ABOUT WASHING MACHINES

The overwhelming majority of washing machines are of front-loading design. They may be free-standing, built-over, built-in (so that they fit into a kitchen cabinet), or integrated (so that they have a door matching the other kitchen units). Only a few models are top-loading. A dryer may be stacked on top of a washing machine, using a stacking unit.

The key considerations when choosing a washing machine are capacity, ebergy efficiency, spin speed, and noise. Most washing machines have a time delay feature, to enable a delayed start to the cycle.

CONSUMER ADVICE ON WASHING MACHINES

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 30 top selling washing machines. The report includes a free features guide, and the following subscriber-only content: best buys; questions about washing machines; 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 WASHING MACHINES

Bosch. The Bosch UK website has a section covering washing machines and other laundry equipment. Bosch washing machines 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 washing machines. These cover both free-standing and built-in models. The Nextra range consists of basic models, with the Vision range offering more features. Most models offer a delayed start feature.

Hotpoint. Hotpoint is part of the Zanussi Group. There is a washing machine section on its website. This covers front loading and top loading washing machines finished in white, graphite, and satin aluminium. Brochures can be downloaded.

Miele. The Miele website has a section on washing machines. There is a selection questionnaire, which enables you to find the most appropriate model by ticking boxes for type, style, maximum spin speed, features and programmable options. Most Miele dishwashers have a five year warranty.

Zanussi. Zanussi is part of the Electrolux Group. There is a washing machine section in its website. Zanussi offers full size front-loading and slimline top-loading washing machines. It does not make built-over or integrated washing machines.

LEADING ONLINE RETAILERS OF WASHING MACHINES

Empire Direct is a large online supplier of electrical equipment, which aims to offer products at prices up to 30% lower than those charged by high street stores. Its website has a section covering more than 100 washing machines, showing in each case the saving against full retail price. Orders for washing machines are normally processed and delivered within three working days.

John Lewis is a reputable firm selling online and through its department stores. Its website has a section on washing machines. 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 is the online arm of Tesco supermarkets. Its easy-to-use website has a section covering more than 30 washing machines. These can be searched by brand, by colour (graphite, silver and white), and by feature, including 40 degrees wash, digital display, light load wash, start timer delay, and variable spin. Tesco Direct offers a home delivery service within 3-10 days for a small charge.

PRICE COMPARISONS FOR WASHING MACHINES

The following websites supply UK price comparisons for washing machines: Dealtime UK; Kelkoo UK; Price Runner UK. Ciao UK and provides price comparisons for washing machines together with user reviews. Reevoo provides user reviews.

OTHER USEFUL LINKS RELEVANT TO WASHING MACHINES

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 washing machines 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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