How to choose a washing machine: we study the characteristics

How to choose a washing machine to serve long and well-washed? Asking the right questions to the manager or reading the technical specifications, everyone can pick up a technique that is suitable for price and quality. To find out which machine is better, a detailed analysis of the functions and parameters of modern models will help.

What characteristics should I pay attention to?

All the characteristics that need to be considered when choosing a "stilalki" are divided into three groups:

• constructive,
• technical,
• functional.

The characteristics of the first two groups will tell you whether the machine is suitable for its size, the amount of laundry to be loaded, and the ease of use. Technical parameters affect the noise, the amount of energy consumed and the service life.

Size and method of loading the laundry

The design parameters include the dimensions of the machine, the number of loaded laundry and the loading method - front or vertical. Their selection is individual - after all very often the place for the machine is very limited. Before buying, you need to determine the location for the new equipment and make measurements, find out what the maximum height, width and depth it should have.

As a rule, the larger the machine is, the more linen can be loaded into it for one wash. This, too, must be taken into account. For a large family, a load of 3 kg will not be sufficient. But to buy a device with a "stock" is not worth it. Although the documents do not indicate the minimum load of laundry, but if you put one or two blouses in a large machine, the quality of the washing will suffer. Manufacturers recommend to load the drum by 2/3, which provides friction of the tissues among themselves and guarantees high-quality washing. Machines are produced with a load of 3 to 12 kg, so that everyone can choose their own version.

Board

For a family of 3-4 people the best option is a machine with a load of 5 kg. For every 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 available space. If the loading doors open on the side, the machine can be installed under the washbasin. Yes, and embedded models - front. 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 laundry: pick up a randomly hit thing or add a few more.

Functionality

The number of programs and additional functions affect the usability of the machine. For example, if there is a delicate wash, you do not have to manually wash your favorite underwear, you can entrust it to the technique. How to choose the right washing machine, focusing on its functionality? To choose, that "all and more", or it is better to be limited to the most necessary programs? Let's understand what the manufacturers offer and what kind of convenience it provides.

Interface

Start talking about programs for washing need from the control. To date, there are two options: mechanical and electronic. Mechanical interface - rotary switches. The program switch works on the principle of a timer, so the washing stroke is visible by its movement. Many prefer this interface, because it is quite easy to understand. In addition, there is persuasion that the mechanics are more reliable, and if a breakdown occurs, then repair the control mechanism is cheaper.

It should be said that the new generation of equipment is reliable enough, so machines with electronic control do not burden their owners with repair history. Visually, the electronic interface is the buttons that help you set up the washing programs. On the control panel there is an LED display, it shows the washing stage, the water temperature and the number of revolutions.

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

Basic programs of

When selecting a machine you should carefully read the washing regimes. In order not to get lost in the store, it's 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 wash options. Perhaps, these 10 options completely coincide with your needs, then there is no reason to overpay. All programs are divided into several groups.

According to the type of fabric:

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

According to the intensity of washing( by degree of soiling):

• intensive washing;
• Biostyre;
• quick wash;
• shower wash;
• soaking;
• prewash;
• boiling;
• additional rinse.

Additional programs:

• half load;
• economical washing;
• hand wash of wool;
• mode against wrinkles and creases( light ironing);
• drainage;
• mode "Hygiene"( antiallergenic,
• Silver nano.

Most programs do not cause questions, as their name speaks for itself, but with some it is worth looking in more detail.

• The "Soaking" program appeared recently and implemented by different companies in different waysElectrolux washing machines allow you to soak laundry for a long time: if you do not switch to the washing program for 19 hours, they drain the water and turn off themselves. In other machines, the laundry can be soaked for 15 to 30 minutes. "
• "The is different from the normal mode for woolen things, but the drum does not scroll, but sways, so it prevents deformation of clothing and the formation of pellets
• "Economical Wash" is a program that allows you to get clean clothes with less water and electricity consumption, buttime for this washing goes much more.
• "Drainage" mode provides draining of water without torsion of the drum, which is important for delicate fabrics.
• Washing in the "Baby Lingerie" mode is soaking, washing, boiling and double rinsing for 3 hours. At the same time, washing is performed in a large amount of water, so that the laundry remains soft and allergens are not accumulated in it.
• Biostyrka is optimal if powders with enzymes are used. The temperature regime of this program does not destroy biologically active components - lipase, protease, amylase.
• The program "Hygiene" - washing, which destroys allergens in linen. This is achieved by a special temperature regime.
• Silver nano - allows you to disinfect clothes and clothes with silver ions. Removes not only pollution, but also an unpleasant smell.

Additional Functions

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

There are several more "safe" modes in washing machines.

• "Child protection" - locks the control panel after the start of operation, so the baby will not be able to reprogram the washing, and also open the door.
• Aqua alarm is a sound signal activated during leakage.
• "Unbalance control" - distributes evenly the laundry in the drum. This increases the life of the machine, reduces vibration and noise levels.

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

• "Start-up timer" - detached start - allows you to start the wash at any convenient time.
• Aqua sensor - independently determines the need for rinsing, which saves water and electricity.
• "Automatic water dosage" - allows you to use the optimum amount of water, without overspending.
• "Rinse Hold" - does not allow the machine to drain the water immediately after washing. The hostess activates the rinsing mode on her own, when she can immediately take out and hang things.

Washer with drying or steam generation

Separately, there are two types of machines with special features - drying and steam generation. Machines with drying with a warm air flow completely dry the laundry. Such an opportunity will come in handy if the house has a baby and naturally the underwear does not have time to dry up. The possibility of quick drying in the machine will help those who forget to prepare clothes in advance and dry it "on the run."Disadvantages of such machines - their cost is higher, and the energy consumption class is lower. When drying, they consume much more energy, but if this mode is not turned on, then the consumption will be standard.

Washing machines with steam processing function appeared recently. Initially, it was an alternative to Silver nano - disinfecting things with silver ions.

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

• Steam wash - wash with water with additional steam treatment. Detergents under the influence of steam dissolve better, clean things and wash out of them.
• Steam stain removal is dry cleaning. In order to remove stains, they need to pick up suitable cleaning agents.
• Antibacterial treatment of .
• Steaming helps to smooth things out .After 20 minutes in the typewriter, clothes should be hung on the hangers and, if necessary, slightly ironed.
• Refreshing - a convenient mode for refreshing clothes without washing. Removes unpleasant odors and slight pollution.

Typically, manufacturers in one model implement 2-3 modes of steaming, so you need to choose the right option. The "Refreshment" mode is suitable for those who like to look perfect. Not all clothes can be washed daily, in this case, steaming will help maintain it in an impeccable condition. This program will be useful to those who have a lot of soft toys in the house. Steam will refresh and disinfect them.

"Steam washing" is indispensable for allergy sufferers - steam removes all allergens and thoroughly cleanses detergents from tissues."Steaming" is a useful function if you need to pat things that have lain in a mint condition for a long time. It removes not only the folds, but also the smell of caked linen.

Tip

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

Specifications

Technical characteristics of automatic machines - the most important of all its characteristics. This is not a cheap technique, you will not change it every month, so choose a model by comparing the following parameters:

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

Energy efficiency of the

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

When washing with full load at 60 ° C, the A +++ model takes 15 W / h, and C - 27 Wh / h. In addition to the class on the marking there is 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 drying all the time, then the electricity consumption will be exactly this.

Engine and wash tank type

Two types of motors can be installed in the automatic machine: collector or inverter. In the new models set the second option. The inverter motor runs quieter, as there are no brushes in it. When washing, only the sounds of the washing itself will be heard without the hum of the motor. The lifetime of such an engine is greater than that of a collector, so it is given a longer warranty period.

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

Enamelled tanks in the process of operation have shown their inconsistency. If there appears the slightest crack or chip, the tank quickly rusts and it has to be changed. This is the worst option. If you discard the enamel and choose from stainless steel and plastic, then you need to consider the following points:

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

Noise

The noise level is always indicated in the characteristics of the machine. It consists of two digits. The first shows what noise will be when washing, the second - when squeezing. It is better to buy a model with a score not higher than 55/70 dB.If it is important that the technique is really quiet, then you need to choose a washing machine with an inverter motor and a composite tank.

Board

The noise level 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 spinning. If it is not possible to eliminate the unevenness of the floor, it is better to use antivibration mounts or rubber feet to reduce noise.

Class of washing and spinning

The washing class indicates how effectively the machine handles this task. The effectiveness of washing is marked with Latin letters from "A" to "G", where "A" is the highest figure, that is, the laundry is washed carefully, and the dirt is removed as much as possible. In practice, there are two variants of "A" and "B" on sale, and it is impossible to see the difference visually.

Spin differs in two parameters - 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 tissues require different spinning regimes, and too high a speed can spoil clothes. The best option is a machine with 1000 rpm. More is needed in case of frequent washing of terry things, blankets or outerwear. The squeeze class indicates the residual moisture of the washed and wrung clothes. For class A, this indicator is 45%, C is 54%, D is 72%.

What to choose?

Choosing a washing machine, each is guided by their needs and preferences. Someone prefers the "status" technique - the newest models of the most famous brands, someone needs an economical water and electricity consumption, and someone wants the machine to know everything - performed more functions.

If we talk about the conformity of price and quality, then in the middle price segment you can choose the ideal option for any needs. Expensive models are, as a rule, additional payment for elitism, design and technological novelties. With today's technology development, if the innovations are successful, they are quickly introduced and competitors. If you carefully understand the characteristics in different models, you can choose the best option without overpaying. We hope that this information will be your reliable assistant!

Many housewives tend to purchase a washing machine with dozens of options. But is it worth it if most of the functions remain unclaimed? The presence of "bells and whistles" makes the technique stylish, but at times increases the risk of its breakdown. Experts advise to abandon such models in favor of simpler and more reliable ones. An excellent solution to this plan is the Indesit washing machine with EcoTime technology. The model is equipped with a minimum of the most necessary and most frequently used programs. The absence of many unnecessary options makes this device not only extremely easy to use, but also reduces the likelihood of breakages several times. The advantage of the model is also that its drum is perfectly smooth, since all the holes are properly processed. This ensures the integrity of the clothes after washing.