When buying a dishwasher…
20/03/2018
Looking for a new fridge?
05/04/2018Important considerations when choosing your laundry
Purchasing laundry can be a daunting experience. Attempting to get it right the first time by selecting a set that will not only meet your needs and avoid costly returns and installation fees. The good news is that good quality laundry machines will last a very long time. Here are a few things to help you choose wisely and provide you with years of worry-free washing.
Design Considerations
The type of washer and dryer you get will depend largely on where it’s going to go in your home. For example, laundry might be allocated to a narrow closet in your home, making the 24” units that is stackable your only option. Also, you will need to choose how you want your dryer to operate; vented or non-vented, so which one you purchase will be a result of what your house supports.If space is really an issue, available is the washer-dryer combo. This unit combines in a single cabinet a washing machine and a clothes dryer. It should not be confused with a "stackable" combination which houses a separate washing machine and a separate dryer. This unit doesn’t require to be vented, however the drying process is longer, and you can only dry half a load at a time.
For those who have a basement setup or dedicated laundry room where there’s room to place them side-by-side, you’ll need to decide on the size and if you prefer a top-load or front-load washer.
Washer Considerations
Top Loading washers have faster wash cycles and are less expensive than front load washers. Redesigned agitators are washing cloths more thoroughly and with some manufacturers moving from mechanical to electrical controls, you can now purchase energy star rated units. The tub can be made of plastic, porcelain-enamel or stainless steel. The first two are cheaper. Plastic tubs are more durable than enamel ones, which can chip and rust. Stainless steel tubs are the best as they are the most durable and can withstand high spin speeds.
Front Load washers work by gently turning your washing over and over in a tumbling action and with high spin speeds cloths come out much dryer. Although they cost more, they generally use less water and energy to operate than top loaders. Since front loads tend to spin at high speeds its important to have solid mounted suspension system with heavy duty springs especially on full capacity washers, this keeps the unit from going off balance and less vibrations.
The benefit of a front load is it comes in different sizes to accommodate all design applications such as 24”. Despite their compact size, these washers offer a variety of cycles for different fabrics. If you plan on stacking your units, make sure the kit is included to save you that added cost. Another option is a full sized permanently stacked washer/dryer.
The benefit of a front load is it comes in different sizes to accommodate all design applications such as 24”. Despite their compact size, these washers offer a variety of cycles for different fabrics. If you plan on stacking your units, make sure the kit is included to save you that added cost. Another option is a full sized permanently stacked washer/dryer.
Dryer Considerations
Dryers need to deliver a superior dry every time by achieving the ideal balance between drying temperature, airflow pattern and mechanical action. To achieve this, they should have moisture and temperature sensors that will automatically stops the cycle once the drying level is reached and bi-directional drum action for even drying. Full size or permanently stacked, you can choose the dryer to be electric or gas.Today’s Compact Dryers offer advanced design innovation without sacrificing performance, by offering flexibility and freedom of installation (including an optional stacking kit), plus all the functionality and finesse required for expert clothing care. Compact dryers that can’t be vented outside are now offering a heat pump system instead of a condensations system. HP systems reduce energy savings by 50% but note it will take slightly longer to dry.
When you are ready to purchase your next set of laundry here are some features that you may not of thought to ask about, a super quick wash cycle for when you are in a hurry, a pet hair removal cycle, a reversible dryer door for certain design installations and lastly up-front lint filter allows fast and easy cleaning.
When you are ready to purchase your next set of laundry here are some features that you may not of thought to ask about, a super quick wash cycle for when you are in a hurry, a pet hair removal cycle, a reversible dryer door for certain design installations and lastly up-front lint filter allows fast and easy cleaning.
Technical
Your heat pump tumble dryer uses hot air to absorb moisture from your clothes in order to get them dry after a wash. After this air passes through the drum, it goes through the evaporator which removes the moisture, which is collected as condensation and stored into a tank. The remaining air is re-heated and sent back to the drum to start the cycle again and continue drying your clothes.
The pro’s of each product category
Top Load washers are better for washing heavy duty items.
Compact Laundry are great for small spaces.
You want to purchase energy star appliances.
Front load appliances are easier to use for those in a wheelchair.
The con’s to keep in mind
Top Load laundry can’t be stacked.
Compact laundry is not ideal for a large family.
Since front load washers spin fast they need to be installed on level flooring.
