Curiosities Curiosities The most reliable and durable appliance brands according to the OCU

Acquiring a new appliance is a great investment for families, which is why it is so important to assess the price, but also the quality in the purchase decision process. Now, based on consumer ratings, the Organization of Consumers and Users has made a classification of the most reliable and durable brands of household appliances: dryers, washing machines, dishwashers and refrigerators.

What are the appliances that last the longest?

In general, the appliances that have a longer useful life are those of the Miele brand, especially when it comes to washing machines, dishwashers and dryers. Miele is a German high-end home appliance company with more than 100 years of history. It was founded in 1899, and since then it has been a family business. The first products it launched on the market were a cream separator and a tub washer.

In 1929 Miele achieved great popularity by launching Europe's first electric dishwasher. The company has always been one step ahead in the field of innovation, and in 1958 it launched the first domestic dryer on the market. Another of his great milestones took place in 1987, when he put on sale the world's first dishwasher with a cutlery tray.

Best appliance brands

Washing machines

Regarding washing machines, the brands that sell the most reliable and durable models according to the OCU ranking are Miele (15 years), and AEG, Zanussi, Siemens and Aspes (12 years). On the contrary, the ones with the most breakdowns and the shortest duration are the Neff, Ikea and Kufnt washing machines.

AEG is another of the most important global companies in the household appliance sector. A German company founded in 1883. Although many people are not aware of it, it manufactured a range of aircraft between 1902 and 1918, and between 1902 and 1908 it was also engaged in automobile manufacturing.

refrigerators

According to the OCU, the best brands to trust when buying a refrigerator according to its useful life are: General Electric (15 years), Ignis, Siemens, Edesa and Zanusso (13 years). As for the reliability of these appliances in relation to the breakdowns they suffer, the most reliable are those of Kunft, Panasonic and Neff.

dryers

Dryers have become one of the most demanded appliances in homes around the world in recent years. It is important to know which brands to trust, and according to the OCU, the best is Miele, whose dryers last an average of 15 years. In addition, they are the ones with the fewest breakdowns.

Dishwasher

Among dishwashers, Germany's Miele is also the big winner. According to the classification of the Organization of Consumers and Users, Miele dishwashers last an average of 15 years. Behind, those of Neff (13 years old), and those of Zanussi, Siemens and Dietrich (12 years old). Which are the most reliable? Those of Neff, Saivod and Sharp.

Top tips for buying a good appliance

Now that we know which are the best brands of electrical appliances, it is time to learn a series of practical tips to make a good purchase decision.

Size

The first thing to take into account is the size of the device in question, depending on the circumstances and needs of each family. The variety of models available on the market is increasing, so this is easy.

To give a simple example, a large capacity washing machine (8 kilos) uses less water and energy per kilo of clothes than a smaller one (5 kilos), but its consumption is higher. Therefore, opting for such a washing machine for a house in which two people live does not make much sense.

Energy classification

Yes, appliances with an A+++ energy rating are more expensive, but in the long run it makes up for it because they represent significant savings on the electricity bill. Under no circumstances is it advisable to purchase a washing machine or freezer with a C or D energy label.

In addition, you have to carefully read the water consumption of washing machines and dishwashers, as well as their noise level. This last aspect is very important because in many cases the light is cheaper at night, so if the noise level is low, the appliances can be started.

Warranty

The appliance warranty is valid for two years. Therefore, if a breakdown occurs during this period of time, the manufacturing company must repair it at no cost to the user. At the moment many manufacturers offer an extended 5-year warranty for an extra price, although it is highly recommended.

This is everything you need to know if you are going to buy an appliance soon. Assess what your present and future needs are, and, based on them, trust the best brands.