A variety of models, with an incredible number of indicators and buttons, leads a potential buyer into a stupor. But, not everything is so scary, it’s enough to understand the main parameters and technical characteristics of the washing machine, then it will be much easier to choose. In this article we will analyze in detail the functionality of a household appliance and help you decide on a purchase.
Content:
- Determine the type of washing machine
- Main characteristics
Determine the type of washing machine
Where are you going to put the washer? The answer to this question is to predetermine the type of washing machine that you need. By type of load, washing machines are divided:
- with vertical loading - linen is loaded on top of the unit;
- front-loading - a hole for laying laundry is located on the “facade” of the machine.
Top-loading washing machine. There are not so many models of such washing machines, but this drawback is compensated by the small dimensions of the unit. Due to its small size (40 x 60 cm), such a washing machine will fit into a small room without any problems. The loading hatch is located on top, so the machine can be installed between furniture without sacrificing performance.
The vertical loading design has its positive and negative points. In addition to the dimensions, providing a variety of installation, a plus is the mechanism for attaching the drum. The drum device in a vertical washing machine has two axis of rotation located on the sides, and in instead of one axis, the frontal car has a loading hatch and an increased load on bearings. Top-loading washing machines are considered more reliable mechanically.
If you choose compactness and reliability, then not quite convenient loading of linen, a small selection of models, decent cost and less elegant design will not create problems for you.
Front-loading washing machine. The popularity of frontal washing machines is primarily due to the low cost compared to the first type of machines. The next factor that we turn our eyes to is design. The view of the front cars is much more interesting and diverse.
Another plus of this type is convenience. Most users are more comfortable loading the machine from the "facade". In addition, a transparent hatch allows you to keep the washing process under control. After installing the frontal machine in the bathroom, you will get another shelf for accessories, the role of which will be perfectly played by the top tabletop of the washer.
There are also downsides to the design of the frontal car. If the washing machine with a vertical loading can be installed anywhere, then for the front one you need to carefully select the installation location. After the washing has begun, it is impossible to add more linen. The unit drum rotates on one axis, which creates additional load on the bearings and, as a result, increased vibration. The increased wear of the rubber gasket of the hatch does not bring joy.
By dimensions, frontal washing machines are divided into:
- compact;
- narrow
- full sized.
Full-size washing machines have a large tank that holds up to 10 kg. dry linen. With higher functionality, these machines are cheaper than narrow models.
Narrow cars in dimensions correspond to full-size, with the exception of depth. The depth of the tank in narrow automatic machines is from 35 to 45 cm. Download at a time 2.5 - 3.5 kg. linen.
Compact modelshaving a height of only 70 cm. easily installed under the washbasin in the bathroom or hide in the kitchen “wall”. The maximum load of such a "baby" is 3.5 kg. dry linen.
Main characteristics
Engine and types of drive.
In equipping modern washers, there are two types of electric motors - collector and inverter. Commutator motor - AC electric motor. The work of the brushes creates a noise that we hear. AT inverter motor brushes are not provided. The inverter DC motor is very quiet. Warranty on the inverter motor - 10 years.
More recently, the engine in washing machines was connected to a drum by a belt drive. Belt drive is a noisy mechanism with a rather low efficiency. In the latest LG washing machines, the belt drive is canceled and the drum is rigidly connected to the motor shaft. Thanks to this design, the unit’s operating life has increased, mechanical losses have decreased, therefore, power consumption has decreased.
Direct drive gives the washing machine undeniable advantages:
- reliability and quiet operation due to the lack of a belt;
- low vibration due to mounting the engine with the drum on the same axis;
- design provides less wear on the mechanical part;
- increased volume of linen.
Another function of washing machines depends on the operation of the engine - the spinning of linen, or rather, drum speed. It is desirable that the number of revolutions during the spin cycle can be adjusted, because what is useful for one fabric can harm another. The optimal rotation speed is 800-1000 rpm. If there are more revolutions, then the cost of the unit increases in proportion to the increase in engine power, plus increased power consumption.
Control.
For new generation washing machines, the electronics completely control the washing process. Calculate the weight of the laundry, its required amount, the machine can set the washing time on its own, just specify material, run the program and observe the process using the light indicators (Electrolux, Zanussi WD 1601, Samsung).
To date, mechanical machines have been produced with three to five washing options (Whirlpool AWM 5085, Zanussi F 802V, Indesit W 105 TX). The mechanical programmer allows you to start washing from anywhere.
Energy consumption during washing and its effectiveness are two parameters that you just need to pay attention to. The first parameter is written in the letter designation: class "D" consumes the most energy, and class "A" - the least. The designation of effectiveness can be neglected - the difference in the quality of washing with the naked eye is not easy to notice.
It makes no sense to buy a washing machine with options that you are unlikely to use.
Reliability and safety.
- The problem with any household appliance is power surges. When making a purchase, pay attention to the presence of the coupon "EEC Criteria", which guarantees protection against this ailment.
- Fixed and tight handles prevent childish pranks.
- Leaks are instantly blocked electronically by shutting off the water supply.
- If a malfunction occurs, an alarm is triggered.
- The durable double glass sunroof locks during washing.
Touching upon the issue of reliability, it is worth mentioning the country of manufacture of the washing machine. Ahead of the planet are washing machines assembled in Sweden and Austria, their service life is up to 20 years. The next country on the list is Germany. German washing machines, thanks to the praised German quality, can perfectly serve you 12-15 years. Five years of guaranteed work for models assembled in Korea (LG, Daewoo, Samsung) - 5 years. Italians give Ariston, Indesit and Zanussi washers a guarantee of 5 to 8 years.
See how to choose a washing machine in the video below:
Remember that no matter which washing machine you choose, you should always follow rules for the care of washing machines.
Summarize. There are an infinite number of tips for choosing a washing machine, but most are based on the budget and location of the washing machine. It is worth remembering that the number of “goodies” with a washing machine (programming, voice command, displays and color indicators) makes it more expensive. Is this tinsel worth the extra money? Have a good shopping.
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