The Only Automated Laundry System Guide You Ever Need – Part 2 of 2

In the previous post, we have provided a list of practical and lifestyle considerations before getting an automated laundry system.

Below is an additional list of technical, cost, and warranty considerations before acquiring an automated laundry system.

#01. Disinfects to eliminate viruses, germs and bacteria

Image from Mensch

The use of UV light is a common method in automated laundry systems with a disinfection feature. These racks have a built-in UV light system that exposes clothes to UV-C radiation, which penetrates the bacteria and virus's cell walls and destroys their DNA, killing them. Disinfecting features are especially useful, especially in this COVID pandemic era when you need to disinfect household items and clothes after you or your family members have recovered from a recent COVID infection. Some models feature an embedded UV Light design to eliminate viruses, germs and bacteria.

Pro Tip: Look out for an automated laundry system with  UV disinfection lamp that comes with a radiation range of 1.5 m or lesser. UV Light design that exposes the laundry to a bigger surface area will make it more effective in disinfection.

#02. Convenience at your fingertips with smart features

Image from Lazada

An automated laundry system with smart features allows you to control and interact with the system remotely through an application installed on your smartphone or other smart device. These typically use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity to connect to a mobile app, allowing you to control the rack from anywhere with an internet connection. This means that you will be able to enjoy the added convenience of managing the system remotely without being on-site. Furthermore, you can also create and apply profiles and configure specific settings based on you and your preferences through the smart app.

Pro Tip: Ensure that the app is supported by both Android and iOS platform, in case you need to change your handphone in the future.

#03. The make and material determine the lifespan and durability

Image from Shopee

Look for a laundry rack that is made from high-quality materials that are durable and can withstand prolonged usage. A well-constructed rack will last longer and provide better value for your money. Most of the automated laundry systems use aluminium for the frame since it is much lighter. Aluminium does not rust but does corrode when exposed to salt while stainless steel is highly corrosion-resistant and does not easily rust. In addition, stainless steel is non-porous which gives it more resistance to corrosion. Therefore, the reeling wire is recommended to be made of 304 stainless steel reeling wire. Also, there might be parts that are made of plastic and although plastic does not corrode, it will disintegrate and crack after years of usage. Hence, do keep a lookout for whether the moving parts are made of plastic.

Pro Tip: Check with the vendor whether the warranty covers the replacements of parts which are made of aluminium and plastic. Look out for scratches on the product display when you visit the showroom.

#04. A Quiet Automated Laundry System is essential if you do laundry at odd hours

Image from Orlant

If you need to do laundry in the wee hours of the morning or night, without waking anyone up at home, you should consider an automated laundry system that emits minimal sound. As the automated laundry system uses a motor to lift the laundry, generally a bigger motor is required to lift a heavier load. However, the bigger the motor, the more noise it makes. Furthermore, additional features such as a drying fan and heater to dry clothes make a fair bit of sound too.

Pro Tip: As a guide, 50dB is equivalent to a quiet conversation, and you are advised to visit the showroom to test the Automated Laundry System before getting one. You can also download an app to measure the level of sound made by the Automated Laundry System when it is in operation.

#05. Look out for additional accessories that could differentiate the product from another

Image fromGoodwife

The market is currently saturated with many automated laundry systems that offer the same capabilities. Hence, one way to help narrow down your search for the most ideal automated laundry system is by checking out the different types of accessories they offer; the accessories could range from hanging baskets for drying bags pillows and soft toys, drying bags and even complimentary compact hangers.

Pro Tip: Check out the vendor's website to find what whether your needs can be met with the accessories they offered.

#06. Be ready to fork out additional installation fees

Design: The Interior Lab

Check with the vendor on whether the listed price includes the installation price. Some vendors list only the product price with the option to include installation. In this way, you have the flexibility to choose your preferred electrician or contractor for the installation. Typically, the installation cost starts from $150 onwards, depending on the ceiling type, height, light and powerpoint point availability. The factors which incur additional cost include removal of the existing ceiling clothes rack, high ceiling above 3 m, places with uneven, false or wooden ceiling, trunking wire to extend from an existing powerpoint and the need to create a new ceiling lighting point.

Pro Tip: The typical basic installation generally includes installation of the automated laundry system on an even concrete ceiling (below 3 m) that has an existing ceiling light point at the installation location. You can get the installation quotes from a few installers by sharing with them the type of ceiling and the availability and location of existing light or a power point. Check with the vendor to see if they offer relocation services when you need to move the installation to another location in your apartment or when you are changing your place of residence. The typical cost of relocating the automated drying system ranges from $100 to $200.

#07. Warranty and after-sales service matters

Design: The Local Inn.terior

Check the warranty offered by the vendor since the warranty will give you peace of mind and protect you from any defects or malfunctions that may occur. Most vendors offer different types of warranty which are differentiated by the duration or the types of parts that need to be covered. Usually, the basic product warranty covers the replacement of motor parts only and does not include transport and labour. In addition, find out whether after-sales services are available during weekends.

Pro Tip: Do find out whether the product warranty covers a one-time one-for-one exchange of the damaged unit with a brand-new replacement unit regardless of the damage. Also, check with the vendor what they exclude from the warranty (such as damages from insect infestation or ceiling water leakage or seepage) and what do they constitute as modification or inappropriate repair works operation of the unit.