Hotpoint Ariston washing machines: pros and cons, selection criteria, rating of the best models

Each washing machine differs from the others not only in its characteristics, but also has its own dimensions - Ariston produces many models, among which the consumer can easily find the optimal unit specifically for their needs. Washing machines differ in several technical parameters:

• Maximum drum loading volume;
• Belonging to a specific energy consumption class;
• Push-up class;
• Washing quality level;
• Drum rotation speed during spinning.

A few words about the brand

The history of the Hotpoint Ariston brand dates back to 1930. This year, Aristide Merloni opened a company selling scales in Italy. 15 years later, the first products under the Ariston brand entered the market. These were electric water heaters. Subsequently, the company acquired another line of production – household appliances.

Now the Italian company is known throughout the world for its washing machines. In 2014, it came under the wing of the American concern Whirlpool. This happened after the takeover of the Indesit brand, of which Hotpoint Ariston was part. Assembly takes place in 3 countries at once: Slovakia, Russia, Italy.

On the territory of the first state, equipment with a vertical loading type is being created. In Italy, only built-in models are assembled, and in the Russian Federation - only front-facing models.

Aristons in the eyes of professionals

Washing equipment repair specialists do not hesitate to say that Ariston appliances have to be repaired very often. This is due to the low quality of spare parts and components of the machines. However, buyers still often choose them because of their low cost and good functionality.

Masters highlight the following advantages of Aristons:

• stability during spinning - the equipment does not “jump” and absorbs vibrations well;
• convenient and intuitive interface;
• low price;
• a wide variety of special washing modes;
• simple controls;
• availability of various add-ons and options.

Ariston washing machines also have disadvantages, and quite significant ones:

1. Non-separable tank. In such machines it is very problematic to change the oil seal and bearings; repairs will cost the owner a pretty penny. As practice shows, parts wear out after two to three years of operation of the equipment. Thus, housewives will have to face expensive repairs in the medium term;
2. Imperfect electronics. It is the SMAs of this brand that are distinguished by their “raw” control modules.

Ariston automatic washing machines are budget equipment from which you don’t need to expect anything “supernatural.” It is advisable to refuse the purchase if the water in your region is too hard. Machines from the Italian brand are not designed for long-term use, therefore, when planning to purchase an expensive automatic dryer, it is better to choose a more reliable manufacturer.

Advantages and disadvantages of Hotpoint Ariston washing machines

The main advantages of Hotpoint Ariston washing machines:

1. Reliability. The brand’s models are distinguished by a long service life; models with direct drive have the longest service life.
2. Economical consumption of resources. Brand models usually have reduced energy consumption, and water supply costs are also reduced. Most devices are class A.
3. Simple and intuitive controls. The instrument panel has clear markings and broad captions. Both a teenager and an elderly person can start a wash cycle.
4. Wide functionality. Moreover, not only expensive models, but also budget ones have an abundance of programs.
5. Flexibility of setting modes. The user can create his own program by saving it in the device memory.
6. Rich assortment. The manufacturer produces lines for various price categories. Moreover, devices within one segment may differ in the type of installation, method of loading the tank and functionality.
7. Stylish design and a rich palette of colors. There are both classic white cases and those made in dark gray.
8. Convenient compartment for detergent. On front-loading products, the compartment has internal dividers. They separate compartments for each type of detergent.

Disadvantages of Hotpoint Ariston washing machines:

• the drain pump quickly breaks down, the breakdown requires replacement with a new part;
• door failure due to poor quality fastening;
• the water hose quickly cracks and fails, often due to hard water;
• the electronic module often has to be replaced due to high humidity or short circuit;
• cast drum, if the bearing breaks, it will have to be cut, which will increase the cost of repairs.

The presence of breakdowns will directly depend on the performance characteristics.

Improved Aqualtis series

In the new range of machines developed by Hotpoint-Ariston, special attention is focused on preserving the original appearance of clothing.
Let's look at the updated line of the brand using two models as an example. The units combine the company's previous developments with innovative technologies. The highlight of the Aqualtis series is the sophistication of its design.

The entire line is characterized by such a feature as the presence of a rounded front door on half the facade with a built-in futuristic control panel. But some models stand out for their original design, for example, AQ8F29

General features of the model range:

• wide hatch – diameter 35 cm;
• ChildLock – child lock;
• SuperWash program - removal of contaminants from pipes;
• Mix30 – gentle daily wash.

An innovation in the series is the presence of an Eco indicator. The light comes on when you switch to the economical washing mode - reducing electricity consumption by 10% or more.

Despite the common features, the models in the series also have differences.

One of the functional representatives of this line is Hotpoint-Ariston AQ7F05. This is a roomy representative with a depth of 55 cm. The maximum load in the washing mode is 7 kg, the operating intensity of the centrifuge is 1000 rpm.

Interface with a three-section screen displaying washing parameters. The model provides the ability to reload items and a separate program for quilted items and down jackets - Duvet. Cost of AQ7F05 – 240-260 USD.

Another interesting and original washing machine from the Aqualtis line is AQ8F29. It is distinguished by the presence of a built-in drawer for linen.

The design solution increased the height of the machine to 105 cm. The depth of the body is 65 cm, capacity is 8 kg, maximum drum speed is 1200 rpm, spin class is A. This washing machine operates on an asynchronous engine, which provides low noise pressure.

The Auto Dose intelligence system is integrated into the AQ8F29 model - the machine independently determines the amount of powder and conditioner based on the weight and type of laundry. The cost of a “smart” unit is about 340 USD.

Criteria for choosing Hotpoint Ariston washing machines

When choosing a model, you need to consider the following points:

1. Engine's type. There are collector and inverter ones, the latter are more durable and quieter.

2. Drum volume. This parameter must be adapted to the needs of your own family. If it is large and a lot of laundry accumulates, then it is better to choose models with a load of up to 11 kg.
3. Number of revolutions. The higher the speed, the drier the laundry will be. The optimal choice is from 1200 to 1600 rpm.
4. Drying. A very useful function, as it allows you to dry your clothes immediately after washing.
5. Programs. It is better to select them based on your own needs. For example, a family with small children will need two technologies. The first is washing children's clothes, the second is blocking the buttons from being pressed.

What does weight depend on?

Two externally identical automatic machines from different manufacturers or different models of the same brand can differ significantly in their weight. It’s not difficult to understand why this happens - inside identical-sized cases there can be completely different “fillings”.

Most of all, the weight of the device is affected by the following:

• body material and configuration,
• volume and material of the tank,
• drum parameters,
• number and mass of counterweights.

The most significant contribution to the total mass of the device is made by the counterweights. These are parts of various shapes, the main task of which is to ensure that the machine achieves maximum stability. But the characteristics of the material from which other parts are made also make a significant contribution.

It’s easy to guess that a body made of plastic or composite materials is much lighter than steel. A stainless steel tank is an order of magnitude heavier than a similar one made of plastic. It is easy to calculate how much a stainless steel drum weighs and how this affects the characteristics of the device as a whole.

It is worth noting the fact that in most cases, compact devices with the same capacity have more weight. This is due to the fact that the body, which has a small contact area with the floor, is easier to “lose,” so manufacturers are forced to forcibly make the machine heavier, lowering the center of gravity using counterweights.

There is a wide range of washing machines on the market, differing markedly in a number of parameters, including weight. The lightest of those that can be bought weighs no more than 30 kg, the weight of the heaviest, not counting laundry equipment, is about 100 kg. On average, this figure fluctuates in the range of 50-70 kg.

Top 10 best Hotpoint Ariston washing machine models

The list of the best models is compiled based on functionality, characteristics and dimensions. In addition, the models belong to different price segments.

Hotpoint-Ariston RST 702 ST S

A budget model with wide functionality, 16 programs are available to the user. You can run a quick cycle or limit yourself to a super rinse. Despite the low cost, the manufacturer equipped the machine with an inverter motor. Therefore, work even during the spin cycle will take place at a low noise level - 64 dB.

Intelligent control with electronic display. In the menu you can adjust the temperature of any program. The maximum spin speed is limited to 1000 rpm, so the laundry remains damp after washing. The number of revolutions can be changed through the menu, reducing for delicate fabrics. The spin cancel function is also available.

The tank is loaded through a hatch located on the front panel. The top of the device can be used for household needs. The dimensions of the device are compact - the depth is only 44 cm. Therefore, it is easy to install in small areas. On the market the price fluctuates around 17,561 rubles.

The advantages include:

• large tank volume, in one cycle you can remove stains from up to 7 kg of laundry;
• low energy consumption, the model is marked with A++;
• high quality washing, degree of cleaning assigned to class A;
• partial protection against leakage, thanks to the insulated housing;
• automatic regulation of the level of foam formation; if there is excess, a special pump pumps it out;
• a steam function that disinfects things from bacteria and smoothes out most of the wrinkles;
• low water consumption, only 50 liters per cycle;
• automatic control over the distribution of things inside the tank, the system does not allow them to bunch up;
• the ability to postpone the cycle until the evening, thanks to the delay start timer and the “Super Silent” mode.

Disadvantages of the device:

• the hatch cannot be opened 180 degrees, so loading bulky items may be difficult;
• there is no notification about the end of the cycle;
• no tank lighting;
• there is no washing mode for outerwear;
• poor-quality spinning - class C, the laundry will remain very damp after washing.

Hotpoint-Ariston RST 703 DW

The front-loading machine allows you to clean up to 7 kg of laundry from stains. The large diameter of the hatch is 34 cm, making it easier to stow blankets and other large items. The classic design in white light allows it to be integrated into any interior. And the shallow depth of 44 cm makes it easy to fit into a small space.

The manufacturer has equipped the model with a variety of programs and modes - 14, which provide a high level of cleaning from any contaminants. There are functions for cleaning outerwear and delicate fabrics. Information about the operation of the device is displayed on an electronic display. The budget price of 21,381 rubles makes the model affordable for purchase.

The advantages are as follows:

• the ability to delay the start for the desired time, maximum period – 24 hours;
• through the menu you can block the panel from being pressed;
• the brand provided the model with a sound alert about the end of the cycle;
• high level of energy efficiency, the machine belongs to class A+++;
• there is a separate mode for cleaning curtains from stains;
• the device body is protected from leaks;
• a special pump pumps out foam if too much has formed;
• the temperature in the modes can be changed at any time;
• low water consumption, only 52 liters are required for a fully loaded tank;
• control over the uniform distribution of things inside the tank.

The disadvantages include:

• noisy operation - 82 dB during the spin period;
• programs that are too long;
• low spin quality, maximum speed – 1000 rpm.

Hotpoint-Ariston WMTL 501 L

The model is from the budget segment and has an average tank loading level of 5 kg. The door is located on the top panel, which allows you to load laundry during the cycle. The vertical type of stacking laundry is also convenient for older people, because you don’t have to constantly bend over.

In addition, the model's 40 cm width makes it easy to fit into tight spaces. That's why verticals are often installed in bathrooms. However, during installation it is necessary to take into account that the top will tilt back. It will not be possible to install shelves above the lid, because free space is needed. The market price starts from 21,965 rubles.

Among the advantages are:

• delayed start, the cycle can be started 12 hours after loading the drum;
• adjusting the position of things inside the tank if they get stuck together;
• the foam is pumped out by a special pump, so breakdowns due to its excess are reduced to zero;
• protection of the device from leaks;
• low water consumption – 42 l;
• the ability to carry out a quick cycle to cleanse light stains.

The disadvantages of the device include:

• lack of an electronic display informing about the status of the device and the stages of its operation;
• low spin speed, the drum can only make 1000 rpm.

Hotpoint-Ariston ARUSF 105

A model designed for installation in a furniture set. The manufacturer has equipped the device with a removable lid, which allows you to install it under the countertop. Thanks to its compact dimensions - depth is 33 cm,

The device can be installed even in a small kitchen or bathroom.

True, the reduction in size affected the capacity of the tank. The drum can only hold 4 kg of laundry, which is only suitable for a small family or individual use. Despite its compact size, the model has full functionality.

The user has a choice of 16 programs designed for different types of clothing and dirt. For example, the pre-wash function allows you to better remove stubborn stains. And the mode for delicate fabrics starts a gentle cycle at low speeds. In addition, there is an economical mode that allows you to reduce resource costs per cycle. The price of the device starts from 24,690 rubles.

Advantages of the device:

• the ability to delay the start of the cycle for a day;
• the housing is protected from leaks;
• the ability to receive information about the operation of the device from the information board;
• the machine automatically measures the required amount of resources to clean the loaded laundry;
• built-in spin speed indication;
• economical energy consumption;
• the built-in pump rids the device of excess foam, removing it into the sewer;
• high degree of purification, the device is assigned the A mark;
• you can block buttons from accidental pressing;
• the ability to regulate the number of tank revolutions;
• Auto balance prevents things from getting together, increasing washing efficiency.

The negative aspects of the model include:

• small tank volume;
• there is no protection against power surges, so parts may break during power surges;
• Spin at low speeds up to 1000 rpm, which leaves the laundry still damp.

Hotpoint-Ariston WMTL 601 L

The vertical device allows you to load up to 6 kg of laundry. Rich functionality ensures high quality cleaning of clothes of any type. There are up to 16 programs to choose from: from washing baby clothes to cleaning delicate fabrics. The drum can rotate at a speed of 1000 rpm, so the clothes will be quite damp after washing. The cost is approximately 28,000 rubles.

Positive aspects of the device:

• you can change the temperature when starting any program;
• economical energy consumption, the device is marked with the sign A;
• it is possible to delay the launch for a day;
• Partial leakage protection, only the housing is insulated;
• Excess foam is pumped out automatically;
• built-in indication allows you to control the operation of the device;
• low degree of water consumption – 48 l;
• high quality washing – at the level of class A, achieved through imbalance control;
• There is a built-in self-diagnosis function that allows you to monitor the occurrence of breakdowns.

Disadvantages of the model:

• short length of sewer hose;
• noisy operation due to the commutator motor;
• There is no auto-parking function, so after the cycle the drum must be rotated to open.

Hotpoint-Ariston CAWD 129

Built-in type model, equipped with a cover on the front panel. The device has standard dimensions, so the installation process in a kitchen set will not cause problems. Despite its capacity, it has low water consumption, only 52 liters per cycle.

Wide functionality - 17 modes, allows you to wash even the most stubborn stains of any type of fabric. Thanks to the “Super Silent” mode, the device can be started at night. The machine will operate almost silently. The price starts from 35,515 rubles.

The advantages include:

• impressive loading volume – 7 kg, meeting the needs of the average family;
• protection against leaks allows you to preserve the set in case of internal breakdowns;
• blocking buttons from pressing through the menu;
• built-in imbalance control prevents things from clumping together inside the tank;
• you can run “Antibacterial wash”, which will be useful for allergy sufferers;
• foaming is controlled thanks to built-in sensors, all excess is removed by a special pump;
• there is a separate mode for washing baby clothes;
• the machine is equipped with an alert system; an indication will inform you about the washing stages;
• the presence of a dryer operating in 3 modes;
• built-in intelligent control, changing modes and functions occurs via buttons and a switch.

Disadvantages of the device:

• built-in drying often creates additional wrinkles on the fabric, which complicates ironing;
• high level of energy consumption, the model belongs to class B.

Hotpoint-Ariston RZ 1047 B

The device is made in Italy and has a hatch on the front panel. Therefore, the upper surface can be used for economic purposes. Stylish design will make the model an interior decoration. The universal dark gray color will complement any design without disturbing the harmony of the created style.

The spacious tank, which can hold up to 10 kg of laundry, will be an excellent choice for a large family. The manufacturer equipped the car with an inverter motor. This ensures low noise levels and better control of tank movements.

In addition, the new generation engine allows you to spin things at high speed. In this model, the maximum number of revolutions is 1400. Spin at this speed corresponds to level A, after the cycle the clothes are squeezed almost dry. The price on the market starts from 37,939 rubles.

You can add to the advantages:

• many washing modes - 16, allowing you to clean any type of fabric from stains;
• The manufacturer has built-in leakage protection into the device, so in case of breakdowns, the water supply will be stopped automatically;
• it is possible to protect the control panel from being pressed during washing by locking it;
• the company has equipped the model with a steam generator, so clothes can be additionally disinfected from bacteria and allergens;
• built-in display, which displays all information about the operation of the device;
• the ability to delay the start of the cycle, things can be washed a day after being placed in the drum;
• good degree of purification from contaminants, the model is awarded the A mark;
• high level of energy efficiency, the device belongs to class A.

Main disadvantages:

• lack of protection against power surges; power surges may cause breakdowns;
• large dimensions will require a lot of space for location.

Hotpoint-Ariston ARTF 104

The device is equipped with a convenient display that informs you about the washing progress. Control is carried out through a switch and pressing buttons. The manufacturer has equipped the machine with wide functionality; in the menu you can select both an intensive wash and a quick cycle. There is a separate program for cleaning children's things.

The model has a hatch in the top panel, which makes the loading process easier. You don't have to constantly bend down to fill the tank - a good choice for families with older people. In addition, resource consumption is automatically monitored. The machine determines the type and weight of the fabric, and then selects the optimal parameters. The cost ranges from 41,500 rubles.

Advantages of the device:

• AquaStop function is built-in, protecting the housing and hose from leaks;
• good level of capacity - 5 kg, sufficient volume for the average family;
• there are separate modes for silk and wool products;
• low level of energy consumption, the model is assigned class A;
• you can delay the start of the cycle up to 24 hours;
• good degree of cleansing from stains and other contaminants, the device is marked with the A sign;
• narrow width – 40 cm, allows you to install the model in the most cramped areas;
• regulation of foam formation.

The main drawback is insufficient spin. The laundry remains very damp after the cycle, as the maximum number of spins is 1000.

Hotpoint-Ariston BWMD 742

A spacious model designed for installation in a furniture set. It can be built under the countertop or in a separate module. Due to its large dimensions, the location of the device must be carefully calculated. The model will not fit into very tight spaces due to its large width, reaching 60 cm. However, installation in a set allows you to maintain the overall style of the room.

The company equipped the model with a high spin speed, reaching 1400 rpm. Therefore, even large items will be free from excess moisture. Storing things is done through the hatch located on the front panel. The tank capacity can hold up to 7 kg of laundry; it is possible to wash curtains and curtains in a separate mode. The price starts from 52,990 rubles.

The advantages of the device include:

• 16 programs, in each mode you can change the temperature;
• economical energy consumption, the device belongs to class A;
• the ability to delay the cycle for up to 12 hours;
• it is possible to do laundry at night;
• a digital display informs about the cycle;
• the cleaning level corresponds to class A, which will allow you to remove the most stubborn stains;
• there is a mode for cleaning wool products;
• automatic regulation of the position of things inside the drum, the system does not allow the laundry to bunch up;
• low noise level: washing – 52 dB, spinning – 73 dB;
• foam formation control, the device automatically pumps out excess foam.

Disadvantages of the device:

• there is no drying, which is a significant disadvantage for a high-cost model;
• the control panel cannot be blocked from accidental presses, so the device may not be suitable for families with small children;
• the presence of partial protection against leaks, which is unacceptable in a high-price model.

Hotpoint-Ariston AQ114D 697 D

A large-sized model with a large loading tank, you can clean 11 kg of laundry from stains per cycle. However, due to its large size - 60 in width and 62 in depth, the device will take up a lot of space. Therefore, accommodation in a small apartment will be difficult. The model is a free-standing model, so it will not be possible to integrate a ready-made headset into it.

However, the stylish design will make the device a full-fledged element of the overall design. The hatch is located on the front wall of the case; it opens to the right. The top can be used as a work panel for household needs. The price starts from 59,400 rubles.

The advantages of the device are as follows:

• Quiet operation is achieved thanks to the built-in inverter motor;
• the new generation motor provides good spin quality - 1600 rpm, even large items will be rid of excess water;
• built-in steam generator allows you to refresh and smooth laundry, eliminate unpleasant odors and allergens;
• Direct Injection technology turns detergent into mousse, which allows you to more effectively remove dirt;
• the system allows you to create and save your own washing mode, and the memory supports storing up to 3 programs;
• a large number of modes - 16, including two anti-allergenic washing modes: for delicate fabrics and intensive;
• the built-in delayed cycle function allows you to start washing 24 hours after loading the laundry;
• built-in indication informs about all stages of washing;
• the self-diagnosis function allows you to promptly detect any problems;
• blocking buttons from accidental presses will be useful for families with small children;
• the auto-balance function ensures better cleaning due to the uniform distribution of clothes inside the tank;
• Ecotech technology allows you to reduce energy consumption by 60%;
• Protection against power surges allows you to protect the device from breakdowns during surges.

The model has several disadvantages:

• protection against leaks is only partial, only the body is insulated;
• no built-in drying.

Names of modes and how are they indicated?

In addition to graphic symbols, there are also numbers on the panels of Ariston washing machines. Each washing mode has its own number. The drawings, as a rule, are not located around the round switch, as in some models, but on the left side of the panel, under which the container for powder and rinse aid is hidden. It is not always possible to understand the designation of a particular symbol the first time, so in this situation you cannot do without instructions. Let's look at the numbering of the washing program for Ariston machines.

1. Synthetic fabrics, washable at 60 degrees. Their designation is a full dress.
2. Synthetic fabrics that need to be washed at 40 degrees.
3. White items are indicated by a picture of a white T-shirt.
4. Colored things. The mode image is a circle on the background of a T-shirt.
5. Dark items are indicated by a black T-shirt.
6. The shirts have an image similar to the name.
7. Down items are presented in the form of a jacket with a hood.
8. Linen “7 days” is a program for washing bed linen. The picture looks like two different sized towels hanging on a holder.
9. The “Rinse” mode is indicated by a picture that shows the outline of a basin with water pouring into it.
10. Spin and drain. The symbol for this program is a circular spiral and drops of water located underneath it.
11. Anti-allergy washing is indicated by a symbol in the form of a baby bottle and pacifier.
12. The delicate wash has an image of a basin of water and intricate lines above it.
13. Wool. The mode is represented by a symbol in the form of a triangular skein of wool.
14. Mix 30 – a circle marked “30”.
15. Standard 60 cotton is represented by a flag indicating "60".
16. Standard 40 cotton has a flag-shaped designation that says “40.”
17. Standard Cotton 20 - T-shirt with "20" written on it.

On some Ariston models, the images may differ slightly from those described above, but in general they are all similar. Once the symbolism of the washing programs has become clear to us, it is worth moving on to their detailed description.

Heavy or light

There are no trifles when choosing a washing machine; you need to be aware that you are buying a device that will serve for many years, therefore, you need to pay attention to all the parameters, including weight. The advantages of a light machine are obvious:

• easy to transport,
• there will be no difficulties when moving,
• if necessary, it is easy to move it to another room.

Actually, that's all. In turn, a heavy washing machine:

• stands more stable,
• less noise
• Vibrates less, which is especially noticeable during spinning.

From all of the above, we can conclude that if the family does not plan to move frequently, then it is worth choosing a device according to the principle “the heavier, the better”, of course, within reasonable limits. For the average family, this figure should be around 70 kg.

Why do you need to know the weight?

Quite often the question of how much a washing machine weighs comes to the fore. There are situations in which weight is the most important criterion when choosing a particular model.

1. The apartment is located on the top floor of a multi-storey building, there is no freight elevator or its lifting capacity is limited. This, plus the small volume of the passenger elevator, makes us think about the difficulties caused by lifting the device to the floor.
2. Lack of your own home or work that requires constant moving. Here we need to look for a compromise solution, we need a good car, but so that its transportation does not cause difficulties.
3. Knowing how many kilograms a device weighs is simply necessary when choosing a narrow model. It cannot be too light; weight reduction can only be justified by the presence of an auto-balancing function.
4. The weight of the machine directly affects the list of what can be washed in it. If the device will be used for frequent washing of winter jackets, blankets, bedspreads and other large items, it should be as heavy as possible.
5. If you need to buy a device that is not built into furniture, and even with a large load of laundry, weight will be the most important criterion when choosing.