Hotpoint Aqualtis AQXXD169PM Review

I say goodbye to my Aquatis tomorrow. I must admit that up until a few days ago, I had been very pleased with it. It was my 2nd Hotpoint machine. I had been so pleased with the first, that I automatically went for another Hotpoint model.

* So quiet in both washing & spinning

* Excellent wash results

* Good spin results, with the odd extra spin needed on thick items eg quilt. This was not a big issue and was not a frequent occurrence.

* Excellent programme choices - suited our needs perfectly

* Overall, a good machine

This is the sad part

* A musty smell from the drum. Water remains in the drum after a final rinse.

* Mildew in the soap dispenser. I use only powder - no liquids (no fabric conditioner) at all and place directly in the drum, so avoiding use of the dispenser

* Having been heavily involved with arranging care for an elderly friend in December/January/February, I forget to start the extended warranty in February. BIG mistake!

* Last week, the spin sounded really loud/noisy - but a Bank Holiday weekend ahead.

* The machine did not last until Tuesday - we had graphite- coloured powder under & in front of the machine

* We also had chippings of a concrete-type substance - presumably the stabilising block in the machine

* With no extended warranty & a machine aged 2 years 3 months, we cut our options, went online and ordered a new machine

* After reading numerous reviews, we decided against another Aqualtis.

*Although we ourselves had no problems with the paddles, we did experience small tears in some garments. At the time, we assumed it might have been something we had done. The reviews have made us reconsider.

* The deciding factor was looking at the reviews on reliablity. Hotpoint was unfortunately in a very poor position. Had that rating been different, I would have given serious consideration to a new Aqualtis, in spite of what has just happened.