Washing machine reviews: FAQs
Look for this logo on a washing machine
What do washing machine energy ratings mean?
Energy-label ratings on washing machines are meant to help you choose a more energy-efficient model. They go from A (the most efficient) to G, though in reality you're unlikely to find a washing machine rated lower than C.
Some manufacturers now use A+ to try to distinguish the most energy-efficient washing machines from other A rated models, but this hasn't been officially recognised by the EU labelling scheme.
In the past, Which? has often found the energy-label ratings on washing machines are inaccurate. We use a different method from the energy labels to calculate energy efficiency in our tests.
Our method better reflects the way people actually use their washing machines – we look at the annual cost of energy and water on the 40oC cotton and easy-care programs.
Also look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo. Often retailers will offer discounts on washing machines carrying the label.
Is a washer-dryer a good idea?
The best washer-dryers are good as washing machines but they're not as good at drying as a Best Buy tumble dryer. They're more awkward to use, too, since the drying capacity doesn't always match the washing capacity.
You may have to dry a load of washing in two (or more) separate goes. However, they do save space and money. See our reviews of washer-dryers and reviews of tumble dryers for current Which? Best Buys.
If my washing machine breaks down, is it worth repairing it?
Our reliability survey shows that the most common problems with washing machines relate to drainage, the door seal and the drum. In June 2008 we got prices for repairs to common problems with broken door seals and motor brushes or drum bearings failing.
Broken door seal
In June 2008 we called 295 independent washing machine repairers across the UK to investigate the typical cost of replacing the door seal on a four-year-old Siemens washing machine. The average cost is £70 – considerably cheaper than buying a new washing machine.
Verdict Repair
Drum won’t spin
This is caused by motor brushes failing. In most cases, this is worth repairing, as you only need to replace the brushes. These can vary in price from £27 to £125, plus labour of around £45.
Verdict Get a quote for repairs
Drum bearings fail
In this scenario, the washing machine makes a lot of noise, like an aircraft taking off. If you rotate the drum by hand, the movement will be rough. In most cases, this is so expensive to put right that it’s just not worth it.
Verdict Replace with a new washing machine.
There are some problems you can fix yourself without calling a repairer. For example, if the washing machine isn't spinning, the filter may be blocked. Remove the filter – usually found under a small hatch on the front – clean, and refit it. The machine should then start working again.
If you're looking for a good repairer, visit Which? Local where you can search for traders in your area that have been recommended by Which? members.
Should I get a hot-fill washing machine?
Heating water in your boiler is more efficient than heating it in a washing machine, so plumbing a hot water supply into a washing machine usually makes it cheaper to run.
But the difference will only really be significant on high-temperature (60°C or 90°C) washing programs.
Look for this logo on a washing machine
Are top-loading washing machines any good?
Top-loading washing machines are about two-thirds the width of front-load washing machines. They can be positioned beneath a worktop, but you have to wheel them out to use them, which can be quite an effort.
The spring-loaded inner doors are awkward. The force of the spring makes them hard to open, and the doors don't automatically line up with the outer door when the wash finishes, so you have to turn the drum to get the washing out.
The vast bulk of the machines we test are front-load washing machines. The last time we tested top-loading washing machines, none were good enough to be a Which? Best Buy. They were noisy, awkward to use and vibrated too much.
Is it OK to leave the washing machine on overnight or while you're at work?
If you're worried about burst pipes, look for a washing machine that's fitted with an Aquastop device. This will cut the water supply to the washing machine and stop flooding if it breaks down.
How do I clean my washing machine?
Many people use the 40ºC washes almost exclusively these days, and the current trend is to use even lower temperatures to save energy.
Washing at low temperatures all the time can lead to a build up of grease or black mould on the rubber ring or inside the washing machine's detergent drawer. Some people have also told us about musty smells caused by low-temperature washes.
For most people this isn't a problem because they'll occasionally use a 60ºC wash for cleaning towels, sheets and linen. This removes bacteria, dust mites, and cat and dog allergens from items, and unwanted mould spores which might have built up.
Manufacturers advise doing at least one high temperature wash, at 60°C or above, each month to maintain and clean out a washing machine. Removing and cleaning the detergent drawer and wiping round the rubber ring with light bleach cleaners or sprays will also reduce problems.
How do I recycle an old washing machine?
You can get rid of an unwanted washing machine through the retailer supplying your new model or via your local council. When you buy, check if a retailer will take away an old washing machine when delivering a replacement.
Your local authority has a responsibility to offer a collection service for the disposal of waste washing machines, but it's a bit of a postcode lottery. Some councils offer free collection; others charge up to £30.
If you can take the washing machine to your local civic amenity yourself, there should be no charge. For more information on recycling electrical products visit the Environment Agency's information pages.
What are the current trends in washing machines?
Some manufacturers are developing large washing machines – washers with bigger drums so you can wash more at once, but without the washer taking up any extra space in your kitchen.
Some Whirlpool, Samsung and LG washing machines now include steam or air refresh programs to boost cleaning or freshen clothes.
Colourful washing appliances are becoming more desirable – many Hotpoint washing machines are available in white, aluminium and graphite shades. Some Zanussi, Hoover and Bosch washing machines available in both silver and white. Smeg offers a rainbow of colourful washing machines.
If you're looking for a black washing machine these are also becoming more widely available from the likes of Bosch, LG and Hotpoint.