Here are The Top Ten Things You Should Know About Washing Machines
ONE
There may seem to be plenty of choice out there - but that's an illusion.
Most well known brand names are owned by just a few major companies.
The Electrolux Group own AEG, Tricity-Bendix, Electrolux and Zanussi.
The Candy Group own Candy, Hoover and several others.
The Merloni Group own Ariston, Creda, Hotpoint, Indesit, and several more.
TWO
Washing machines do not have Built-In Obsolescence - they are not designed to break down.
But too many of them are not built to last either! It is not in the industry's interest to make them too well!
THREE
The most important quality to consider is RELIABILITY!
There's no point in having 53 features if none of them work!
FOUR
Most manufacturers maintain roughly the same build-quality throughout their range.
So it's better to buy a base-model from a quality manufacturer,
rather than the top of the range model from a mass producer of rubbish.
Our research tells us that the most reliable machines are made by
Miele, Siemens, Bosch, LG, AEG, Zanussi, Electrolux, ISE and Tricity-Bendix.
FIVE
Do not judge a washing machine by its appearance!
Washing machines are a lot like men - the reliable ones are not usually the best looking!
Quality manufacturers tend to put their efforts into making solid, dependable machines.
SIX
Beware of false guarantees!
A full, manufacturer's, parts and labour guarantee is best.
The additional guarantees from retailers are expensive and often full of loopholes
- read the small print! And consider spending the extra money on a better washing machine.
The cost of a low-end machine plus the retailer's so-called guarantee could be enough to buy
you a quality machine with a 5 year manufacturer's guarantee - a far better investment.
SEVEN
Quality machines are usually better value in the long run.
Do the maths! A top washing machine should last around 20 years and will cost around £800 - £1000
Cheap washing machines may only last a year or two - and will cost around £200 each.
In the end, if you can afford the initial outlay, a high-end machine is far better value.
EIGHT
Good, cheap washing machines are rare!
A washing machine is a highly complex piece of engineering.
Making them properly is far from easy and it doesn't come cheap.
Don't be taken in by glossy brochures and slick salesmen.
If something seems too good to be true - it probably is!
If you are on a tight budget - you can't have everything.
Look for substance rather than glamour.
Live without the fancy features and go for something basic but reliable.
NINE
Our extensive research confirms that Tricity-Bendix make the best low-budget washing machines.
Tricity-Bendix is part of the Electrolux group - where quality still means something!
If you are on a tight budget, go for a Tricity-Bendix.
TEN
Prices vary an awful lot from outlet to outlet.
So shop around!
Pretty obvious - but a lot of people still don't do it!
Prices can vary by hundreds of pounds - so get on The Internet and do some searching.
But don't always believe the big, bold label. The total price may be considerably more.
Watch out for delivery and installation charges - and any other hidden costs.
This is an excerpt from The Top Ten Site "Top Ten Washing Machines" section.
