Washer/dryer Recommendation

[Ian]

Sorry this is slightly off-topic and also that it is something that has been discussed here before. However, I'm particularly interested in experiences of up-to-date models.

First of all, separate washer and dryer is not an option. We currently have separate components but it is a losing battle to make it work in the space available. I know it is a compromise but it is one I am prepared to make for the benefits. I am, however, prepared to spend enough for a decent make. From what I can gather that means a price in the 500-600 range and probably Bosch or AEG (maybe Zanussi?). If I had twice that to spend I'd probably be looking at Miele, but as I don't, I'm not!

So is there much to choose between Bosch and AEG? I'm tending towards AEG as their 1600 rpm model (16820) is available fairly widely - I'm guessing a faster spin is useful to avoid overuse of the dryer component. Bosch do have a 1600 model (WVT3250) but it is less widely available. It is also a bit more expensive - this could be an indication of better quality or it may just be a function of less price competition.

I'd welcome any comments on Bosch vs AEG, or any other make I should consider for that matter. My main criteria are reliability and washing performance.

Thanks!

-- Ian

[Grunff]

While I'm a big fan of Bosch tools, I haven't been impressed with their white goods. Our last washing machine was a Bosch, and it required 3 repairs in its short 7 year career, costing £240 in parts alone (I did all the work myself). Parts were both difficult to obtain and expensive.

My only experience with AEG is our current dishwasher, which is superb. But it's only a few months old, so who knows.

As for Miele, we have a Miele tumble drier, and it's very, very well made.

[Andy Burns]

Don't know about Bosch/AEG but my Hotpoint W/D only uses it's maximum spin speed on certain washes (Num 2 = towels?) and when it does, the contents get so much centri[pet|fug]al force applied that they stick to the drum and stay there all the way through the drying cycle :-(

[Rob K]

Hi Ian

Back in October I had the top Bosch W/D (1600rpm model WVT3250) on order from Currys for weeks but they continually failed to deliver. After several frustrating calls I found out there was a production problem and they couldnt give a delivery date so the order was cancelled.

Looking around for alternatives I went for the Zanussi ZWD1680 (top in the range) which arrived early December. I am extremely happy with it. Cant believe how much cleaner my clothes look and feel compared to my old washerdryer. And the auto drying is a dream - detects when theyre dry and almost always finishes in half the estimated time.

I must be very sad... when I first got it I would sit and watch it going round!

I must be getting older too as I got excited about getting a new washer dryer and a while back when I bought a new (Bosch) fridge!

Good Luck!

Rob

[Christian McArdle]

Mine does it on any cotton wash, but not on synthetic. Why they have to have these complicated controls, I don't know. I just want to set temperature, spin speed and agitation and let it off but no manufacturer seems to understand this.

Christian.

[Owain]

"Christian McArdle" wrote | Mine does it on any cotton wash, but not on synthetic. Why they have | to have these complicated controls, I don't know. I just want to set | temperature, spin speed and agitation and let it off but no | manufacturer seems to understand this.

Yes; if anything of mine can't be washed on Hot Whites or Warm Coloureds it doesn't survive. Survival of the fittest items in the laundry basket.

Owain

[Christian McArdle]

Yes, actually I lied. I don't want to set spin speed. I just want maximum, whatever it is. Synthetics are almost wearable after a 1600 spin (not that I have many, never being a fan of shell suits) and the tumbler only takes 30 minutes on cottons.

Christian.

[JP]

Check out the A-E ratings for washing and spin dry efficiency of the machines you are intereseted in. You do know that for washer/dryers, the dryer will only work with half the washing load. So if you've got a full load you've still got to take half out of the machine! Therefore one wash can take 3-4 hours!

Unfortunately washer dryers are notoriously unreliable.

[Andy Burns]

So every I've only had two in 18+ years, done a couple of running repairs on current one, blower motor bearings sound like they might need attention next.

[Peter]

AEG is part of same group as Zanussi a nd AEG washer dryers are made by Zanussi so buy a Zanussi it will be cheaper.

Peter

[Grunff]

True so far.

I'm really not sure about this. Our AEG dishwasher says "made in Germany", but our Zanussi washing machine (which is very good, btw) says "made in Italy". So at least different factories.

[Peter]

I did say "AEG washer dryers are made by Zanussi" never mentioned Dishwashers !!!!!!!!!!!

Peter