Number of Choices:
~ SpeedQueen Top-Loader. Preferably one WITH mechanical controls and full control, none of the newer electronic BS they are starting to put out (which still work)
~ SpeedQueen Front-Loader. Nice because you can actually wash with water, cycles are quick. Not preferable as there is no booster heater installed and costs a phenomenal amount of money
~ Miele W5741 - our current model. Absolutely LOVE IT. You can add more water via the machine's computer (Water Plus), which can add more water, add a rinse or both, Pre-Wash, Shorten cycles and there are plenty of "No Frills" cycles to choose from. Unless you are using the conservative "Cottons" Programme, the machine uses plenty of water
Plus there is a heater. Boil-Wash or Cold wash, if you wish. Cold wash is actually heated to about 77ºF to ensure passable results in colder climates
~ Fisher and Paykel "QuickSmart" Top-Loader. The simplistic, perhaps undersized direct-drive top loader that offers almost no-frills electronic washing options. You can choose washing time (No "Soil Level" options), Rinsing, Temperature and the like and still get decent results. Plus, the truly Direct-Drive motors have far less to go wrong (Yes I know, computers).
What wouldn't I purchase?
Almost anything that Electrolux produces (In Australia it includes): Simpson, Westinghouse, Kelvinator, Chef, Electrolux and so on. I don't think the Electrolux machines are as bad, but any of their "lessees" are terrible in terms of options, reliability and design. Especially those Simpson Top-Loaders. Bleurgh!
And perhaps anything Haier - then again F&P are made/owned by them now, so perhaps we'll be seeing more "Eff-en-Pee" thrown about here.
