Washing Machines Buyer Guides

Before choosing the product, you could consider the following inputs and that may help you decide the type of washing machine that best suits your requirements.

Types of Washing Machines

1. Semi Automatic

A semi-automatic washing machine contains two tubs, one for washing and the other for drying. After washing the cloths, if drying is needed, the cloths have to be transferred manually to the drying tub for the drying cycle.

Pros:

Not necessary to have a continuous water flow. Manually water can be poured to the desired level based on the cloths to be washed.

Consumes less water as compared to a fully automatic model

Washing cycle requires less time

Can be moved easily to any location

Cons:

Manual intervention is required to transfer the cloths from wash tub to spin tub for drying process

You may have to remove the electrical connection while moving clothes from washing to drying, if wiring in the house is not properly earthed

Most of the controls are manual

Requires more space because the machine may be larger than the fully automatic

2. Fully Automatic (Top Loading)

This is the most common type of washing machine. Clothes are placed into the top of the washing tub, and a lid closed.

Pros:

Generally cheaper than front loaders

Set the required functions and then the machine works automatically and completes the whole cycle from washing to drying. You can select only wash or wash & dry or any other functions as per the model specifics.

Usually lighter in weight

Wide range of models and feature choices is available

Cons:

Running flow of water needed for the machine to complete the cycle automatically

Consumption of water is high

3. Fully Automatic (Front Loading)

This washing machine will have door at the front for placing clothes inside. It moves clothes around by rotating the drum.

Pros:

Comes with a built in heater (model specific)

Generally more water efficient

Wash quality may be better because of a tumble wash

Generally has more cycle settings – some washers have a heating element for an extra hot wash

Cons:

Higher initial cost

Slower wash cycle – although some models have a quick setting

Weight will be higher than top loading machines

Smaller range and capacities available

Needs a fixed place. Cannot be moved around