Top Load and Front Load Washers
Washing clothes at home has become a convenience that is indispensable for most homeowners. Those days of lugging six baskets to the Laundromat and watching the spin cycle until dizzy are over-your search for a washing machine has begun.
Load 'em Up - Loading Type
Loading type is one of the first choices that a buyer should determine. Because there are only two types, front loading and top loading, choosing is based on preference as much as convenience.
Front Loading Washing Machines
Front loading machines are offered in both freestanding and built-in models. Front loading allows for a smooth integration into existing cabinetry or shelving. Some models, specifically built-ins, make space for tumble dryers if the model you choose is a combination washer/dryer.
Top Loading Washing Machines
Top loading machines are popular amongst consumers for various reasons. They often occupy less space and are less difficult to load and unload. The door is removed from the loading area rather than constantly swinging, as with a front-loading design. Also, there is no cause for doubling over each time a tangled piece of clothing needs to be pulled out of the wash.
Determining the appropriate size for your washing machine will require careful consideration. Write down the dimensions of the available space, your estimated use and consider energy efficiency. Keep in mind that a load should not exceed 75 percent of the machine's capacity for optimized efficiency.
A compact washing machine is appropriate for minimal washing needs. A 4-8 lb. load capacity is ideal for two people. Of course, smaller load sizes will mean more frequent use for any size family.
Full-size machines have a typical capacity of 8-10 lbs and 2-2.5 cubic feet. These are appropriate for washing linens, curtains and the like. A large capacity machine would be ideal for a four-person home. Most full-size machines offer half load options, which provide added versatility.
An even larger capacity of 10-12 lbs. and about 3-3.5 cubic feet is appropriate for homes with more than four occupants. Large sizes do not always mean less energy efficiency, as the frequency of washing will be less. A separate laundry room may be required to house these larger washers.
Exploring Available Washing Machine Features
Explore all the available extra features before making a washing machine purchase. Some may be extraneous to your needs but others could be indispensable. Avoid buyer's remorse and get it right the first time.
Spin Cycle
An efficient spinner is essential for quick drying, another energy saver. If you choose a machine with a tumble dryer and you have a separate dryer, then 800 revolutions per minute (rpm) will be sufficient. Without a tumble dryer, spinning speed should be around 1000 rpm. Some models offer spin cycle options, which enable users to choose the speed based on the load requirements.
Warranty
Scrutinize the warranty and determine your maintenance needs. Most manufacturers offer a one year warranty that covers most parts and labor. Be sure to analyze the warranty to find out if some parts are covered for less time and ask for service records.
Energy Efficiency
Use the yellow Energy Guide stickers when shopping to determine overall efficiency (a lower rating means a more efficient machine). Evaluating your needs is the only way to ensure efficient use. Again, larger loads are not necessarily less efficient.
Other features include automatic program settings (which calculate the load size and water necessary and make appropriate adjustments), delayed start options, multiple cycle settings (like short wash and delicate cycle), automatic detergent dispensers, end-of-cycle signals, digital controls, time remaining indicators, damp dry options and extra rinses. Water level controllers and tub materials (plastic, porcelain, or stainless steel) are also important considerations. Assess your needs and choose features based on these—for example, if you have allergies, an extra rinse may be necessary. If you need to avoid peak energy costs, a delayed start can be helpful.
Budgeting Your Purchase: Washing Machine Prices
Because budget is an important factor in choosing a machine, it is best to determine what features, capacity and type of machine you absolutely require and find the lowest price. If your budget allows for additional features after that point, the selection pool deepens again. Fortunately, top manufacturers produce models in varied price brackets.
Washer/dryer combinations are great for small spaces and have several programmable options. Ranging in price from approximately $1000 to $1200, combination models may be more expensive than single washing machines, but consider also the price of a single dryer. In most washer/dryer combination models several programming options offer convenient settings.
Basic, full-sized washing machines can be purchased for $250-$300. Machines with a $400 to $500 price tag will offer a few more settings or features and generally offer top or front loading and 3.2-4 cu. ft. capacity.
Some manufactures produce top-loading models for a moderate price of $500 to $700. Added features like delayed start, delicate cycle, no wrinkle cycle and extra rinse are common in this price range.
Most 2.9-3.2 cu. ft capacity machines in the $700-$900 category are packed with features and come with Energy Star compliance stickers. Dial controls, automatic water level settings, multiple wash presets, no-rust tubs and multiple temperature settings abound. If features are less important to you than size, larger capacity machines are available in this category with fewer features.
Washing machines priced above $900 feature huge 22 lb capacities and almost every add-on imaginable. Attractive exteriors, durable tubs and several wash presets ranging from delicate to hot sanitizing drive the price up but are considered worth the cost, as all washing needs will be met.
The Bottom Line
Purchasing a washing machine is an investment, but if you choose based on your washing and space requirements, it will be a gratifying one. Find a machine that accommodates your frequency of use, family size, and budget. Consider how you feel most comfortable loading a machine and the noise the wash cycle will produce. Covering all your bases will give you a clean mind when you go shopping and clean clothes when you come home.