Buying a new washing machine can feel straightforward — until you realise how many options, features and price points there are. Many people in Ireland end up overspending or choosing a machine that doesn’t quite suit their home simply because they overlook a few key factors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common washing machine buying mistakes — and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Capacity
One of the most common mistakes is selecting a washing machine that doesn’t match your household size.
A machine that’s too small will mean more frequent washes, while one that’s too large can waste energy and water on smaller loads.
As a general guide:
- 7–8kg: ideal for individuals or couples
- 9–10kg: better suited to families
- 10kg+: best for larger households or heavy use
If you’re unsure, it’s worth taking a closer look at our guide to washing machine capacity to find the right fit for your home.
2. Ignoring Energy Efficiency
With rising electricity costs in Ireland, energy efficiency is more important than ever.
Modern washing machines are now rated from A to G under the updated EU energy label. While A-rated models may cost more upfront, they can save you significantly over time.
Many customers focus on the purchase price — but the real cost is in long-term usage.
We explain this in more detail in our washing machine energy ratings guide.
3. Overpaying for Features You Don’t Need
It’s easy to be drawn to premium features like automatic detergent dosing, WiFi connectivity, or advanced programmes — but not everyone needs them.
For example:
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Features like automatic dosing (such as i-DOS) are ideal for convenience
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Smart connectivity is useful for some households, but not essential
The key is to choose features that match your daily routine — not just what sounds impressive.
4. Not Measuring Your Space Properly
This is a surprisingly common issue.
Before buying, always check:
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Width, height and depth of the space
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Door clearance
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Space for ventilation
This is especially important in apartments or kitchens with tighter layouts. If space is a concern, you may find our guide to washing machines for small living spaces helpful.
5. Focusing Too Much on Spin Speed
Higher spin speeds (e.g. 1400rpm or 1600rpm) can reduce drying time — but they’re not always necessary.
In many cases:
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1200–1400rpm is more than sufficient
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Higher speeds can be noisier and more expensive
Choosing a machine based purely on spin speed can lead to paying more for little real benefit.
6. Choosing Based on Price Alone
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, this can sometimes mean compromising on reliability, efficiency or performance.
A better approach is to look at:
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Brand reputation
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Energy efficiency
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Build quality
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Features that actually matter to you
At Redmond Electric, we stock a wide range of washing machines to suit different budgets — from reliable everyday models to premium options with advanced features.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right washing machine doesn’t have to be complicated — but avoiding these common mistakes can make a big difference.
By focusing on capacity, energy efficiency, and your actual needs, you can find a machine that works for your home both now and in the long run.
If you’re ready to explore your options, you can browse our full range of washing machines available for delivery across Ireland.