ARTICLE

Is It Time To Upgrade Your Washing Machine?

February 6, 2024 – 3 min read

Does your washing machine drown out the television or sound like a plane preparing for lift-off? Has it sprung a leak? Maybe, it’s still hanging in there but lacks the energy and water efficiency of newer models. Laundry appliances are designed to go the distance but if your existing machine is guilty of any of the above, it might be time to upgrade.

Warning Signs You Need To Replace Your Washing Machine

Aside from unusually loud sounds, leaks during a cycle are another giveaway that your machine might be on its way out. If it’s not a simple matter of replacing or tightening the hose, you may have a crack in the tub, which is a major fix. In this case, it usually makes more financial sense to buy a new washer. “You should also be wary of blowouts in your electricity bill and the drum not filling properly, or not spinning at the end of the cycle, which could be down to a worn motor or pressure system fault,” says Peter Simic, The Good Guys Buyer – Laundry.

What Type Of Washing Machine Should You Buy?

When buying a new washing machine, you need to consider how much space you have, and the frequency and size of your laundry loads. An average washing machine offers around 6 to 7kg capacity (enough for a family of four), so opt for a smaller model if you’re a smaller household.

Decide next if you’re in the top loading or front loading camp. “Front loaders tend to have more comprehensive settings, are more compact for tight spaces, offer greater energy efficiency and are gentle on clothes,” says Peter Simic. “Top loaders, on the other hand, are speedier and can handle larger capacity.”

Think about whether you’d like to streamline your laundry with a washer dryer combo or level up with time and money saving options such as auto dosing washing machine that senses how much detergent each load needs so you avoid residue on your favourite outfits.

Finally, look out for the Energy Star Rating label to gauge how much power the machine uses (the more stars, the more energy efficient) and check the WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme) – again, top marks for more stars.

“Doing the laundry has never been easier and washing machines have never been smarter.”

New Washer Innovations To Lighten Your Load

Doing the laundry has never been easier and washing machines have never been smarter. Want to freshen up last season’s outfits? Pop them in a Steam Refresh cycle to deodorise and dewrinkle. Nervous about your delicates? The latest front load drum designs offer a smoother ride. How about a Wi-Fi and app enabled washer that lets you start or pause a wash remotely and alert you when it’s done? Some of the latest models have also turned down the noise with motors that reduce spin speed and vibrations.

Two Of The Best Washing Machines

The thinking washer, the Samsung 8.5kg Front Load Washer sanitises and destroys bacteria and allergens; syncs up to your smartphone to control settings from afar; and suggests the best time-saving wash cycles based on your usage patterns. Or, splash out on the LG 10kg-6kg Combo Washer Dryer to slash washing and drying times, while also saving on your electricity bill with a 4.5-star energy rating.

Top Maintenance Tips For Your Washer

Ideally, clean your machine after every 30 washes to remove soap scum and build up. Wipe out the interior with a clean cloth and leave the door open to air out the interior for a few hours. It’s also a good idea to pull out wet clothes straight away to curb the growth of mould and mildew.

If the verdict has come in and it is time to upgrade your existing washing machine, visit us in-store or online for a huge range of the latest washer appliances and the best advice on which model is the right fit for you and your laundry needs.