Home electronics can range significantly in its applicability and price. While you can buy some of the small gadgets for home relatively often and even without too much thinking, larger items should be picked carefully. Washing machines definitely fall under the second group. They are not only very expensive, but they are among the appliances which should last you long and which you will use quite often. Therefore, it is important to think it through before buying a washing machine, set the priorities and the criteria and explore all the options and the offers.
The first thing to do before you even begin the search is measure the space where you want to place the washing machine. The washing machines have standard dimensions, but they differ based on the model. Top load are smaller in all dimensions than front load machines, while unitized washer/drier machines are the largest. When you measure the space, make sure to add 1 inch on each side for the circulation of air. You need to add 6 inches in depth for vents and hookups, and 20 inches above the machine in case you plan to buy a top load washing machine. Make sure that you have all the necessary installations on the place where you want the machine to be – hot and cold water lines, a power cord and a drain connection.
Once you have determined the place for the machine and its dimensions and installations, it is time to choose the washing machine that
will best suit your needs. You can choose between top-loaders and front-loaders, and each of them has its benefits. Top-loaders do not require bending or kneeling, they are better for small bathrooms or laundry rooms and they are less expensive. On the other hand, front-loaders generally have larger capacity and use less water and energy than the top-loaders. Depending on your preferences and needs, it is good to know that you can also purchase a washer-dryer combination, and it can be found both as a front-loader and a top-loader.
Before choosing the washing machine, you should also consider your habits, needs and preferences. Think about your habits – whether you add the items after the machine starts the washing cycle, leave the clothes in the machine after the cycle ends, wash sensitive clothes and the like. Think about the specific requests you may have, such as steaming, because it can be useful and even necessary for those with sensitive skin and allergies. If the machine is to be placed near the sleeping area, check the models you like for vibration reduction. The amount of clothes you generally wash is also something to consider, because washing machines have different capacities. If you generally wash large bulks of clothes, it is wise to buy a washing machine with large capacity.
Last but not least, check the energy efficiency of the washing machine. ENERGY STAR® qualified machines spend less water and power, which is not only good for the environment, but for your budget as well.
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