Buyer’s Guide: What to consider when investing in laundry appliances

Are you tired of laundry day being a drain on your time, money, and the planet? Well, put down that soggy sock and let’s get started! With expert tips from Miele’s Sicelo Champion, we’re about to dive into the ultimate guide to choosing the perfect laundry appliances for your lifestyle. From saving those precious rands to reducing your eco-footprint, we’ve got you covered! Discover more with Euro Appliances and make laundry day a breeze!

Investing in a new washing machine and tumble dryer is a significant decision that can greatly affect your home’s functionality and efficiency. These appliances are essential for daily living, and choosing the right ones can save you time, energy, and money, in the long run. Laundry appliances are a long-term investment, so choose wisely, as your choice will have a big impact on your ongoing monthly utility bills, as well as your carbon footprint, and overall home experience.

We chatted to Sicelo Champion from Miele, a company with over 125 years of experience, in appliance manufacturing, and one that has established itself as a trusted brand, known for its high-quality, reliable appliances: “Miele’s slogan, Immer Besser, translates to Forever Better, reflecting the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in design, technology, and customer satisfaction. This ethos ensures that Miele appliances provide superior performance and longevity, making them a wise investment for any household.” He provided the following comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process, featuring insights and recommendations:

1.) Space and size

Before you start shopping, measure the space available for your appliances. Washing machines and tumble dryers come in various sizes, so it’s essential to know the dimensions that will fit in your laundry room. Consider the depth, width, and height of the appliances. If you have limited space, look for slimline models or washer-dryer combos that can fit into tight spaces. Additionally, check the door opening size, especially if you have larger laundry items. “Miele offers compact and stackable solutions that maximise space efficiency without compromising on performance,” says Sicelo. Their washer-dryer combos are perfect for small spaces, providing powerful cleaning and drying in a single unit.

2.) Capacity

Capacity is a crucial factor, especially for families with a high volume of laundry. Washing machines and tumble dryers are measured in kilograms. Generally, a 7-8 kg washing machine is suitable for a couple or small family, while larger families might need 9-12 kg. For tumble dryers, a capacity of 7-9 kg is ideal for most households. Consider your laundry habits and choose a capacity that matches your needs to avoid overloading or underutilising the appliances. Miele’s large capacity models, such as their 9kg washing machines and 9kg heat pump dryers for example, are designed to efficiently handle heavy loads, notes Sicelo: “Miele laundry appliances are engineered to accommodate larger loads without sacrificing wash quality or energy efficiency.”

3.) Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is not only good for the environment but also for your wallet. Look for appliances with high energy ratings, such as EU rating of A++ or A+++ for washing machines and tumble dryers. These models consume less water and electricity, reducing your overall utility bills. The reduced energy consumption also dovetails nicely with most home solar energy systems. Modern appliances come with various features like eco-modes and smart technology that help further optimise energy consumption.

“Investing in energy-efficient appliances may have a higher upfront cost, but the long-term savings are significant. Miele’s EcoFeedback function, for example, provides precise information on energy and water consumption, helping users to be more eco-conscious. Their heat pump dryers are A+++ rated, ensuring maximum energy efficiency. Moreover, Miele appliances are designed, built, and tested to last for a minimum of 20 years, significantly reducing their overall carbon footprint compared to many competitors,” explains Sicelo.

4.) Wash programmes and features

Modern washing machines and tumble dryers come with a range of wash programmes and features designed to cater to different fabric types and laundry needs. Look for options like steam cleaning, quick wash, and allergen cycles. Features such as delay start, automatic dosing, and Wi-Fi connectivity, can enhance convenience and efficiency. Ensure the appliance has a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. Consider whether you need specialised cycles for delicates, sportswear, or heavy-duty cleaning. “Miele’s TwinDos system automatically dispenses the correct amount of detergent, optimising each wash. Our CapDosing feature is perfect for specialty cycles, providing tailor-made care for delicates, wool, and outdoor wear,” notes Champion.

5.) Spin speed and drying performance

The spin speed of a washing machine impacts drying time and the moisture content of your laundry. Higher spin speeds (1400-1600 RPM) reduce drying time and improve the quality of the wash. For tumble dryers, consider the drying performance, which is often indicated by the condensation efficiency class. Heat pump dryers are energy-efficient and gentle on clothes, while vented dryers are typically faster but less efficient. Miele washing machines offer up to 1600RPM spin speeds, significantly reducing drying times, says Sicelo: “Our PerfectDry system ensures precise drying by measuring the residual moisture in the clothes, providing the perfect drying cycle every time.”

6.) Noise levels

Noise levels can be a significant consideration, especially if your laundry area is close to living spaces or bedrooms. Look for appliances with low decibel ratings, especially if you prefer quieter operation. Features like noise-reducing technology, vibration control, and insulated drums can minimize noise and vibrations during operation. “Our ProfiEco motors are exceptionally quiet and durable, offering powerful performance with minimal noise,” Sicelo explains. Miele’s AntiVibration design further reduces operational noise and ensures stability during high-speed spins.

7.) Build quality and warranty

Invest in reputable brands known for their durability and reliability. Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the performance and longevity of the appliances. A solid build quality and a comprehensive warranty are essential for peace of mind. Some manufacturers offer extended warranties and service packages that can be beneficial. Miele appliances are renowned for their longevity and robust construction, notes Sicelo: “We rigorously test our appliances to last 20 years, which ensures best-in-market return on investment, and the lowest carbon footprint possible. Miele South Africa also offers a free standard 2-year guarantee that covers parts and labour, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.”

8.) Smart features and connectivity

Smart technology is revolutionising home appliances. Look for washing machines and tumble dryers with smart features like app control, remote monitoring, and integration with home automation systems. These features allow you to start cycles, monitor progress, and receive notifications directly from your smartphone. Miele’s WiFiConn@ct feature for example allows users to control their appliances remotely via the Miele app, says Sicelo: “You can start, stop, and monitor your laundry cycles from anywhere at any time, so you can take advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs, ensuring maximum convenience, efficiency, and flexibility.”

9.) Budget

Finally, establish a budget that aligns with your requirements. While premium models come with advanced features and higher energy efficiency, there are plenty of mid-range options that offer excellent performance. Compare prices, check for deals, and consider the long-term savings on energy and water bills when making your decision. While Miele appliances are a premium investment, the long-term savings and durability they offer provide excellent value for money over the appliance’s life span, notes Sicelo: “Our focus is on delivering high-performance and reliable appliances that justify the investment.”