Washing Machines buyer's guide
A washing machine is a serious investment. After all, you ideally want it not only to thoroughly wash your clothes, but also to last a good few years as well. To help you choose the right washing machine to suit your needs and pocket, we've created this guide so that you can quickly pick out the finer points you need to know.
Types of washing machine:
Front load
The most common kind of washing machine available, these are perfect for fitting under worktops, making them easily accessible.
Top loading
These have the advantage of a larger drum capacity, but require more space, such as in a utility room or garage.
Integrated
Exist as fully integrated models where the entire machine is hidden, or semi-integrated where the controls are still visible.
Washer/dryers
A washer/dryer model means you can get the best of both a washing machine and a tumble dryer. This saves space, but you can’t dry one washing load at the same time as another is being washed, as you would be able to with two separate machines.
Washing programmes and features
The common programmes are for cottons, synthetics, delicates and woollens. More sophisticated machines will have extra options such as hand washing for wools and silks, pre-wash for heavily soiled items, short wash, half load for economical washing and rinse hold. Temperatures and spin speed may also be adjustable giving you more flexible washing options.
Key features to look for:
Capacity
Drum capacities vary greatly so think about your washing needs. The dry capacity states how much you can fit in and ranges go from 3kg up to 6kg.
Spin speeds
The faster a washing machine can spin your clothes, the dryer they will come out. The washing machine will automatically vary the speed dependant on the wash programme, but maximum speeds for cotton clothes go up to 1400rpm.
Energy efficiency
Washing machines are rated on a scale of ‘A+’ to ‘G’ according to their energy efficiency. ‘A’ rated appliances are the most efficient and are therefore cheaper to run and better for the environment, while ‘G’ rated appliances are the least efficient.
Washing performance
Washing machines are also rated 'A-G' for their washing performance. 'A' rated appliances achieve the cleanest results with 'G' having the least cleaning power.
Spin performance
Spin-drying performance is also measured on a scale of ‘A’ rated appliances achieving the driest results, and ‘G’ the wettest.
Noise levels
Washing machine noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). The lower the dB, the quieter the appliance will be. Levels vary from 55dB for, similar to someone talking, to 75dB, similar to a vacuum cleaner.
Installation
Don’t leave anything to chance, Tesco can install your new washing machine for you, if you include installation as part of your order. We can even remove and environmentally dispose of your old washing machine and replace it with your new one, though this will cost you more. See this page for full details.
Take Home Today
If you need your new washing machine quicker than our standard delivery times, look out for selected items with the ‘Take Home Today’ logo. These items are available in selected stores for same day collection. Simply contact the store to check that the item is in stock and then collect.
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