What do the new eco energy labels mean?

I wouldn't get too obsessed with the energy labels. If you only compare washing machines using these labels you may make a poor choice. It's quite possible for an A rated washing machine to be very unreliable, and basically rubbish, but a B or C rated washing machine could be much more reliable and therefore more economical to run overall.

These labels are only a very small part of the big picture. There's little point buying a cheap washing machine that may break down continuously and need replacing after just a few years whilst ignoring a much more reliable one because it didn't have as high a rating. Rubbish washing machines can easily get A ratings, which don't take account of reliability, build quality or longevity.

Many budget and mid-priced washing machines these days appear to achieve the A rating by picking a particular wash program, and basically making it wash much longer than it used to. People aren't realising that many of the new washing machines are taking a ridiculous amount of time to wash on some common wash programs. This can lead to people using many of the options that cut down the wash times and to select lower temperatures in order to speed wash times up, with the potential consequences of sludge and grease building up inside the washing machine causing nasty smells and shortening the life of the washing machine. [ Related advice: Causes of grease, slime and black mould inside washing machine ]

Further information: Washerhelp's in-depth analysis of What do the new energy labels mean? | Are energy labels on Washing Machines misleading?

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Are all new washing machines the same size?

This article has been expanded and completely re-written. It's been moved to my white goods blog here - Washing machines and associated problems with sizes

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Do all new washing machines use the same pipes and plumbing?

This article has been completely rewritten and updated, it's now moved here - Do new washing machines use the same hoses and plumbing?  Go to top of page

Should I buy an extended warranty / guarantee?

This article has now been revised and updated, and moved to my white goods blog - Should I buy an appliance extended warranty?

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