Choosing A Hotpoint Washing Machine

Hotpoint as a Manufacturer

Hotpoint, which is a part of the Indesit group, has a first rate reputation for its electronic domestic appliances including washing machines. Hotpoint’s aim is to manufacture appliances of high durability that the average person can use to simplify many of the common household chores. Their products are competitively priced and come in all ranges of functionality. Their latest washing machines boast an array of options, but at the same, there are certain basic functions common to all their machines, aimed simply at giving you a clean wash. You might choose to buy a more sophisticated machine with the extra features, or alternately, decide to go for a simple machine with basic functions that may have fewer program options at an affordable price. These machines should give years of hassle free, reliable service.

What to Look For?

The choice of a washing machine is a matter of individual taste and convenience. Whatever your requirements, it is important to look for some of the basic features, before you select one.

Design

There are two loading options available in a washing machine: front loading and top loading.

• Front-Loaders: These machines are designed to blend in easily with the kitchen décor and design, where you may be using fascia panels or cupboard doors. They have a higher loading capacity and are efficient in conserving water and energy. Front loading machines are preferred by many for their superior perfor

ance in all aspects of the wash process.
• Top-Loaders: These machines have a drum which can be accessed from the top, and the washing process is performed by the central agitator that rotates back and forth. There is less bending involved, while loading and emptying the machine, as it is fairly convenient to do so while standing. Also, there is no need for any special detergents for washing the clothes. Hotpoint has a centre for manufacturing, backed up by a large service network for top loading machines.

Load Capacity

The load capacity for a full size washing machine is around 6 kg, while a small washing machine can take around 4 kg of clothes. If you buy a full size washing machine and load it to half its capacity, you are likely to waste a lot of water, while on the other hand, a machine when loaded to full capacity makes the best use of water. The same is also true of energy consumption. It would therefore be a good idea to make your selection on the basis of your family size and typical wash load, which will then save you time, water and energy.

Speed

Machines having low spin speeds are cheaper than variable and higher spin speed models. In general, washing machines have spin speeds starting at about 800 rpm and ranging up to 1600 rpm. The machines with fastest spin speed are the most expensive and are prone to wear out sooner. The recommended spin speed for machines would ideally be around 1000 rpm-1200 rpm, although it may not be worth the additional cost involved in buying a machine with a speed beyond 1200rpm, if you use a tumble dryer for drying your clothes. Another alternative is to select a machine with fixed spin speed rather than one that offers the option of variable spin speed, where the onus is on you to set an appropriate spin speed every time, according to the type of fabric. This can introduce a certain degree of complexity to the whole process of setting programs and controls, which you might want to avoid.

Size

Front loading washing machines are usually around 60cm wide and 85cm high. If you require a machine with a greater width and height, you might consider buying a top loader. Take accurate measurements of the space allotted to the machine in your kitchen or elsewhere and carefully check whether the machine of your choice would fit before you actually buy it. Any oversight in this regard may create significant problems such as having to return the machine, or even having to make some alterations to your kitchen! Bear in mind that a machine with a depth is less than standard will in all likelihood have a smaller loading capacity.

Noise

Irrespective of the location of your machine, you will have to contend with the noise that it emits while in operation. Machines having fast spin speeds usually produce more sound and vibration than those running at lower speeds. A machine producing less than 70 db on the spin program can be considered to be a ‘quiet’ machine.

Programs

The latest washing machines have an array of preset programs for automatic washing, for delicate linens, anti crease options and for shorter wash cycles. In order to perform all of these advanced programs, the machine estimates the optimal temperature of the water, spin speed and washing time that may be required for an effective result. There are certain other features available, such as a quick wash program, or a time saver option, that can help ensure quick and easy washing.

Price

The most expensive machine with all the advanced features may not necessarily be the best or most ideal choice for you. Washing machines come in different price ranges, starting from around £200 up to £1000 and beyond. There may well be a machine that is ideal for your needs in any price within this range. You would do well to focus on the exact nature of your requirements, keeping in mind your budget.

Warranty

Generally all manufacturers of washing machines give a twelve month warranty for parts and three months for labour, while some give an extra warranty on parts for three years or more. Most manufacturers offer an extended warranty period: the details are given in the documentation of the machine.

Energy Ratings

All modern machines are classified on the basis of their performance and energy efficiency on a scale of A to G, where the ‘A’ energy rating indicates the highest level of performance, using less energy to perform its functions, and a rating of ‘G’ denotes a machine that is less efficient. Generally, it is not common to come across machines rated at a performance level lower than a ‘C.’

Hotpoint Range of Washing Machines

The Hotpoint range of washing machines has a variety of different colour finishes that look appealing. The colour coding is represented alphabetically, just after the model number as in Polar white (P); Graphite (G); Sandstone (S); Stainless Steel (SS); and Satin Aluminium (A). This helps you choose a machine that matches your décor and preferences. Hotpoint has, in addition, classified their range of washing machines based upon features and performance, as Aquarius, Ultima and First Edition machines with a host of different features designed for convenience of use. These machines usually have a higher capacity with a rating of ‘A’ for spin speeds and energy performance. They are highly durable and reliable.

Conclusion

Washing machines have become a necessity rather than a luxury for just about every home. We are all hard pressed to find the time to carry out routine everyday chores. They are efficient, and give a clean wash, superior to that which could be achieved in the bad old days through hours of manual labour. When you choose a washing machine, y are looking for the convenience it offers. It is therefore well worth making an effort to carefully select a suitable model by comparing features and manufacturers.



By: Sean Clark