Water consumption per cycle
The volume of water used by the washing machine during a standard wash cycle. It is measured while washing the maximum amount of cotton underwear for this model with a normal programme and a temperature of 60 degrees.
When evaluating efficiency, one should consider not only the actual water consumption but also the maximum load. So, for example, a model with a load of 7 kg and a consumption of 49 litres per kilogram of laundry will be more economical than a model of 5 kg with a consumption of 40 litres: the first consumes 49/7 = 7 litres per 1 kg of laundry, the second 40/5 = 8 litres per kilogram. This moment is important, first of all, if a large amount of washing is expected.
Many modern automatic washing machines are equipped with intelligent systems that can adjust the water consumption to the actual load and avoid overspending.
Energy class
This parameter characterizes the efficiency of electricity consumption by the washing machine. Classes are designated in Latin letters from A to G, in ascending order of energy consumption. At the same time, in class
A there are subclasses "A+", "
A++ " and "A+++"; more pluses means less energy consumption, and the most economical option to date —
A +++ — outperforms class A by almost a third.
Machines of classes
A + and above are today considered economical, class A — medium, lower classes — high consumption. However, indicators below A are typical for semiautomatic low-cost models. As well as for units with dryers (see above) in which high energy consumption is simply inevitable.
Energy class (new)
This parameter characterizes the efficiency of electricity consumption by the washing machine. Classes are designated in Latin letters from A to G in ascending order of energy consumption. This was originally conceived until more energy-efficient models pulled up to class A, which eventually received the marking A+, A++, and A+++. Further development of technology has made it possible to go even further, and in order not to produce pluses in energy efficiency labelling, in March 2021, manufacturers returned to the previous indices from G to A, where A is the most energy efficient washing machine. Accordingly, the 2021 models will have modern markings, while older models will be marked in the same way.
Noise class
This indicator allows customers to decipher the values of the noise level in decibels. It is marked, like other classes, in Latin letters, where A is the quietest class of washing machines.
Voice assistant
Compatibility of the machine with one or another
voice assistant. It can be either a universal service like Google Assistant, or a specialized solution like Hoover Talks. it is not uncommon to support several options at once.
This compatibility allows you to control the washing machine using voice commands. Often this is more convenient than using a traditional control panel — especially since modern voice assistants are becoming more and more “smart”, able to recognize complex requests and even predict the user’s intentions (based on his past actions). However, you need to keep in mind that to use this function, you need a smartphone, tablet or another gadget with a voice assistant installed on it. It is this gadget that is the “brain” of voice control, and the machine only receives and processes commands from it. On the other hand, this format of work also has its advantages: the unit can be controlled from a distance, and the device with a voice assistant plays the role of remote control.
The specific capabilities of voice assistants (including supported languages) should be specified separately.
Dimensions (HxWxD)
General dimensions of the washing machine in height, width and depth.
The size of the unit determines not only the size of the space required for installation but also the ability to bring it into a particular room. At the same time, even a relatively small protruding part (like a door latch) can create problems with passing through a doorway. Therefore, in our catalogue, we try, if possible, to indicate exactly the maximum size of the machine — taking into account all the protruding parts. On the other hand, not all manufacturers provide such data. So if there is any doubt, it is worth evaluating the product by size with a certain margin. And specific information on how the dimensions were measured can usually be found in the manufacturer's documentation.
Finally, let's touch on the specifics of individual dimensions. So, in the case of front loaded machines, note that additional space in front inevitably will be required to open the door. Machines whose depth
does not exceed 40 cm are considered narrow. They can be a lifesaver in cramped conditions, especially if the design provides top loading. And a height of 120 cm or more is an almost unmistakable sign of
a machine with 2 drums which are located one above the other. It does not only increase capacity but also allows you to simultaneously wash two sets of things in different modes. The reverse side of these advantages is traditional
...— high cost.
