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Front Loading Washing Machines
Long used in Europe, residential front loading
washing machines are becoming
increasingly
popular in the American market
and are accounting
for more than 30% of all sales.
- Although they are generally more expensive
than top loading washing machines, front
loaders can soon make up the difference in
cost because they are so much more energy
efficient. They use less than one half of
the water per load, use far less detergent,
and spin so much water out of the wash that
it spends much less time in the drier, saving
energy costs there, too.
- Front loaded washers clean clothes better.
- The washing process is gentler on them, so
they suffer less wear and tear.
Once made only by very expensive
European
manufacturers, these washing
machines are
now also being produced by
major US brands.
If you are thinking of buying
a front loading
washing machine, consider the
following:
- Front loading washers are especially valuable
for laundry areas with limited floor space,
as they can be stacked with the drier. Most
manufacturers sell kits that can safely install
the washer and drier this way. Front loaders
do not bounce and creep across the floor
if the washing load becomes unbalanced.
- Look for models with special care cycles
for delicate fabrics such as silk and wool.
You will save money over time by washing
these fabrics at home rather than sending
them to the dry cleaner.
- Consider buying a front loaded washer with
a sanitary cycle that heats the water to
160 degrees. This makes the water hot enough
to kill dust mites in bedding.
- Features such as an electronic touchpad,
an automatic bleach dispenser, a soak cycle,
and a quick wash cycle will add to the convenience
of the washing machine but will increase
its cost.
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