Appliance Insurance Articles

Articles and Blog style posts on Appliances & Appliance Insurance

03
Feb
2014

Top Washer Dryers with Child Locks

The Top Washer Dryers with Child Locks

Child locks in dryers have two purposes really – they lock the door of the machine which prevents any child climbing into the drum and accidentally locking themselves in when the machine is out of action. The second purpose is to stop a little one – or anyone else for that matter – changing the dials when the machine is in full flow on a spin cycle.

In terms of a child’s safety then, and the long-term workings of your washing machine, a child lock can be pretty crucial. As a result most washer dryer manufacturers these days are beginning to supply them in machines as standard (certainly, with the likes of Mumsnet having such a huge influence and extended media reach these days, it’s not really surprising).

The only difficulty with child locks in washer dryers it seems is being able to switch them off (if you’ve lost the manual and have nothing to refer to). Also, in some cases the lock jams due to a fault (like electronic windows in cars it can seem as if it’s just something else to go wrong!). Often though, it’s simply a case of holding in the start button for five seconds or so in order to release the lock.

Here is our choice of top washer dryers with child locks.

  1. Bosch WVD24460GB. This has an automatic display that shows when the child lock is active by flashing up a key on the LCD panel.
  2. Samsung WD806U4SAGD 8kg Ecobubble. A child lock is available but optional.
  3. Beko WDA91440W. This instantly locks all the buttons on the machine meaning the programme can’t be altered by enquiring little fingers.
  4. EVO 14104LW Grand’O Evo. This washer dryer from the Candy staple has an effective child lock built in.
  5. Servis HydroDrive. All HydroDrive machines have an incorporated child safety lock as standard.
  6. Electrolux EWW1486HDW. Another washer dryer with child lock built in as standard.
  7. LG F1480RD. Like the above machines, the LG child lock stops children and others altering the current spin cycle of the machine.
  8. Hotpoint WDPG8640G. Another effective child lock, although this is one of the machines where we read individuals had difficulty with switching the lock off.
  9. NEFF  V7446X0GB. A child lock which does exactly what it says on the tin.
  10. Daewoo DWCLD1421. Another impressive function which stops small hands prying.

Admittedly a child lock on a washer dryer is another facet that can go wrong and may need repairing but a child being able to press buttons and change the machine’s programme half way through an on-going cycle would probably lead to far more damage to the machine, not to mention a hefty repair bill. Because of this, we would definitely recommend a child lock facility when you select a washer dryer for your home.

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Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
03
Feb
2014

Most Reliable Washer Dryers

The Most Reliable Washer Dryers

When it comes to the day-to-day functioning of the bigger white goods in your kitchen, your washer dryer is unfortunately the item most likely to stop working, burst a leak or become blocked.

Why is that, we wonder? One of the reasons, we reckon, is because we use our washer dryers so much – machines in a large family home can often be on daily or even both morning and night. So, when you think of the amount of pummeling they’re getting, it’s no wonder our washer dryers start to flag out faster than other white goods.

However, it’s precisely because they’re used so much that it can quite frankly be pandemonium when they go wrong. It’s important therefore when you’re buying a new machine to get one you feel confident won’t do a wobbly on you the night before the weekly washing of the school uniforms. And that’s why we’ve compiled the following list:

Top washer dryers for reliability

  1. Miele WT2780. A quiet machine with an impressive energy efficiency performance, this Miele also boasts excellent cleaning and a drying cycle which won’t shrink clothes. On the negative side it is costly, retailing at more than £1200.
  2. Bosch WVH28421 GB. Great cleaning, energy efficiency and a good looking machine (as you’d expect from Bosch). What wasn’t so impressive was the large water usage. It’s not cheap either, coming in at just under £800.
  3. Zanussi ZKG7165. Easy to use, gets clothes very clean and, like the Bosch, a good-looking machine to sit in your kitchen. Very good price-wise but can be a bit noisy. Expect to pay around £400.
  4. AEG L75480WD. This machine has an impressive cleaning performance and, like the Zanussi above, is very easy to use. It does use up quite a bit of energy though and goes through at quite a rate too. Retails around £600.
  5. Siemens WD14H520GB. Very energy efficient and extremely quiet, also cleans very well. Quite expensive and uses a lot of water. Retails at more than £900.
  6. Samsung WD8704RJD. This machine can dry clothes just as well as it washes them and boats plenty of wash programmes. It can take a while to dry though. Costs around £450.
  7. Hotpoint Aqualtis AQ113D 697S. Can handle big loads and has a powerful spin cycle, also very quite. Like the Samsung though, can take a while to get through a cycle. Retails for around £600.
  8. Indesit IWDC6125. An entry level machine that works well considering its low price. The quick wash only takes a very small load. Prices start from £300.

On the whole, the worst problem householders report regarding their washer dryer is with the machine wobbling. Another big bugbear is blocked filters while on a more serious note water leaks and blockages are also a concern.

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Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
31
Jan
2014

Common Tumble Dryer Problems & Solutions

Common Tumble Dryer Problems & Solutions

Your tumble dryer is among the most essential of your daily-use appliances. If you are someone who uses their tumble dryer every day, here is the list of common tumble dryer failures you could face and tips for checks you can carry out:

    1. The tumble dryer does not heat: Whether you own an electric or a gas tumble dryer, the first checkpoint is the laundry load. Excessive clothing will prevent the dryer from heating effectively. Secondly, ensure that no one has opened the tumble dryer mid-way into the cycle. If all seems okay, attempt to re-set the appliance. Most tumble dryers have a red reset button located either at the back of the appliance or inside the appliance. Press the button until it makes a ‘click’ sound and then restart the tumble dryer. If the tumble dryer does not resume working properly, there could be some other reason; a faulty part for instance. Read our guide to ‘Reasons Why Your Tumble Dryer May Not be Heating’ for more information on how to handle this problem.
    2. The tumble dryer is not spinning: What good is a tumble dryer that does not tumble! The most likely cause for this is a drive belt that has snapped or is loose.  An unusual ‘running-but-stuck’ sound and a drum that turns easily without any resistance when turned by hand, indicates a drive belt problem. If the power lights on the tumble dryer are on, there could also be a problem with the appliance motor or the starting capacitor. Read our blog ‘4 Possible Reasons Why Your Tumble Dryer is Not Spinning’ for more information.
    3. The tumble dryer becomes very noisy: While trying to dry your clothes, you notice a loud screeching sound.  The common reasons for this sound could be faulty drum bearings, worn out motor bearings, or wear to the tension pulley wheels. Call your local repair person to replace these faulty parts.
    4. The tumble dryer does not start: If the tumbler dryer is not starting, do a quick check to answer these questions:
      • Is the power source working properly? Check the wiring and the plug.
      • Is the door of the tumble dryer closing completely? If not then there may be a problem with the door switch.
      • Is the timer switch faulty? Reset the timer and try again. If the problem persists, you will need to replace the part.

      Given the typical English weather, having the tumble dryer malfunction can really upset your daily routine, and worse still lead to a huge pile of laundry at home, making it essential to resolve this quickly.

Please remember:

Appliances should be serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions – found in the product manual. If you have a problem with an appliance, call in a NICEIC or Gas-Safe registered appliance engineer to repair your appliance. Don’t forget that if your appliance is not working optimally, you should also have it serviced to prevent causing damage to the appliance.

Does your tumbler dryer smell mouldy?  Read our guide to ‘6 Easy Fixes For Mould-Free Tumble Dryers’

Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
31
Jan
2014

Help – Tumble Dryer Is Not Spinning

Help – Tumble Dryer Is Not Spinning

There are a few simple checks you can do if you notice that your tumble dryer has stopped spinning or is making unusual running sounds while running a regular load.

Many internal failures can prevent the tumble dryer from spinning.

The most common of these are:

  1. The drive belt has broken or has come-off

    The drive belt may wear out or become brittle over time. If the drive belt has snapped or has come off, the tumble dryer will make a running sound, but will not turn. One way to check this is to turn the drum by hand. A tumble dryer drum should be stiff when turned by hand. However, if the drive belt is loose or broken, the drum will appear freer than usual.

  2. The motor or capacitor has failed

    Your tumbler drier will not rotate if there is a problem in the motor or the capacitor. A broken motor will cause the tumble dryer to make a humming sound, instead of its normal operating noise. To confirm that the motor is the problem you need to call an appliance engineer.

  3. Idler pulley assembly problem

    The idler pulley system provides tension on the drum belt so that it does not slip on the drive motor pulley or drum when the dryer is in use. Signs of this problem include squeaking and squealing noises. Faults with the idler pulley assembly can also be responsible for the tumble dryer rotating at a slower than normal speed.

  4. Door switch malfunction

    The continuous opening and closing of the tumble dryer can damage the door switch. A defective door switch will also prevent the tumble dryer from rotating.  Call your appliance engineer with details of this problem.

Please remember:

Appliances should be serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions – found in the product manual. If you have a problem with an appliance, call in a NICEIC or Gas-Safe registered appliance engineer to repair your appliance. Don’t forget that if your appliance is not working optimally, you should also have it serviced to prevent causing damage to the appliance.

Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
31
Jan
2014

Help! There’s Mould in my Tumble Dryer

There’s Mould in my Tumble Dryer


Mould spores are nasty, and can go unnoticed for quite some time, especially if they’re hidden in hard to see spots like your tumble dryer. Mould can grow just about anywhere and thrives in places with even slight traces of moisture. Over time, the mould will cause your dryer to have an odour problem; it can also penetrate and even stain your newly-washed laundry.

Your tumble dryer could retain damp if you overload, or sometimes leave still-damp clothes in it; this creates the perfect conditions for mould to multiply.

You can minimise the chances of mould growing in your tumble dryer by using the hottest dryer settings that your laundry allows. It’s a good idea to dry clothes that require a low setting first and finish with items that can take higher settings, for example, towels and jeans, to ensure that your dryer ends on a dry note.

Types of Mould

There are five common types of mould that can be found in most households, but only one is likely to grow in your tumble dryer: Cladosporium Herbarum. It is most often found on dead plants and soil, fridges, window frames, straw houses with poor ventilation and low damp areas.

The best way to prevent mould from growing is to ensure your home is well ventilated in general, and that your laundry area is particularly well ventilated. Regularly check for damp spots, keep the area clean and make sure that your washer and tumble dryer are not pressed right up against the wall or against one another. If you have to dry clothes indoors in your laundry area, make sure that you have a good breeze blowing through so that the air doesn’t get damp. Also, make sure that all windows and doors to the laundry area are closed in wet weather and repair any leaks as soon as possible. Make sure your tumble dryer is vented outside when in use, or use a condenser-dryer.

Eek! There’s Mould in my Tumble Dryer!

With our busy schedules we often have to do about 10 things simultaneously, like boiling the kettle for a cup of tea, which will also be used supper’s rice, while shoving the laundry into the dryer. Under these conditions, who has the presence of mind to check for things like mould growth in the tumble dryer?

Get rid of mould

If you do have mould, these tips should help restore the laundry-fresh smell to your clothes and linens. First, unplug the tumble dryer, and then:

  1. Wipe clean the insides of the tumble dryer with antiseptic wipes.
  2. Dilute a fabric softener and dip a clean sponge in the solution to soak up the perfume. Squeeze out the liquid and put the wet sponge along with the clothes in the tumbler. This should remove the smell in the dryer.
  3. Put some bicarbonate in an old sock and knot the sock at the top. Put this in your condenser dryer for a ten-minute tumble. The smell should be completely gone.
  4. Add a fragrance sheet to your dryer for no more smelly clothes.This next tip needs a bit of patience.
  5. If are using a condenser dryer, let the clothes dry for 30 minutes. Then remove the clothes and shake them out in the air one by one. Put the clothes back in the dryer for another 30 minutes. Not only will this make the smell go away, but your clothes will dry faster.
  6. Make a thin paste of baking soda and soak a sponge in it. Clean the inside of the dryer with the sponge. After a thorough wipe with the sponge, clean the dryer with a soft cloth. Run a normal cycle in the dryer when it is empty for about 10 minutes.

If the mould proves to be stubborn you could try this way to get rid of the problem:

Bleach is a really good way to get rid of mould. You’ll need two clean cloths, a litre of warm water, ¼ cup of bleach, small spray bottle filled with a solution of water and ten or so drops of vanilla essence / eucalyptus oil or undiluted plain vinegar, and few clean towels. Be sure to use the hottest dryer setting and not the delicate cycle or the permanent press cycle when you do the last step of the process

  1. Add the bleach to the warm water.
  2. Wet your cloth completely in the water-bleach solution and then wring out so that it’s wet but not dripping.
  3. Wipe the dryer inside and out, making sure you do the door too. A thin layer of the solution will remain on the surfaces, which will kill all mould.
  4. Leave to dry completely and once dry take a clean cloth rinsed in clean water and wipe down the dryer again. Wiping the tumble dryer clean is important because if you leave the bleach solution as it, you may well find that your next load of laundry comes out the machine discoloured.
  5. Spray the clean towels with the vanilla-water or eucalyptus-water solution or vinegar and then put into the dryer. This will remove the smell of bleach from the drum. Note, if you use vinegar your next load might remind you of fish and chips. Vanilla and eucalyptus, on the other hand, will absorb the bleach smell and leave your tumble dryer smelling quite pleasant. Remember to wash the towels once you’re done.
  6. Make sure you clean the condenser dryer regularly too and leave the door ajar after use.

If the smell persists, call an appliance service professional.

You can help prevent mould in the future by regularly checking for and cleaning out lint as it collects and retains moisture. Just remove the lint screen and wipe it with a dry cloth to get rid of the residual lint. To make sure you get all the lint out, use your vacuum hose attachment which will loosen clogged or backed up damp lint. Make sure you’ve removed all the lint before replacing the screen. It’s a good idea to clean the lint screen after every drying cycle to make sure you don’t get lint build-up.

Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
30
Jan
2014

Reasons Why Your Tumble Dryer May Not be Heating

Reasons Why Your Tumble Dryer May Not be Heating


Having to deal with an out-of-order tumble dryer can be frustrating especially in the cold winter months. One of the most common problems that occurs is the tumble dryer not heating. Do not worry; depending on which tumble dryer you own, resolving this can be relatively easy and inexpensive.

Most tumble dryers come equipped with a small red reset button at the back of the appliance.

If the dryer still does not work, it means that there is some other fault. Depending on whether you own a gas or an electric tumble dryer, the reasons for the tumble dry not heating will vary.

Electric tumble dryer

If you have an electric tumble, your appliance engineer can check the following parts:

  • Power outlet: If there is no problem with the power outlet, then the problem lies with the appliance.
  • Heating element: Most likely, the heating element is defective. The heating element in the dryer comprises of coils. A break in the coils will prevent the appliance from generating enough heat for drying.
  • Dual breaker switch: To generate the 240 volts of electricity needed for the drying function, electric tumble dryers have a dual breaker switch. If the switch is faulty, then the appliance will not have enough power to produce the heat (even though the machine may be tumbling)
  • Thermal fuse: The thermal fuses could also be faulty.

Gas tumble dryer

A gas tumble dryer has a burner system comprising of an igniter, coils, and flame sensor. The heating problem in your gas tumble dryer may be due to the following which a Gas-safe register technician can resolve:

  • Bad coils:  If the tumble dryer produces heat at the beginning, but finishes cold, then most likely your appliance has bad coils.
  • Problem with igniter / flame sensor: If the tumble dryer is not heating up at all, then most likely the igniter or the flame sensor needs replacing.
  • Residue around the burner:  Sometimes there is a build up of slime around the burner, which blocks the gas flow and prevents the unit from igniting.

Please remember:

Appliances should be serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions – found in the product manual. If you have a problem with an appliance, call in a NICEIC or Gas-Safe registered appliance engineer to repair your appliance. Don’t forget that if your appliance is not working optimally, you should also have it serviced to prevent causing damage to the appliance.

If you inspect your appliance yourself, remember to turn off and unplug the tumble dryer or turn off the gas first. Also, seek out reliable professional help to carry out the repairs. These parts are easily replaceable and your tumble dryer will be as good as new.

Here are a few do’s and don’ts for keeping your tumble dryer problem free:

  • Let the dryer run through its cool down phase
  • Do not open the door midway through a cycle to check if the clothes are dry
  • Ensure that the filters / burner are cleaned regularly
Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
29
Jan
2014

Help – Washer Dryer Keeps Tripping Electrics

Help – Washer Dryer Keeps Tripping Electrics


If your washer dryer keeps tripping the electrics, turn the power off immediately.  Not only could the tripping damage the washer dryer, but it could also disrupt the overall power supply at your home and become a fire hazard.

Here is a list of common causes for your washer dryer to malfunction and cause the electricity to trip:

  • Electrical plug / Power cable malfunction: If the plug is hot, there is probably a loose wire in the plug. Also, with the appliance unplugged and without touching the plug too much, look out for any cracks in the plastic of the plug itself, as the wires may be exposed to water and short circuit. A burnt out wire in the washer dryer could also cause the circuit to overheat and the electricity to trip. If you are using an extension cord, that could also cause the problem. Change the extension and see if the washer dryer works now. If the fault continues, call an electrician. If the electrician confirms that there is no fault with the wiring, it means there is something wrong with the machine and you need to call the appliance engineer.
  • Heating element of the washer dryer:  The sticky residue from detergents and clothes washed and dried in the machine can gather on the heating element, causing it to malfunction. Clean the filter thoroughly and give the machine a maintenance wash, before trying a complete wash dry cycle. It is also possible that either the element of the washer or the dryer has burnt out. You will need an experienced appliance engineer to handle this problem.
  • Overheating of the drum: If the condenser unit, located at the back of the drum, does not work properly, it can cause the drum to overheat and the thermostat to cut out.  Check for any fluff blockages in the fan chamber, but do not attempt to dismantle the machine at all yourself – wait for an appliance engineer to use the correct equipment.
  • Internal water leakage: A water leakage in one of the electricity compartments can also cause a short. This needs to be looked at by an appliance engineer.
  • Problem with the motor: If the electricity is tripping, there could be a problem with the washer dryer motor. Again, call your appliance engineer. 

Please remember:

Appliances should be serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions – found in the product manual. If you have a problem with an appliance, call in a NICEIC or Gas-Safe registered appliance engineer to repair your appliance. Don’t forget that if your appliance is not working optimally, you should also have it serviced to prevent causing damage to the appliance.

Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
29
Jan
2014

How To Choose The Best Washer Dryer

How To Choose The Best Washer Dryer for you

A washing machine is one of the more expensive and durable appliances you will buy for the house, and given the almost daily requirement of washing clothes, it is crucial that you buy a machine that serves your purpose well.

Washing machine vs. washer dryer

In all likelihood, your decision to buy a washing machine will begin with choosing between buying a washing machine and tumble dryer separately, or buying a washer dryer combined.

Buying a washer dryer is obviously more economical than buying two appliances. In addition, if you have a space or budget constraint, then a washer dryer is definitely the best solution for you. However, you must also consider the following drawbacks of a washer dryer:

  • A washer dryer is more suitable for a household of 1-2 people. Most washer dryers have a 6-7 kg drum and a typical washer dryer cycle lasts 4 hours. In case you have a large family with heavier wash loads, the washer dryer will run several times a day, lead to greater electricity consumption, and increase your overall cost of doing laundry.
  • Because a washer dryer is a dual-function machine, it will not have the same advanced features and performance levels as a separate washing machine and a tumbler dryer. For instance, a standalone tumbler dryer will have a larger drum capacity and will therefore dry clothes a lot faster and with less creases than a washer dryer with a relatively smaller drum.
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Choosing the best washer dryer

Washer dryers are now more technologically advanced and energy efficient than before. If you have decided that a washer dryer is a good fit for your home, then the next step is to select the best model. Compare the various models available within your budget against the following features:

  1. Spin speed: Since the washer dryer has a relatively smaller drum, one way to ensure that the clothes dry faster is by choosing a machine with a higher spin speed (measured as revolutions per minute or rpm). Therefore, a washer dryer with a 1600 rpm will dry your clothes more quickly than one with 1200 rpm.
  2. Guarantee offered: Since a washer dryer works twice as much as a standalone washing machine, there is greater wear and tear on the machine. Compare the various washer dryers for guarantees offered on free of charge replacement of machine parts.
  3. Energy efficiency: Check for the EU energy efficiency ratings displayed on the washer dryer. Most washer dryers are rated between A and F, where A signifies a washer dryer with the most efficient energy consumption. The more efficient the machine, the less it will cost you to run.
  4. Wash programmes: Different washer dryers offer varying number of wash programmes. A model that offers additional features such as quick wash, steam cleaning, and anti-crease wash will cost you more than a basic model that will offer fewer functions.
  5. Additional features: Some washer dryers have an inbuilt sensor drying feature that turns off the machine when the clothes are dry. Another feature is the auto load control that adjusts the water levels to the laundry load.

AEG and Prime are some of the value for money (£450- 550) washer dryer brands. Bosch and HDB have machines in the range of £700- 750, and Miele offers a high-end range in excess of £1000.  Research company Which? has reviewed 88 washer dryers available in the UK. You can access this information by registering with the website.

Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
15
Jan
2014

To Use a Dishwasher – or Not to Use a Dishwasher…

To Use a Dishwasher – or Not to Use a Dishwasher…

In terms of cost (both financial and to the environment) is it better to use a dishwasher or to hand wash our pots and plates?

On the surface it would seem that hand washing would be more energy efficient surely since there’s no need to switch on an electric appliance. But don’t be too sure… many surveys have been done which show that, depending on what type of heating you have in your home ie gas or electric, at times there’s not much in it.

And bear in mind too that the efficiency of dishwashers has come on leaps and bounds, especially within the past decade or so. In the 90s, for instance, a typical dishwasher programme would use around 13 gallons of water; today your average dishwasher uses four.

Why using a dishwasher is as energy efficient as washing by hand

Like cleaning your teeth, do you sometimes leave the tap running in between brushes? If so, chances are you do the same when washing the dishes, leading to more hot water being used than is necessary. This is where the cost adds up, say scientists, and why if you use a dishwasher rather than hand wash you’ll be better off financially.

Use a dishwasher or hand wash? Advantages of the former

  • Hygiene. Dishwashers are up to 400 per cent more hygienic than washing by hand (ie there is less bacteria and other ‘nasties’ left on the plate
  • Time. It takes far longer to stand at a sink and wash dishes than it does to load a dishwasher (up to four times as long say researchers)

How to cut your eco footprint even more using a dishwasher

  • Use the dishwasher at night (1am to 5am). By doing so you’ll be taking advantage of the low tariff which means your utility bill won’t cost as much. Incidentally you can set the timer – you don’t actually have to get up in the middle of the night.
  • Load up fully. Never use the dishwasher when it’s only half empty. That’s just a waste of electricity.
  • Use the eco programme. Most machines have one of these. It works by heating the water up slowly over a far longer time than a normal cycle would. In doing so it saves energy (up to 20 percent say some surveys). Newer machines will even recycle the water.

So there you have it – these days it seems the answer to the question about whether to use a dishwasher or hand wash is that it’s probably far more economical and eco-friendly to use the former. And it’s definitely better for your hands.

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Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles
15
Jan
2014

Be Amazed at the Quality: Washing Machines Under £200

Washing Machines Under £200

Thinking of buying a new washing machine but can’t exactly afford to splash the cash? Then worry not for these days you’d be amazed at the quality of the technology available in washing machines under £200. And here are our fab four:

Bush A126Q Washing Machine – White (£169.99 Argos)

The Bush A126Q is a simple-to-use washing machine which has a larger drum than is typical for its size. The appliances is fitted with 23 separate programmes including an eco wash and sports cycle, in addition to a rinse, drain and spin option.

In terms of energy efficiency it boasts an A+ rating and the 6kg drum means its large enough for family wash days. There’s a child (or should that be cat) lock on the door. The spin speed is a very respectable 1200rpm which means clothes are only slightly damp when removed.

Beko WMB61431W Washing Machine – White (£199 Next)

With an A+ energy efficiency rating, the Beko WMB61431W has an adjustable temperature and spin speed for all programmes and the 1400rpm spin speed means clothes don’t need much airing to dry afterwards. It has a very useful digital display feature informing users the time left for a programme to run.

A good looking machine with a fair amount of capacity and which won’t wake up the household while its working (in other words it’s fairly quiet), it’s one of our favourite washing machines under £200.

ProAction A105Q Washing Machine – White (£169.99 Argos)

The ProAction A105Q is an A+ energy efficient machine which features a quick wash of just 30 minutes (so perfect for that impromptu party). There is a choice of 15 programmes and a 1200rpm (quiet) spin speed.

There are no complicated operating instructions which mean it’s extremely easy to use. It’s also compact in size so will fit easily into a small kitchen – great for a family with a limited budget.

LOGIK L612WMS13 Washing Machine – Silver (£199.99 Currys)

An attractive machine in contemporary-looking silver, the LOGIK L612WMS13 can take up to 6kg of garments and boasts a spin cycle of 1200rpm. An electronic programme selector means you don’t have to worry about choosing the right one for your fabrics. The screen comes with LED technology making it easy to see in the dark.

There are 16 different wash programmes and a door which opens 180 degrees making it easy to insert and retrieve garments. Handily, the wash programme can be pre-set 24 hours in advance.

Only problem now is – you actually have to choose between one of these fab washing machines under £200.

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Posted by Surewise in Appliance Insurance Articles