Once in a Blue Moon (Indesit Moon SIXL145S)

Member Name: cookie334

Product:	Indesit Moon SIXL145S
Date:	04/11/08 (470 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good features, reliable, don't need as much detergent, could be a greener option

Disadvantages: Lack of cycles, length of cycles, low spin speeds, can't use with ecover.... could go on

Indesit Moon Washing Machine

Our old Indesit washing machine lasted for many years and I was always happy with the results, so when the time came that it needed to be replaced, we didn't think twice about ordering another Indesit.

As a family, we try to do our bit for the environment. I used to play about with the settings on my machine to try and cut down on the usage but still maintaining the same cleaning results. I found that for most of my washing (which included that of a mucky manual worker and 2 young kids) a 40deg quick wash cycle was more than enough. I managed to cut this wash down to 20 minutes by turning the dial round half way through, but I would add half of the normal wash spin at the end so that the clothes came out slightly dryer. So anyway, when we saw the Indesit Moon, which claims to be a more "eco" washing machine it seemed like the obvious choice for us.

We decided to order the silver model with the blue door (as pictured above) as it would match our kitchen better, however, it is also available in white with a silver door.

Upon delivery of our Moon, I decided to have a look through the instruction manual. There were no dials on the machine and only 5 buttons - one of which was the power - so I was expecting it to be quite complicated to work. I discovered I needn't have worried as it was very simple to work. There are only 5 different wash cycles:
60 deg for white cotton, up to 6kg, spins at 1400rpm and lasts 145 minutes
40 deg for colour mix, up to 4.5kg, spins at 1000rpm and lasts 105 minutes
30 deg for delicates (wool), up to 1.5kg, spins at 600rpm and lasts 50 minutes
30 deg for delicates (silk and curtains), up to 1.5kg, no spin and lasts 50 minutes
30 deg for daily wash/cold water rinse, up to 3kg, spins at 800rpm and lasts 30 minutes

From reading this you can see why it claims to be a green machine. Most of the washes are 30 degrees and if the majority of your washing is cotton and synthetics, it is designed so that the cycle you use the most will be the 30 degree 30 minute wash. However, I wasn't too impressed with the spin speeds. I though I was getting a 1400 speed washing machine, whereas in reality the speed I would be getting if I use this 30 degree 30 minute cycle was only 800! I wasn't wrong either, we've now had the machine for a year and I have still never used the cycle with the 1400 speed.

There is also an "Auctomatic Rinse Management" on the machine where the rinse function is monitored and controlled by special sensors and if the items are still soapy at the end of the wash, the machine will automatically extend the rinse cycle until there is no detergent left. Sounds like a good feature. However, if you use Ecover washing powder (a more "eco" detergent), the sensors don't appear to recognise the detergent and the clothes still come out soapy. However, this feature has made me realise that we do not need to use nearly as much detergent and manufacturers will have us believe. After switching to Fairy Non Bio, I have discovered that if I use any more than half of the recommended amount, the cycle will be increased by at least 15 minutes. The same cleaning results are achieved by using half the recommended amount.

In my experience the 30 degree 30 minute cycle hasn't come up to scratch when commpared to my old washing machine either. I find to remove the dirt from my mucky family's clothes I need to use the 40 degree wash more often than not. On the plus side, the 40 degree cycle is also very effective at getting nappies really clean, which for me completely eliminates the need for the hotter and longer 60 degree cycle.

Other useful features include:

A self cleaning detergent dispenser drawer. This is located inside the door of the machine as opposed to on the outside like other washing machines. This is very effective and is a feature I find very useful.

Locked Door. I'm sure most washing machines have this now, but again a very useful feature, especially with young children about.

Load Balancing System. The machines distributes the load evenly to avoid excessive vibrations during the spin. If it cannot distribute perfectly the machine will automatically spin at a lower speed than stated.


Overall, I think for someone who doesn't already attempt to be a little greener, for someone who uses your average washing powder by your average manufacturers instructions and for someone who uses high temperature cycles regularly, this machine would make them a little greener. Its A+ energy rating means that it will help out with energy consumption. However, I'd be inclined to say that if I fell into this catagory I'd rather spend my money on one of the many other A+ rated washing machines that
a) looked a little less like a spaceship and
b) has a higher spin speed

The Moon may be a good first step in becoming slightly greener, but for someone who is already trying to use less energy and use greener products I wouldn't say this is the best option. I guess you have to decide for yourself.

As a washing machine it is very reliable and we haven't had any problems with the working side of it.

The Indesit Moon can be ordered from Boots Kitchen Appliances for £263.

Summary: Nice idea, but probably wont make a green family greener. Reliable and works but not well

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