Caravan RV Washing Machine Buying Guide
Help choosing the right caravan RV washing machine
There are a lot of caravan washing machines on the market these days, so how do you choose the right one for your needs? In this buying guide, we’ll take a look at some of the key factors you need to think about when making your decision. We’ll also highlight some of the best models on the market right now. Let’s get started!
Often caravans these days come standard with an automatic washing machine so you may simply be looking to replace new for old. In which case your main concern is finding a suitable model that will fit the existing space. Alternatively, you may be wanting to install a washing machine in your beloved van for the first time. Read on!
Use a Fit-For-Purpose Caravan RV Washing Machine
The first thing to address is that you are not able to use domestic washing machines designed for houses in your caravan, nor are you able to use a caravan RV washing machine at home. Caravan washing machines are rated for approx. 400 KPA of water pressure and are specifically designed for caravan and RV’s. The use of a caravan washing machine connected to residential water pressure, 850-900KPA, is not recommended and may not be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. A domestic washing machine requires more water and higher water pressure to operate correctly, neither of which is a realistic achievement when vanning.
SPACE
The constraints of van life are many and one is the lack of storage space. When you live in a vehicle, often there’s not enough room for everything that comes along with it – especially if you want to add a new appliance. However, with some clever design ideas like installing your appliance near an accessible plumbing fixture, such as a sink in the ensuite, access to the plumbing is easier. Also, utilise the space on the wall or use some of the under bench space in the vanity.
Under-Bench
There are two options for installation in the bathroom. One is to mount the washing machine on the rear wall adjacent to the ensuite mirror. First, you may have to remove the cabinetry on the wall to make space. The other is to utilise the cabinetry space under the bathroom vanity to store a larger under bench machine. Either way, you may have to sacrifice some storage space. But the upside is clean linen and clothes while you are on the road!
Consider this: if you choose to install a top loading washing machine under the bench there is one other feature that will be needed. A pull-out system must also be purchased so your new appliance can sit on runners, so you have access for loading its mouth. Have this, and the washing machine, installed by a professional. This may seem clunky, but it does offer an advantage in convenience as well: the larger capacity under bench washing machine, means less loads of washing.
Another option is a front load washing machine that fits nicely under the bench. The front-loading washing machine is a good option if you want it installed without the need for extra hardware. This will require installation by an experienced tradesperson so that everything fits correctly and there are no leaks or other problems along its drain route. The last thing you want while away is damage to your ensuite by a vigorously operating machine shaking lose or leaking water throughout your van.
Wall Mounted
As beforementioned, you could consider a wall mounted washing machine. They take up less space, however they also have a smaller capacity. This is perfect when travelling solo or as a duo and you only need to wash once a day or every second day. Again, the machine needs to be professionally installed to ensure that it is correctly fixed to a supported rear wall. As you can imagine the spin cycle is powerful and this can detach a poorly secured machine from the wall or cause considerable damage to your van.
Capacity
With a small capacity washing machine, if you are travelling with a group or the family, you may find yourself needing to process a few loads of washing to achieve the same outcome as the larger machine. Wall mounted washing machines are smaller and therefore consume less water, on the other hand, the under-bench options are larger and as a result use more water.
Installation
The last thing to mention is, please ensure your new washing machine is installed by a Licensed Technician and compliant with Australian Standards. Also, allow sufficient time to get your van booked in with a professional, often they are booked up in advance.
Without further ado, here a few washing machines available from Suncoast Caravan Service.
Aussie Traveller Top Load Washing Machine
The range of Aussie Traveller top load RV washing machines are available in 2.5kg and 3.2kg capacity models and feature a 240 Volt cold water inlet with left- or right-hand water outlet option.
They also feature lint filter, water inlet filter, a stainless-steel wash drum and full wash cycle choices. Choose from rapid wash all the way to a full cycle wash. The Aussie Traveller washing machines also contain a carry basket, that also doubles as a drum stabilizer. As well as full rubber hose assembly.
These compact washing machines are a great addition to your vehicle as they are lightweight, the 2.5kg weighs 17kg and the 3.2kg model weighing 18.5kg.
Sphere 3.3kg Top Loader Washing Machine
The new and improved model has a greater loading capacity, a newly designed carry basket with locking clips, improved rubber hoses with stainless steel screw clamps and 3 water level options. This handy washing machine allows you to pack fewer clothes but stay at locations you love for longer. The need to wait your turn to use the caravan park laundry has ceased because you’re now able to do your laundry when it is convenient for you.
The Sphere Automatic Mini Washing Machine has five process settings from a wash-rinse-spin cycle (lasting approx 38 mins) to a simple spin cycle (lasting approx. 7mins). Wash settings are set via the uncomplicated control panel. This washing machine is suitable to cold wash only but has the adaptability of having the drainage hose outlet on either the left or right side of the machine. With an elegant white body and stainless-steel wash tub, it will fit the interior decor of any RV.
Camec Compact RV 4KG Front Loader
Premium Compact RV Front Load Washing Machine. With a large 4 Kg capacity for its overall size, you can now enjoy all of the features and wash modes you are accustomed to with your home machine right in your RV. Requiring only a cold-water supply, hot water washing is possible using the machine’s inbuilt heating element.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS:
15 wash programs including 3 Quick Wash modes
400-1000 RPM spin speed (user adjustable)
Special AQUAPLUS “delicate skin” wash mode which utilises dedicated
Cycles to ensure detergents are completely removed from the clothing
Auto water level control
Bi-directional wash cycle selector
Wash time remaining display
1 Year Warranty
Sphere 2.6Kg Mini Automatic
The need to wait your turn to use the caravan park laundry has ceased because you’re now able to do your laundry when it is convenient for you. The Sphere Automatic Mini Washing Machine has five process settings from a wash-rinse-spin cycle (lasting approx 38 mins) to a simple spin cycle (lasting approx 7mins). Wash settings are set via the uncomplicated control panel. This washing machine is suitable to cold wash only but has the adaptability of having the drainage hose outlet on either the left or right side of the machine. With an elegant white body and stainless-steel wash tub, it will fit the interior decor of any RV.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS:
Has an easy-to-read control panel
Has an out of balance sensor
Stainless steel wash tub
Durable lint filter similar to domestic standards
Time display shows time remaining in the cycle
Camec 2.5kg Wall Mount Washing Machine
The Camec Wall Mount Washing Machine combines elegant design, amazing efficiency, and light weight with compact size to provide a call leading solution to space restrictions in your caravan or RV. Rigorous vibration testing has been conducted to ensure years of trouble-free operation.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS:
Illuminated touch screen operation
Cotton wash + quick wash
Heated wash (95 C)
Drum cleaning
Rinse + spin function
Delay function
Child lock
Temperature control
