Washing machine spin speed |
Many washing machines boast a high 1400 revolutions per minute (rpm), 1600rpm or even 1800rpm spin speed rather than the more common 1200rpm, which helps save time on the line or energy use in the tumble dryer by removing more water.
However you'll usually pay extra for this feature, and 1200rpm is usually adequate for most loads.
|
Large loads |
Water and energy use per kilogram of washing are often lower for big machines – but only when you fill them up. Larger capacity machines can be very water-hungry. If you don't fill them up, you'll be wasting an awful lot of water.
If you wash with a full load, they use less energy and water per item washed than a smaller machine. So they're efficient if you have a large family, but not if there are fewer of you.
|
Washing machine convenience features |
There are several features to look for, depending on how you use your washing machine.
Extra rinsing
This washing machine feature is useful for people with eczema, sensitive skin or allergies. An extra rinse removes more detergent from the washing. If you have a problem with undissolved detergents, consider switching to liquid detergents, particularly for quick-wash programs.
Variable spin speed
This feature lets you lower the spin speed of the washing machine to protect woollens, handwash-only clothes and delicate items from damage. It’s useful if the default spin speed for your washing machine is higher than 1,000rpm.
Delayed start
Some washing machines allow you to set washing to start later in the day. Eg you can set a load to wash overnight, to take advantage of cheap electricity. The exact amount of time a program can be delayed varies between one and 24 hours.
If you use the delayed start feature at night, fit a smoke alarm nearby.
Electronic display
This feature can be useful for checking which stage of washing a program has reached and how long it has left to run. Some new washing machines are fitted with liquid crystal display (LCD) touchscreens.
These let you program a wash using a series of pop-up menus. This removes the need for the usual proliferation of dials and buttons. However, you'll have to pay more for fancy displays, and they don't always make the washing machine easier to use.
Overdosing
Some premium washing machine models include this feature to stop too much detergent being used in a wash. The washing machine will automatically add an extra rinse cycle if too much detergent has been taken into a wash.
|
With a price tag running into hundreds of pounds choosing a washing machine is not a decision to be taken lightly. That’s why we’re here to help. To access all our reviews and advice today, why not try Which? for a month for just £1?
|
Which? doesn't take advertising. This means you’re presented with unbiased reviews based on test results, not advertising favours.
© Copyright Which? Ltd 2009, all rights reserved.
|
Please note that John Lewis Plc does not take responsibility for the content of any reviews compiled by Which? and reproduced here. |