First, choose an appliance based on what you need to wash, then check that the model really lets you delay the start until the time you want. An app may offer extra controls, but it doesn’t prove that you can programme your chosen start time or run a cycle while you’re out. Check the manual, and check your energy tariff’s off-peak hours separately.
If you load the washing machine or dishwasher before heading out, look for a start-time setting rather than a simple end-of-cycle notification. The ADEME’s Wattris tool, for example, takes into account the routine of someone who is out during the day. If you’re considering starting a cycle while you’re away, check the model’s instructions and make sure it’s properly installed.
Between working from home, family commitments and travel, it can be useful to change a start time you’ve already set. The ADEME’s Wattris tool recognises several household routines, while Miele notes that changing or cancelling a delayed start depends on the model. Check the manual for the appliance you’re considering.
An app may appeal if you’d like to set or monitor a cycle. Siemens describes remote starting for compatible Home Connect washing machines and cycle scheduling on its connected dishwashers. Check which features are available on the specific model rather than relying on the presence of Wi-Fi alone.
Start with the laundry or dishes you need to wash, then check that the start-time setting suits your schedule and the model’s operating requirements.
| What to consider | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Programmable start | Look for “delayed start” or an adjustable start time in the product details and manual. Check the available time range, and whether you can change or cancel the setting. | I want the cycle to start at a time I choose, not just to see the time remaining or receive an alert. Miele says the options for changing a delayed start vary by model. |
| Preferred time slot | Compare the adjustable delay with the time you want the cycle to start. If you’re aiming for off-peak hours, check the times that apply to your home and tariff; the French National Consumer Institute notes that the benefits depend on how you use your appliances. | My schedule changes, or I want to move a cycle to a specific time slot. A delayed start helps me plan when to use the appliance, but it doesn’t guarantee a saving on my bill. |
| Connected controls | Check that the app is compatible and find out exactly what it lets you do: monitor a cycle, start it remotely or schedule it. Also confirm whether you can make the setting directly on the appliance. | An app appeals to me if it genuinely lets me manage my cycles. Siemens describes these features on compatible Home Connect appliances, but they aren’t available on all its models. |
| Installation and safety | Read the instructions for the exact model and check its installation and connection requirements. Don’t assume that a timer means the appliance is suitable for running when no one is at home. | If I plan to start a cycle while I’m out, I need to know what the manual says about my appliance and make sure it’s in good working order. |
A display or notification tells you about the cycle, but doesn’t show that you can set when it starts.
Look for a delayed-start feature in the detailed specifications and manual, then check the available delay and how to cancel it.
The controls available depend on the model and its app. Being able to monitor a cycle doesn’t necessarily mean you can set the start time you want.
Check exactly which controls are described for the compatible model, whether that’s remote starting or scheduling.
A timer lets you use the appliance later, but it doesn’t determine your tariff’s off-peak hours or whether using them will benefit your household. The French National Consumer Institute notes that the benefits depend on how you use your appliances.
Check your tariff’s time slots separately, and choose an appliance that can start when you need it to.
Setting a start time doesn’t remove the need to follow the appliance’s safety and installation instructions.
Check the manual for the exact model before setting a cycle to run while you’re away. If there’s a leak, an unusual smell or an electrical fault, don’t use the appliance and have it checked.
Worth considering if you’re looking for connected controls on a Home Connect-compatible washing machine or dishwasher.
A useful option to look into if you want to know how a delayed start works when your schedule might change.
The ESA47310SW dishwasher shows why it’s worth checking a model’s detailed specifications.
This selection includes table-top dishwashers and washing machines. First, choose based on what you need to wash, then check the product details and manual for the setting you need to match your schedule.
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If you want to delay a dishwashing cycle, the product title lists a delayed start of 1 to 24 h. It also mentions 9 programmes and dimensions of 37 × 50 cm. Check that you have enough space, and read the manual for the installation instructions and guidance on using the timer.
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If you usually wash smaller loads, compare the stated capacity of 3 place settings with the dishes you typically use. The title lists 7 programmes and a 24-hour delayed start; check the manual for the available settings and installation requirements.
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If you want to schedule a wash, check the manual for the delayed-start setting and how to use it. The title lists a 10 kg capacity, a spin speed of 1 400 tr/min and Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi alone doesn’t tell you whether you can schedule cycles using an app.
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If you want to delay a wash, check the manual for the delayed-start time range and how to use the setting; the title lists an 11 kg capacity. Before buying, also confirm the model’s electrical safety and connection requirements. A programmed start doesn’t replace these checks.
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If you’re looking for a top-loading machine, compare this style and the stated 6 kg capacity with your usual loads. The title mentions 17 programmes and Wi-Fi; check the manual separately for the delayed-start setting and instructions for using the timer.
Look for a “delayed start” feature or a start-time scheduling option listed for the specific model. A time-remaining display or end-of-cycle notification isn’t enough. For example, Electrolux lists a 24-hour delayed start and a time-remaining display separately in the specifications for the ESA47310SW.
Choose based on what you need to wash: a washing machine for laundry and a dishwasher for dishes. Then check the delayed-start feature on the model you’re considering, as well as its capacity, installation requirements and settings to suit your routine.
No. It lets you delay the cycle, but it doesn’t set the off-peak hours on your tariff. The French National Consumer Institute says that the benefits of an off-peak tariff depend on how you use your appliances; check your hours and tariff separately.
Don’t assume that a delayed-start feature means it’s suitable to run your appliance while you’re out, or that its installation is appropriate. Read the safety instructions in the manual for the exact model, check its condition and connections, and have any faults investigated before using it.