So the choice I made for myself was the Whirlpool AWO/D 4505.

Its a front loading machine but still reletively small, its had only a 5kg capacity which suits my needs perfectly. Here are the exact technical details: 

I have to say I am very happy indeed with my purchase and have not looked back. I hope this has helped some of you choose the correct model for yourselves.

I'll try and briefly explain what these new labels that are appearing on machines nowadays mean and how they are classified.

The rule is basically as follows:

The European Union have tried to bring in a classification level that all manufacturers adhere to, evaluating their machines in regards to there energy efficiency. They are then given a rating on just how energy efficient they are and the ratings are classified "A" to "G". 

What this means for us is it is now basically easier to find a energy efficient machine simply by looking at the classification its given. This has saved the consumer now alot of time going through all the technical details hidden away in the broacher and making the end decision (hopefully) alot easier. 

My advice would be to take a "A" or even "A+" class  machine and even spend that little bit more on your Whirlpool washing machine - its going to save you more money in the long run and with the price of electricity always on the up - the more you can save the better!!

Another very important factor to keep in mind is Spinning!

How fast your Whirlpool Washing Maschine can spin will effect how fast your clothes dry - basis rule of thumb the quicker your spinning the more quickly your washing will dry!

Now the slowest spinner that I have found that Whirlpool produce is the Whirlpool GSC 9400, with a spin speed of 650 rpm (revolutions per minute) spin efficiency class D. This is a top loading model with a maximum load of 8kg, a Energy efficiency class of only G and costing around £500. A slightly older model but with the benefits of taking up less space.

An average or good speed that you will find on a lot of models is 1000 rpm, for example the Whirlpool AWOD 4305. Using this model as an average up-to-date model you can expect the following technical details: Spin efficiency class  A,  Capacity 5kg,  Energy effiiency class A+ and costing aound the £200 mark. This is a good level of washing machine and I would recomend not buying anything with a slower spin rate.

The top spinning Whirlpool machines nowadays have a spin rate of 1400rpm, using the Whirlpool AWO/D AS148 as our example. Your clothes will be dryed at the fastest rate and I have yet to find a commercial machine that spins faster. The down point of having such a fast spinning machine is that the efficiency of the machine is effected - the faster the machine spins the more energy it needs to get there. I am sure this will be improved in the future.

Finally one point to remember always when spin drying your clothes is that delicates should always be sparred as much spinning abuse as possible!

The first decision that you will probably need to make is whether a Front or Top Loading Whirlpool washing machine is best for you. There are a few questions that you need to ask yourself to come to this decision.

- Do you wash large amounts of clothes? Do you wash for the entire family?

- Do you have a wide(r) space to place your washing machine?

- Do you plan to place a tumble dryer on top? Do you have the space?

- Do you plan to build your washing machine into kitchen units?

- Do you have enough access to the front of your machine?

Then the best Whirlpool washing machine for you is probably a front loading.

I have recently embarked on the search fro the best Whirlpool washing machine that money can buy. Now 'm not just talking about buying the top of the range washer or even the most expensive one that Whirlpool have produced, but looking at value for money and where you can save yourself a few pennies or where you should think about spending a few more........

If you want to check out the ratings of some other top brands manufacturers then you can take a look the washing machine ratings .