Bosch WAS2442XEE vs Electrolux EWF1476GDW

The appliance is either Energy Star Certified, or has an EU energy efficiency rating of A++ or A+++. This means it consumes around 20-30% less energy than is required by the minimum local standards for energy efficiency.

A hot water connection means that you can provide the machine with hot water from your main hot water supply. This can be faster than an internal heater and can save money if you have a cheap and efficient water heater.

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The more power per year a device consumes, the less energy efficient it is, making it more costly over time.

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Aqua stop machines have a special mechanical system which cuts off the water flow into the tub if a fault occurs with the inlet pipe.

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Front loading machines are good as you can use the space above and sometimes stack a dryer on top. In general front loading machines use less energy, using less water by only partly filling the drum and obtaining higher spin speeds which clean without requiring as much heat.

The device is designed a specific way so that it can be built into a cupboard.

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Dot matrix displays can show important text or graphics using a matrix of lights or mechanical indicators like the display on a calculator.

With a transparent door you can look inside the machine and see what laundry is inside.

You can adjust the height of the machine which means that if the floor is uneven you can level it out.

A reversible door is useful if the machine is in a corner, so you can make it open more conveniently. It also means the door is easy to remove and can be replaced if needed.

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With a wider range of programs to choose from you can be more specific and choose the best, most economic program for your needs.

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A faster spin speed means you can get things cleaner with a lower temperature of the water. Using a fast spin also extracts water, meaning that the clothes come out nearly dry. Generally, anything over 1,000 rpm is very good.

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During a spin, machines can get quite noisy. With less noise the machine is not as distracting and you won't be restricted to using it at certain times.

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Machines with a load sensor can weigh the load and adjust settings accordingly. This means you don't have to feel as guilty about doing a smaller load as the machine will use less water.

This means you can stop the machine if you want to add something you forgot, or get something out that you need urgently.

More weight capacity helps if you want to wash something heavy like curtains. A traditional household machine can hold around 6kg, so with a machine much bigger you may waste energy using it when only half full.

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A child lock enables adults to prevent or restrict children’s use of the device.

The detergent drawer is washed automatically to prevent a build up of old detergent.

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The machine is linked up to a monitoring centre using WiFi. If the machine has any faults the centre will respond by contacting you and helping you to fix the problem.

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The machine will let you know when it is finished with an alarm or even by playing a tune.

Any faults with your machine can be detected and diagnosed at an early stage with a smartphone. The machine will send a signal indicating what is wrong and how to fix it, without you having to call for help.

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