Abazoo UK: Consumer Advice
Washer Dryers: Bosch, Hoover, Hotpoint, Miele, Zanussi
ABOUT WASHER DRYERS
A washer dryer is a machine which combines the functions of a washing machine and a tumble dryer in a single unit. The great advantage compared to having a separate washing machine and tumble dryer is the space saving. The two disadvantages are that it is not possible to dry one load while another is washing; and the drying capacity of a washer dryer is usually about half that of a dedicated tumble dryer, as the drum is smaller.
The key choice in respect of the drying function is whether to buy a vented machine or a condenser machine. The vented machine needs to be placed by an external wall, with a vent to the outside. A condenser machine extracts the dampness into a container which needs to be periodically emptied of water. In the case of a condenser machine there is no need for a vent to the outside. Condenser machines use more energy than vented machines. Other considerations are load and spin speed.
The key considerations in respect of the washing machine function of a washer dryer are capacity, energy efficiency, spin speed, and noise. Most washing machines have a time delay feature, to enable a delayed start to the cycle.
CONSUMER ADVICE ON WASHER DRYERS
John Lewis publishes a good guide to buying washing machines. It covers types of washing machine, cold fill, wash programmes, spin speed, energy efficiency, installation, and delivery and disposal.
Which? publishes an online report of its tests on more than 50 top selling washer dryers including models from Whirlpool, Indesit and Hotpoint. The report includes a free features guide, and the following subscriber-only content: best buys; frequently asked questions about washer dryers; and reports of product tests. Which? offers a 30-day online free trial.
Energy Saving Trust has a certification scheme for energy efficiency, and also has links on its website to recommended products and retailers.
The EU Energy Label scheme, described in Wikipedia, certifies the energy efficiency of washing machines and other household appliances.
Reevoo publishes a useful short guide to buying washing machines and dryers, covering types of washing machines, load capacity, loading type, spin speed, energy rating and noise level.
LEADING MANUFACTURERS OF WASHER DRYERS
Bosch. The Bosch UK website has a section covering washer dryers and other laundry equipment. Bosch washer dryers come in four ranges: the simple Classixx models, the Exxcel range with additional features, and the Logixx premium range. There are also built-in options. Features include an express wash option for greater speed and economy.
Hoover. The Hoover UK website has a section on washer dryers. These cover both free-standing and built-in models. Most models offer a delayed start feature.
Hotpoint. Hotpoint is part of the Zanussi Group. There is a washer dryer section on its website. This covers front loading and top loading washer dryers finished in white, graphite, and satin aluminium. Brochures can be downloaded.
Miele. The Miele website has a section on washer dryers. It covers two models, both front-loading. One has a circular glass window in the front door; the other has a plain front door.
Zanussi. Zanussi is part of the Electrolux Group. There is a washer dryer section in its website. Zanussi claims that its Turbodry technology, with a larger vent and new fan design, cuts drying times by up to 30%.
LEADING ONLINE RETAILERS OF WASHER DRYERS
Empire Direct is a large online supplier of electrical equipment, whose online prices are typically up to a third less than high street prices. Its website has a section covering more than 30 washer dryers, showing in each case the saving against full retail price.
John Lewis is a reputable firm selling online and through its department stores. Its website has a section on washer dryers. This can be searched by type (front loading, integrated, or top loading), by brand, and by price. There is also a section of the website for special offers. John Lewis provides a free second year service guarantee, and free delivery for orders over £100.
Tesco Direct. Tesco Direct's easy-to-use website has a section covering several washer dryers. These can be searched by brand, by load, by drying efficiency, by colour (graphite, silver and white), and by feature, including 40 degrees wash, digital display, light load wash, start timer delay, and variable spin speed.
PRICE COMPARISONS FOR WASHER DRYERS
The following websites supply UK price comparisons for washer dryers: Dealtime UK; Kelkoo UK; Price Runner UK. Ciao UK and provides price comparisons for washer dryers together with user reviews. Reevoo provides user reviews.
OTHER USEFUL LINKS RELEVANT TO WASHER DRYERS
Wikipedia article on washing machines.
Appliance Aid. US website providing repair and maintenance advice for washing machines, refrigerators, dryers and dishwashers.
Diyfixit. UK website with hundreds of articles providing advice on DIY tasks.
Part Select. US website with troubleshooting advice on dishwashers, dryers, ranges, stoves, ovens, refrigerators and washing machines.
Epinions. User reviews on washer dryers from the US-based Epinions website.
How Stuff Works. Article at the How Stuff Works website on how washing machines work, including illustrations.
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