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When your washing machine breaks down, you are faced with the choice of either geting it repaired or buying a new one. Repairing a broken washing machine or dryer can cost more than half the price of a new washing machine, so unless your machine is a top-of-the-line, very expensive model, or less than six years old, repairing it might be false economy. Instead, choose a new machine. With all the options available, how do you make the right choice? Depending where you are in the world, the type of washing machine predominantly used will vary. You may find more to- loaders or more front-loaders. In Europe, front loaders are almost exclusively used, whereas the opposite can be said for the U.S., although front-loader use is starting to grow. This guide will help you consider features and options available to you so you can make an informed decision between choosing a top loader or a front loader.

-Step 1: Energy Efficiency

A front loader is considered more energy efficient. Think of it this way, a top loader must use enough water to cover all the clothes. A front loader needs a third of the amount, because of it is horizontal. A washer-dryer combo is not usually energy efficient. You can check the energy efficient rating when you are looking.

-Step 2: RPM

A front loader can give you up to 1,600 RPM. A top loader less, but look for one with at least 1,000 RPM, as this will get your clothes drier faster and save on drying time.

-Step 3: Space

Obviously, a top loader is going to take up more space than a front loader, as it also needs space for the top to open. You can buy slimline washing machines and can save space with a front loader by buying a washer/dryer combo. Measure your space before buying. You don’t want to be disappointed later.

-Step 4: Capacity

How much space do you need to wash your clothes – an single person will need less than 5kg, a couple 5 -5.5kg, a family with 2 children 5.5-6kg, and family with more than 2 children will need more than 6kg. A top loader is generally bigger in capacity, but the agitator takes up space. The front loader has no agitator, so can take more clothes, but possibly has a smaller capacity.

-Step 5: Budget

If you live in the U.S., a front loader will be very expensive, as they are not as readily available as top loaders and there may be less choice. A top loader will be much cheaper, but not energy- wise. If you live in Europe, the opposite can be said, trying to find a top loader will be hard and very expensive, the range of front loaders is much better.

-Step 6: Noise

A front loader is generally quieter than a top loader, as it doesn’t have the agitator. It will still make noise, but not as much. The worse noise will be on fast spin. If you are getting a top loader, and you are putting it near where you relax, go for the quietest one possible.

-Step 7: Features

The features on washing machines are endless. You can go for anti-crease, fast-wash, wool-wash, hand-wash, pre-rinse or super-wash You can even get washing machines that you can put on a timer, or that have a memory setting to remember which washes you use the most. It’s up to you which ones you consider important.

-Step 8: Speed

How long will it take to wash your clothes? You don’t want one that will take half the day. Time varies by model, and you will need to take into account drying time, as front loaders get your clothes drier quicker, it should take less time, but top loaders generally have a shorter cycle.

-Step 9: Detergent

Front loaders use much less detergent than top loaders. You will need only washing powder and fabric softener, whilst a top loader will require much more detergent.

So, which washes clothes better? That is the question that really matters. Tests have shown that the front loader gets clothes cleaner and reduces wear and tear, making the clothes last longer. But there are many advantages to the top loader too, so consider all the options and comparisons before making a decision. Your washing machine will be with you for many years, you want to make a good choice.

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