What to look for in a washing machine

One of the biggest bonuses of having your own home is the luxury of having your own washing machine. After all, it will be one of the most used appliances in the whole house. So regular indeed that you’ll want to make sure the washer you choose can not only handle your needs but suit your style as well.

Washing machine features

Whatever type of washing machine you’ll have, they’ll generally have the same type of features. Basic machines have settings for temperature, levels, and wash cycles; electronic machines might boast more options, including precise settings for temperature, items, and washing. You might also find features like fabric softener dispensers, delayed starts, automatic spin balancing and stainless steel tubs in your washing machine.

So, you’ll have to decide if it’s worth spending extra money on a more advanced option. A more expensive machine will be quieter, and will probably save you some on water and energy – but, of course, it will cost more.

Choosing a washing machine

When you go to pick out a washing machine, you’re going to have to select between a top-loading washing machine and a front-loading washing machine. Additionally, there is the option to buy a washer/dryer, which combines both of these appliances in one machine. 

Front-loaders

The pros 

• They are energy efficient and use less water than other machines.
• Front-loaders take up less storage space as the door opens outward.
• They are gentler on clothing and other fabrics.

The cons 

• They are more expensive than top loaders.
• Once the wash cycle has started, front loaders can’t be opened as the water would spill onto the floor. Any changes or additions will have to wait.

Top-loaders

The pros

• They’re generally the cheapest type of washing machine on the market.
• They can be opened during the wash cycle, allowing you to add more clothes or fabric cleaner.
• They remove more water during the spin cycle, meaning that you will have less drying to do. This will save energy if you’re using a tumble dryer or time if you hang your laundry.

The cons

• They’re not always the most energy-efficient option, which can cost you money.
• They take up more space than a front loader, as they open from the top, meaning you will need to keep the space above the machine free of obstructions.

Washer/dryers

The pros 

• You only need one machine for two tasks, saving you money and space.
• You can set a load of laundry to wash and dry, meaning you can get the whole job done at once.

The cons 

• These machines can be considerably more expensive than dedicated washers and dryers.
• The drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity, meaning you’ll either have to do a half load if you want the whole job done at once or load separately for washing and drying.

To install a washing machine under your sink in Australia, you’ll need a drain hose of the correct size and diameter. It’s best to consult a plumbing expert for installation to ensure that the correct hose is fitted correctly and safely and for your unique needs and setup.

Environmentally friendly options

Reusing your washing machine water

According to surveys, 40 per cent of your water use typically comes from using a washing machine. If so, it makes economic sense to find a useful means of diverting and treating this wastewater for reuse in the home. Here is how it would be done:

• Step 1: Switch to an eco-friendly laundry detergent and obtain a water tank
• Step 2: Consult with a plumber. This professional will divert the overflow to the grey water tank on your property.
• Step 3: The water diverted to the tank is filtered and treated.
• Step 4: The water is made sanitary and can now be reused for the toilet, house and garage cleaning and in designated areas of the garden.

Waterless washing machines

This type of innovative machine uses very little water to clean clothing. That also means it uses much less energy. In one type, a cartridge is positioned at the back of the machine that holds 20kg of plastic chips. These are dispersed into the load when you need to wash. You will then add a cup of water containing the necessary detergent to the machine. The water will dissolve all of the dirt present and the chips absorb the water. There is no spin or rinse cycle involved in the process. Once it is done, the bottom opens and the chips are collected. This type of cleaning method is capable of removing nearly all stains from clothing, even ones that are considered difficult to clean. The chips last a for about 100 loads. That may be about six months on average. 

Another option to consider uses pressurised air as well as deodorants and negative ions to clean clothing. There are no uses of detergents with this product either.

How often do you need to clean the washing machine?

Washing machine maintenance technicians recommend that you clean your washing machine thoroughly every six months. You can remove all of the hard water, detergent, lint, and germ build-up with a thorough cleaning. You should clean your washing machine more often if you use it almost every day, and less often if you only use it once in a while.

You can avoid bacteria and mould growth if you leave the washing machine door open and allow the air to circulate inside after every wash. This will allow the excess moisture to evaporate and prevent odours and germs from developing.

You should also clean your washing machine if it suddenly develops any odours or if it stops cleaning your clothes as efficiently as it used to. Machines that are not cleaned regularly can develop limescale, which can lead to mould and bacterial growth.

Factory seconds washing machines

A factory seconds washing machine doesn’t qualify as new for many reasons, even though it practically is. A factory second is just a model that was used on the floor, as a demonstration model or for advertisements. Sometimes there are a few aesthetic flaws that disqualify it from being sold as new. Functionally, however, it is as good as a brand-new one, and at a greatly reduced price.

Repairing your washing machine

You may think that replacing your washing machine is the easiest and quickest fix, but this shouldn’t be your first thought. Since washing machines are costly, it may be in your best interest to repair it. In most cases, this is the cheaper option. Additionally, it can be a quick fix due to the fact that appliance repair companies carry a majority of common parts and are usually able to repair your washer within a few hours. Plus, repairing it is a more environmentally friendly option.