Wonder Washer
By gMark Edmondson
Is your washing machine old?
Then it may be costing you money, as the following recent report found:
“….in order to achieve the same washing performance as a modern machine does in a 40 °C wash, a 15-year-old washing machine must be operated in a 60 °C programme, and a 30-year-old one in a 90 °C programme (on average). By contrast, on average a 15-year-old washing machine requires approximately twice as much energy and water as a new one to achieve the same level of performance, and a 30-year-old washing machine about four times as much.”
Your machine could be costing you money and using more energy than necessary, increasing your carbon footprint. But how can you make sure that buying a new machine will be a worthwhile investment, helping in your efforts to combat global warming?
One problem with buying a new washing machine can be that it only lasts 3-4 years; it is a common perception that older washing machines are of a higher build quality than the newer washing machines, results of a more disposable society. There is some element of truth to this, but the high quality builds are still available at higher prices.
However, buying a quality washing machine is complicated by the fact spending more money won’t necessarily mean you are getting a product with high build quality; brands tend to build washing machines to the same standard in their factories whatever their sale price. The differing prices relate to more features such as spin speed and drum size rather than hardiness.
So what to do if you are looking for a washing machine that’ll last more than 3-4 years? Washing machines are a very brand led sector; a good rule of thumb is to find which brands budget goods start at higher prices. Hopefully the higher the price the better build quality you can expect of that brand for all of their machines. You can also look for reviews at online shopping comparison sites such as Kelkoo.
Currently the better quality brands seem to be AEG, Bosch and Siemens, whilst the lower quality brands seem to be Hoover, Hotpoint and Philco, but shop around and make your own mind up.
Looking to the future, a new design is coming out which may be able to cut down on the cost of detergent and the environmental costs of your washer.
An interesting new product coming out this summer in France is a detergent-less washing machine which supposedly could be better for the environment by not flushing soap down the drain; the washing machine from Wash2o works by ionizing water atoms into H+ and OH- which act as a detergent would in the water. If this catches on the machine could revolutionise washing machines in the same way Dyson revolut-“ION”-ised vacuum cleaners.
Report on how the [http://mail.mtprog.com/CD_Layout/Day_1_21.06.06/1400-1545/ID76_Stamminger_final.pdf]age of your washing machine affects how much energy it uses
Look and [http://householdappliances.kelkoo.co.uk/c-146601-washing-machines-washer-dryers.html]compare prices on washing machines in the UK
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Choosing a Washing Machine
Wonder Washer
By Steven Morris
Cheap or not so cheap
Many modern washing machines are cheap to acquire, many manufactures take the notion of build them cheap sell them quick, often the build quality is of a poor standard, often they don’t last as long as you would hope and the cost of spare parts and repair is surprisingly not cheap would you believe.
If you pay more do you get a better wash?
The short answer to that is maybe, but let me explain what I mean. If you buy the budget brand and then you buy the budget model from that brand, then as the saying goes you get what you pay for. Some brands are better then others, budget companies save money by building with cheap parts that, when you need to replace that part it turns out to be quite expensive.
If you look at a more mainstream manufacturer and compare there middle of the road model with their top of the line model you will see that a lot of the same parts go into both machines what you are paying for in the top model is more features that most of the time you are not going to use. So buying a middle of the road model from a better manufacture could end up giving you a better deal in the long run.
As with most things in life a washing machine needs to be thought about before, you part with your hard-earned cash. It has been shown that spending a little more on the purchase of a better brand can save you money later on down the road. The cost of repair of some brands can be as much as 75% of the initial purchase cost now in my mind, that does seem false economy.
What features should you look for when buying a washing machine?
The features you need in a washing machine depend on how it's going to be used, drum size for example should be considered important if you have a large family, a single person is not going to need a huge capacity drum just for him or her. Spin speed is quite important the faster the spin the less time you will need in the tumble dryer. Water usage some brands now can wash using a smaller amount of water , less water means less energy needed to heat the water.
The basic principle of a washing machine is a drum containing the water and detergent agitates the cloths within it, lifting them out of the water then plunging them back in. almost all front loading washing machines work on this principle. Washing machines as of many household appliances are all variations of a main theme. what you should consider when purchasing is how long it is going to last you and if it does go wrong how much is it going to cost you to repair. Many manufactures will tell you there machines wash better then the others that is not what I've found from my experience . It is easy to get a good wash from most machines if you follow the basic rules. Use a good quality washing powder, if clothes are very dirty use more detergent and a stain remover and a longer wash and do not over fill the machine if you follow the basic guidelines you should find that your washes will always be bright.
Steve Morris runs gogiddy.co.uk http://gogiddy.co.uk for [http://gogiddy.co.uk?s=washing machine]Washing Machines search gogiddy
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
By Steven Morris
Cheap or not so cheap
Many modern washing machines are cheap to acquire, many manufactures take the notion of build them cheap sell them quick, often the build quality is of a poor standard, often they don’t last as long as you would hope and the cost of spare parts and repair is surprisingly not cheap would you believe.
If you pay more do you get a better wash?
The short answer to that is maybe, but let me explain what I mean. If you buy the budget brand and then you buy the budget model from that brand, then as the saying goes you get what you pay for. Some brands are better then others, budget companies save money by building with cheap parts that, when you need to replace that part it turns out to be quite expensive.
If you look at a more mainstream manufacturer and compare there middle of the road model with their top of the line model you will see that a lot of the same parts go into both machines what you are paying for in the top model is more features that most of the time you are not going to use. So buying a middle of the road model from a better manufacture could end up giving you a better deal in the long run.
As with most things in life a washing machine needs to be thought about before, you part with your hard-earned cash. It has been shown that spending a little more on the purchase of a better brand can save you money later on down the road. The cost of repair of some brands can be as much as 75% of the initial purchase cost now in my mind, that does seem false economy.
What features should you look for when buying a washing machine?
The features you need in a washing machine depend on how it's going to be used, drum size for example should be considered important if you have a large family, a single person is not going to need a huge capacity drum just for him or her. Spin speed is quite important the faster the spin the less time you will need in the tumble dryer. Water usage some brands now can wash using a smaller amount of water , less water means less energy needed to heat the water.
The basic principle of a washing machine is a drum containing the water and detergent agitates the cloths within it, lifting them out of the water then plunging them back in. almost all front loading washing machines work on this principle. Washing machines as of many household appliances are all variations of a main theme. what you should consider when purchasing is how long it is going to last you and if it does go wrong how much is it going to cost you to repair. Many manufactures will tell you there machines wash better then the others that is not what I've found from my experience . It is easy to get a good wash from most machines if you follow the basic rules. Use a good quality washing powder, if clothes are very dirty use more detergent and a stain remover and a longer wash and do not over fill the machine if you follow the basic guidelines you should find that your washes will always be bright.
Steve Morris runs gogiddy.co.uk http://gogiddy.co.uk for [http://gogiddy.co.uk?s=washing machine]Washing Machines search gogiddy
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Monday, October 22, 2007
Odors, Mildew and your Washing Machine
Wonder Washer
By Donald Grummett
A modern clothes washing machine can suffer from odors or mildew. It may build to the point where the odors seem to overwhelm all other aspect of the clothes washing experience. The causes can be varied but generally are due to moisture build-up within the clothes tub.
Since the washing machine itself operates full of water the presence of moisture is typical. The problems usually begin either when the water is not removed at the end of the cycle by the drain system, or for some other reason, excess water accumulates inside the tub.
If the drain system is suspected test the clothes immediately after the cycle has ended. The ‘cheek method’ works well. Remove a towel from your completed load of washing. Place it against your cheek. The towel should feel cool against your cheek without feeling wet. If the towel feels wet place it back into the washing machine and re-spin the load. If a second spin removes more moisture then your washing machine is not reaching its maximum spin speed.
Associated with the slow spin speed is overloading of the washer. To test for overloading wait until your normal load has completed and come to a full stop. Then remove two or three items and restart the cycle from the rinse position. Let the washing machine fill with water, and go completely through the rinse, drain, and spin cycles. Again let the machine complete the cycle and come to a full stop. If the clothes are now properly spun, suspect overloading.
There are many things that can affect the spin speed. The most common is an unbalanced load. An unbalanced load will not allow the tub to reach the maximum spin speed. It’s usually accompanied by the washing machine either jumping, or being noisy. If this is allowed to continue moisture will remain inside the tub at cycle’s end. This will cause the machine to smell musty and can eventually lead to the presence of mildew.
All washing machines must come to maximum spin speed to remove the moisture from the clothes. Although the drain pump will remove the majority of water, it is the spinning that removes the moisture from the clothing. If for any reason the maximum spin speed is not reached the moisture within the clothing will tend to redeposit itself inside the washing machine. This is common for people who allow the wet clothes to sit inside the machine long after the wash cycle has been completed. This simple act often leads to odors or mildew. For this reason avoid washing right before bedtime, or before going to work in the morning.
If your washing machine is a front-loading style the possibility of odors is something about which you must be aware. Moisture can accumulate at both the inside surface of the door and the interior. To alleviate this problem dry off the inside surfaces of the door with a clean cloth as soon as your washing is finished. If possible, leave the door slightly open after your washing is completed. This allows warm room air to enter the machine while the machine sits idle.
Also, gently wipe off the rubber seal at the front of the washing machine. It often has grooves, ridges, or small crevices in its surface where water can accumulate. Be aware that along with the wash water will be a small amount of detergent. If allowed to accumulate it can become sour and heighten the bad smell. This is especially possible for anyone with sloppy washing habits.
A final note about front-loading washers is in regard to liquid fabric softeners. If used full strength they may be involved in the odor problem. When used full strength it can become deposited in the detergent dispenser or the front door seal. Once deposited the softener can become sticky, allowing lint and dirt from the clothes to adhere to these surfaces. This washing debris can then cause a smell if left to build up.
At full strength from the bottle their concentration may be too high for the small quantity of water used within a front loader. Liquid fabric softeners should be diluted before placed into these washers. The recommended mixture is six parts of water to every one part of softener. To regulate your liquid fabric softener, keep a pre-mixed amount in a secondary bottle. When fabric softener is required pour it into the washing machine from the pre-mixed rather than the original bottle.
If your clothes washing machine presently has an odor use some of the above methods to isolate the cause. If cleaning the problem area is unsuccessful you may need to take further action. Many consumer websites suggest multiple applications of hot water and a cup of white vinegar. This may be helpful. My experience has shown this method is more preventative than corrective. For washing machine odours we generally recommend the use of a strong washing machine cleaner. One of the most affective is Glisten. Another one is called Ysano. Both can be purchased at most appliance parts stores. At a price of approximately $10 it is well worth the investment.
Copyright 2006 Donald Grummett. All rights reserved. Need answers about repairs and maintenance of Household Appliances? With 35 years experience Donald Grummett can help. Visit http://www.mgservices.ca to learn much more invaluable information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
By Donald Grummett
A modern clothes washing machine can suffer from odors or mildew. It may build to the point where the odors seem to overwhelm all other aspect of the clothes washing experience. The causes can be varied but generally are due to moisture build-up within the clothes tub.
Since the washing machine itself operates full of water the presence of moisture is typical. The problems usually begin either when the water is not removed at the end of the cycle by the drain system, or for some other reason, excess water accumulates inside the tub.
If the drain system is suspected test the clothes immediately after the cycle has ended. The ‘cheek method’ works well. Remove a towel from your completed load of washing. Place it against your cheek. The towel should feel cool against your cheek without feeling wet. If the towel feels wet place it back into the washing machine and re-spin the load. If a second spin removes more moisture then your washing machine is not reaching its maximum spin speed.
Associated with the slow spin speed is overloading of the washer. To test for overloading wait until your normal load has completed and come to a full stop. Then remove two or three items and restart the cycle from the rinse position. Let the washing machine fill with water, and go completely through the rinse, drain, and spin cycles. Again let the machine complete the cycle and come to a full stop. If the clothes are now properly spun, suspect overloading.
There are many things that can affect the spin speed. The most common is an unbalanced load. An unbalanced load will not allow the tub to reach the maximum spin speed. It’s usually accompanied by the washing machine either jumping, or being noisy. If this is allowed to continue moisture will remain inside the tub at cycle’s end. This will cause the machine to smell musty and can eventually lead to the presence of mildew.
All washing machines must come to maximum spin speed to remove the moisture from the clothes. Although the drain pump will remove the majority of water, it is the spinning that removes the moisture from the clothing. If for any reason the maximum spin speed is not reached the moisture within the clothing will tend to redeposit itself inside the washing machine. This is common for people who allow the wet clothes to sit inside the machine long after the wash cycle has been completed. This simple act often leads to odors or mildew. For this reason avoid washing right before bedtime, or before going to work in the morning.
If your washing machine is a front-loading style the possibility of odors is something about which you must be aware. Moisture can accumulate at both the inside surface of the door and the interior. To alleviate this problem dry off the inside surfaces of the door with a clean cloth as soon as your washing is finished. If possible, leave the door slightly open after your washing is completed. This allows warm room air to enter the machine while the machine sits idle.
Also, gently wipe off the rubber seal at the front of the washing machine. It often has grooves, ridges, or small crevices in its surface where water can accumulate. Be aware that along with the wash water will be a small amount of detergent. If allowed to accumulate it can become sour and heighten the bad smell. This is especially possible for anyone with sloppy washing habits.
A final note about front-loading washers is in regard to liquid fabric softeners. If used full strength they may be involved in the odor problem. When used full strength it can become deposited in the detergent dispenser or the front door seal. Once deposited the softener can become sticky, allowing lint and dirt from the clothes to adhere to these surfaces. This washing debris can then cause a smell if left to build up.
At full strength from the bottle their concentration may be too high for the small quantity of water used within a front loader. Liquid fabric softeners should be diluted before placed into these washers. The recommended mixture is six parts of water to every one part of softener. To regulate your liquid fabric softener, keep a pre-mixed amount in a secondary bottle. When fabric softener is required pour it into the washing machine from the pre-mixed rather than the original bottle.
If your clothes washing machine presently has an odor use some of the above methods to isolate the cause. If cleaning the problem area is unsuccessful you may need to take further action. Many consumer websites suggest multiple applications of hot water and a cup of white vinegar. This may be helpful. My experience has shown this method is more preventative than corrective. For washing machine odours we generally recommend the use of a strong washing machine cleaner. One of the most affective is Glisten. Another one is called Ysano. Both can be purchased at most appliance parts stores. At a price of approximately $10 it is well worth the investment.
Copyright 2006 Donald Grummett. All rights reserved. Need answers about repairs and maintenance of Household Appliances? With 35 years experience Donald Grummett can help. Visit http://www.mgservices.ca to learn much more invaluable information.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Ten Things To Know Before Spashing Out On A Washing Maschine
Wonder Washer
By Terry Jenkins
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.
Terry C Jenkins has travelled here there and everywhere in his work as a photographer.
He now helps to run The Top Ten Site http://www.thetoptensite.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
By Terry Jenkins
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.
Terry C Jenkins has travelled here there and everywhere in his work as a photographer.
He now helps to run The Top Ten Site http://www.thetoptensite.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
What Washing Machine?
Wonder Washer
By Steve Gee
C'mon now, we've all been there. Your old washing machine has just flooded the floor for the third time and the repairman has sucked in his breath (or just laughed in my case) at the suggestion that he might like to repair it! So, you think that you will buy another one instead but what washing machine do you go for? What can be so hard about choosing a new washing machine? Let's get down to the store quickly and buy one before the dirty washing takes over the house.
Half an hour later and you are stood in front of rows of gleaming machines. You wonder which one is the best buy for you. The salesman can smell the desperation and you just know he is going to try and sell you the most expensive one there. How can you avoid this situation? I have put together the following to help you think about what washing machine might suit you best. Most people have a fixed idea about how much they want to spend so the next important decision is about what other options you want.
How many washes a week do you and your family do?
A simple enough question, but it will make a big difference to all sorts of questions that might follow. For example, if you do a lot of washing you might want to think about what washing machine is going to be more reliable rather than be an 'all singing, all dancing' machine. Or, if you only do a couple of washes in a week or you live somewhere with no place to dry laundry, you might want to think about a combined washer and drier. More expensive machines seem to have more program options, but are you going to use them?
Are you worried about any impact on the environment?
There are washing machines on the market that offer short cycles or 'quick wash' (to save on energy.) Some offer half washes with only half the water normally used, all of which have less impact on the environment. I have to say that the short cycle is a blessing in many ways. With limited leisure time at weekends, the last thing I want to do is stay in because the washing machine hasn't finished! However, if your work means that you have dirty overalls or clothes every week or so, the short cycle is not good enough to get clothes really clean. It is wonderful for freshening up though.
Are you interested in whether the machine will be economical to run?
The other comparison you can do is to check the energy rating. All machines have a sticker on the front which shows which level they have been judged at for electrical economy. 'A' is the most economical, the further down the alphabet, the more electricity it will use and therefore the more expensive it is to run. However, be warned, I bought a washing machine that seemed to be economical to run, but when I started using it I found the normal wash took 2hrs! There wasn't a 'quick wash' cycle either. In one way I was saving money, but I wasn’t saving on time. In my busy life, time is important for me. I should have paid more attention to what washing machine would wash the quickest instead of which one was the most economical.
I hope this helps you find what washing machine suits you and I am sure that you can think of more questions to ask (and think about the answers) - the more the better in fact, as that way you will end up with the washing machine that will suit you best.
Steve is a software engineer and keeper of http://www.what-washing-machine.magicblur.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
By Steve Gee
C'mon now, we've all been there. Your old washing machine has just flooded the floor for the third time and the repairman has sucked in his breath (or just laughed in my case) at the suggestion that he might like to repair it! So, you think that you will buy another one instead but what washing machine do you go for? What can be so hard about choosing a new washing machine? Let's get down to the store quickly and buy one before the dirty washing takes over the house.
Half an hour later and you are stood in front of rows of gleaming machines. You wonder which one is the best buy for you. The salesman can smell the desperation and you just know he is going to try and sell you the most expensive one there. How can you avoid this situation? I have put together the following to help you think about what washing machine might suit you best. Most people have a fixed idea about how much they want to spend so the next important decision is about what other options you want.
How many washes a week do you and your family do?
A simple enough question, but it will make a big difference to all sorts of questions that might follow. For example, if you do a lot of washing you might want to think about what washing machine is going to be more reliable rather than be an 'all singing, all dancing' machine. Or, if you only do a couple of washes in a week or you live somewhere with no place to dry laundry, you might want to think about a combined washer and drier. More expensive machines seem to have more program options, but are you going to use them?
Are you worried about any impact on the environment?
There are washing machines on the market that offer short cycles or 'quick wash' (to save on energy.) Some offer half washes with only half the water normally used, all of which have less impact on the environment. I have to say that the short cycle is a blessing in many ways. With limited leisure time at weekends, the last thing I want to do is stay in because the washing machine hasn't finished! However, if your work means that you have dirty overalls or clothes every week or so, the short cycle is not good enough to get clothes really clean. It is wonderful for freshening up though.
Are you interested in whether the machine will be economical to run?
The other comparison you can do is to check the energy rating. All machines have a sticker on the front which shows which level they have been judged at for electrical economy. 'A' is the most economical, the further down the alphabet, the more electricity it will use and therefore the more expensive it is to run. However, be warned, I bought a washing machine that seemed to be economical to run, but when I started using it I found the normal wash took 2hrs! There wasn't a 'quick wash' cycle either. In one way I was saving money, but I wasn’t saving on time. In my busy life, time is important for me. I should have paid more attention to what washing machine would wash the quickest instead of which one was the most economical.
I hope this helps you find what washing machine suits you and I am sure that you can think of more questions to ask (and think about the answers) - the more the better in fact, as that way you will end up with the washing machine that will suit you best.
Steve is a software engineer and keeper of http://www.what-washing-machine.magicblur.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Cleaning Your Washing Machine
Wonder Washer
Is cleaning your washing machine important? It certainly is! The inside of your washing machine is constantly being subjected to dirty water, mineral deposits, detergent deposits, and if you launder cloth diapers it is especially important to keep your machine clean and in tip-top condition. Much like dishwashers, sinks and bathtubs get dirty even though they are meant to clean things, your washing machine can become a mess in no time. Though, most dirt and soil is washed out with the water, dirt, soap residue and other unidentifiable grungy objects can be left behind and you actually have to get rid of this dirt yourself. Every time you wash your clothes, hard water and detergents cause build up to accumulate also, inside the tub, pump and hoses. This build-up reduces the ability of your washing machine to perform and mineral build-up can be abrasive to your cloths and diapers you are washing, causing them to wear faster. Cleaning your washing machine eliminates these problems.
First, run a cycle of hot water along with two cups of vinegar or lemon juice to loosen up soap and grime. Remove the fabric softener receptacle and soak it in hot water and detergent. Clean the bleach dispenser with a spray cleaner and paper towels and Q-tips. Don’t forget to clean the top rim of the wash bucket as it is up and under where it can’t usually be seen easily and becomes dirty. Run the washer empty on a hot cycle one more time.
While this is going on you check all your hoses for leaks. Over time, the water hoses that came with your washing machine may leak or burst. It's a good preventive maintenance practice to check these hoses from time to time for any sign of wear or weakness. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the hoses every 5 years. Make sure your hoses are not a disaster waiting to occur!
Once you’ve soaked the fabric softener receptacle, replace it and polish up the outside of your washing machine with vinegar and a cloth towel. Your washing machine now looks better and will run better as well!
Happy washing!
Tiffany Washko is president of Jelly Bean Diapers - a cloth diaper manufacturing company, The Diaper Jungle, http://www.diaperjungle.com and Nature Moms, [http://www.naturemoms.com]http://www.naturemoms.com.
After working several years in corporate healthcare marketing and public relations, she took time away to be a mother. This new pursuit lead her to a new passion, helping new moms make the decision to return to the basics and use cloth diapers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Is cleaning your washing machine important? It certainly is! The inside of your washing machine is constantly being subjected to dirty water, mineral deposits, detergent deposits, and if you launder cloth diapers it is especially important to keep your machine clean and in tip-top condition. Much like dishwashers, sinks and bathtubs get dirty even though they are meant to clean things, your washing machine can become a mess in no time. Though, most dirt and soil is washed out with the water, dirt, soap residue and other unidentifiable grungy objects can be left behind and you actually have to get rid of this dirt yourself. Every time you wash your clothes, hard water and detergents cause build up to accumulate also, inside the tub, pump and hoses. This build-up reduces the ability of your washing machine to perform and mineral build-up can be abrasive to your cloths and diapers you are washing, causing them to wear faster. Cleaning your washing machine eliminates these problems.
First, run a cycle of hot water along with two cups of vinegar or lemon juice to loosen up soap and grime. Remove the fabric softener receptacle and soak it in hot water and detergent. Clean the bleach dispenser with a spray cleaner and paper towels and Q-tips. Don’t forget to clean the top rim of the wash bucket as it is up and under where it can’t usually be seen easily and becomes dirty. Run the washer empty on a hot cycle one more time.
While this is going on you check all your hoses for leaks. Over time, the water hoses that came with your washing machine may leak or burst. It's a good preventive maintenance practice to check these hoses from time to time for any sign of wear or weakness. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the hoses every 5 years. Make sure your hoses are not a disaster waiting to occur!
Once you’ve soaked the fabric softener receptacle, replace it and polish up the outside of your washing machine with vinegar and a cloth towel. Your washing machine now looks better and will run better as well!
Happy washing!
Tiffany Washko is president of Jelly Bean Diapers - a cloth diaper manufacturing company, The Diaper Jungle, http://www.diaperjungle.com and Nature Moms, [http://www.naturemoms.com]http://www.naturemoms.com.
After working several years in corporate healthcare marketing and public relations, she took time away to be a mother. This new pursuit lead her to a new passion, helping new moms make the decision to return to the basics and use cloth diapers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
Monday, October 15, 2007
Wanna Know How To Fix A Washing Machine That 'Walks' Across the Floor?
Wonder Washer
By Tommy True
Some cleaning machines legs mayn't be touching the floor & they may start rocking while they wash. All you have to do is to level the machine. This is a task with moderate difficulty.
This first thing that you have to do is to lean the machine forward so the rear feet to be about ten centimeters off the ground.
The back feet are in most cases self-leveling and now they can start level by themselves.
Position a sturdy block about 2 to 4 cm in dimension to hold up the washer in order that access the front feet. You may need to move the washer away from the wall to have sufficient room to install the block.
Following that loose the locknut on every foot with an adjustable wrench and following that you can adjust the feet.
Take out the wood block as though moving the washer & following that position the machine against the wall. Position a carpenter's level in front of the washer and check if the machine is level side to side.
If it's not, then use adjustable pliers to rotate the front foot until the washer is leveled. Place the level perpendicular in front of the machine & make certain that the washer level is in the same direction.
If it's not, then readjust each front foot by the same number of turns until you grab the level. Position the washer back on the wood block and retighten the locknuts & if necessary push it back against the wall.
If the machine still walks after you've leveled it, this could be from the floor beneath it. Then you may call a carpenter to check it.
The things that you are going to need are carpenter's level, adjustable wrench, 2-by four wood block, & adjustable pliers.
Care to know more? visit [http://www.the-handyman-guy.com]www.the-handyman-guy.com and grab a copy of my ebook titled "the handyman guy secrets", totally free!
The handyman guy is the owner of [http://www.the-handyman-guy.com]www.the-handyman-guy.com, a site dedicated to helping people finding their "inner-handyman". You got one, too!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
By Tommy True
Some cleaning machines legs mayn't be touching the floor & they may start rocking while they wash. All you have to do is to level the machine. This is a task with moderate difficulty.
This first thing that you have to do is to lean the machine forward so the rear feet to be about ten centimeters off the ground.
The back feet are in most cases self-leveling and now they can start level by themselves.
Position a sturdy block about 2 to 4 cm in dimension to hold up the washer in order that access the front feet. You may need to move the washer away from the wall to have sufficient room to install the block.
Following that loose the locknut on every foot with an adjustable wrench and following that you can adjust the feet.
Take out the wood block as though moving the washer & following that position the machine against the wall. Position a carpenter's level in front of the washer and check if the machine is level side to side.
If it's not, then use adjustable pliers to rotate the front foot until the washer is leveled. Place the level perpendicular in front of the machine & make certain that the washer level is in the same direction.
If it's not, then readjust each front foot by the same number of turns until you grab the level. Position the washer back on the wood block and retighten the locknuts & if necessary push it back against the wall.
If the machine still walks after you've leveled it, this could be from the floor beneath it. Then you may call a carpenter to check it.
The things that you are going to need are carpenter's level, adjustable wrench, 2-by four wood block, & adjustable pliers.
Care to know more? visit [http://www.the-handyman-guy.com]www.the-handyman-guy.com and grab a copy of my ebook titled "the handyman guy secrets", totally free!
The handyman guy is the owner of [http://www.the-handyman-guy.com]www.the-handyman-guy.com, a site dedicated to helping people finding their "inner-handyman". You got one, too!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Wonder Washer
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