When you're buying a new or replacement washing machine you want to know you're buying a quality model which will perform well for as long as possible.

With a Hotpoint washing machine you are buying into a brand with many years of experience and so you can expect a good model. However, even within a brand there are many appliances to choose from and Hotpoint is no exception with its range of Aquarius, Aquarius +, Ultima and Aqualtis models.

Hotpoint's washing machine range starts at Aquarius for a more basic model. Aquarius+, Ultima and Aqualtis offer more programmes as you move up the ladder. They will also get more expensive. However, the model you choose should be the best one for your family and your budget as not everyone requires a plethora of complex programmes.

Take the Hotpoint WMD960P for example. This mid-range appliance is very popular with households because of its balance of useful programmes and relatively low cost.

The Hotpoint WMD960P washing machine comes in a choice of colours; cool polar white, graphite and aluminium. It comes with a desirable and environmentally friendly A energy rating which will keep electricity and water use to a minimum. In turn this will help keep your utility bills down - always a bonus.

The Hotpoint WMD960P washing machine has also been awarded an A rating for wash performance and spin performance. Hotpoint prides itself on understanding your needs and the company has developed its products around what families need.

This machine incorporates an 8kg wash load, so it is capable of tackling the laundry needs of a larger family. Each kilogram is the equivalent of five men's shirts, so you will easily fit 45 shirts in the drum (and more if you're washing children's clothes).

The Hotpoint WMD960PM has a 1600rpm maximum spin speed which is faster than your average washing machine. Higher spin speeds get rid of more moisture, thus reducing the drying time needed for your clothes.

A higher spin speed also reduces cycle time of your machine as it completes more spins per minute however this can only be used on can only be used on certain fabrics like cotton. It may also cause more creases in your fabric.

The WMD960P washing machine has 16 programmes to choose from. This broad range includes an economy wash, half load function and quick wash all of which will cut down the amount of water and energy you use. These programmes will also enable you to economically wash smaller amounts of laundry.