Coming to the home appliances store, many are faced with the problem of which washing machine to choose, so that the technique was functional, but inexpensive, since there are many models that differ in characteristics. It is important to understand what is worth paying attention to not spend money in vain.
Which washing machine to choose?
First, you need to determine the desired appearance of the device, that is, with the type of loading and size. In addition, experts advise you to take into account the material of the case, and stainless steel has the best characteristics, but this technique is noisy and expensive, so you can choose models from high-quality plastic. Determining which washing machine is best, you need to take into account the way of connecting the water and here it is worth choosing a connection only to cold water, so as not to depend on the temperature in the general water supply.
Which washing machine is better than vertical or horizontal?
To understand which technology option to favor, you should consider the main advantages and disadvantages of both options. Basic parameters of models with vertical loading:
- The device is compact, so it is ideal for small bathrooms.
- Thanks to the top loading, the technique is more reliable, since the "vertical" drum is attached from both sides, which ensures minimal vibration.
- Linen can be added to the drum during washing, and for this you do not need to bend over.
- The disadvantages are that you can not permanently use the lid as an additional space for storing different things. A narrow hatch complicates the procedure for bookmarking the overall dimensions.
Determining which is better to choose a washing machine, it is important to take into account the characteristics of devices with horizontal loading:
- There are many different models, many of which can be built into lockers and "fit" into almost any space.
- The machine has a capacious drum and on top of it you can place various pleasant trifles.
- The disadvantages are that to open the door you need free space. In addition, in such models can not add laundry during washing.
Built-in washing machine - how to choose
If there is not enough room in the bathroom, then the machine can be installed in the kitchen by mounting it in the drawer. The rules concerning how to choose an embedded washing machine are the same as those for stationary devices and will be discussed further on. Here it should be noted that the embedded technique can be divided into two groups:
- Full-fledged. The device can be completely hidden behind the furniture panels, as it has special hinges that are attached to the machine and the front door is hung on them. Some models have a special recess for the baseboard, and it's very convenient.
- Models under the countertop. The facade of the machine remains unclosed. At them the top panel is easily removed and replaced by a table top set. Some manufacturers offer a sheet of metal, complete with a machine, which is installed instead of the removed cover to prevent moisture from entering.
How to choose the right washing machine?
When buying such equipment, it is necessary to focus on the main criteria:
- Spin class. This indicator is indicated in Latin letters, and it shows how moist the laundry will remain after spinning: A - 40-45%, C - about 60% and D - low level, which is not used in modern machines.
- Spin speed. To select a washing machine by parameters, pay attention to this figure, which is in the range of 800 to 2 thousand revolutions. The optimum speed is 100 rpm.
- Protection. It is better to choose machines with full, but not partial protection from leaks. If the family has small children, then choose models with child protection, which will block the control panel.
- Programs. Clarifying which is better to choose a washing machine, it is worth pointing out that the norm for modern technology is 15-20 programs. Many manufacturers add other programs, but before you buy equipment, you need to understand whether they are useful or not, since this affects the price.
- Noise level. Choose models in which this figure does not exceed 70 dB during spinning, and during washing - 55 dB.
- Control of foam formation. This is a useful function that determines the excessive amount of foam in case of errors in the dosage, and "extinguishes" it, slowing down the washing for a while.
What is the power of the washing machine?
Household appliances have a certain gradation, which is used to divide technology by the amount of electricity used. To find out how much power a washing machine has, you need to look at the accuracy class. It is defined by Latin letters from A to G. To the letter A, one or two "+" can be added. The class can be found in the passport, and also on the sticker that the manufacturers attach to the body of the machine.
- The best and most economical devices are "A ++", which consumes 0.15 kW / h per 1 kg.
- Class "A +" consumes less than 0.17 kW / h. Classes of energy consumption, below, it is inappropriate to use in terms of savings.
Washing machine - what size are there?
Machines with different types of loading have different sizes . When choosing the dimensions, it should be borne in mind that measurements are taken on the top cover. In addition, do not forget that to install the equipment will need a little more depth, because there will be leads and hoses. Thinking about what to choose a washing machine narrow or wide, it is worth pointing out that devices with horizontal loading can be such:
- Full - size - have a width of about 60 cm, and a height of 85-90 cm.
- Narrow - have the same height, but their depth is less - 35-45 cm.
- Very narrow - in such machines the depth is even smaller and it is 32-35 cm.
- Compact and recessed - this technique can be placed under the sink, because it has a height of 68-70 cm, and a width value of 47-50 cm, and a depth of 40-45 cm.
Understanding which washing machine to choose, it is necessary to stop and on the parameters of devices with vertical loading and there is not such a big choice. The standard height of this technique is 89-90 cm, and the depth is 60-65 cm. As for the width, there are two variants here - 40 and 60 cm. Before buying a machine, it is necessary to measure the place intended for installation, if you plan to buy equipment that will be built in.
How to choose the volume of the washing machine?
The value of the maximum load has a direct relationship with the dimensions of the device. For a machine with vertical loading standards are 5-6 kg. Here it is appropriate to indicate that a family of two people will need a volume of 3.5-5 kg of laundry, and in the presence of a child, this value increases to 6 kg. When figuring out how to choose a washing machine for a home, you should indicate that models with front loading have different drum volumes:
- narrow 33 cm - 3-3,5 kg;
- compact 40 cm - 4-5 kg;
- average 45 cm - 5-7 kg;
- full-sized 50-60 cm - 6-14 kg.
What is the water consumption of the washing machine?
In the passport accompanying the product, the manufacturer indicates the average water flow. In addition, you can calculate this indicator, and all thanks to the research. Experts have determined that the minimum volume, which is spent for one wash, is 38 liters, and the maximum - about 80 liters. By simple mathematical calculations it can be determined that the average value is about 59 liters. If you chose a washing machine for the parameters, and eventually determined that it spends a lot more water during operation, then it is a sign that there is some kind of malfunction.
Which firm to choose a washing machine?
In the market there are many models from different manufacturers. Look for which firm of washing machines is the most reliable, then pay attention to such brands:
- Miele. The machines of this company are expensive, but they are highly reliable, therefore they will last for several decades.
- LG. This brand has machines of different price category. The manufacturer constantly introduces advanced technologies into its machinery.
- Samsung. If you do not know which washing machine to choose, so that it is inexpensive and reliable, then pay attention to this brand, whose products are reliable and easy to manage.
- Indesit. The machines of this company are presented in different sizes and with a wide variety of programs. If you need an embedded or a narrow machine, then pay attention to this brand.