How To Pick The Best Washing Machine For Your Home

Being without a washing machine and having to drag load after load of clothes to the laundromat is no fun at all. So when yours breaks down, you may be tempted to invest your hard earned money in just about any washer that can get the job done.

Stop!

Before buy a new washing machine, there are some very important factors that you need to consider. We’re going to show you what a few of them are and explain how each one should play a major role in your final decision about which washing machine is right for you.

Size Matters A Lot

If you are replacing a broken washing machine, you probably already have a space in mind where to put it. However, if you’re buying a washing machine for a new home or for the first time, size should be the first thing you consider. Traditional sized washing machines range between 24in and 33in in width, but you still need elbow room to move around when using them. Allow an additional 36in of clearance in the front of a washing machine and an additional 42in of clearance in the front of a dryer. Check these space saving laundry designs.

Don’t Ignore The Capacity

Many consumers, unknowingly, ruin perfectly good washing machines by overloading them beyond their mechanical limits. All washers come with a predetermined load capacity that is usually relative to the drum size. The larger the drum, the larger the capacity – meaning the bigger the load it can handle per wash. Of course, families are going to want larger capacity washing machines while single people or couples can get by with smaller capacity machines.

Energy Efficiency Ratings Can Save You Heaps

Washing machines can drastically increase your water and energy bills. That is why choosing a model that has a higher energy efficiency rating is important. Look for washing machines that have an Energy Star Rating because those are the ones that are going to be the most cost-effective, energy efficient models on the market. Washers that come with an Energy Star Rating use, on average, 40% less electricity and 65% less water than washing machines that have not been awarded an Energy Star Rating. While they may be a little more expensive to purchase, an Energy Star machine will pay for itself over time in the amount you save on your water and electric bills.

Warranties And Life Expectancy

Traditional washing machines have a life expectancy of about 14 years. That doesn’t mean they won’t break down before then. Depending on the issue, replacing the whole machine may be more cost effective than repairing one that’s worn out. Most washing machines come with a three, five or ten year warranty, depending on the brand – and this warranty will cover parts and labor for any repairs needed. Try to choose a machine with the longest warranty period that you can find. While they may cost more up front, you won’t have any out of pocket repair costs for the duration of the warranty period.Of course, there are other features you will likely want to take into consideration before purchasing a washing machine – namely, the price. Once you find some machines that are in your price range, you can compare them for optional features like special wash cycles, front or top loading abilities and such. The key to getting the best deal is shopping around with a variety of merchants to compare what they have to offer before making your final selection.

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