Washing Machines
Washing machines are becoming more than just convenient appliances in many contemporary house plans as more features and designs are available today. With a range of settings, colors and other options that are both modern and functional, homeowners are outfitting their laundry rooms with upscale washing machines that fit the décor of their home. But with so many sleek designs and sizes to choose from, finding the perfect washing machine that will fit your family’s laundry routine and your home’s décor can be overwhelming. Taking three main components into consideration before purchasing your next machine will help to narrow down your options.
Top Loading Machine:
Today’s washers come in two differing styles, top and front loading. Top loading machines have long been the standard in laundry rooms. They perform with an interior wash tub that has an open basket and center agitator in which the clothes are loaded from the top and covered with a hinged door. Top loaders offer faster cycles and allow the clothes to be removed mid-cycle if needed. They are also easier to load, less expensive and more durable than their more modern counterparts. Tried and true, this style seems to be maintaining its popularity even with more technologically advanced versions coming out.
Front Loading Machine:
As more homeowners are approaching “energy efficiency” as the newest trend, front loading machines are becoming a standard in many contemporary home plans. Although these machines are more expensive, they have a more modern appearance and save homeowners on both future water and electricity costs. With no center agitator, front loading stainless steel drums hold large loads while using up to 40% less water than the average top loading washer. This high efficiency results in damp clothing rather than very wet clothing, making the drying process even faster as well. And while the cycle times are longer than top loading machines, the process is gentler on most fabrics.
The Energy Guide:
With homeowners becoming more aware of protecting the environment and lowering their utility costs, washing machines are becoming even more convenient and environmentally friendly – saving homeowners money and the environment. To best determine the energy efficiency of a machine, look for the black and gold energy guide label. This label not only advertises the forecasted energy consumption but also estimates the operating cost per year. The energy guide also allows for easy comparison between different machines by showcasing where each falls in the range of energy use. Further, washing machines that are EnergyStar ®-certified can save a household more than $500 a year in operating costs, and will create less waste and pollution.
It is important to be aware of various marketing ploys. Some washers come with numerous settings and special features that may cost extra and will later be unused. Think about what kind of clothing you will be washing – will you use a special “handwash” feature for various delicates? Or does everything get thrown into the machine? Other things to look for include:
- Many water level settings
- Numerous temperature options
- Controls of time and spin cycles
- Automatic dispensers for detergent and bleach
Also, more washing machines are being advertised as “extra large capacity” which appeal to families with large amounts of wash. However, this “extra large” label can be misleading – it may simply be a slightly larger machine drum that does not necessarily wash more clothes as efficiently as a standard “large” washer, and its extra size may not fit into your laundry room. Keep your laundry room’s measurements in mind, but begin your search by looking for the durable washing machines that are most water, time, and energy efficient for your family. Do not forget to look at warranties, service contracts, and consumer reports before purchase. As with all large appliance purchases it is important to take your time and ask questions before buying. After you have determined your family’s needs, you will be able to find a washing machine that perfectly fits your dream laundry room in your contemporary house plan.
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