What is a Front Loader Washing Machine?
A front loader washing machine is a popular choice for many households due to its efficiency and water-saving capabilities. Unlike top loader machines, front loaders have a horizontal drum that spins on a horizontal axis. This design not only offers superior cleaning performance but also reduces water consumption and energy usage.
Before You Buy
Before purchasing a front loader washing machine, consider the following factors to ensure you make the right choice for your laundry needs. Here's what you need to know:
Laundry Room Dimensions
- Consider the layout of your laundry room and any existing cabinetry or countertop space that may affect the installation. Take note of any obstacles or clearance requirements, such as nearby walls or other appliances.
- Measure your laundry room to determine the available space for the washing machine.
- Ensure there's sufficient space for the door to open fully and for easy access to the machine.
- Taking accurate measurements and assessing the available space will help you determine the maximum size of the front loader you can accommodate, ensuring a seamless fit in your laundry area.
Front Load Washing Machine Size Guide
Front Load Washing Machine Dimensions
Front load washing machines come in various sizes, typically ranging from compact models to larger ones suitable for bigger families. The dimensions of a front loader are essential to consider when selecting the right one for your home. Front load washing machines come in various dimensions, and it's important to consider the space available in your laundry room as mentioned above. Here are some common dimensions you'll encounter:
- Width: Front loaders usually have a width ranging from around 59cm to 65cm. Compact models may be even narrower, which is ideal for limited spaces. Larger front loaders are available for larger households or those with more extensive laundry requirements. These machines allow for higher load capacities.
- Depth: The depth of a front load washing machine typically ranges from 55cm to 65cm. Ensure you have enough space for the machine to fit comfortably and allow proper ventilation. Do not forget to factor in additional clearance for the door to open fully.
- Height: Front loaders generally have a height ranging from 80cm to 85cm. Take into account the height of your available space before buying.
Front Load Washing Machine Size / Capacity
Determining a front loader's right size or capacity involves considering various factors that influence your laundry requirements. Here are some key considerations:
Family Size
The size of your household and the number of people you regularly do laundry for will influence the capacity you need.
- A 7kg or 8kg front loader washing machine may be sufficient for small families or individuals. This capacity can comfortably accommodate a few days' worth of laundry. This size is also suitable for those with limited space in their laundry area.
- However, if you have a larger family or frequently wash bulky items like bedding, you may want to consider a 9kg front loader washing machine or even a 10kg model. This will allow you to wash larger loads in one cycle and save time and energy.
Usage Frequency
Consider how often you do laundry.
- If you find yourself doing laundry frequently, a front loader with a larger capacity can be beneficial. With a higher capacity, you can reduce the number of loads you need to do and complete your laundry more efficiently.
- On the other hand, if you have limited laundry needs or prefer to wash smaller loads more frequently, a front loader with a smaller capacity may be suitable.
Product Size and Capacity
Finding the right balance between size, capacity, and your laundry needs will ensure optimal performance and efficiency from your front loader washing machine.
- Assess your specific laundry requirements to determine the right front loader washing machine size and capacity. Take into account the types of items you regularly wash, such as bedding or bulky items like duvets.
- Ensure that the machine's capacity can comfortably accommodate these items without overcrowding the drum. Overloading the machine can affect cleaning performance and strain the motor unnecessarily.
Consider these factors carefully to make an informed decision.
Remember, when in doubt, it's always recommended to consult the manufacturer's specifications or seek advice from knowledgeable sales staff to select the appropriate size and capacity for your front loader washing machine.
Drum Material
The material of the drum in a front loader washing machine is an important consideration, as it can affect durability, noise levels, and cleaning performance. Here are the common materials used:
- Stainless Steel: Front loaders with stainless steel drums offer excellent durability and are resistant to stains, odours, and rust. They also contribute to better cleaning performance by providing a smoother surface for clothes to glide against. Additionally, stainless steel drums are known for reducing wear and tear on fabrics.
- Plastic: Plastic drums are less common and are usually found in budget or entry-level models. While plastic drums are generally less expensive, they may not be as durable or long-lasting as stainless steel drums.
When choosing a front loader, prioritise machines with durable drum materials that can withstand regular use and provide long-lasting performance. Stainless steel drums, in particular, are popular due to their durability and superior cleaning capabilities.
Front Loader Washing Machine Smart Features: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Modern front loader washing machines often come equipped with smart features that enhance convenience and functionality. Some of these features can be particularly useful when you're away from home or want to schedule wash cycles for specific times. Here are some popular smart features to consider:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Front loaders with Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to control and monitor your machine remotely through a smartphone app. You can start or pause cycles, receive notifications when a wash is complete, and even download additional wash programs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Some front loaders offer Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to connect your smartphone directly to the machine. While not as advanced as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth connectivity still enables convenient control and customisation of wash programs.
Smart features provide added flexibility and convenience, allowing you to manage your laundry tasks more efficiently. If you value the ability to control your washing machine remotely or customise your wash cycles, look for models with these smart features.
Front Loader Washing Machine Wash Programs
Front loaders offer a wide range of wash programs designed to cater to different fabric types and specific cleaning needs. Here are some common wash programs you should consider:
Quick Wash
Ideal for lightly soiled items or when you're short on time, the quick wash program provides a rapid clean in a shorter cycle duration. It's perfect for refreshing clothes that have only been worn briefly or for small loads that don't require extensive cleaning.
Delicates
The delicates program is designed for fragile fabrics such as silk, lace, or chiffon. It uses gentler agitation and lower spin speeds to minimise the risk of damage or stretching. This program ensures that your delicate garments receive the care they need while still being thoroughly cleaned.
Eco Wash
The eco wash program aims to minimise water and energy consumption, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It typically extends the wash cycle duration while using lower temperatures and optimised water levels to achieve efficient cleaning results with reduced resource usage.
Wool
The wool program is specifically tailored to clean woollen garments safely. It utilises low agitation and gentle washing motions to prevent shrinkage and preserve the softness and integrity of wool fibers. Always check the care labels on your wool items to ensure they are suitable for machine washing.
Synthetics
The synthetics program is designed for synthetic polyester, nylon, or acrylic fabrics. It uses higher water temperatures and faster spin speeds to effectively remove stains and dirt from these materials without causing damage.
Hand Wash
For items labelled as hand wash only. The hand wash program replicates the gentle hand washing action, suitable for delicate items that require special care. It provides a slower and gentler wash cycle to ensure your hand wash-only garments are cleaned thoroughly while preserving their quality.
Outdoor/Sports
The outdoor/sports program is designed to remove stubborn stains and dirt commonly found on outdoor clothing or sportswear. It employs higher water levels, longer durations, and more vigorous agitation to tackle tough grime and odours effectively.
Duvet/Bedding
The duvet/bedding program is designed specifically for larger items like duvets, comforters, or bulky bedding. It provides the necessary space and agitation to clean these items thoroughly while ensuring even distribution of detergent and water throughout the load.
Hygiene+
The hygiene+ program is aimed at eliminating allergens, bacteria, and germs from your laundry. It employs higher temperatures and extended wash cycles to ensure a deep clean, making it suitable for items like towels, bedding, or baby clothes that require enhanced hygiene.
Rinse
The rinse program is useful for quickly rinsing clothes after handwashing or for removing excess detergent residue. It provides additional rinsing cycles without detergent, ensuring thorough rinsing and minimising the risk of skin irritations caused by detergent residues.
Child Lock
The child lock feature ensures that the control panel is locked during the wash cycle, preventing children from accidental injuries, changing settings, or interrupting the wash. This safety feature is particularly important for households with young children.
Drum Clean
The drum clean program is designed to remove dirt, odours, and residue that can accumulate inside the washing machine over time. It thoroughly cleans the drum, ensuring optimal performance and maintenance of a hygienic washing environment.
When selecting a front loader, consider the available wash programs and ensure they align with your laundry needs. Look for models that offer a good selection of programs to cover a wide range of fabrics and cleaning requirements. Checkout Altus’ 7kg Front Loader Washing Machine as well as the 9kg Front Loader Washing Machine.
Other Features to Look For
Apart from the primary considerations, additional features can enhance your laundry experience and convenience. Here are some features worth considering:
- Time Delay: This feature allows you to set a delay timer for the start of a wash cycle. It's useful if you want your laundry to finish at a specific time or take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
- Add-Door: Some front loaders have an add-door feature that lets you add forgotten items to the wash even after the cycle starts. This can be handy for those times when you find a stray sock or need to add an item urgently.
- Automatic Dispensers / Autodose Feature: Front loaders with automatic detergent and fabric softener dispensers ensure the correct amount of cleaning agents are released at the appropriate times during the wash cycle. This eliminates the need to measure and add detergent manually.
- Noise Reduction: Look for front loaders that feature noise reduction technologies or insulation to minimise operational noise. This can be especially important if your laundry area is close to living spaces or bedrooms.
These additional features can enhance your convenience, save time, and improve the overall performance of your front loader washing machine. Consider which features are most important to you based on your specific needs and preferences.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider when purchasing a front loader washing machine. Look for models with a high energy efficiency rating, as they consume less electricity and can result in significant cost savings over time.
Australian energy efficiency rating for appliances is indicated by a star rating label. The more stars a front loader has, the more energy-efficient it is. Additionally, look for models with features such as load sensors or eco-friendly modes that optimise energy usage based on the load size.
By choosing an energy-efficient front loader, you not only reduce your environmental impact but also potentially save on electricity bills in the long run.
Water Efficiency
Water efficiency is another crucial aspect to consider when buying a front loader washing machine.
- Look for front loaders with high water efficiency ratings, indicated by a water rating label.
- Models with features like load sensing or adjustable water levels can optimise water usage based on the load size, ensuring that water is not wasted unnecessarily.
- Some machines also offer additional water-saving options, such as eco wash programs or half-load cycles, which can further reduce water consumption.
Choosing a water-efficient front loader contributes to sustainability efforts and can result in lower water bills, making it an environmentally and financially responsible choice.
Price Range
When buying a front loader washing machine, it's important to consider your budget. While prices can vary depending on the brand, capacity, and features, it is advisable to set a budget range and prioritise the features that are most important to you. In short, it is a game of finding a balance between quality and affordability.
When considering the purchase, it is important to consider long-term value and potential savings in energy and water consumption, as well as the superior cleaning performance, before making a big investment.
Research different brands, compare prices, and read reviews to find the best value front loader washing machine that meets your needs and budget.
Front Loader Washing Machine Availability: Online vs In-store
When purchasing a front loader washing machine, you can buy online or in-store. Both options have their advantages:
Online Shopping
- Convenience: Online shopping allows you to browse a wide range of models and compare prices from the comfort of your home. You can access customer reviews and detailed product descriptions to make an informed decision.
- Delivery Options: Most online retailers provide home delivery services, ensuring that your new washing machine is conveniently delivered to your doorstep.
- Installation Options: Many online retailers also offer installation services, reducing the cost and hassle of hiring a professional for the task.
- Removal of the old Appliance: Some online retailers even provide the added convenience of removing your old washing machine, saving you the effort of disposing of the appliance.
In-Store Shopping
- Hands-on Experience: Visiting a physical store allows you to see and touch the washing machines, providing a hands-on experience. You can better understand their size, build quality, and user interface.
- Immediate Availability: In-store purchases provide the advantage of immediate availability. You can take the washing machine home on the same day, eliminating the wait for delivery.
- Expert Advice: Sales staff in stores can provide personalised assistance and guidance, answering any questions you may have and helping you find the right front loader for your needs.
Consider your preferences, time constraints, and availability when shopping online and in-store. Whichever option you choose, ensure that the retailer is reputable and offers warranty coverage and after-sales support.
Conclusion
Choosing the right front loader washing machine involves considering factors such as the machine's design, dimensions, capacity, drum material, smart features, wash programs, energy efficiency, water efficiency, price range, and the shopping experience. This guide will help you find the perfect front loader washing machine of your dreams that not only suits your needs, but also enhances efficiency, and delivers excellent cleaning results.
Explore Altus’ range of Washing Machines now and choose the one that matches your needs perfectly.