Summary

The AEG lavamat L76669 is simple to use and reasonably solidly made for the price. It should be reasonably quiet and stable on spin. A good washing machine for the money although cheaper models that spin at 1200 - 1400 instead of 1600 (which is a bit too fast in my opinion) may be a better option for most people. Make sure you measure up though if depth is critical as it looks slightly deep.

Latest info:

Unfortunately this model is no longer widely available but the replacement models are still very similar in the way they are made to the one reviewed here. This review can still give a good idea of what AEG washing machines are like.

Similar models:

AEG L66840 (1600 spin, 6Kg drum)

AEG L range (Other AEG Lavamat models)

The main specs:

• 1600 spin
• 6 Kg drum

Price range:

Mid price range

Main review

This is a well made washing machine (in the middle quality band) with a 6Kg drum and a top spin speed of 1600. It has a Spin Drying Energy Rating of A (the best) and a Wash Energy Rating of A. It looks a little old fashioned, but its design is functional and simple. There's an LED display which gives estimated wash times and it has a large soap dispenser which pulls out easily for cleaning.

The Lavamat L76669 is made by the same company that owns Zanussi (Electrolux) therefore it's quite similar inside. It's very similar in build quality and features although the AEG washing machine is a little step up in quality (not a big step though) and usually a little more expensive than the Zanussi washing machine range.

The outer tub is plastic. This is now the norm and only the most expensive washing machines (such as Miele) are likely to have a metal outer tub. Plastic tubs are cheaper to produce and can't rust. However, they can be punctured by coins or other metal objects that should never get inside a washing machine in the first place but inevitably often do. Although I haven't seen any AEG washing machines affected, I have written off many cheaper washing machines due to careless washing of clothes with coins in the pockets, so be warned.

Cold fill washing machine

The AEG lavamat L76669 is another cold fill only washing machine. There is no hot water valve. Virtually all washing machines are now cold fill only. What's happened to the hot valve in washing machines? - (External link to my white goods Blog article which also includes the topic "I want a washing machine with a hot valve")

Other parts

The AEG Lavamat L76669 has a large door, the hinges are solid, and the door catch is made of metal. The motor looks large and solid, with hard-wearing carbon brushes. Everything looked reasonably well made.

Criticism

AEG used to have a reputation for being a high quality washing machine, spares were very expensive but they were very well made. Although current AEG washing machines are still relatively well made for the money they cost, they have declined somewhat in quality which is reflected in the price (the cheapest AEG washing machines start at a mere £250.

If you are shopping for a washing machine in the AEG price range they are one of the best, but if you want the same quality you had in your 10 - 20 year old AEG you would need to pay more for a Miele.