Almost every family is a happy owner of a washing machine. However, the relevance of the topic of choosing this unit is not lost.
The question constantly arises: how to choose a washing machine? Naturally, after all, circumstances are changing, new families are being created, children are striving to ease their parents' homework. And sometimes the reason for the purchase is quite banal - over time, any equipment tends to fail.
Regardless of the reason, the question of how to choose the right washing machine does not cease to worry consumers. That is why it is very important before buying to carefully study the main factors that directly affect the decision, so as not to subsequently be disappointed in it.
Download Type
There are two of them: frontal and vertical. According to their properties and washing results, these machines are almost identical. They differ, rather, in functionality. Therefore, it is impossible to answer unequivocally which one to choose a washing machine based on only this parameter.
- Front loading. Such units are more practical. They are often somewhat cheaper than vertical ones. Moreover, in case of repair, repairing them is also cheaper. A big advantage is the transparent glass of the hatch. It was she who repeatedly saved the driver’s license, documents that accidentally remained in things before washing. The cuff of the hatch (rubber seal) is strong enough, and tears more from careless handling than from operation. The drum has one axis of attachment, but the frontal machine is not inferior to the vertical one in reliability. For a small area, the immobility of the upper surface is a big plus. This allows you to mount such equipment in a cabinet or even use it as a bedside table.
- Vertical loading. The cost of such equipment is somewhat more expensive than front-end analogues. This is due to the exceptionally more complex assembly process and design features. The fact that the vertical machine has drum bearings on both sides gives no advantages. Moreover, it is very difficult to achieve equilibrium of two axes in it. Since the drum has opening flaps for the loading process, one half automatically becomes a little heavier. Therefore, balancing is mandatory. And, unfortunately, this process is not always performed perfectly. As a result, the washing machine may be characterized by increased vibration during operation. A big advantage of this technique is its size. Such machines take up significantly less space than frontal units. Therefore, if the room is small, it is better to choose a narrow washing machine, which will take up a very small space.
In general, each type has both pros and cons. Moreover, all properties and qualities are almost the same. In the selection process, analyze which view will be most convenient for you. And only having finally decided on the type of loading, you can decide which vertical washing machine to choose or which one to prefer the front aggregate.
Dimensions of the washing machine
Most models have standard sizes. Front cars are typically 60 cm wide and 85 cm high. Depth of loading varies greatly. Depending on this parameter, the frontal technique is divided into:
- full-size machines - loading depth 60-65 cm;
- narrow models - 40-45 cm;
- ultra-narrow units - up to 32 cm.
Most models have a fairly compact design. This allows you to install the equipment under specially designed sinks.However, before choosing a small automatic washing machine, do not forget that their maximum load is 3-3.5 kg.
Vertical units are 85 cm (height), 40-45 cm (width). The depth of the drum is 60 cm.
In search of an answer to the question of how to choose a washing machine, one must not forget that the unit is selected for a specific place designated in advance in the apartment. The maximum permissible weight of a single load is also important. The higher it is, the more things the machine goes through during operation.
Main characteristics
To determine which washing machine is best to choose, you should pay attention to the most important parameters of the unit: power consumption, water consumption, washing efficiency and spin efficiency.
To begin, consider the method of connecting the machine. Surprisingly, the level of resource consumption depends on the connection method. Most models connect exclusively to cold water. However, many firms produce equipment that requires additional connection to a hot water supply.
This can significantly save energy. After all, such a machine does not spend it on heating water. The minus is pretty obvious. Hot water contains many harmful impurities, which do not affect the details of the unit in the best way. Another drawback is disabling. In this case, the laundry will be poorly washed.
How to choose a washing machine for energy consumption? To facilitate the determination, according to the international standard of the EEC, a classification has been introduced. It is indicated by the first 7 letters of the Latin alphabet. This marking, it should be noted, is valid for any technique.
Class A to C washing machines are the most economical. Accordingly, units marked F and G are characterized by high energy consumption. Thus, the best models are indicated by the letters A and B, and regardless of the manufacturer.
Washing efficiency
A Latin letter scale has also been introduced for this parameter. High class A means excellent washing. And marking G indicates a rather poor-quality process.
However, for washing efficiency, it is also important how thoroughly the clothes are soaked in the added detergent. The machine must constantly "lift" the powder from the bottom. Thus, it increases the constant contact of linen and detergent. An important role is played by the drum and tank.
Spin quality
This is another important parameter that must be considered when buying. It’s easy to guess how to choose a good washing machine. The more revolutions, the drier the laundry will be, and accordingly, the better the machine. However, the matter is not only in turnover.
The quality of the spin depends on the strength of the drum and tank. By the way, their durability is determined by the durability of the machine. It should be clearly understood that the drum is the device in which the laundry is directly washed. At the same time, it is located in a certain container called a tank. Their strength directly depends on the materials of manufacture. Therefore, to answer the question of how to choose a washing machine, you should understand what the drum and tank are made of.
Varieties of drums
Initially, all machines were equipped with such a device exclusively from stainless steel. Today, polymers or composites are used to make drums.
Plastic drums do not have fundamental differences. Their main advantage is ease. They are relatively durable and generally not susceptible to corrosion. Such drums perfectly dampen noise and absorb vibration. The reviews of people confirm excellent sound insulation, extraordinary lightness, increased corrosion resistance, as well as environmental friendliness and thermal insulation. But there is a significant drawback - polymer drums are more fragile compared to stainless steel counterparts. Therefore, they are more likely to break down. Experts, recommending how to choose a washing machine, of course, are advised to look not only at the drum material, but also at how the unit washes clothes.
To improve the results, some machines have certain devices. So, you can find drums with special grips. They raise the powder from the bottom, simulating the effect of rain.
Manufacturers call such a system in their instructions "shower system." For individual models, the supply of a washing solution under pressure through special nozzles is characteristic. Quite an interesting novelty quickly gained popularity. It's about a honeycomb drum. A thin film of water is created during washing. Thanks to her, the clothes are not damaged, since they practically do not touch the surface.
Types of tanks
Enamelled tanks are significantly inferior to stainless steel counterparts. As a result of this, recently they are almost not used. And containers made of composite materials have proven their worth. They are quite resistant to high temperatures, not susceptible to corrosion, while absorbing vibration quite well. Therefore, they create much less noise than machines with a steel tank.
It is up to you to decide which washing machine to choose. Some experts advise purchasing a machine with a plastic drum and a tank made of composite materials.
Washing modes
Particular attention must be paid to programs. However, having listened to professionals explaining how to choose a washing machine, we can conclude: it’s not worth chasing a lot of modes. This is often just a trick of the manufacturer. The main thing is that there should be four main washing programs:
- for cotton (temperature reaches 95 ºС);
- for synthetics (up to 60 ºС);
- for delicate items (hand wash) (up to 30 ºС);
- for woolen products (cold water).
Each of these modes has several subprograms (steps):
- soak;
- washing;
- rinse clothes;
- spin.
Almost all machines allow you to adjust the temperature. You can optionally set the spin speed. Adjustment is possible both mechanically and automatically. This moment is completely dependent on the characteristics of the unit.
Types of management
Today, there are two types of control: mechanical and electronic. Which washing machine to choose? Customer reviews do not give a definite answer. It all depends on your expectations from the assistant.
- Mechanical control. In this unit, all parameters must be set manually. On the panel there are rotary switches, which set the temperature, program, and spin speed.
- Electronic control. This option allows you to set the washing program with a touch of a button or switch. The machine independently determines the weight of the laundry, selects the required amount of water, calculates the time. He himself determines the heating temperature, the number of rinses required in direct proportion to the type of fabric. It remains only to follow the indicators on the panel. In this case, the electronic "brain" in the case of unevenly distributed laundry automatically slows down the process, preventing the drum from accelerating, which means damage.
The washing machine controls all the nuances itself. In the event of a water outage or leak, it will stop. The main danger for the machine is power outages. This has a very negative effect on the programming system and often leads to its failure.
Brands of washing machines
All of the above factors are important enough for the right choice of unit. But it is necessary to dwell on one more parameter - the manufacturing company. It depends on him the quality of your assistant, the guarantee for him and, of course, the cost. Let's look at some brands in order to clarify the question somewhat: which company should choose a washing machine.
Units assembled in Germany are considered the best and highest quality. This country produces decent equipment of the class "luxury" and "good average." The elite Miele car is the brightest representative of German quality. Miracle technique is very expensive, but reliable. The guarantee for such an assembly is more than 20 years. And that says a lot. Service of cars in Russia is quite difficult. However, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, any repair problem is completely solvable.
Somewhat lower listed are Bosch and Siemens brands. These are great cars of a "good middle class." Often, units are assembled in Poland, Spain, Turkey, China. Such machines, as a rule, function perfectly for ten years. And their further operation entirely depends on the treatment of the owner and frequency of use. In case of repair, these washing machines are accepted at any service, however, parts are often expensive.
Applicants for the middle category are Electrolux and Zanussi. The assembly of these machines takes place in sunny Italy. Automata have a huge set of programs and convenient functions. A distinctive feature of the models of these brands is a special tilt of the drum. This greatly facilitates the process of loading, unloading linen, while improving the quality of washing. The service for these brands is well developed, and if necessary, repair will not be difficult to find spare parts.
The quality of Samsung and LG is improving every day. Cars are assembled in South Korea. These units have a set of all necessary functions. They are quite popular with residents of Russia. The motto of the companies - good quality at a low price - really works. Of course, such washing machines also break, but serious breakdowns occur rarely enough. It is absolutely not difficult to find the necessary spare parts for such brands.
The Italian machines Ariston, Ardo and Indesit, unfortunately, settled in a lower category. Today, the assembly of these washing machines is carried out in Lipetsk (Russia). Most models are equipped with a beautiful electronic display that produces a fairly impressive look. However, either due to the assembly, or because of power surges, these machines very often fail. A repair, as a rule, is not cheap. Spare parts for such machines are quite easy to find due to increased demand.
AEG, Hansa, Gorenje units are pretty high quality. However, they did not get much distribution among buyers. Their service is very poorly developed, and repairs can cause some difficulties.
Popular Turkish brand Veko. The machines serve regularly, but not for long. Candy brand is not distinguished by good quality. The reason, perhaps, lies in the struggle for the buyer - production is significantly cheaper, but at the expense of quality.
Customer reviews
If you decide to choose a washing machine, the reviews of people who made such a purchase will help you. Buyers speak well of the Bosch brand. High quality of washing, lack of vibration, express mode (15 minutes) are noted. At the same time, there are also disadvantages: short hoses, glass that heats up during operation.
Low vibration, quiet engine operation, clear and convenient display, great functionality, according to owners' reviews, LG brand washing machines are distinguished. And buyers either do not note any shortcomings, or attribute them to the category of trifles: for example, this is the inability to turn off the music, the absence of the “only spin” mode.
Last tip
These recommendations will greatly help you find a washing machine. Which brand to choose this wonderful technique, is up to you. The main thing is not to be seduced by low prices, beautiful design. Try to carefully analyze all your requirements and, according to them, find not just a machine, but a high-quality and long-term assistant. Good luck with your choice!
