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When you buy a washing machine and dryer, the most critical factors you have to think about nowadays are energy efficiency, and whether the appliance you buy suits your lifestyle and the space you have available. In terms of lifestyle, consider how often you use the washer and what garments.
Now, if you use your washer and dryer often, a stainless-steel tub would be best. Those who wash less frequently will probably do fine with porcelain-coated steel or high-grade plastic. For those with limited space, there are stacking washer-dryer units in either full-size or apartment-size capacities. Remember also that your dryer’s capacity should match the size of your washer.
Think about what you will use them for. You’ll need a washer with different specialty cycles and a second rinse if you often wash a variety of fabrics and levels of dirtiness. You need multiple water-level settings to get efficient washing for different load sizes. Some machines can boost water temperature to sanitize a load. Automatic temperature regulators are a must in cold climates, so that water comes into the machine at a constant temperature, depending on the setting.
There are two styles of washers: top-load, which is the most common, and front-load, which provides the greatest energy efficiency. Top-load washers allow you to access the wash tub without bending. These models must be set side-by-side with the dryer. Top-load models cost less, although it will prove to be an energy hog in the long run.
More people are now buying front-load washers because of its energy efficiency. They only need around one-third to one-half the amount of water of a top loader, which means that much less heating. And, because it spins faster, clothes come out needing less time in the dryer. Although they save on energy costs, front loaders are more costly at purchase; some require a special detergent.
When selecting a dryer, the capacity you choose should complement your washing machine’s capacity. For example, if you have a washing machine with a 3.5 cubic foot capacity, you will need a 7-cubic-foot dryer. If space is a problem, you might think about getting a stack washer-dryer model that can fit in a closet.
Dryers are powered by either electricity or gas, with gas being a bit more expensive to get but the most economical and efficient in the long run. Dryers must have at least one option for an automatic drying cycle, although the better models now have moisture sensors which allow to machine to shut down once the moisture level of the laundry drops below a certain point. Other options include a cool-down cycle that keeps garments from wrinkling, a damp-dry cycle that prepares clothes for ironing.
Azlan Irda is the co-founder of http://www.annashopping.com where you can get all kinds of household appliances, accessories, shoes, and everything else under the sun. Visit us for all your shopping needs.
- Azlan Irda
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