How to choose a washer

Selection criteria for choosing a washer

Dimensions of the washer

Before choosing a laundry appliance, it is important to take accurate measurements of the available space and the clearance needed for the door to open, especially if you are installing it in a closet. If you plan to place it in the basement or upstairs, also be sure to measure the dimensions of stairs and hallways to ensure that the unit can be installed easily.

There is no conventional size for a washer, so measure carefully and allow for hose clearance.

Type of washer

Top-load with agitator

This is the most cost-effective model of washer currently available. It has a shorter cycle than the one with agitator and allows for a pre-wash, but you will have to remove stains yourself. Although not as gentle, this machine requires more water, offers less spinning and makes more noise.

Top-load without agitator

Les laveuses sans agitateur de chargement par le haut offrent une grande capacité de chargement et permettent de régler le niveau d’eau. Elles sont performantes, économes en eau et accomplissent un meilleur essorage que les modèles avec agitateur. Cependant, elles peuvent parfois tanguer si le chargement est mal réparti et sont généralement plus coûteuses que les autres modèles.

Front-load

Front-load washers, on the other hand, are gentler on clothes, wash both small and large loads effectively, and are the most water-efficient laundry appliances. They have a powerful spin, reducing drying time, but their cycles last longer.

Ideal for small spaces because they can be stacked, but they cause vibrations in the floor. You'll need to keep their door ajar between uses to avoid odours, which is less convenient if you have children or pets.

Washer tub capacity

If you do several loads of laundry a week for your family, opting for a washer with a larger tub capacity (typically 4 to 6.3 cubic feet) could make your life easier.

Small capacity washers, also called compact washers, have a tub size of 3 cubic feet or less. They are generally suitable for singles and couples without children, as they have sufficient capacity to meet their laundry needs.

Installation of the washer

Three types of washer installations are available:

on pedestals, to raise the machines and provide storage at the bottom (for front-load appliances only);
stacked, for small spaces (for front-load appliances only);
side by side, as in most homes.

Wash cycles and cleaning functions

All washers offer basic cycles such as normal, delicate/hand wash or quick wash, but specialized cycles add practical features depending on your needs (auto-sensing, steam or sanitize, anti-stain, second rinse for sensitive skin, high temperature for towels, etc.).

Colour and finish

Traditionally, washers were white or beige, but times have changed! There are white, grey, black and even coloured models.

Noise level

Noise level is an important consideration depending on the location of your washer in the home. A front-load washer is still quieter than other models, while a washer with an agitator is noisier than one without.

If the machine is installed in the basement, the noise level is not as important as if the washer is located in the kitchen or near the living room, where noise would be more annoying.

Energy consumption

For environmental concerns, compare water consumption. If you're looking to have an eco-friendly laundry room, check out our article on the subject.

An Energy Star® certified appliance will use 25% less energy and 33% less water than other models according to Natural Resources Canada, so look for this symbol when making your selection.

Other interesting features

A steam function can remove odours and freshen clothes without the need for expensive professional cleaning. An automatic detergent dispenser ensures clean clothes without frustrating soap stains. A large-capacity dispenser will hold enough soap and fabric softener for several months of use, so you don't have to refill it with every load.

Overflow and anti-foam alerts will prevent certain glitches thanks to smart sensors. A Wi-Fi connection offers the option of remote alerts and delayed start times!

Now that you know how to choose your next washer, start shopping online or visit one of our stores to talk to an adviser about your needs.

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