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Washing machines are more reliable than washer-dryers as only a 10% need repairs in their first 6 years. Conversely, 20% of washer-dryers need repairs in their first 6 years.
No. Although some people think that bigger is better, in actuality, fans with bigger motors tend to be less efficient, noisier and less sustainable.
Washing machine prices range from £150 through to more than £1,000. However, it is recommended that you should budget around £350 - £400.
It is often cheaper to purchase a washing machine online. In addition, shopping online will give you access to a greater range of outlets and models.
While washer-dryers are effective washing machines, they are quite substandard tumble dryers and can be awkward to operate. As a result, you are often better off investing in two units.
Top-loading washing machines use a large agitator and a tub which rotates vertically. These washing machines are often narrower than regular front-loading washing machines but they are often noisier and use more energy.
This depends entirely on how much washing you need to do. If you have a small household, a 5kg capacity washing machine will suffice. However, larger households will benefit from high capacity machines such as 12kg.
Washing machine speeds range from 1,000 to 1,600 revolutions per minute. The more revolutions per minute, the dryer your clothes will be when you take them out. For optimum efficiency, aim for a model with between 1,400 and 1,500 revolutions per minute.
Typically, washing machines range from 45 decibels to 61 decibels. If you plan on doing lot of late-night washing or you have an open-plan kitchen, aim for a noise level less than 50 decibels as this is a similar volume to a refrigerator humming.
Washing machine energy ratings are designed to help you identify which device is the most energy efficient. As of 2013, the new energy efficiency rating runs from A to A+++, the more pluses, the greater the efficiency.