Buyers of washer-dryer beware! For some models of such dual-function appliance may be seriously deficient in drying performance.
A Consumer Council test has revealed one such model which, despite nine hours of blow drying, was still unable to have the washed laundry completely dried.
This result lagged grossly behind other samples which took an average of two hours to finish the task.
Further, the average energy consumption in drying per kg load was measured to range from 0.59 kWh to 1.04 kWh, a great difference among the samples in terms of energy efficiency.
Included in the tests were 12 washer-dryers which were tested and compared for their performance on washing, drying, environment, convenience, and reliability.
The results found that as washers, the models fared considerably better generally being able to wash the laundry well cleaned and rinsed, and achieve good energy efficiency.
On water utilization, the drum type top loader and front loader models were generally of a good choice and more economical. Compared with the least economical model (impeller type), they used 50% less water.
To conserve energy and water, consumers are advised to use suitable cold water wash programme whenever possible. Save enough clothes for each wash. As drying consumes much more energy than washing per kg load, if weather and space permitting, hang the laundry dry instead of using a tumble dryer.
In assessing reliability against water leakage, components such as the electrovalve or pressure switch was deliberately disabled. One sample was rendered unoperative after water was found on the control circuit board of the machine.
Also tested was their reliability against small objects like paper clips, buttons, small coins and socks which were left in to be washed by the samples to assess their immunity to damage. No damage for any sample was reported after the test.
A word of caution: never spray volatile inflammable fluid near an operating washer, nor share socket outlet of washer with other electrical appliances.
Included in the test were washer-dryers varying over a vast price range from $3,000 to $13,000. The 5 top performers with a 4-point overall rating on a scale of 5 were priced from $6,000 to $8,500 while the least expensive model scored a low 2.5-point overall rating.
For full details, consumers can consult the test report in this March issue of CHOICE.
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