Washing machines: How to buy the best washing machine Used washing machines
Buying a used washing machine – is it worth it?
Buying a used washing machine is a low-cost way of replacing your machine. But without knowing its past history and performance, it can be a risky purchase. If you're considering buying second-hand, these used washing machine tips should help reduce the potential for problems.
If you're buying a used washing machine, make sure it's a reliable model
Used washing machines: weigh up the costs
The top-line price of a used washing machine might seem appealing, but don't forget to factor in other possible costs. Bear in mind that:
- you'll need to get the washing machine delivered, or you might need to pick up yourself
- you'll need to get your used washing machine installed, or install it yourself
- your used washing machine might not come with a guarantee
- new washing machines tend to be more energy and water efficient than older models, so your long term running costs may be higher.
The cost of buying a new washing machine has also come down in recent years and you can get hold of a Which? Best Buy model from around £280. We include typical prices next to all our washing machine reviews to give you an idea of the average price you'll pay.
Where to get a used washing machine
Online
Online auction sites such as eBay or second-hand classified sites such as Preloved have lots of used washing machines for sale, but you should practice some caution before buying. Check feedback scores on eBay to get an idea of how reputable a seller is and carefully read what you're being sold in the advert, including the small print.
Ask questions before you buy to fill in any information gaps – it's useful to know how old the washing machine is, how much it's been used, whether it comes with a guarantee, whether there are any known problems with the washing machine, and whether there's been any cosmetic damage sustained.
Our guide to online auctions details your rights when buying at auction, and what to do if you experience problems.
You could also take a look on community recycling schemes such as Freecycle, Freegle or Don't Dump That to see if anyone is giving away a used washing machine free of charge in your area.
Seconds and outlet stores
Look out for specialist outlet stores, or used or refurbished products on sale in electricial shops – these can be a good source of used washing machines, and may come with store guarantees.
The Comet online clearance store auctions off end-of-line, used and returned, ex-display, refurbished and scratched items, offering a six-month guarantee with each product. When we looked, we found more than 100 washing machines for sale by auction.
Friends and family
Ask around friends and family to see if anyone has an old but working washing machine that you could re-use. This can be a mutually beneficial arrangement as you'll be saving them the hassle and potential cost of disposal, plus it's good for the environment.
Used washing machine reliability
The key to buying a used washing machine is choosing a reliable model that will last. Take a look at the results of our washing machine reliability survey, which reveals the washing machine brands that perform the best for reliability, customer service and after care. This should give you a good indication of the long-term reliability of your used washing machine brand.
It's also useful to find out, if you can, more about the machine itself from the previous owners: when the washing machine was originally bought, why it's being sold and whether there have been any previous problems or engineer call-outs needed.
A used washing machine might not come with any instructions – though many instruction manuals are now available to download on manufacturer websites.
Installing a used washing machine
You can cut costs further by installing your used washing machine yourself. Here are some guidelines:
- Remove transit screws with a spanner, if necessary. Keep them to protect the machine if you move house
- Most washing machines are cold-fill (they heat the water). Ensure the inlet tap is closed, then connect the hose to the machine and tap
- Hook the end of the drain hose into the standpipe to remove waste water. Make sure that the top of the standpipe is 60-90mm above floor level to prevent leaks
- Adjust the feet to level the washing machine.
If you're unsure of what you're doing, always call in a professional. The same guidelines apply to new washing machines, too – but check whether the store you're buying from offers free installation as part of its service, saving you the hassle.
