There are many types of washing machines for you to choose from. But there is one that stands out as the most convenient, and that is the integrated washing machine.

Some very significant differences really distinguish the integrated washing machine from its freestanding washing machine counterparts. The primary difference is that integrated machines have special flush mounted doers with doors shaped to allow a fascia to be fitted on them.

These machines have been manufactured to allow the fitting of a plinth to blend in and match with your cupboards. The machines are also specially designed and manufactured so that the depth of the machine will match the standard kitchen cabinet depth. This depth typical lay between 550mm and 570mm.

It’s crucial, when buying a integrated washing machine, to pick the right type of machine from the outset. You don’t want to buy a washing machine only to find out that it doesn’t fit in your cabinet space! Such a thing could be a very costly mistake.

If you are in the process of installing a brand new kitchen area, but you need to install an existing washing machine (one that’s free standing), you can accomplish this by creating a deeper work top which will allow the machine’s extra dimensions, and by specially fitting the kitchen fascias to the end panels that are situated on the front area of the machine to create the opening door. In general, you will have to buy an integrated machine though – it’s certainly easier to do so.

So one thing should be clear by now: having an integrated washing machine will make your life much easier than trying to fit a freestanding machine into place.

There are some other important features for you to consider.

Washing Machine Efficiency

This is well known rule of thumb: the more complex the energy-saving technology is, the more problems you may have – components breaking, etc.

Washing Machine Ease of Use

When first shopping for washing machines, it can be a very daunting task indeed. Showrooms are occupied with countless manufactures attempting to showcase their new washing machine technologies and products. You’ll be blasted with feature after feature and it can be difficult to sort the hype from facts. You would do well do ignore all the noise and just focus on what you really want. If you are confused by all the complex features, consider buying one of the cheaper budget washing machines; these have fewer features and may in the long run, actually be better (they have less parts that can break!). Simpler is sometimes better, even in our high tech world.

Washing Machine Guarantee

The best washing machine manufacturers will provide a 12 month parts and labor guarantee at the very least. In fact, this is standard practice among washing machine manufactures. Some manufacturers will offer extended guarantees, but these often have special stipulations. If something goes wrong, you will be required to use the manufactures own (pricier) repair men to take advantage of the guarantee.

Washing Machine Noise Level

Older washing machines were always noisy. New washing technology has enabled practically all modern washing machines reduced noise levels. As a rule of thumb, look for sound level of 70 db or less for main spin cycle. This figure means the machine will be virtually silent.

Washing Machine Load Size

Full washing machine have a standard 4kg load for the “small” setting and a standard 6kg load for the “large” setting. Keep in mind that larger load capacity (also called drum size when talking about commercial washing machines), the less loads you have to wash and the more money you save (reduced energy and water usage).

Washing Machine Dimensions

The standard width of any front loading washing machine is exactly 60cm across. If you don’t have enough space to accommodate this, you may consider buying a top loading washing machine. Front loaders are typically 85cm high, though this figure can vary slightly among manufacturers. Make SURE you measure your space exactly before going out and buying an integrated washer

There are also some significant differences between front loading washing machine and top loading washing machines. The details are beyond to scope of this article, but suffice to say that front loading washing machines are much more energy efficient and use less water than do their top load counter parts. You can also stack a laundry dryer on top of the machine – a great space savings.

These reason are why if you are considering buying a laundromat, you should opt for front loading industrial washing machines.

Machine Reliability

All manufactures implement sophisticated quality control schemes to make sure your home washing machine will last for years. In general, the more expensive machines will last longer than the budget washing machines. The most reliable and long lasting are the commercial washing machines, but these are costly and are generally tailored for large scale use.

Washing Machine Spin Speeds

The average washing machine will spin at 800 rpm. Spin speed will range from 800 all the way to about 1600rpm. People usually choose machines that spin around 1000rpm – more then enough. The faster the speed, the drier the laundry will come out of the washing. This can result in savings as less time will be needed in the drier. Keep in mind though, the faster the speed, the easier it will be for the machine to break down and wear out.

Machine Wash Time

Most buyers tend to overlook this fact. There are some important things to note though. In general, washing machines with long programmes are usually use less energy. These will use less heat when washing, but this will extend the total wash time. More time = less heat used. Modern machines usually offer a “rapid wash” feature which cuts down the time needed for a regular wash cycle. As a rule of thumb, the average washing machine (1000 spin speed with the average energy rating system) will usually require a little of one and a half hours for a 60 degree wash cycle.

So as you see, it can be very challenging for the average buy to choose the right integrated washing machine. But, follow this guide and do plenty of research. You will find the best washing machine for your needs.