A washing machine is an essential appliance in any household. Whether you are looking for one for your first apartment or replacing an old one, there are several considerations to keep in mind when choosing which is the best washing machine to buy. From size to cost, efficiency, environmental concerns and more, read on for useful tips that will help you make an informed decision and purchase the best washing machine for your needs and situation.
Determining the right size and capacity
First of all, you need to measure the space where your washing machine will go. Remember to leave a buffer of a few centimetres at the back or the side for the hoses and connections, depending on the model you decide to purchase.
The second most important consideration is determining what size washing machine you need. The weight indication you can read on the machine (5 kg, 7.5 kg, 10 kg, etc.) isn’t the product’s weight but the laundry load it can take. Use this rule of thumb to figure out the washing machine capacity you need: 1kg of laundry is the equivalent of 5 shirts, 1 shirt and 1 pair of denim jeans, or 2 bath towels. Work out the approximate size of your household’s average wash load, both today and what you could reasonably expect in the next 5-10 years, to have an indication of which size washing machine you need.
Front loading versus top loading washing machine
The two main categories washing machines are divided into are front load and top load machines. Our customers are always asking us: “what kind of washing machine should I buy?” The truth is that neither one is significantly better than the other, and it depends entirely on your requirements and preference.
Let’s start by explaining the mechanical difference between the two types. A front load washing machine has a horizontally mounted drum and uses gravity to wash your clothes. Your washing is gently turned over and over, repeatedly dropping into the wash water. On the other hand, the drum of a top load washing machine is mounted vertically and uses an energy-powered central agitator pole to move your laundry about in the wash water.
Now that you understand how each design works, let’s look closely at their advantages and disadvantages so that you can make an informed choice when deciding what the best washing machine to buy is.
- Price
The cost of the washing machine is, without doubt, the most important and limiting factor of all. Top loaders are generally cheaper than front loaders. On comparable models, you can save at least $100 if you choose a top load washing machine. This difference is due to their simpler designs and construction.
- Better cleaning
The main request we all have for our washing machine is that it cleans our dirty clothes. As a result of their design, front load washing machines achieve better and cleaner results. They also tend to have more advanced features and water heating options for better results.
- Water-saving
Front load washing machines are more water-efficient and use an average of 40% less water than top load washing machines. This is because of their clever mechanical design that relies on gravity for the clothes’ tumbling action.
- Ergonomically friendly
With a top loading washing machine, there is no need to bend over to load or unload the machine. That said, some people like the ease of placing their laundry basket in front of their front loading washing machine and dragging and dropping their wet washing straight into the basket.
- Energy efficiency
Front loading washing machines use less energy than top loaders and are cheaper to run. This is even more evident if you regularly use warm water cycles.
- Fast wash cycles
Because front loading washing machines use less water and are more energy-efficient, their wash cycle often takes longer than a top loader. With the latter, your clothes are continuously immersed in water, thus getting cleaned for the whole duration of the cycle.
- Smell and mildew
When it comes to cleaning a front or top loader, the process is the same. As long as you do it regularly every couple of months, neither will develop an unpleasant smell.
- Wear and tear on clothes
Due to their design and mechanics, front load washing machines have a smoother cycle and are gentler on your clothes than top loaders. Top load washing machines can be rough on clothes, especially if the drum is overloaded.
- Adding items mid-cycle
One of the most loved advantages of top load washing machines is the ability to add an item you forgot mid-cycle. Since you can open the top at any time, you can also retrieve your keys, coins, phone or other items you may have accidentally left in your pockets.
- Saving space
Front loading washing machines are smaller and more compact, and they can be placed under or over counters and in cabinets. Their smaller front-mounted doors also make it easier to use them in a confined space. Plus, you can place certain items on top, so frequently used things like laundry powder are always within close reach.
- Saving detergent
Already more water and energy-efficient, front load washing machines also use less detergent. If being environmentally friendly is an important consideration for you, then front loaders should be your preferred choice.
- Life expectancy and repair costs
A relevant factor to consider when thinking about the price of the washing machine you are looking at is how long it will last and how much does it cost to maintain it. Because of their simpler design and easier access to their mechanism, top load washing machines tend to last longer and are cheaper to repair.
- Noise production
Top load washing machines are quieter than front loaders. That is due to the higher spin speed the latter can achieve and the resulting internal vibrations. Vibration dampers can be purchased and installed under any washing machine to make them run more quietly.
Extra features to look out for
Over the last few decades, washing machine manufacturers have started developing smart controls that make your life easier and also improve your water and energy bills. For example, having a variable timer or delay start button will let you run your load at night when the electricity is cheaper. Advanced temperature control, variable speed setting and extra modes, such as the eco mode, will result in noticeable savings. If you have children in the house, you might want to choose a model that features child locks, door locks and other safety controls that will keep your kids and your washing safe.
New versus used washing machine
A great way to save money is to find a good quality second-hand washing machine. Buying a used washing machine from a stranger may sound intimidating or risky, as you don’t know how they took care of the machine and have no warranties with your purchase. However, purchasing a second-hand washing machine can save you a lot of money. If you’re looking for a reliable, quality washing machine but don’t want to pay full price or deal with the hassle of a private sale, then come and look at our wide range of refurbished washing machines at Sydney Wide Discounts. Our second-hand washing machines have been professionally refurbished by experienced white goods technicians who have over 35 years of experience. To put your mind at ease, all our refurbished washing machines come with a 3-month warranty. We have also recently expanded our range to include brand-new washing machines. So when you come and visit us, you’ll have a chance to compare and choose the best options for functionality and price.
Buy a used washing machine at Sydney Wide Discounts today
For excellent quality washing machines at unbeatable prices, shop from the Sydney Wide Discount range. We are proud to offer a wide range of affordable, top-quality washing machines in Sydney that are loved by so many of our customers. The photos on our website reproduce the items exactly as they are, but if aesthetics is a crucial requirement for you, we encourage you to come and inspect the products in person. You can find us at 233 Victoria Road, Rydalmere, 7 days a week. Otherwise, take advantage of our easy online ordering system and enjoy fast delivery and excellent service.
For more information on our new and second-hand washing machines or any other product we stock, please contact us online today or give us a call on 0431 203 882. We’d love to help you out.