The secrets of choosing a reliable washing machine

How to choose a washing machine, so that it serves for a long time and wash well? By asking the right questions to the manager or by reading the technical specifications, everyone can choose the equipment suitable for the price and quality. A detailed analysis of the functions and parameters of modern models will help you find out which car is better.

What characteristics should I pay attention to?

All the characteristics that need to be considered when choosing a “washing machine” are divided into three groups:

• constructive
• technical
• functional.

Characteristics from the first two groups will tell you about whether the machine is suitable for its size, the number of loaded laundry, as well as ease of use. Technical parameters affect noise, the amount of energy consumed and the useful life.

Size and method of loading laundry

The design parameters include the size of the machine, the amount of linen loaded and the method of loading - frontal or vertical. Their selection is individual - because very often the place for a typewriter is very limited. Before buying, you need to determine the place for new equipment and take measurements, find out what maximum height, width and depth it should have.

As a rule, the larger the machine in size, the more laundry you can load into it in one wash. This also needs to be taken into account. For a large family, a load of 3 kg will be insufficient. But buying a device with a "margin" is not worth it. Although the documents do not indicate the minimum load of linen, but if you throw one or two blouses into a large machine, the washing quality will suffer. Manufacturers recommend loading the drum at 2/3, which ensures friction between the fabrics and guarantees high-quality washing. Machines are produced with a load of 3 to 12 kg, so that everyone can choose their own version.

Tip

For a family of 3-4 people, the best option would be a machine with a load of 5 kg. For each next member of the family you need to add another 1.5 kg.

The choice of front or vertical loading also often depends on the availability of free space. If the loading doors open on the side, the machine can be installed under the washbasin. Yes, and built-in models are frontal. Vertical loading has its advantages - they have less depth. In addition, when loading, you can open the lid at any time and adjust the amount of linen: pick up a thing that has accidentally landed or add a few more.

Functional

The number of programs and additional functions affect the usability of the machine. For example, if there is a delicate wash, you don’t have to manually wash your favorite clothes, you can trust this to his technique. How to choose a washing machine, focusing on its functionality? To choose to "just and have more", or is it better to limit yourself to the most necessary programs? Let's understand what manufacturers offer and what amenities it provides.

Interface

You need to start a conversation about washing programs with the control. Today, there are two options: mechanical and electronic. Mechanical interface - rotary switches. The program switch works on the basis of a timer, so the course of washing is visible by its movement. Many people prefer this interface, as it is quite easy to understand.In addition, there is a prejudice that the mechanics are more reliable, and if a breakdown occurs, it is cheaper to repair the control mechanism.

I must say that the technology of the new generation is quite reliable, so the electronically controlled cars do not burden their owners with repair histories. Visually electronic interface - these are buttons with which washing programs are set. The LED display is located on the control panel, it shows at what stage of washing, what is the water temperature and the number of revolutions.

Some new models “communicate” not only through the display, but also through voice alerts. A pleasant female voice informs about the beginning and end of washing. Sometimes this can bring inconvenience. For example, if you use the “delayed start” function, then at night a voice notification will be a complete surprise.

Main programs

When choosing a machine, you need to carefully familiarize yourself with the washing modes. In order not to get lost in the store, it is better to make a blank at home - a list of the most necessary programs. In modern models, there can be up to 20 programs. Cheaper ones have 8-10 washing options. Perhaps these 10 options are fully consistent with your needs, then there is no point in overpaying. All programs are divided into several groups.

By type of fabric:

• cotton;
• synthetics;
• silk;
• wool;
• delicate fabrics;
• kids clothes;
• sportswear;
• pillows and blankets;
• fabrics with a water-repellent effect (outerwear).

By washing intensity (by degree of pollution):

• intensive washing;
• bio wash;
• quick wash;
• shower wash;
• soak;
• prewash;
• boiling;
• extra rinse.

Additional programs:

• half load;
• economical washing;
• hand wash wool;
• anti-crease and crease mode (easy ironing);
• drainage;
• Hygiene mode (anti-allergenic;
• Silver nano.

Most programs do not raise questions, since their name speaks for itself, but some are worth exploring in more detail.

• Soaking Program appeared recently and implemented by different companies in different ways. Electrolux washing machines allow you to soak the laundry for a long time: if you do not switch to the washing program for 19 hours, they themselves drain the water and turn off. In other machines, linen can be soaked for 15 to 30 minutes.
• "Hand wash wool" different from the usual mode for woolen things. In this mode, the drum does not scroll, but sways. This prevents deformation of clothes and the formation of spools.
• “Economic washing” - A program that allows you to get clean linen with less water and electricity, but it takes much more time to wash it.
• Drain mode provides drainage of water without torsion of the drum, which is important for delicate fabrics.
• Wash in “Baby underwear” mode - This is soaking, washing, boiling and double rinsing for 3 hours. At the same time, washing is carried out in a large amount of water so that the laundry remains soft and allergens do not accumulate in it.
• "Bio wash" optimal if powders with enzymes are used. The temperature regime of this program does not destroy biologically active components - lipase, protease, amylase.
• Hygiene Program - washing that destroys allergens in the laundry. This is achieved by a special temperature regime.
• Silver nano - allows you to disinfect linen and clothes with silver ions. It removes not only dirt, but also an unpleasant odor.

Additional functions

In addition to soaking, washing and rinsing programs in automatic machines, some other useful functions are implemented. Some of them are simply necessary. For example, Aqua stop - one of the security systems, protection against leaks. Even if washing is done in the absence of the owners, you can not be afraid of the flood in the apartment.

There are several “safe” modes in washing machines.

• "Protection from children" - locks the control panel after starting work, so the baby will not be able to reprogram the washing, as well as open the door.
• Aqua alarm - an audible signal that turns on during a leak.
• "Imbalance control" - evenly distributes the laundry in the drum. Due to this, the life of the machine increases, vibration and noise level are reduced.

There are additional "convenient" and "economical" programs.

• "Launch Timer" - delayed start - allows you to start washing at any convenient time.
• Aqua sensor - independently determines the need for repeated rinsing, due to which water and electricity are saved.
• "Automatic dosage of water" - allows you to use the optimal amount of water, without overspending.
• "Rinse Delay" - prevents the machine from draining water immediately after washing. The hostess activates the rinse mode on her own, when she can immediately take out and hang things.

Washer / Dryer or Steam Generator

Separately, it must be said about two types of machines with special capabilities - drying and steam generation. Machines with a warm air dryer completely dry the laundry. Such an opportunity will come in handy if there is a baby in the house and naturally the linen does not have time to dry out. The possibility of quick drying in the machine will help out those who forget to cook clothes in advance and dry them on the go. The disadvantages of such machines are their cost is higher, and the class of energy consumption is lower. When drying, they consume much more energy, but if this mode is not included, then the consumption will be standard.

Steam washing machines have recently appeared. Initially, it was an alternative to Silver nano - disinfecting things with silver ions.

To date, models of machines with steam generation perform several functions.

• Steam wash - water wash with additional steam treatment. Detergents under the influence of steam dissolve better, clean things and wash out of them.
• Steam stain remover - This is a dry cleaning. In order to remove stains, they need to choose suitable cleaning products.
• Antibacterial treatment.
• Steaming helps smooth things. After 20 minutes in the machine, clothes should be hung on a coat hanger and ironed if necessary.
• Refreshment - A convenient mode for refreshing clothes without washing. Removes unpleasant odors and light impurities.

As a rule, manufacturers in one model implement 2-3 steam treatment modes, so you need to choose the appropriate option. The mode "Refreshment" is suitable for those who like to look perfect. Not all clothes can be washed daily; in this case, steaming will help to keep them in perfect condition. This program will be useful to those who have a lot of soft toys in the house. Steam will refresh and sanitize them.

“Steam washing” is indispensable for allergy sufferers - steam removes all allergens and rinses detergents well from fabrics. “Steaming” is a useful function if you need to iron things that have lain in a wrinkled state for a long time. She will remove not only folds, but also the smell of packed linen.

Tip

In steam wash mode, much less powder is required. You can not rely on previous experience with ordinary cars, it is better to carefully read the instructions.

Specifications

Technical characteristics of the automatic machine are the most important of all its characteristics. This is an expensive technique, you will not change it every month, so we select a model by comparing the following parameters:

• energy class;
• maximum power consumption;
• washing class;
• engine's type;
• noise level;
• material of which the tank is made;
• speed and spin class.

Energy Efficiency Machine

The energy class is necessarily indicated in the documentation and on the body of the equipment itself. It is indicated in Latin letters. Although in theory this indicator ranges from A (A +, A ++, A +++) to C, in practice cars of class A and above are now on sale.Class C models are presented in the segment of washing machines with a drying function. The difference in energy consumption between class A +++ and C machines is quite significant and reaches 12 watts per hour.

When washing with a full load at a temperature of 60 ° C, a model marked A +++ takes 15 W / h, and C - 27 W / h. In addition to the class on the marking, there is also a maximum consumption - from 2 to 4 kW. This is the value of energy consumption in the most energy-intensive mode. For example, if you turn on the dryer all the time, then the electricity consumption will be just that.

Type of engine and wash tank

Two types of motors can be installed in the automatic machine - collector or inverter. In new models, the second option is installed. The inverter motor is quieter as it does not have brushes. When washing, only the sounds of the washing itself will be heard without the hum of the motor. The service life of such an engine is longer than the collector one, therefore they give a longer warranty period.

The material from which the tank is made affects the operation and life of the washing machine. There are three options here - stainless steel, enameled steel or composite materials. Stainless steel is a more durable material that can withstand 50 years, and even 100 years of operation. However, the machine is unlikely to survive such a period. Composite drums are designed to work for 20-25 years, which corresponds to the total service life.

Enameled tanks during operation have shown their failure. If the slightest crack or chip appears there, the tank quickly rusts and has to be replaced. This is the worst option. If you fold the enamel and choose from stainless steel and plastic, then you need to consider the following points:

• stainless steel is more "noisy";
• composite drum will reduce the cost of the machine without compromising the quality of washing;
• plastic retains heat better.

Noise

The noise level must be indicated in the characteristics of the machine. It consists of two numbers. The first shows what noise will be during washing, the second - during the spin cycle. It is better to buy a model with indicators no higher than 55/70 dB. If it is important that the equipment is really quiet, then you need to choose a washing machine with an inverter motor and a composite tank.

Tip

The noise of the machine, in addition to its characteristics, is affected by the installation and quality of the floor. If the floor is uneven in the horizontal plane, vibration will appear during the spin cycle. If it is not possible to eliminate the unevenness of the floor, it is better to use anti-vibration stands or rubber feet to reduce noise.

Wash and spin class

The washing class indicates how effectively the machine copes with this task. The washing efficiency is marked in Latin letters from "A" to "G", where "A" is the highest indicator, that is, the laundry is washed carefully and the dirt is removed as much as possible. In practice, on sale you can find two options “A” and “B” and it is impossible to see the difference visually.

Spin differs in two ways - class and speed. The spin speed is indicated in revolutions per minute and can be from 400 to 1800 rpm. Manufacturers always indicate the highest possible speed. Here, more does not always mean better, different fabrics need a different spin mode, and too high speeds can ruin clothes. The best option is a machine with 1000 rpm. More is needed in the case of frequent washing of terry items, blankets or outerwear. The spin class indicates the residual moisture of washed and wrung clothes. For class A, this indicator is 45%, C - 54%, D - 72%.

What to choose?

Choosing a washing machine, each is guided by its needs and preferences. Someone prefers “status” equipment - the latest models of the most famous brands, someone needs economical consumption of water and electricity, and someone wants the machine to be able to do everything - it has more functions.

If we talk about the correspondence of price and quality, then in the middle price segment you can choose the perfect option for any needs.Dear models - this is usually an extra charge for elitism, design and technological innovations. With today's development of technology, if the new products are successful, they are quickly introduced by competitors. If you carefully understand the characteristics in different models, you can choose the best option without overpaying. We hope this information will become your reliable assistant!