Top 10 Tips When Buying a Washing Machine

Here are some things to consider.

1) Drum Capacity - Your needs may have changed. If you've a growing family consider a larger drum capacity for fewer washes. Look for a machine with automatic water level sensing, or a manual half load option, so you're not using unnecessary power and water when the machine's not full.

2) Size - If you're short on space a front loader can fit under a bench or you could stack a tumble dryer above. If you do enough washing to justify a semi-commercial top loader, could you create a laundry area at the back of your garage?

3) Performance and Reliability - If possible ask someone who knows for an unbiased opinion on the best and most reliable washing machines around. Maybe your friendly repair man who services a variety of makes and models? Sales people are helpful but influenced by the brands they stock. Consumer magazines and websites can be useful sources of information for making comparisons.

4) Price/Running Costs - Try to think beyond the initial purchase price to long-term running costs. Check out the water and power consumption of the models you're considering.

5) Guarantees/Repairs/Parts - Ask questions about the guarantee, and find out if there's a good infrastructure in place for repairs and replacement parts should they become necessary.

6) Features - decide what features are important to you. Delayed start? Child lock? How many programs do you want? You'll find cycles out there catering for everything from "Handwash" to "Sports Shoes." Could be an asset, but if you know you'll only use a couple, simpler might be better. Inform yourself, but don't get talked into buying a machine with lots of complicated features you'll never use, and a higher price tag than you intended, by an enthusiastic sales person.

7) Top or Front Loader? - This comes down to personal preference. Don't rule out one just because you're used to the other.

8) Length of Wash Cycles - A regular cycle on a top loader tends to be quicker than on a front loader, but most machines offer a variety of programs so check this out. If you do lots of washing it's back to that bigger drum idea = less washes.

9) Spin Speeds - Some machines can offer speeds of up to 1,400 rpm which means your clothes will come out dryer, and will need to spend less time on the line or in the tumble dryer. If you tumble dry a lot this could be a saving on your power bill.

10) Everyday Use - Is the machine you're looking at going to be easy to wipe over and keep clean? When it's time to clean the drain filter will this be easy to do? Think about the practicalities before you make your choice.

Kelly writes for a number of eco friendly organisations around the world with one being Lifestyle Clotheslines in Australia who stock Rotary Washing Lines and also Retractable Washing Lines

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