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The ultimate guide to...

Washing machines and washer dryers

Getting advice from a comprehensive washing machine and washer dryer buying guide could make the process of buying a washer or dryer a lot easier.

With a multitude of different programs and features now being the norm on most washing machines and washer dryers, it can sometimes feel like you've been thrown in at the deep end. But by adhering to a few simple tips in Debenhams' washing machines and washer dryer buying guide, the experience could be much simpler.

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Using our washing machine and washer dryer buying guide

Through Debenhams' washing machine and washer dryer buying guide, you'll be able to make sense all the different tools and features offered by washer and dryer appliances - so your search will be boosted by your new confidence.

Washing machines explained

With so many programs and features it can sometimes feel like you have been thrown in at the deep end when it comes to choosing a washing machine. Before buying decide if you want a washer and dryer separately or a washer dryer as one unit.

A washer-dryer is the perfect space saving solution and is extremely functional. If you buy a washer and dryer separately you can buy them so that they sit perfectly on top of each other. The choice is personal and with so many different makes and models you need to find one that is the most reliable for you. To help you we have put together a guide that makes sense of all those special features so that you buy with confidence.

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KEY FEATURES

Types of loading

Washers come with either a front load or top load. Front load washers are more common in the UK than top loaders. Front load washing machines are great for space saving as you can place them directly under a work surface.

Top loading washing machines cannot be fixed so when considering which one to choose consider your space and layout.

Loading capacity

The most common symptom is due to glare which is the reflection of light on surfaces.

Useful tip:

To get the best results from your washing machine it is essential that you do not overload your machine.

Advised load sizes

Number of people recommendedSingle personCouple without dependantsFamily with 2 dependants Family with 3 - 4 dependants
CapacityLess than 4.4 Kg5 kg - 5.4 kg5.5 kg - 5.9 kg6 kg and more

LOAD SIZE & SPIN SPEED

Load size

Load size is measure in kilograms and range from 5-8kg. Machines with a larger load capacity allow you to complete more washing and as a result can reduce your weekly washes, which is ideal for the larger family.

Spin speed

The higher the spin speed, the more moisture is removed during the spin cycle saving you time, energy and money. Spin speeds generally range from 1000-1600RPM. 1000RPM is the most efficient speed.

Fixed spin speed

This is the set spin speed of a machine set by a manufacturer.

Variable spin speed

This allows you to set your won spin speed which is ideal if you have delicate items of clothing.

YOUR MACHINE'S PERFORMANCE

Energy efficiency

All our appliances carry an energy symbol that gives you a guide on the energy efficiency and performance of your appliances. Energy Efficiency is rated using A through to G where A is rated as the most efficient and G being the least efficient. To find out more details simply click onto the energy saving website.www.energysavingtrust.org.uk

Cost of consumption

Electricity on washing machines is measure in KWh/cycle and is based on the appliance being used in standard conditions. To work out he average annual cost simply multiply KWh consumption figure by the average unit price of electricity for an approximate energy costing. Savings will depend on the actual consumption used and your electricity supplier.

Performance

The performance of your appliance is based on the types of wash cycles and spin efficiency. By opting for a more expensive model you can take advantage of the energy saving features including a time delay that set the wash during the night when electricity is cheaper. Temperature and load controls can also help with the running of your appliance and these can be set to suit each wash load.

Fuzzy logic

Most machines come complete with advanced electronic technology known as 'fuzzy logic' which monitors the wash and automatically makes adjustments for high performance cleaning using controlled energy. Fuzzy Logic machines carry AA or AAA energy efficiency gradings.

Classifications

Eurolabel classification is an alphabetical classification instituted by the European Union. The letters go from A-G with ‘A’ being the best. It allows you to compare and evaluate the performances of various makes and models of your washing machine.

In order to compare the performances of the various models, we use the Eurolabel, an alphabetical classification going from A to G. ‘A’ being the top marks the washer can receive. This classification instituted by the European Union, which makes it possible to evaluate the quality of your washing machine.

ClassificationEvaluation
AOptimum
BExcellent
CVery good
DGood
EAverage
FLower than average
GPoor

Glossary

Digital display - The most important reason for wearing sunglasses is to protect the eyes from sun exposure.

Dryer capacity - The most common symptom is due to glare which is the reflection of light on surfaces.

Drying type - The various drying settings that you can adjust depending on your drying needs.

Energy class - Is the energy classification found on appliances. ‘A’ being rated as the most efficient and ‘G’ the least efficient. Also see Energy Efficiency.

Energy consumption - Shown as KWH used during each wash cycle. (Based on standard test results for 60° cotton cycle). Actual consumption varies with how much you use the machine.

Energy efficiency - An energy symbol that gives you a guide on the energy efficiency and performance of your appliances. Energy efficiency is rated using ‘A’ through to ‘G’ where ‘A’ is rated as the most efficient and ‘G’ being the least efficient. To find out more details simply click onto the Energy Saving Trust website.

Final cool cycle – Is the end setting of your appliance that dries your load.

Heat settings – Are the settings that you can adjust to vary the heat temperatures.

Load capacity - Is the amount of clothes an appliance can hold in one load.

Removable filter – This can be removed so it can be cleaned to prevent blockages.

Reverse action - Are two setting that allows you to dry a load on a high heat or cool temperature.

Sensor drying – This sets the degree of dryness you want. The machine senses the correct level and stops automatically, saving energy and prevents over drying.

Timer – Allows you to set washing and drying times according to your needs.

Water consumption – The number of litres of water used in a wash cycle.


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