energy and water efficiency, to the modern features you can get on new washers.
Load Capacities
New buyers should consider the amount of laundry a washing machine can wash in one load. Most of them range from 5 to 14 kilograms to suit a variety of households.
If you live with an extended family, you’ll likely need a washing machine that can take larger loads. Contrary to those who live alone or with a small family, a 5 kg or 7 kg washing machine, which can take approximately 25 to 35 pieces of T-shirts, is sufficient.
Size
Washing machines come in various sizes. You need to decide where you wish to locate your machine first before actually buying one. Do you need to put your washer in a restricted space? Or can you afford a spacious area for a bigger washer to take larger loads?
To check whether you’re choosing a suitable washing machine for your home, consider the machine’s dimensions. If you have limited space, top load machines might be for you because they tend to be narrower compared to front-load, fully-automatic washing machines. Here’s a guide for a 9 kg LG machine, displaying the standard dimensions of a typical top loader and front loader.
Efficiency
Now that you understand the basics, let’s look at the following factors – water and energy efficiency. A washing machine with high efficiency (HE) indicates that the washer can clean larger loads with less water and less energy. A HE washing machine will give you cleaner clothes and a shorter drying time.
However, the detergents or remains will accumulate on the sides of the interior drum due to lower water usage. Subsequently, you’ll need to pay more attention to the machine’s cleanliness compared to a traditional washer.
Semi-Automatic or Fully-automatic
This decision will depend on your needs and budget restrictions. A semi-automatic washing machine is great because it doesn’t require direct water connection, and you can control how much water it uses.
However, the controls are manual, and it requires more space. Not to mention the potential shocks it can cause if you installed it in your home without earthed wiring.
On the other hand, a fully-automatic washing machine requires no manual intervention and has superior power efficiency. It can also remove stains on your clothing much more efficiently. But, of course, they require direct water connection and do cost a bit more.
Do You Need the Pre-Soak Function?
If you don’t like the idea of soaking your stained clothes separately before dumping them into your washing machine, then consider one with a pre-soak function. A washing machine with a pre-soak cycle will most likely come with a timer. A family with kids who like to get messy might look forward to this convenient function.
Is a Top Load or Front Load Better?
This is undoubtedly one of the most frequently asked questions by those looking for washing machines. The answer depends on what you value more. A person who values water and energy efficiency will most likely prefer front load, while top load washers will save more time and tend to be less expensive.
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