Before You Buy A Washing Machine

Before you jump in and buy a washing machine there are a few things that you need to consider. It is important to give due attention to these tips as they might save you a lot of money in the long run.

1. Dimensions & Space

Laundry Room
Always measure the space where your new washing machine needs to go
How big a washing machine can your laundry fit? Do you have any specific measurements that you need to adhere to in order to make sure the machine fits in the appropriate place? Where are your power and water outlets located? How accessibile is the area? This is a basic thing to consider but one that can save you a lot of hassle on the odd chance you purchase a machine too big for your home.

  • Storage or workspace; a front loader can fit under a bench of have a dryer stacked on top
  • Accessibility; if bending or lifting is an issue then a top loader might be the better choice, or else a front loader with a stand

2. Capacity

What type of washing loads will you be doing? Are you going to be washing a few work shirts and pants or will you be doing the laundry for the entire year seven football team? Washing machines have certain capacities and it is important to consider what you will need. Make sure it suits you and your family’s lifestyle.

  • Large items, blankets, quilts: check the maximum load size

3. Programs

Washing Machine Programs
Look for a washing machine that has the programs you need
New washing machines offer many more washing cycle programs. These programs are built in by the manufacturer and allow you to do your wash in a different way. For example, you might want a washing machine that has a delay program so that you can set your wash to go off after you go to bed at night. Or, you might need a program that does a fast wash so you can save on your water bill. Make sure you look at the programs built in to each washing machine and ensure it suits your needs.

  • Delicates, woollens, silk: look for gentle cycles
  • Heavily soiled clothes: look for prewash or soak cycles

4. Water Efficiency

Of course washing machines use a lot of water, but some machines are more efficient than others both in terms of saving you money and conserving water.

Also make sure you check what water connections you have because while front loading machines only need a cold water connection as they heat their own hot water, most top loaders do not heat water and therefore need a hot water connection as well if you want to use hot water cycles.

  • Good water efficiency; look for the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) star rating

5. Energy Efficiency

Washing machines are one of the biggest power consumers in the average house. They need a lot of electricity to turn the drum full of water and heavy clothes as well as using a lot to heat the water. For this reason it is worthwhile shopping around and finding a washing machine that has a good energy efficiency rating. This will save you money in the long term.

  • Good energy efficiency; check the Energy Rating label