Washing Machines: Front Load, Washer Dryer and Capacity Guide

A good washing machine saves many hours each month. Before you buy one, check the space you have, your water supply, and how much laundry your household produces.

Capacity

Capacity refers to the dry weight of clothes per wash.

• 7kg: singles and couples.
• 8 to 10kg: typical families.
• 10kg or more: large households or anyone washing bulky bedding.

Our Hisense washing machine and washer dryer listings, along with Vision Plus and TCL models, include a range of options. Check the size you select on each listing.

Front load machines

Front-loaders generally use less water and are gentler on clothes than traditional top-loaders. They typically take longer per cycle and may be more sensitive to installation issues.

Make sure the machine sits perfectly level on a firm floor, otherwise it may vibrate heavily during the spin cycle.

Washer dryers

A washer dryer, such as those from Hisense and TCL, washes and dries in one machine. This is helpful in apartments without drying space or during the rainy season. However, drying capacity is usually lower than washing capacity. The TCL model listed offers 10kg wash and 6kg dry, so you may have to remove some clothes before drying.

Drying also uses a lot of electricity and takes time.

Water supply

Many automatic machines need a certain water pressure. If you rely on a tank without good pressure, or have intermittent supply, check the installation requirements. In some cases a booster pump may be needed.

If your water is hard or contains sediment, consider a filter. Sediment can block valves over time.

Electricity

Heating water uses most of the energy. Use cooler cycles where you can. A voltage protector can help guard against damaging fluctuations.

Installation tips

• Remove the transit bolts before use. Forgetting this can damage the machine.
• Keep drain hoses at the recommended height.
• Allow space around the machine.
• Run an empty cycle first.

Maintenance

Clean the detergent drawer and filter regularly. Leave the door slightly open after use to help the drum dry out and reduce odours. Use detergent designed for front-load machines.

Before ordering

Measure doorways as well as the space where the machine will go. Large appliances have their own delivery charges, shown at checkout.

See our fridge and freezer guide and kitchen appliances guide for other home purchases.