What to Look For in a Washing Machine

A washing machine is one of the most important home appliances you will ever own, and it is important to choose the best washer you can afford. Saving money up front by buying a cheap washing machine can cost you big in the end and lead to buyers remorse. If you simply buy the cheapest washing machine you can find you may end up replacing that "cheap" washer only a few years down the road. By shopping around and choosing value over price you can be assured that the washing machine you choose will provide many years of trouble free service.

Look for a Reliable Washing Machine

One of the most critical things to look for in a washing machine is reliability. After all your washing machine will do you no good if it is not working Checking the reliability ratings for the models you are considering is one of the best ways to predict the experience you are likely to have once that washer is in your home. Magazines like Consumer Reports have made an industry out of providing product recommendations and reliability ratings, and those consumer magazines are a great place to start your research.

When looking at reliability ratings it is important not to generalize about brand names. Just because one model GE washing machine is listed as a Consumer Reports Best Buy does not mean every GE washer will be able to provide long term reliability. It is important to look at both the brand and the model before making a decision.

Consider Load Capacity

Load capacity is another important consideration for a washing machine, especially if you have a large family. Even if you live alone it is a good idea to look at load capacity carefully It is also a good idea to choose a washing machine with too much load capacity versus too little - having a bit of extra capacity will give you room to grow. When looking at load capacity it is also important to keep in mind that running the washing machine only when you have a full load will help you save water, and that in turn will help you save money.

Saving the Environment

Speaking of saving water, it is important to shop with both economy and ecology in mind. Choosing a washing machine that is designed to make more efficient use of energy will help you save money, while at the same time having a positive impact on the environment. In addition to the up front cost savings buying an energy efficient washing machine may be able to save you money on your taxes. Appliances that are highly rated for energy efficiency may entitle you to a number of tax breaks, and those tax breaks can greatly reduce the actual cost of your new appliances.

Making the right decisions can be difficult when it comes time to shop for home appliances, but by following these guidelines you should be able to find a great washing machine at a price you can afford.