Washing Machines are an important part of any kitchen, and they have evolved into highly efficient appliances in their use of electricity, water and time. Many Washing Machines now have a form of Artificial Intelligence. This means they can guide themselves as to how much water and detergent to use, and which wash programme is suitable for a particular load, saving you electricity. A good example of this is Whirlpools 6th Sense Range. Modern Washing Machines are also exceptionally functional and able to clean your laundry while taking care to protect your most delicate fabrics. Below we explain exactly what you need to know in order to choose the right Washing Machine for your needs. If you require any further information please contact us at Armagh Electrical.com or visit Dalzell’s of Markethill.

What Type of Washing Machine?

There are three main types of Washing Machines to choose from: Freestanding, Integrated (Built-in) and Semi-Integrated. Your choice is determined by how you would like your Washing Machine to look in your Kitchen or Laundry Room. Freestanding Washing Machines push under existing worktops or kitchen units with the front of the appliance visible and all its functions easily to hand. Integrated or Built-in Washing Machines are fully integrated into your kitchen or laundry room and are hidden when the door is closed. This way you maintain the overall design and look of your kitchen or laundry room. Semi-Integrated Washing Machines combine the best of both worlds. Here the control panel of the appliance is visible and easily accessible but the rest of the appliance is hidden, helping to maintain the look of your kitchen or laundry room.

• Freestanding Washing Machine
• Integrated (Built-in) Washing Machine
• Semi-Integrated Washing Machines

Wash Load

Washing Machines are available in a wide range of capacities and the Wash Load is a careful consideration in your choice of Washing Machine. If you are single or a couple for example a Washing Machine with a capacity of 5Kg or less may be perfectly adequate. But if you are washing for a family you’ll probably need to consider a Washing Machine with a capacity of at least 6Kg or even 10Kg. A further benefit of a larger capacity is that these appliances are able to accommodate more unusual washes, such as duvets. They also help to reduce the amount of creases in your laundry and therefore the amount of ironing needed.

Spin Speed

The Spin Speed of your Washing Machine determines the amount of water that is removed from your wash load, reducing the drying time of your laundry. Modern Washing Machines have Spin Speeds anywhere between 1000-1800rpm. Modern Washing Machines will typically have at least two speeds. For delicates and wool washes it can be between 400-800rpm and for cottons, manmade fabrics etc you can expect it to be anywhere between 1000-1800rpm. Some of the latest Washing Machines have Variable Spin Speed functions, allowing them to change the cycle speed at different points in the programme. It is worth remembering that Washing Machines with higher Spin Speeds generate more noise and vibrations. A Washing Machine of between 1400-1600rpm on average generates around 50-60dB of noise.

Efficiency and the Environment

All Washing Machines have a European Union Energy Label which is designed to give you all the information you require about the Energy and water consumption of your particular appliance. These labels are colour coded and give alphabetical ratings (A-G) on the overall Energy Performance, Spin Performance and Wash Performance. Some of the most efficient appliances have been awarded the Energy Saving Trust's accreditation and this is largely seen as the gold standard. Armagh Electrical.com and Dalzell’s of Markethill have Energy Saving Trust Retailer accreditation for our product knowledge, range of appliances and our commitment to the environment. Some of the latest Washing Machines have a Timer Delay function to allow you to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates and others have a type of Artificial Intelligence that will determine the most efficient wash programme. An example of this is Whirlpools 6th Sense range or the Fuzzy Logic feature found in AEG appliances.

Positioning

When thinking about where to place your Washing Machine you need to consider that it will require connection to the mains water supply and possibly a source of hot water, depending on the model. There should also be access for the waste pipe through an inlet to the U-bend of your sink or into a separate waste pipe. The surface on which the appliance will stand should be level; this reduces noise and vibrations (the appliance’s feet can be adjusted slightly to help). A guidance size of 850mm x 600mm x 600mm H x D x W should be allowed, but please measure your space before you order. There are some Slimline Washing Machines available. If you require one of these or want further information please contact us at Armagh Electrical.com or visit Dalzell’s of Markethill.

Manager’s Tip

When planning your purchase it’s a good idea to consider what guarantee the manufacturer is providing, as well as your budget and specific needs. Most manufacturers, like Zanussi, Electrolux and Beko will offer a one-year warranty, but some – such as Hotpoint – offer an additional five years of parts cover. Bosch offers a full two-year warranty and their Washing Machines offer excellent value for this extra piece of mind. Miele also offers a two-year guarantee, or sometimes longer, but their appliances have a premium price.

Go to Washing Machines to purchase your appliance now.