In this washing machine buying guide section of Hometips for home improvement, I explain some of the guidelines that you need to keep in mind before buying a new washing machine (Clothes washer).

As explained in my previous article on how a washing machine works, all washing machines are simple home appliance more like a big tubs that fill up with water and when switched on, agitates to scrub clothes, and spin to wring out the water and hence clean the clothes.

In addition to the above basic cleaning functions, a washing machine may also have other features and functions mainly with the controls.

While shopping or buying a new washing machine, one has to keep in mind that it is one such consumer home appliance that consumes both energy and water.

Therefore, the key to selecting the right washing machine is to purchase the most energy-efficient model that fits your lifestyle and available space. One should also keep in mind the hardness of water supply and the amount of detergent to be used.

Let us now learn and understand some of the basic points that one should always keep in mind before buying a new washing machine.

There are two basic models of washing machines or washers: top-load and front-load.

A top-loading machine is also known as a V-axis because the agitator turns on a vertical axis. These models allow you to access the wash tub without bending. Top loaders are most common and cost less but are not energy efficient. They also use regular detergent. Wide range of top-load washing machines are available to choose from.

A front-loading machine is also called an H-axis because its agitator turns on a horizontal axis. These models cost more than top-load models but offer better energy efficiency. They also consume about one-third to one-half the amount of water of a top loader. These models spin faster and washed clothes need less time in the dryer. Some of the front-loaders require a special detergent.

Following points should be kept in mind before buying a new washing machine:

1. Think about your own lifestyle, the kinds of clothes you wear, how often you use the washer and what you wash. If you wash too often, you may need a washing machine with a stainless-steel tub. If you wash less frequently the most probably a tub with porcelain-coated steel or high-grade plastic will do the job for you.

2. If you wear and wash a variety of fabrics and high levels of dirtiness, you should choose a machine that offers specialty cycles such as delicate and extra soak. You should also look for a machine that offers a second rinse. The machine should have multiple water-level settings to ensure the most-efficient wash for loads of different sizes. Some washing machines can boost water temperature to sanitize a load.

3. If you have a limited space then you can go for a stacking washer-dryer. These units are available in full-size or apartment-size capacities. One thing to remember here is that the size of your washer should match your dryer’s capacity.

4. If you reside in a place with cold climate then you should also look for automatic temperature regulators. Automatic regulators ensure that wash water comes in at a constant temperature for the setting. They also offer additional insulation and reinforced frames. This also helps reduce noise.

5. When buying a new washer, one should also pay attention to the warranty. Look at the period of the warranty and parts covered under warranty. Remember that some washing machines are much easier to work on than others. Some models even have cabinet that are easy to detach and lift off for easy access to the parts.