How to choose a washing machine

There is no need to talk about the benefits of a washing machine in a house - it has made life easier for millions of people. But every year, more and more models of various modifications appear on the market. How to choose a washing machine that meets all the necessary needs, while high-quality and reliable? This question arises for many who are preparing to buy a device. We will understand all the subtleties and nuances of choosing a good washing machine.

What are the types of washing machines

The most popular cars that are on our market are automatic. Manufacturers continue to produce semi-automatic devices, which still have good demand. There are ultrasonic type machines, although it is difficult to call them full-fledged washing devices. For a better idea of ​​everything that falls under the category of washing machines, consider each type of device.

Automatic washing machines

Such washers are fully stationary and automated. They have electronic control and many programs. Devices independently collect and heat water, calculate the cycle time, rinse and squeeze the laundry.

Conventional models of machines have a given set of programs and work exclusively within the framework of a particular mode. But engineering developments do not stand still, and today the parameters of modern washing machines are significantly expanded: there are such units that can independently weigh the laundry, assess the degree of contamination, select the required temperature, amount of water and washing powder. These are truly smart devices developed with the latest technology.

Not so long ago, Candy created an automatic washing machine with voice control, which not only executes voice commands, but also knows how to answer its owners with a voice.

Automatic machines, in turn, are divided into two types:

• vertical
• frontal.

We will consider each type in more detail below, but for now we will find out what other types of washing machines exist.

Semi-automatic washing machines

Semi-automatic (activator) washers were in most houses in Soviet times. Then there were practically no automatic machines, and if they came across for sale, then not everyone could afford such a luxury.

The design of a semi-automatic washing machine is very simple: a motor equipped with a shaft rotates a drum located in a horizontal plane. Management of such units is mechanical. They do not have a set of programs, in most machines only 2-4 speed modes are provided. The simplest activator cars not equipped with a spin. More "advanced" semi-automatic models consist of a washing drum and a centrifuge, in which you can squeeze washed clothes.

Activator devices can be small to medium in size. Many are familiar by ear (and some by sight), the Baby washing machine. She was very popular at the time.Unlike an automatic machine, a semiautomatic device does not require hoses to be inserted into the sewer. These machines are mobile and can be moved around.

Depending on the specific model, semi-automatic machines contain 1.5-6 kg of laundry. There are no heating elements in the devices - the tank is filled in the usual way, directly from the tap. To drain water from the drum, the drain hose must be routed to the sink, bathtub or toilet. In such machines, you can use powder for hand washing. Torsion of the drum by the principle of centrifuge does not create a lot of foam in the water.

Today, semi-automatic washing machines are rarely bought for the home. They are taken to cottages or as temporary assistants, while there is no way to purchase an expensive automatic car.

Ultrasonic machines

This type of machine is significantly different in parameters from the above. The device consists of a cord, a power supply and a small box with an ultrasonic plate located inside. All miracle technology fits in one palm.

The device belongs to modern technologies and works on the basis of ultrasonic waves.

The operation of the device is quite simple: warm water is collected in a basin, washing powder is diluted in it, things are put in a soapy solution. Next, the ultrasound unit is placed in a basin with soaked things, and the wire is plugged into an outlet. The machine begins to generate ultrasonic waves and "wash" things.

How is ultrasound washing done?

Looking at such a small device, many are wondering how this device launders laundry.

Everything is very simple: the device creates ultrasonic waves in water. Due to vibration, microscopic bubbles appear in the soap solution. Passing through the fibers of tissues, the bubbles burst, pushing out the dirt.

The ultrasonic washing machine is focused on washing delicate things that cannot be machine washed. In addition to cleaning things from pollution, ultrasound also disinfects clothes, destroying microbes.

The machine is safe, economical and very easy to use. The average wash time is 1-2 hours. After the thing you need to rinse and wring out manually.

Of course, hardly anyone wants to choose an ultrasonic washing machine as the main one. But as an extra, for small "postirushki", it will fit perfectly. Although many users note that the quality of washing leaves much to be desired, and there is not much sense from this device.

Since most modern people try to make their life as easy as possible, automatic washing machines are the most relevant. Their choice will be examined in more detail.

Type of loading: frontal or vertical?

The market allows you to choose a washing machine with a vertical type of loading and frontal. We will figure out what is the difference between these two design features of the units.

Frontal washing machines

Nowadays, these are the most popular washers. Their tank is located on the front panel, the lid has the shape of a round hatch with transparent glass. Management is in the same plane as the loading hatch. The lid at the front doors opens to the side, and if the unit is on the floor, you will have to bend a little to load the laundry.

A transparent door gives advantages: through it you can observe the washing process. Surely few people are interested in contemplating this action. But there are times when money, keys, documents get into the tank along with things. But in such situations, the transparent cover helps a lot - you can notice the inside of the object, not intended for washing, and turn off the machine.

Modern frontal washing machines are built-in or freestanding. Even if you install the device separately, its upper panel will serve as a useful area: you can put any less voluminous object on top.

The frontal drum is located in a vertical plane and rotates on the same axis. Many people think that two axes (like vertical bars) are better. But these are extremely rare cases when this type of washing machine breaks the drums. Most often, hermetic gaskets of the hatch and heating elements fail.

The device is installed permanently and crashes into the sewer.Nothing is required from the user except loading and unloading the laundry, as well as installing the program (pressing a few buttons). Everything else the machine does itself.

Vertical washing machine

Top-loading washing machine differs from the frontal location of the hatch: it is located on top. Also, these types of units have a narrower case, due to which they can save space.

The vertical tank is fixed on two axes. Thanks to this design, the device vibrates less. The control panel is on top. To load things into the drum, it is necessary to open the lid in the housing and then open the sash in the drum itself. Another nuance of difference: the vertical washing machine is not to be embedded. Her lid is on top, and nothing should prevent her from opening.

Otherwise, there are no differences between verticals and front-ends. Both types of machines are fully automated, endowed with electronic control and many functions. The quality of washing depends more on the specific options of the model, rather than its design.

Compare the main advantages and disadvantages of both types of machines.

pros

Minuses

What characteristics should I look for when choosing?

We learn what to look for when buying an automatic washing machine. Since the vertical and front models have similar functionality, the characteristics are relevant for those and other designs.

What material to choose the tank and drum

Drums are made of two main materials:

• metal;
• plastic.

At first glance, it seems that metal is undoubtedly better. But is it really so? We read the answer below.

Plastic tanks

Most washers are now equipped with plastic tanks. As materials use two types of plastic:

1. Polyplex (Poliplex). Strong enough material, not afraid of the effects of hot water, rust, heavy loads. It has high heat conductivity and good sound insulation. Polyplex tanks spin barely audibly, softly and smoothly. But the material has not so much wear resistance and after 5 years it becomes brittle.
2. Carbon (Carboran). Although the material is referred to as plastic, it is stronger than steel in strength. Carbon consists of carbon fiber and is used in the space industry. It is lightweight and incredibly durable. Such a tank can serve for many years, it is not afraid of high temperatures, rust, deformations.

Stainless steel tanks

The steel drum may be plain or enameled. Undoubtedly, steel is a strong and durable material. But such tanks weigh much more. A machine with a steel drum makes a lot of noise, spends more energy and costs more. If the tank is enameled, then over time the coating begins to break off.

The opinion of experts is as follows: today the carbon tank is the best, most profitable, reliable and economical option.

Drum volume

To choose the right automatic washing machine, you need to determine the volume of the tank. Too small a drum will result in several washings in a row. Too big - to the inappropriate waste of water and energy.

On average, front models have tanks with a capacity of 3.5 to 17 kg. Vertical - from 3 to 10.

For a small family of 2 people, the minimum amount of 3-3.5 kg is enough.

Families of 3-5 people are better off taking a 5-6 kg machine. If more than 6 people live in the house, then a tank of 8-10 kg will be suitable. Of course, these are only indicative parameters. Everyone needs different needs, and it is worth solving here, based solely on personal preferences.

Type of control

All washing modes in the washing machine are configured through the control panel. It can be fully electronic or mechanical.

Electronic control

There are more and more washing machines with fully electronic touch controls. Such a control system is more flexible and functional. Fully electronic machines have “intelligent” technologies: they weigh the laundry, independently choose which program is suitable for things, how much water and powder are needed for washing. Also, devices are better protected and block themselves on any malfunction. The user does not need to think about anything - just press a couple of buttons.

The only negative is that electronics is more vulnerable to breakdowns.

Mechanical control

There is no fully mechanical control among automatic units. But there are cars where electronic buttons are combined with mechanical rotary switches.

Models with this type of control can also have many useful options.

Regardless of the type of control, the machine may or may not have a display. Each option is accompanied by graphic icon or an inscription, therefore, with the choice of programs there are usually no problems even for those who first encounter automation.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the washing machine are important for those who are not rich in extra meters of living space.

The dimensions of the vertical machines are quite standards and have the following parameters:

1. Height - 83-85 cm.
2. Width - 42-45 cm.
3. Depth - 60-62 cm.

Front models are presented in a wider selection of sizes. They are classified into 4 types:

As you can see, the choice of front-ends in size wins in assortment over the standard sizes of verticals.

Washing modes

In automatic machines, washing programs are varied. Usually the more options a device has, the more expensive it costs. On average, modern models are equipped with 8-15 programs. But the choice is to decide which modes are really needed, and which are not particularly needed.

The following are considered basic and necessary programs:

1. Washing cotton linen.
2. Synthetics.
3. Delicate wash.
4. The program for hair care.
5. Express wash.
6. Mode for colored fabrics.
7. Handwash.

These options are enough to care for things. Modes such as washing jeans, baby clothes, washing pillows and blankets or shoes are not necessary. It’s worth buying cars with such programs only if there really is a need for them.

Additional options

Multifunctional and high-quality washing machines are not limited to washing modes. Units can have additional advanced options for linen care.

Today, the manufacturer can offer the following useful additions:

1. Pre-soaking.
2. Steam laundry.
3. Spin mode with easy ironing function.
4. Delay start timer.
5. Super rinse.
6. Fuzzy Logic (Intelligent Control).
7. ALC system (regulates the consumption of resources, depending on the weight of the laundry).

Each brand can introduce its proprietary unique options in certain ruler models.

Spin quality

On any washing machine, the maximum spin value is always indicated. The spin speed of the spinner in automatic machines varies from 400 to 1800 rpm.

The most optimal indicator is the spin within 1200 rpm. At the same time, the minimum number of revolutions for most cars is 400-600. These parameters are quite enough. At a higher speed, most tissues deteriorate, stretch and become unusable.

Washer / Dryer

For those who need drying, experts recommend buying separate tumble dryers. Even the best washer dryer is less reliable than a regular washer with spin function only.

As a rule, in the combined models of drying modes a little - from 1 to 4-5. There can be up to 15 drying programs in a hotel unit.

In general, this is a very useful option, and if you use it infrequently, the combined washer will live for a long time.

Display availability

The display or its absence in no way affects the quality of the wash, but, of course, adds comfort. The electronic display shows the progress of the program, the remaining time, and in the event of a breakdown, a fault code. If you buy a good car, it is better with a display.

For machines that do not have a display, there are light indicators.

Laundry Safety

Automatic washing devices are equipped with security systems. The availability of certain protective options may vary depending on the specific model.

Most new generation washers use the following security systems:

1. Protection against water leaks.
2. Foam control.
3. Drum imbalance control.
4. Lock the hatch from children.

Such safety mechanisms significantly extend the life of the device.

Energy class

Now manufacturers pay great attention to the efficiency of devices. Regarding the energy class, cars are marked with Latin letters.
The unit of the most economical class is marked A, which can be supplemented with “+” signs.

The farther the letter from the beginning of the alphabet, the more energy the machine “eats”. Nowadays, devices marked below “D” are almost no longer available.

Popular manufacturers

The most popular brands of washing machines judging by consumer demand:

1. Bosch
2. Samsung
3. Indesit.
4. Ariston Hotpoint.
5. LG.
6. Siemens
7. Electrolux
8. Candy

Any brand presented can be considered reliable and recommended. Moreover, we have prepared for you manufacturers rating of washing machineswhich will help you with the choice.

Popular models

We give brief reviews of the most popular washing machines with excellent characteristics and proven positive reviews.

Front loading

Samsung WW65K42E08W

We can say that this is the best automatic machine from Samsung. Unit capacity - 7 kg. The front model has the most useful option AddWash, which provides the opportunity reloading of linen during washing. The maximum spin speed is 1200 rpm. The device has 12 programs involved, among the advanced functions there are Eco Bubble, Smart Check, Eco Drum Clean self-cleaning technology. The car is labeled economy class A. Its average cost is 32,000 p.

LG FH-4A8TDS4

Full-size washing machine with a large hatch and a drum capacity of 8 kg. LG Model has 14 programs, high spin speed - 1400 rpm. and multi-stage protection system. Among the advanced features are present: steam treatment, bubble system, self-diagnosis, sound signal. You can buy LG FH-4A8TDS4 for 43,000 p.

Gorenje W 72ZY2 / R

The classic Gorenje frontal washing machine is equipped with 15 programs, with a capacity of up to 7 kg and a spin speed of 800 rpm.

Model by Gorenje It doesn’t have a display, but it boasts a good protection system, low noise level and A ++ energy class. She has such additional options as anti-allergy, spin-free washing, quick wash, self-cleaning drum, timer, pre-wash, Eco mode. Estimated price - 24000 p.

Indesit BWSB 51051

The budget, but quite high-quality and functional model has a capacity of 5 kg, 16 programs, an extraction of 1000 rpm. Display at washing machine indesit no, push-button control combined with a rotary toggle switch.

In addition to the main washing modes, there are such usefulnesses: the Push & Wash system, the choice of the level of dirt, self-cleaning of the drum, additional rinsing, easy ironing, pause, and a delay timer. Protection systems are also provided. Energy Class A +. Price - 13000 p.

ATLANT 50U101

The machine is distinguished by a large set of programs (21 pcs.), Interesting design and reasonable price. The drum holds up to 5 kg of laundry. The spin speed at maximum is 1000 rpm. From protection, control of the imbalance of the drum, blocking from children are provided. Of the add-ons there is: intensive washing, delayed start timer, easy ironing, stain removal. The case is made in classic white color. The average cost of a model is 15,000 p.

Candy CS4 1061D1 / 2

Candy's front-facing machine with a loading of up to 6 kg can be controlled from a mobile device on the Android OS. She has 14 programs and a spin up to 1000 rpm. per minute. Candy Model equipped with a delay timer, a unique Shiatsu drum, self-cleaning system and super-rinse. The device has 4 protection systems and a low noise level. Buy Candy CS4 1061D1 / 2 for 14000 p.

Top Loading Machines

Indesit ITW A 5851 W

The narrow vertical model holds up to 5 kg of dirty laundry. She has 15 programs, several degrees of protection, maximum spin up to 800 rpm. The delay start timer is designed for 12 hours. There is Other mode, Eco mode, additional rinse, the ability to reload the laundry during washing. The energy consumption class is A. The approximate price of the model is 22000 r.

Electrolux EWT 0862 TDW

The vertical model Electrolux EWT 0862 TDW is made according to European quality standards. Its width is only 40 cm, and the tank holds 6 kg of linen. Touch control combined with a rotary toggle switch. The maximum spin speed is 800 rpm. The machine has a self-diagnosis system, an audible signal, a child lock, a night wash mode, Fuzzy Logic technology and AutoSense function. Approximate price - 22000 p.

Bosch WOR 16155

The vertical car belongs to a premium class. Loading is calculated on 6 kg, spin speed - 800 rpm. Significant advantages include the energy class A +, intelligent control, several levels of protection. Of the additions are provided: the choice of washing temperature, the end signal of the program, ActiveWater, mixed laundry, additional loading of linen, washing in cold water. You can buy Bosch WOR 16155 for 39,000 p.

Which company to choose a washer and what type, everyone must decide for himself. But we hope that our article helped you understand the features of various machines, and the above information will contribute to a good, reliable and practical purchase. Still, an automatic washing machine is taken for more than one year, and its choice should be approached responsibly.

Read decoding of icons on the Bosch washing machine to set the wash program correctly. And, if you liked this particular manufacturer, then take a look at rating of washing machines Bosch.

Title	Samsung WW65K42E08W	LG FH-4A8TDS4	Gorenje W 72ZY2 / R	Indesit BWSB 51051	ATLANT 50U101	Candy CS4 1061D1 / 2	Indesit ITW A 5851 W	Electrolux EWT 0862 TDW	Bosch WOR 16155
Installation	freestanding	freestanding	freestanding removable lid for installation	freestanding	freestanding removable lid for installation	freestanding	freestanding	freestanding	freestanding
Download Type	frontal	frontal	frontal	frontal	frontal	frontal	vertical	vertical	vertical
Maximum load of linen	6.5 kg	8 kg	7 kg	5 kg	5 kg	6 kg	5 kg	6 kg	6 kg
Spin Speed	up to 1200 rpm	up to 1400 rpm	up to 800 rpm	up to 1000 rpm	up to 1000 rpm	up to 1000 rpm	up to 800 rpm	up to 800 rpm	up to 800 rpm
Number of programs	12	14	18	16	21	15	18	14	12
Price	from 29500 rub.	from 35 750 rub.	from 23500 rub.	from 13200 rub.	from 12300 rub.	from 13990 rub.	from 19000 rub.	from 19000 rub.	from 41000 rub.