Useless functions of washing machines. Why do you need a steam function in a washing machine?

It is impossible to imagine a modern city home without an automatic washing machine. There are many models available, varying in price and technical specifications. After choosing several options, you should consider the washing, energy consumption and spin classes of suitable machines, since these parameters are much more important than most buyers think.

What is a washing class

The washing efficiency class is usually called a value characterizing the cleanliness of washed laundry. Classes stand for in Latin letters from A to G. The highest class is supplemented with the designations A+, A++ and A+++, since new washing machines are more advanced.

To determine the wash class of a particular model, a piece of cotton fabric is soiled in a certain way and washed at 60°C for an hour using one of the basic programs. The washed fabric is then compared to a reference sample. Comparison of cleanliness indicators (whiteness and other properties) is carried out using special optical instruments that produce the result (washing efficiency coefficient) in digital form.

Table 1 shows the correspondence between the obtained coefficient and the washing class of the machine:

In fact, this indicator can hardly be called objective, since it is almost impossible to create identical testing conditions, and the cost of a washing machine directly depends on the value of this coefficient.

It is almost impossible to detect the difference in the quality of washing classes A+++ and A (sometimes B) with the naked eye. Just take some detergent good quality, and the difference will become completely unnoticeable; it makes no sense to overpay for a prestigious badge in the product passport. However, when buying, it is better to choose a car of a higher class, all other characteristics being equal.

Energy consumption and energy efficiency classes

The energy consumption class of an automatic washing machine depends on the amount of electricity that the device consumes in the basic mode to wash 1 kg of cotton laundry for 1 hour at a temperature of 60°C. The lower this indicator, the higher the energy consumption class of the washing machine.
Until 2010, the following gradation of energy consumption classes for automatic washing machines was adopted (Table 2):

After 2010, instead of energy consumption class, new feature– energy efficiency class. This indicator depends on the energy efficiency index (EEI - Energy Efficiency Index). To assign a value to a new model, average annual electricity consumption figures are used. Take into account washing modes at different temperatures and partial loads. When calculating, it is assumed that the machine goes through 220 full cycles per year. The standard consumption (100%) of electricity for a full cycle (with a load of 6 kg of dry cotton fiber laundry) is considered to be 1.52 kWh, that is, 334 kWh per year.

The energy efficiency index is the percentage ratio of the actual energy consumption of a particular model to the standard one. The higher the class of the unit, the lower the index value. In order to find out how much electricity a particular washing machine consumes per year, it is enough to multiply the reference consumption (334 kWh) by the index corresponding to the class of the energy consumption model and divide by 100.

Energy efficiency index values for different classes of washing machines (Table 3):

What does the term “spin class” mean?

The spin class of a washing machine depends on the amount of moisture in the laundry that has gone through a full spin cycle. The lower this indicator, the higher the class. To calculate this coefficient, the mass of dry laundry is subtracted from the mass of wet laundry after spinning, then the resulting result is divided by the mass of dry laundry and multiplied by 100%.

Values of laundry humidity after washing (in%) and drum rotation speed (rpm), corresponding to spin classes (Table 4):

Spin efficiency is related to energy consumption: the higher the spin speed of the drum, the greater the energy consumption. A high-speed spin mode (class A) is needed mainly when washing items made of thick fabrics, for example, denim (denim). Significant mechanical impact on fabric negatively affects the service life of things and their appearance: creases appear that are difficult to straighten even with an iron or ironing press. It is not necessary to choose a machine with spin class A; B or C is sufficient.

Washing modes in a washing machine

Manufacturers create automatic washing machines with different sets of basic and additional modes. They use both generally accepted names and designations, as well as original ones unique to this brand. Therefore, it is better to study the meaning of pictograms and inscriptions using your passport specific model.

There is a set of basic modes that (with minimal differences) all automatic cars have.

Basic operating modes of an automatic washing machine:

washing items made from natural materials: linen or cotton (from +90 to +95°C), - full cycle, which is used for heavily soiled white laundry, spin at maximum speed;
washing items made of synthetic materials - gentle mode (+60°C), spin at maximum speed;
washing wool and silk (+40°C) – gentle mode, in which the drum does not rotate, but only rocks from side to side, without spinning, the processing cycle ends by draining the water;
delicate washing of items made from thin and delicate fabrics: underwear, lace and embroidered items that require careful handling. Gentle mode, no spin (+30°C).

All modes can be adjusted using the buttons on the control panel, adding or disabling individual functions.

Additional washing modes

In addition to the basic ones, automatic washing machines have additional modes washing, which differ from each other in the amount and temperature of water, the length of time of some washing phases, and the speed of rotation of the drum during spinning.

On electronically controlled machines, modes are switched using rotary knobs, and functions can be selected by pressing buttons. If the control is touch-sensitive, then there can be either recessed buttons or those activated by a light touch of the fingers; data on the operation of the machine is displayed on the display.

For mechanically controlled machines, program selection is carried out using a rotary knob and buttons on the control panel. Such a machine, unlike a similar one with electronic control, can be stopped at any point in the cycle and switched to another program.

Mechanical models are more likely to fail due to large quantity moving parts, while electronic ones are damaged as a result of voltage surges.

Common additional washing modes:

“pre-wash” (soaking) – the program is suitable for very dirty clothes, which are first kept in a cold detergent solution for several hours, then the main wash begins. In this mode, you need to pour two portions into the powder container, using both compartments;
“Intensive wash” – used when stains need to be removed. The water is gradually heated to +60ºC, and after the initial treatment of the stains, the temperature reaches +90°C;
“quick wash” - this program is used for everyday care of things. The cycle is completed after 15–30 minutes at a water temperature of 30–40°C. Washing parameters depend on the brand of machine. If you need to quickly wash things without heavy contamination, this mode is the best;
“Economy mode” – ensures washing of cotton and linen at low temperatures, with low consumption of water and electricity. Due to the increase in processing time, the quality of washing does not suffer;
“half load” - this mode is very convenient in cases where things need to be washed urgently, and full load there are few of them. The washing time will be reduced, therefore the consumption of water, electricity and detergent will be reduced;
“Easy ironing” - when washing in this mode, the laundry is constantly straightened out and does not wrinkle due to the slow rotation of the drum with the intermediate spin function disabled. The final spin occurs at a reduced speed. Items after such treatment are easy to iron.

Automatic washing machines are equipped with a set of useful functions that make the washing process even more convenient:

“Delayed start” – allows you to program the start of washing in the selected mode within 24 hours, which is convenient for busy people;
“extra rinse” – very useful option, if it is necessary to thoroughly remove detergent residues from children's, underwear and bed linen;
“lots of water” – when washing and rinsing in an increased amount of water, it is easier to completely get rid of the smell and residues of washing powder;
“rinse delay” - if it is not possible to immediately remove the laundry at the end of the wash cycle, it is better to leave it in the water so that creases and unnecessary folds do not appear. At a convenient time, the drain and spin functions are started, after which clean items are taken out of the drum;
“night wash” - this function makes the process almost silent, as it completely eliminates spinning. In the morning, you can complete the wash by sequentially turning on the “drain” and “spin” modes.

Security Modes

When designing modern automatic machines, manufacturers pay great attention to safety. Different models may have the following locks:

protection against leaks. Thanks to this function, the water supply is automatically stopped if there is a danger of leakage, which sometimes occurs complete shutdown device, it depends on the model;
foam suppression system. Excess foam may cause leakage. Using a special sensor that determines the amount of foam during draining and spinning, the suction is turned on, excess foam is removed and the cycle continues;
balancing control. If there is a significant imbalance, the machine begins to vibrate strongly, the sensor turns on a special shaking mode, in which the laundry is evenly distributed throughout the drum due to slow reverse rotation (alternately, clockwise and in the opposite direction). This function protects the machine from mechanical damage;
protection from children. Reliable door locking so that the baby cannot open the hatch in any way, either during operation or in standby mode.

P.S. It often happens that the happy owner of a car with a maximum range of different interesting modes does not find time to understand them and uses only a few. So is it worth buying an expensive model, because the more washing modes, the higher the price and the risk of damaging complex equipment? It is better to take a closer look at reliable and high-quality units that have a high energy efficiency class, without overly complex programs that may not be needed.

Dimensions and loading type

The first thing you need to think about when choosing a washing machine is where you will place it. Depending on your spatial capabilities, choose: a standard, narrow or compact washing machine. It is also important to decide on the type of washing machine: front-loading or horizontal-loading.

On the Russian market, washing machines with front loading, and with a width and depth of 60 centimeters. But not every apartment will fit a machine with such dimensions, so now many washing machines are produced with a standard width and reduced depth. A number of manufacturers produce compact front-loading washing machines, such machines have reduced dimensions on all fronts and perfectly solve the problem of lack of space. Functionally, they may differ from their full-size “brothers” only in the smaller load of laundry.

Many people choose front-loading washing machines because they can visually monitor the progress of the wash. Machines of this type are convenient because their surface can be used as an additional shelf, for example, you can put laundry detergents on them. In the kitchen, a front-loading washing machine fits easily into the kitchen furniture. When choosing a place for the washing machine, pay attention to whether it will be convenient for you to load laundry and whether there is enough space to open the hatch door. It is worth paying attention to the diameter of the hatch; the larger it is, the easier it is to load laundry into the drum and remove it after washing.

If none of the front-loading options suits you, take a look at top-loading machines, which have a width of 40 (45) centimeters and a depth of 60. Laundry is loaded from the top, so there is no need to provide additional space to approach them. Most often, top-loading machines are placed in the bathroom, sometimes in the kitchen. The advantage of a top-loading machine is that you can put and remove laundry from it without bending over.

Load volume

Before purchasing, you also need to decide on the loading capacity of the washing machine. If for one person or a young couple a volume of 3-4 kg is enough, then for a family with a child or two children you already need a machine with a loading volume of 4.5 - 5 kg, but if a family of more than five people, then you need a machine with a capacity 6-8 kg.

How to determine how much laundry will weigh, for example, 5 kg? You can take into account that 5 kg of cotton is approximately 3-4 sets of one-and-a-half-length bed linen. Choose the optimal drum loading volume, because if the volume is less than your washing needs, you will have to start the washing machine more often, wasting electricity and water. However, buying a machine with a larger load volume than you need is also not worth it. You will have to collect clothes of the same color for a very long time in order to wash them. Machines with an increased load capacity are needed by those who often wash a lot, including bulky items: pillows, bedspreads, blankets. They simply won’t fit in a washing machine with a 5 kg load.

Spin speed

If previously a washing machine was chosen based on the number of revolutions during the spin cycle (accordingly, the more, the better), but now this indicator has ceased to be decisive. In modern washing machines, it varies from 800 to 1200 rpm, which is enough to spin most things.

Spin RPM tells you how wet your laundry will be after you take it out of the washing machine. The residual moisture indicator is directly related to this indicator; the lower it is, the drier the laundry will be. Most often it is approximately 60% at a spin speed of 1000 rpm. Today there is a minimum residual moisture content (43%) and the highest spin speed (2000 rpm). It’s good if the washing machine is equipped with a function for smoothly adjusting the number of revolutions during the spin cycle, with its help you can reduce the number of revolutions, for example, if you are worried that the laundry will wrinkle too much. The spin switch function is also very useful.

Washing, spinning and energy consumption classes

The classification introduced by the European Union has been in operation for a long time, which, using special tests, evaluates the operating efficiency of washing machines. Devices are evaluated according to three parameters: energy consumption, washing quality, spin quality. For each of these parameters, washing machines are assigned a class: from A to G, class A corresponds to the highest quality indicators. For the energy class in 2002, it was introduced upper class- A+.

This classification was introduced in 1995 and applies to washing machines that are manufactured for sale in the European Union. The classes are awarded based on rigorous testing and can be trusted when choosing a device. But in stores you may also find washing machines that are not rated according to this classification. The absence of a sticker indicating the classes in no way indicates the low quality of these devices; most likely, they are simply not intended for sale in the EU.

The best energy consumption indicators in modern washing machines are achieved mainly by optimizing washing programs. For example, to wash heavily soiled laundry at a temperature of 90 degrees, a class C machine will need approximately 135-140 minutes, and a class A machine will take 20 minutes less. At the same time, you save not only time, but also energy.

Programs and features

There are four types of washing programs that are found in almost all washing machines. This includes washing cotton and linen items, washing synthetic items, washing items made from delicate fabrics and washing wool. Based on them, additional programs are created for optimal washing of any items. Each manufacturer has its own set of such programs - choose depending on your preferences. Some people need a program for washing children's underwear, while others need the “Jeans” or “Washing Sneakers” program. Or maybe you are not looking for a compromise and you need a machine with the maximum possible set of programs?

Hand wash programs for delicate fabrics

One of the most useful programs, which washing machines are equipped with, is a “hand” wash program that allows you to wash items in the machine that are marked “wash only by hand.” Some manufacturers have separate hand wash programs for wool and silk. When hand washing in washing machine there is a special drum movement rhythm and optimal temperature heating water (maximum 40 degrees, average 30 degrees).

Short wash cycle

A short wash cycle (about 30 minutes) is one of the most popular programs and even the simplest models are equipped with it. The program can be called differently: “Quick wash”, “Mini program”, “Accelerated wash”, it is intended for washing lightly soiled laundry and allows you to save 20-30% of time.

Anti-crease

Most washing machines provide such a useful function as protection against wrinkles at the end of the wash (“Easy to iron”, “Anti-creases”, “Loosening the laundry after spinning”). It can be implemented in a machine in different ways. Loosening the laundry after spinning involves a special cycle of rotation of the drum after spinning, due to which fewer wrinkles form on cotton and synthetic laundry, which, in turn, makes it easier to iron. Also, the anti-crease function may consist of prescribing additional rinses or turning off the drain after rinsing.

Programs for washing heavily soiled laundry

There are a number of programs that are designed for washing heavily soiled laundry and removing stains. The “Soak” program allows you to leave laundry in water with detergent for several hours, while the laundry is periodically automatically stirred. There are also intensive wash programs designed to remove old stains using dry stain removers.

Bioprogram

A bioprogram (bio-phase) is available in almost all washing machines; it provides for washing at a temperature of 40°C using powders with bioadditives. The program allows you to activate the enzymes contained in the powders, since they die at temperatures of 60°C and above. With the help of powders with bioadditives, stains of organic origin (blood, ketchup, sauces, greasy stains) are washed off very well, and the laundry is prepared for the standard washing cycle. Despite the advantages of powders with bioadditives, they are dangerous for silk and wool, because these fabrics consist of protein substances. Since the enzymes contained in washing powders help break down proteins, they also successfully, albeit gradually, destroy the fibers of wool and silk fabric.

Washing different types things

Among the preset programs in washing machines you can also see programs designed for washing various types things. For example, this could be “Washing children’s underwear”, “Jeans”, “Pillows”, “Sportswear”, “Sneakers” - these programs provide the most optimal conditions for washing a certain type of clothing.

Electronic washing process control systems

Electronic control systems in washing machines can be called differently: Fuzzy Control, Logic Control, Fuzzy Logic, with their help the washing process is controlled. Using special sensors, the washing machine monitors the processes occurring during washing and reacts flexibly to them. This complex system control of the washing process, it includes a variety of functions that can be implemented separately in the washing machine, for example, automatic control of the water level, the function of adjusting the imbalance during the spin cycle, control of foam formation, etc. For the consumer, the presence of an electronic system for monitoring the washing process in the machine is a big plus. The machine itself adjusts the process depending on the type and quantity of laundry, regulates water consumption and rinsing time, and eliminates imbalance during spinning. At the same time, the best washing results and the least expenditure of resources are achieved without your effort.

Automatic water level adjustment

Using the function automatic adjustment water level, your washing machine will control the water volume according to the volume of laundry loaded. How does the machine determine the amount of laundry? In most models of washing machines, the weight of the laundry is determined depending on the rate at which water is absorbed into it; pure auto-weighing is implemented only in premium models. This function allows you to optimize your water consumption (relevant for those who have water meters) and electricity when washing.

Imbalance control system

An imbalance control system is present in most washing machine models and adjusts the rotation of the drum so that the laundry does not bunch up. If an imbalance does occur, the control system will spin at a safe speed.

Foam control system

A foam control system is needed to prevent damage to the machine in the event of an overdose of detergents. In most cases, foam suppression occurs quite in a simple way— the machine turns on an additional rinse cycle.

Delayed start

The delay timer (delayed start, delayed start) is a frequently encountered function that allows you to postpone washing for a time convenient for you. This function is very relevant where two-tariff and three-tariff electricity meters operate (for example, in Moscow), and at night electricity is several times cheaper. You can schedule the washing time so that the machine finishes it when you wake up.

Storing programs into the machine's memory

The ability to enter personal program configurations into the washing machine’s memory is very convenient. This function saves your time and eliminates the need to re-enter washing parameters each time, and makes it possible to expand the list of items you need. automatic programs washing.

Control

It is also important how your interaction with the washing machine will be carried out. Washing machines with electronic-mechanical (hybrid) control are equipped with software, but control occurs using traditional rotary switches. Communication with electronically controlled machines occurs using buttons, displays, etc. Choose what is more convenient for you. Older people more often choose cars with rotary switches that they are familiar with, while young people like to control the car using the display.

There are also mechanically controlled washing machines, but they are already reaching their end of life; there are only a few of them on store shelves.

The control panels of modern washing machines can be equipped with classic rotary knobs, buttons, and displays. Feedback to the washing machine is mainly carried out through the display. The simplest machines have an LED display, on which the LED lights light up opposite the running programs. Also, washing machines often use liquid crystal displays, which display digital and text information. And finally, touch screens that not only display information, but also allow you to control the car through the display. There are models that can communicate with the user in dialogue mode, and text prompts appear on the control panel.

Additional benefits

Think about whether you need additional benefits washing machine, such as drying clothes, silver sterilizing or steaming items. The implementation of these functions in a washing machine involves the introduction of additional technologies, which has many advantages, but also increases the cost of the product. Moreover, you will have to choose one thing; drying, steam treatment and silver sterilization “in one bottle” do not happen.

Drying
Washing machines with dryers are a separate class of devices that, in addition to a heating element for heating water, also have a fan. A machine with a dryer is necessary if you have nowhere to dry your clothes in your apartment. Such cars are also relevant for families with small children. The simplest models of washing machines of this type dry clothes on a timer; after the end of washing, a certain time is allocated for drying. More advanced models can also dry clothes “by humidity”, and the machine itself determines how long it will take. When choosing a machine with a dryer, you should pay attention to what drying programs it provides. The traditional set of programs includes “iron”, “dry” and “closet”, and some machines can have up to 11 drying programs. Often in washing machines with dryers it is stipulated that the load on the washing machine drum during drying should be half as much as when washing. But there are exceptions: in washing machines with dryers produced by Indesit, Ariston has introduced a new technology that allows you to dry slightly less laundry than you washed.

Steam function

LG was the first to use the steam treatment function in its washing machines. Steam washing technology significantly increases the functionality of the washing machine. Steam treatment eliminates harmful bacteria and improves the quality of washing, while the steam is gentle on clothes without leaving creases on them, as with regular washing. In a machine with a steam function, you can wash even delicate items such as lace or silk. This system also allows you to quickly refresh clothes: smooth out wrinkles and eliminate unpleasant odors.

Silver sterilization function

The silver sterilization function is implemented based on Silver Nano technology developed by Samsung. This technology, using positively charged silver ions, ensures the destruction of 99.9% of bacteria, and the disinfectant effect lasts up to 30 days. The advantage of this system is that it allows you to destroy all types of microorganisms without damaging tissues. In addition, “silver washing” prevents the appearance of unpleasant odors in clothes and the machine drum, since silver ions that remain after washing prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

Safety

And finally, think about safety. First of all, pay attention to the presence of a leakage protection system. It can be complete or partial. Complete system protection against leaks applies to both the body and the hose of the washing machine, and partial protection to one thing only. Leak-proof hoses can be purchased separately and used with almost any washing machine.

If protection against leaks in your washing machine is important to you, pay attention to the presence of the AquaStop, AquaAlarm, Watercontrol, AquaBlockSystem or Waterproof functions. Different companies have their own proprietary name for protection against leaks and involve different methods of dealing with leaks. Most often, protection is implemented as follows: water is supplied and drained through special double hoses with solenoid valves at the ends, which block the flow of water if the hose is damaged. There are also sensors or floats on the sealed bottom of the washing machine, and if liquid gets on them, the water supply is turned off.

Modern washing machines are multifunctional, but in reality there are not so many main functions that determine the washing mode. In fact, there are only 4 programs that determine the water temperature, the spin speed of the drum, and the number of rinses. Also, the user usually has the opportunity to specify the type of fabric that he loaded.

The “smart” control of the washing machine, if it sees any discrepancies, notifies the user so that he can make adjustments regarding the washing mode.

In fact, there are only 4 classic programs (that is, the main ones):

Washing woolen items at 40 C;
Wash delicate items at 40 C;
Washing cotton items at 95 C;
Wash synthetics at 60 C.

All other programs and modes allow you to adjust these basic programs and select the desired washing mode based on the degree of soiling of the laundry, for example. There are also functions to prevent things from creasing and minimize detergent consumption. However, all additional functions are expensive for the consumer: the more of them, the more expensive the machine becomes.

For example, expensive “cool” models automatically calculate wash time, water temperature, number of rinses and drum speed. The user only needs to set the type of fabric of the items he loaded into the drum and press the start button.

Functions of washing machines

Most models have the following features:

Delay switching on. If the user sits at home and does not want to hear how noisy the machine is or wants things to be washed by the time he arrives, he can use this function. The system simply delays the start for the specified period of time.
Water control. This function is mainly designed to save electricity, a significant part of which is spent on heating. The “smart” machine determines the volume of water required to wet things and the optimal load, without pouring in too much
Control of water transparency. Very interesting feature, which also saves resources, but in this case, water. A special sensor after rinsing determines the transparency of the water, and if it is below normal, the mode is repeated. If, for example, transparency is satisfactory after two rinsing stages, the system will cancel the third and thus save resources.
Spin balancing. Spinning involves large dynamic loads on the unit and noise. Balancing is a function that dampens vibrations, as a result of which these loads are significantly reduced, as well as the noise level. The function works like this: the drum rotates slowly until all the laundry is distributed evenly over the surface. Only after this does the spinning begin.
Spin speed adjustment. A smart washing machine chooses the spin speed itself, but in other machines this can be done by the user. If the fabric is rough, it can be wrung out at the highest spin speeds. If not, you should choose a speed of about 400-600 rpm.
Timer. The function displays the time after which the washing process will be completed.
Stop spinning. If light items are washed with coarse fabrics in the drum, the user can remove them, leaving only the coarse ones.
Diagnosis of problems. If something in the machine does not work “right” or does not work at all, this function usually talks about this. It displays the fault code of the washing machine on the display, and then the user can prevent it.

Machine modes

As for the modes, there are 15 of them (more or less depending on the model and manufacturer):

Hand wash. In this mode there is no spin, the drum rotates weakly, and the main idea of the mode is to reduce the physical impact on the tissue. It is called manual because you could wash things this way (carefully) by hand.
Preliminary. Used for very, very dirty things. Before using this mode, it is recommended to leave the laundry in soapy water (in water with detergent) for 2 hours.
Economy mode The very name of the mode already says a lot. In particular, we are talking about reducing water and electricity consumption. This will lengthen the washing time.
Quick wash. Like previous mode, this also involves saving water, detergent, and electricity. But, on top of everything else, time is saved, because... the cycle is shortened.
Strong heating (up to 90 degrees). If things are very dirty, then this mode is optimal. Dirt can be easily removed at high water temperatures, but you need to remember that not all items can be washed in this mode, because some may simply get damaged. Usually, clothing tags indicate at what maximum temperature it can be washed.
Daily wash. The mode involves partial loading of the washing machine drum. In this case, the cycle lasts about 40 minutes and the water temperature in the drum is up to 30 C. It is usually used to refresh underwear and light clothing.
Intensive mode. As the name suggests, it is used for washing heavily soiled clothes. In this case, the water is heated to high temperature. The duration of the process also increases.
Eco-program. This mode involves the user using enzyme agents. The mode is famous for its ability to scrub very dirty things at high water temperatures.
Biophase. Involves the use of powders containing bioenzymes.
Wool. The mode washes woolen items, and in this mode the drum will spin at a speed of 36 rpm.
Additional rinse. This mode provides an additional rinsing process, which will completely remove any remaining soapy water.
Removing stains. This mode is said to be able to remove tough stains from clothes that cannot be removed in other washing modes.
Lots of water. When rinsing, a lot of water will flow into the drum, which will also help to completely remove any remaining powder.
Anti-crease protection. When this mode is activated, the drum spins the laundry at a very low speed for a short time. As a result, after the user takes things out of the drum, it will be much easier to iron them.
Repeated rinsing. Like some other modes, this one is also aimed exclusively at removing residual powder and soapy water.

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“The time has finally come...” and you decide to buy a new washing machine. High quality, reliable, convenient. How to choose it? A hard-working smart girl who washes, rinses, and even dries all the laundry herself?

In this article we will not tell you which brand of washing machine is better. It is rather a matter of personal preference and financial capabilities.

But we’ll share what functions modern washing units have. So that you go to the store savvy and know exactly what parameters of the “washing machine” you definitely need to pay attention to.

Types of washing machines

There are two cardinal points that you must take into account when choosing. This is the washing class and energy consumption class. It depends on them how effective and economical the use of the washing machine will be.

Washing class denoted by Latin letters (A, B...). The farther the letter is from the beginning of the alphabet, the worse your washing machine will wash.

Energy class is designated similarly. The most economical units are marked with the letter “A” or “A+”. Plus is in addition to the main rating and means a slightly higher level.

And one more small but important piece of advice. If you are going to buy a new washing machine and build it into your kitchen set, choose a model not based on its beautiful design (you won’t need it), but on the presence of special fasteners. On which you will “plant” the panels of the kitchen cabinet or cabinet.

The second thing you need to pay attention to when choosing is the method of loading laundry into the drum.

Frontal and vertical method downloads . The front model is equipped with a “porthole” door on the front panel of the case. The vertical model has such a door (but not transparent) on top. If the space is limited, the second option is more convenient.

And one more thing: by pausing a running vertical machine, you can open it without fear of flooding your neighbors. For what? To put forgotten laundry into it or vice versa, to pull out an item that accidentally ended up in a loaded batch (colored to white, for example).

Now, let's move directly to the performance characteristics of washing devices.

Washing machine functions - loading

. Determines the power of the unit and the amount of laundry (in kilograms) that can be washed at a time. Keep in mind that the larger the load, the greater the energy consumption and detergent consumption.

. A very convenient mode that many popular washing machines are equipped with. Allows you to wash even one item with high quality, while restructuring the operation of the unit to consume less energy, powder and water.

Functions of washing machines - set the mode

How convenient is it to use a washing machine equipped with an automatic setting mode? The fact that all operating parameters of washing can be programmed with two or three presses of the necessary buttons.

At electronic-mechanical When setting up, the basic parameters are entered manually, and the electronics adjusts additional functions to suit them. Electronic control allows you to set the mode by pressing one or two buttons. Touch control does without buttons at all - all you have to do is touch your finger desired image on the display.

Functions of washing machines – washing, spinning

So, what functions do modern washing machines come with?

Washing mode regulator . With one turn or press, it “tells” the washing machine what is required of it. Depending on the selected mode, the machine itself adjusts required parameters: water temperature, spin speed, wash duration, etc.

Quick wash . The mode is great for express washing not very dirty laundry. Unlike the standard wash cycle, the quick cycle lasts only 30 minutes.

Bio-enzyme phase . The presence of this option allows you to use special products that wash almost any stain even at a relatively low temperature. The only negative is that a machine with this function is much more expensive than other washing units. And you will also have to fork out extra money for products with enzyme supplements.

Leak protection . Will protect you and your neighbors from flooding in case of hose failure. You can remove excess water from the washing machine through the emergency drain system.

Extra rinse . A very convenient function if the laundry requires more thorough rinsing. Allows you to remove even the slightest traces of detergent from laundry. It will not be superfluous if there are small children or allergy sufferers in the house.

Spin speed . The parameter affects the level of residual moisture in washed laundry. The more revolutions, the drier your things will be. The most popular washing machines are limited to a maximum of 1000 revolutions per minute. It is optimal in terms of the spin quality/energy consumption ratio.

Cancel spin . The mode allows you to do without spinning at all. Convenient for washing delicate items or items that require hand-wringing.

Drying . If you are lucky enough to buy a new washing machine with this feature, you will save time on drying clothes. After completing the full washing cycle, your clothes will not only be clean, but also completely dry and ready to go straight to the iron. True, so far only premium washing machines have this mode.

Child lock . The function locks the control panel, preventing the child from turning on the machine or interfering with its operation. Agree, it’s a good precaution if there are curious kids in the house :)

Here, perhaps, are all the main modes that will make using the washing machine comfortable and efficient. You can figure out all the other minor functions on site, in the store.