Facts about Washers [ Facts about Dryers ]

Because washers and dryers are often times the longest-lasting appliances in your home and can make the most difference in your energy bills, it is very important to carefully select the best washer or dryer for your needs when you buy.

There are several features to consider, so read on for more information on buying your new washer or dryer at Brewbaker's Furniture.

 

FRONT-LOAD VS. TOP-LOAD

It's the great debate. Which do you prefer?

Front-Load Machine opens from the front wash process is more gentle on clothing spins clothes faster than a top-load, extracting more water (saving energy and money by allowing you to dry a load of clothes in a shorter amount of time) costs more (prices vary, but expect to pay 30 percent to 40 percent more for a front-load machine than you would for a comparable top-load machine) requires less water and lowers utility bills (savings can offset the additional cost of the machine, but it usually takes several years for the numbers to balance) uses a special type of detergent made for front-load machines (could be more costly and although they are becoming more common to find, they may not be available everywhere) can be stacked with a dryer on top to conserve space

Top-Load Machine a traditional washer opens from the top includes a wider variety of available models, colors and features offers easier access to the wash tub costs less initially, but is less energy-efficient uses regular detergent cannot easily be stacked to save space

WASHER FEATURES

Capacity
Capacity is defined differently depending on which manufacturer makes the unit; an "extra large" washer from one manufacturer may not be the same as an “extra large” washer from another. Use the cubic foot measurement to make comparisons when shopping.

A stackable washer-dryer unit is best if you have limited space and are available either full-sized - with a front-load washer - or in smaller, apartment-sized sets. Consider possible changes in your laundry needs and your family size when deciding on the capacity of your new washer.

Match the capacity of your washer to your dryer. You will defeat the purpose of increased efficiency if you have a super-sized washer but a dryer that will hold only half the load.

Tub Material
Tubs are typically made of 3 different types of material:

• porcelain-coated steel - can deteriorate if the porcelain chips

• plastic - used in higher-end models, lasts the life of the machine

• stainless steel - the best models use these tubs

Water Levels
To be the most efficient, each load of laundry should use only enough water to cover the clothes – with a washer that has several water level settings, you will be able to use the smallest amount of water necessary for the various sizes of loads you wash.

Cycles
Varied wash/spin speed combinations allow you to wash more types of clothing in ways that are safest for the fabric - included on most models are options for permanent press, delicate, and extra soak or extra rinse cycles.

Water Temperature
The right water temperature keeps your garments looking their best and helps them to last longer. Detergents, bleaches and fabric softeners work best at specific temperatures. There are many wash/rinse temperature options on most of the current models.

Temperature regulators work to correct any temperature variations of incoming water caused by frigid winter weather to maintain a constant water temperature for your wash. These automatic regulators add different amounts of hot water as needed to make sure "warm" is the correct temperature.

Special note: If you need to wash an item that requires sanitizing, look for a model that offers a temperature boost function as an all-hot wash on a regular washer may not reach a high enough temperature to kill germs.

Noise Level
The placement of your washer will affect what noise level you can live with. If it will be placed near or in a living area, you will want a unit that makes less noise. More recent models offer additional insulation and reinforced frames to reduce operating noise.

Safety
Front-load machines include an automatic lock function that prevents the door from opening while the drum is spinning. The same feature is available on certain top-load models.

Controls
Controls for washers have become more sophisticated and generally easier to use:

• Digital displays and one-touch selection can be programmed and preset to meet your washing needs.

• Dial and/or push-button controls are the best choice for a simpler wash process.

Bleach and Fabric Softener Dispensers
The chemicals (detergent, bleach, fabric softener) you use are an important element of garment care. Dispensers will automatically disperse them at the correct time.

Energy Star Rating
The Energy Star label, conferred by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, indicates that a washing machine uses 35 percent to 50 percent less water and 50 percent less energy than a non-labeled machine making that machine better for the environment and better for your wallet.

Facts about Dryers [ Facts about Washers ]

Deciding which dryer to buy is an important decision as it affects the appearance and life span of your clothes. To help your clothes stay newer-looking for longer, read on for more information about the dryer features you might want to consider before buying.

DRYER FEATURES

Energy Source
Deciding to buy a gas or electric dryer will depend on what kind of hookup is available at the new dryer's location. Gas appliances usually cost slightly more initially, but tend to be more energy-efficient. It is estimated that a gas dryer costs 30 cents less per load to operate.

Capacity
Capacity is defined differently depending on which manufacturer makes the unit; an "extra large" dryer from one manufacturer may not be the same as an “extra large” dryer from another. Use the cubic foot measurement to make comparisons when shopping.
A stackable washer-dryer unit is best if you have limited space. Consider possible changes in your laundry needs and your family size when deciding on the capacity of your new washer.

Match the capacity of your dryer to your washer. You will defeat the purpose of increased efficiency if you have a super-sized dryer but a washer that will hold only half the load. More dryer space is needed for the same amount of washed clothes because the clothes need room to tumble around. In general, it is best to have about twice as much capacity in your dryer than in your washer (if you buy a 3.3 or 3.5 cu. ft. washer, you will need a 7 cu. ft. dryer). If you’re not sure which size to get, it's a safer bet to settle on the larger dryer. More capacity will allow the clothes to dry faster saving you money on energy bills. It’s also better for the environment.

Controls
Controls for dryers have become more sophisticated and generally easier to use:

• Digital displays and one-touch selection can be programmed and preset to meet your drying needs.

• Dial and/or push-button controls are the best choice for a simpler drying process.

Temperature Settings
Consider the clothes you will be drying when deciding which settings you will need on a dryer. Clothes maintain a newer look and have fewer wrinkles if dried for the correct amount of time and at the right temperature setting. (Different fabrics require different drying times and temperatures.) At the very least, many of today’s dryers include "cotton" and "permanent press" settings with options for "more dry" and "less dry".

Cool-Down Cycle
A cool-down cycle prevents wrinkling by keeping the drum spinning for a certain amount of time after the clothes are dry.

Noise Level
The placement of your dryer will affect what noise level you can live with. If it will be placed near or in a living area, you will want a unit that makes less noise. More recent models offer additional insulation and reinforced frames to reduce operating noise.

Moisture Sensors
While older dryers use thermostats or timers, newer models have moisture sensors that stop the cycle when the humidity in the drum falls below a certain level. This prevents over-drying and extends the life of your garments. This feature can also make ironing easier and save energy.

Drying Rack
A drying rack allows you to dry heavier or bulkier items, like tennis shoes, without tumbling.

Drum Light
Drum lights help you to see socks and other small items that can be hard to locate in the back of the dryer.

Lint Filter
It is extremely important that you clean your lint filter regularly and vent you dryer properly to help avoid risk of fire. You can choose a higher-end dryer that has sensors that warn you when the lint filter is blocked if you are particularly concerned about remembering to clean the filter when needed.

Facts about Dryers | Facts about Washers | Appliances page