How to choose a washing machine?

Question 1: is the loading vertical or frontal??

Directly related to the choice of location and the second question – the type of loading: it can be vertical or frontal.

Front-loading drum machine will fit perfectly into the kitchen set as a cutting table: its top lid is always at your disposal, and the height of such machines corresponds exactly to the size of standard kitchen furniture.

Some models have an optional removable overhead panel and the machine can be built into the kitchen furniture underneath the common decorative panel, in light of the latest fashions. The height of the legs of such machines is usually adjustable, so that it blends in as accurately as possible.

Top-loading machines are narrower, more compact and will easily fit into a small bathroom aperture. Usually they are a little more expensive than machines with front-loading, which we in America, perhaps, like for a beautiful round porthole, where you can look at the rotating drum laundry, as in a fire or in the TV. Nevertheless, if our share of machines with top loading is still 16-17%, while in the world mainly due to the U.S. and Asia – 70%!

The drawback of our favorite drum-type machines with front loading is their unwieldiness. Small kitchens and bathrooms refuse to accommodate them.

CANDY was the first Italian company to solve this problem perfectly. It has developed compact washing machines for cramped city apartments. They have been a firm favourite on the European market for many years.

If you have very little space for a washing machine at home, choose a “narrow” model with a front-loading. Such machines, which have the efficiency of modern full-sized machines, have a depth of up to 32 cm and have no problem to fit into a small bathroom, fit into a free partition and do not take up much space in the kitchen. There are compact washing machines whose dimensions are designed for installation under the sink.

Question 2: Where to put it??

First you need to decide WHERE to put your washing machine. This has a direct impact on the size of your machine. The most common options: in the kitchen under the countertop and in the bathroom.

Question 3: You can’t beat the price?

Third is the price you want to buy your washing machine for. If you are limited in money, then you should not chase after washing machines with big names. They tend to cost more. Besides, more expensive models will be more expensive for repair.

Do not buy a model just because you saw exactly the same at your friend’s place. There might be a better one for you. And it’s not right to choose a machine just because you are satisfied with its price today. It is better to go to the store again and buy what you need

Question 4: Drying and washing in one package?

Now it’s time to decide if you want a DRAINING FUNCTION? Machines with a dryer are more expensive. Therefore, if you do not have limited resources, it is quite possible to buy a machine with dryer.

But if you do not feel limited at all, it is better to buy a good washing machine, and a separate dryer attached to it, so it would not be boring.

Question 5: What is your partner’s class??

If you look at the quality of washing, spinning and drying, then you need to look at the QUALITY of each of these processes. The descriptions of almost all models indicate the washing, spinning, drying, and power consumption classes. Pay attention to the fact that, at least for the time being, the power consumption class is not particularly interesting for us.

All the information you need about your washing machine can be found in the accompanying specifications. According to the results of the EN 95/12 unified European test for washing machines:

on the economy of the washing machine, according to the parameters of power and water consumption

on the effectiveness of washing – based on a series of 5 tests

spin performance, according to the parameters of minimum residual moisture. According to these data, the energy, washing and spin classes are determined for the washing machine.

Classes are set in the range from A to G, where class D roughly corresponds to the rating “satisfactory”, class C – “good”, class B – “very good”, class A – “excellent”. Classes E, F and G are not too often encountered and indicate the worst.

Washing machine tests are conducted as follows:

The total time for a series of 5 tests – no more than 2.5 days. It takes about 3 days to evaluate the test results. A standard detergent specially formulated for such washing machine tests is used detergent ingredients are prescribed in EN95/12 . Washing program: normal 60 degrees, full load, cotton.

Five test strips each with different types of dirt blood, cocoa, red wine, soot, mineral oil : a total of 25 strips provided by independent institutes . Strips are sewn onto the laundry to be loaded into the machine. After all the washes, the value of light reflection from the washed fabric is determined. The higher the light reflection index, the better the laundry is washed.

However, the definition of the washing class is based on the average value derived from the results of washing all the strips with different types of dirt. That is, a washing machine with a washing class B may have some types of dirt just as well washed as a washing machine with a washing class A, and other types of dirt washed a little worse.

Question 6: how many programs?

Study the range of programs. Each washing machine has 3-4 main groups of programs. They generally correspond to the main types of fabrics cotton and linen synthetic fabrics fine cotton, silk, synthetic fabrics wool . In addition, the washing machine may have additional programs and functions. Of course, their number varies from model to model. The need for the various functions is determined by personal preferences.

We have already agreed that it makes no sense to chase a large number of AUTOMATIC PROGRAMS. 3 or 4 groups of programs with independent temperature control are enough. It is good if there is a “bio-phase” or “eco-program” function, as well as a pre-wash and soak function.

So, you’ve chosen the type of washing machine, determined what suits you best in terms of spin speed and classes, and now move on to look at specific models. Comparing models, you will see many functions and washing programs, some of them you are undoubtedly familiar with, others, maybe not. We will tell you about the programs and functions of washing machines that cause the greatest number of questions from our buyers.

Question 7: Spin speed – what’s the best spin speed??

Many people attach great importance to spin speed. It would be good if there were several modes with speeds from 400 to 1000 rpm./minute. for different kind of cloths. A high spin speed is beneficial in that it removes detergent residues from the laundry along with the remaining moisture.

The faster the drum speed when spinning, the less you have to dry your laundry. But probably more ironing, because some machines crumple the laundry at high speeds. At the same time, more expensive models with high drum speed now have a mode that prevents crumpling on the laundry.

Anyway, our predilection for “thousandths” machines is more a matter of prestige than practicality. Practice shows that the optimum spin speed for most things is 600-800 rpm. At 1000-1500, the difference in spin can only be felt on coarse fabrics. It is believed that 400-600 revolutions are for fine, delicate laundry, 800-900 for cotton and synthetics such as shirts , at 1000 you can spin jeans well, and higher speeds, if they are, are for things like terry robes and towels.

One of the main characteristics of washing machines is the maximum spin speed. The choice in this regard is very wide – from 400 to 1800 rpm. it is clear that the higher the speed, the more intensive the spin.

But do not just follow the rule: “the more, the better”. A high spin speed is not the end all be all, – it is necessary to pay attention to the value of minimal residual moisture.

It is an indication of spin speed, and washing machines with the same maximum spin speed have very different minimum residual moisture values. The smaller is this value, the more effective spinning is of this washing machine.

It is considered that 100% humidity corresponds to 1 litre of water in 1kg of cloth. Fully Wet Laundry Contains 180% Moisture. Correspondingly, 1% of humidity is 10 ml of water per 1kg of tissue. The difference of 3% of residual moisture can be very significant, t.k. for a full load of 5 kg this means 150 ml of water.

Note that getting a well wrung out laundry after washing is, of course, very convenient, but still, you should not pay too much attention to it. Quality and versatility are still more important. Sometimes it’s better not to chase after spin speed and buy a 600 or 800rpm model, but a more functional one.

Question 8: the reeds were making noise to the delight of the people. A washing machine is not noisy?

One of the factors that makes the washing machine uncomfortable is the noise it makes. Generally, more expensive washing machines have lower noise levels. But it doesn’t always make sense to overpay for it.

If you install a washing machine in the bathroom, then with the door closed, you are unlikely to interfere with almost any model. Another thing – install the machine in the hallway or kitchen.

The now fashionable arches suggest the absence of doors. In this case you hear more than 70 dB noise level quite well even in the far room.

Question 9: drain and cold water connection. And hot?

Some models of washing machines are connected to hot water. At the same time does not waste electricity on heating water. But there is one big inconvenience compared to connecting to cold water. In our homes, especially in the summer, the hot water is cut off for a long time. Another point – the quality of hot water leaves much to be desired. So it’s probably not worth saving money on this.

Installing and connecting the washing machine to water and electricity – a very important point, since the violation of the rules of installation can lead to serious consequences. The main question that people ask in such cases – how far away from the drain can set the washing machine.

All washing machines have a certain hose length for example, 1.8 m, 2.2 m, etc. .p. . Often manufacturers write in the instruction manual that this hose can be extended, for example, by 1.5 m – that is, the total combined distance from the washing machine to the drain should not exceed the length of the hose plus 1.5 m.

Sometimes they just write in the instructions that it should be 3 m from the washer to the drain, so the hose that comes with it can be extended to 3 m. The standard distance from the washing machine to the drain – 3 m, only in some washing machines this distance is 5 m.

Manufacturers always determine the possible load on the pump drain pump in their washing machines, and according to this form the rules of installation. If the distance is increased, the pump will be subjected to a heavier load than calculated and could break down.

If you install the washing machine yourself, and, contrary to the instructions in the manual, the distance from the washing machine to the drain will be exceeded, and the hose is extended beyond the manufacturer’s recommendations, this circumstance in case of a breakdown may be grounds for refusing warranty repair, since the rules were violated.

To avoid all these problems we recommend to contact the service center to install your washing machine. You are assured of proper installation, in addition, experts will see to it that all necessary safety measures to connect the washing machine to the mains, will take care of proper sockets, grounding, etc.p.

Question 10: Which door is more convenient and safer??

Some models have a door that can be opened with a knob directly on the hatch. In others – with a button on the control panel.

Washing machines that open by pushing a button are safer for children. The button is harder to press, and higher up.

In addition, it is worth noting, the door of different models opens at different angles. It’s more convenient to put in and take out the laundry if you can open the door 180 degrees.

Question 11: Everything under control? And what exactly?

The washing machine is among the complex household appliances associated with water and electricity, that is, the two main besides gas sources of our household worries. That is why modern washing machines are equipped with a variety of control devices.

Full protection against water leaks AquaStop in washing machines is achieved by using a double layer hose with solenoid valves at the end, which automatically shut off in case of damage to the hose or tank of the washing machine. On the fully sealed bottom of the washing machine is a “float”, which, if a minimum amount of water enters, “pops up” and signals the danger.

Different companies may use different names of the complete leakage protection system: AquaStop at Bosch, Siemens, etc., Waterproof at Miele, Aqua Alarm at AEG. Some companies are so confident and with good reason in the effectiveness of their leak protection system that they even offer a lifetime warranty on it valid ONLY if the machine is properly installed .

There can also be partial leakage protection, for example, when the protection covers only the hoses or only the body of the machine.

All washing machines designed for the American market, are fully adapted to the conditions of our power grids. Power surges are no more dangerous to the washer-dryer electronics than they are to the rest of the electrical appliances in your home.

“Hand wash” wool

This is a very useful feature, thanks to which washing machines can wash things that have only manual wash capabilities in such cases, the clothes label is stamped with icons – a crossed out washing machine and a basin with a hand lowered into it. This icon should be on the control panel of the washing machine, it means “manual wash”. In addition, the manufacturer should officially state in the operating instructions that “hand washing” is possible with this washing machine.

“Bio-phase”

“Bio-phase” washing is present in most modern washing machines. This function has long been so familiar that some manufacturers do not even indicate it, either in advertising materials or in the instructions. “Bio-phase” is a temperature step in the washing process to activate the properties of laundry detergents. Washing powders contain biologically active substances – enzymes, which influence the washing of stains of organic origin, penetrating into the structure of the pollution and splitting it into substances that are hard to remove. That is, the Bio-Phase is by no means a stain remover, it only “prepares” the stains for laundering with detergent.

Enzymes come in four varieties:

protease responsible for breaking down protein contaminants

amylase for carbohydrate impurities

lipase breaks down fats

Cellulase smoothes fibers, preventing the formation of lint .

Note that not all laundry detergents contain all four kinds of enzymes.

Enzymes require a temperature of 40 degrees C and 12 to 15 minutes of time to accomplish their task. This temperature step in the washing process and is the Bio-Phase. Theoretically, all washing machines with washing classes A and B must have Bio-Phase, otherwise they would not be able to achieve the high washing results that their washing classes promise.

Stain removal

In most cases this means the Intensive Cotton Wash for heavily soiled and stained laundry using loose stain removers. The possibility of using loose stain removers should be officially stated in the instruction manual.

Delayed start

If there are double tariffs for electricity when electricity is cheaper at night , this feature is widely used, so that the machine turns on and washes at night. Please note that in New York the system of dual tariffs also operates.

In general, there are many useful benefits that can be derived from this feature. For example, if you wash in the evening after work, you have to wait until the machine finishes and that could be 2 – 2.5 hours , or not to wait and go to bed, leaving the laundry in the drum until morning. With the delayed start function, you can program the machine to finish washing in the morning when you get up.

Accelerated washing

When using the booster washer, the washer reduces the number of rinses, plus the washing time itself is reduced by 10-30%. However, remember that the Speed Wash is most effective for partial loads and lightly soiled items.

Mini-program

The mini program is used for a short wash, about 30 minutes. at. T 30 degrees is for laundry that is not dirty, or things that need to be “freshened up”.

Unbalance control

All washing machines with spin speeds over 800 rpm have imbalance control., But it may be implemented in different ways by different manufacturers. Systems of unbalance control serve not only to reduce noise and vibrations of the washing machine during spinning, but also to increase reliability. Safety is paramount.

Foam control

Foam control ensures the quality of the rinse in the case of excess foam e.g. due to an overdose of detergent . It takes longer to drain the water after each rinse because the washer pump, after pumping out all the water, continues to work to pump out the excess foam as well. In some machines, if there is too much foam, the machine can “assign” an extra rinse as well.

Loosening the load after spinning

It is used to protect the laundry from excessive creasing in order to make ironing easier.

Operation and comfort

The washing machine may be controlled electronically or mechanically.

Electronic control assumes an electronic programmer, which, depending on the program you choose, automatically sets the washing parameters: washing stages, the duration of each stage and the whole cycle, the temperature at each stage, spin intensity, number of rinses, etc.d. In addition to the knob for selecting programs, the control panel may have keys for various additional functions, a display indicating the program progress, and sometimes text information.

Manually controlled by setting all the necessary parameters manually. Usually on the control panel there are rotary switches to select the washing program, temperature and spin speed, and some control keys. The washing program selection switch is a mechanical programmer, which slowly “runs” through all the steps of a given program, spending a certain amount of time on each step. There may also be pictograms on the control panel, indicating for what laundry program to select.

Most washing machines have the ability to determine the amount of water to be poured, depending on the load. In the parameter table on our website, this parameter is called “Auto”. adjuster. water level”. This setting is sometimes called “auto-weighing” by consumers.

However, the washing machine does not weigh the laundry: the amount of water poured depends on the absorbency of the laundry. All machines with electronic control automatically determine the washing time depending on the amount of water filled and how full the drum is. And the time can be adjusted during the washing process, depending on the conditions temperature of the filled water, time spent pouring water, plenty of foam, etc. .p. .

Modern washing machines can control their own work so that the washing quality result is the best. In the end, the electronics adjust the time depending on the load.

“Automatic water level control” or “auto-weighing” allows you to use exactly as much water and electricity as you need to wash a given amount of laundry. On the one hand it is a considerable saving, on the other hand it is very convenient.

Other washing machines may have a less flexible system, t.n. “incomplete load”, usually indicated by the presence of the key ? on the control panel. When you use this key, the machine simply pours half as much water, and therefore uses less electricity to heat it, regardless of how much laundry you wash – half of a full load or one shirt.

Still, this is better than the third option – washing machines in which the control of water and electricity consumption depending on the load is not applied at all – as, for example, in some compact models.

Note that some washing machines with “auto-weighting” have a key ?, and it has a completely different value disabling one rinse .

When choosing a washing machine, it is very important to consider how easy it is to handle, how comfortable it provides. For instance, electronic controls are much more convenient than mechanical controls in a number of ways. In most electronic controlled washing machines, one just needs to choose the type of fabric and press the “Start” button: the machine does the rest.

In addition to controls, when choosing a washing machine, pay attention to the ergonomics, the device handle that opens the hatch, the size of the hatch there are many front-loading machines with a convenient enlarged hatch , the location of the buttons and knobs, design. Check the size of the display, the choice of end of cycle signals light sound , etc.d.

Make sure it’s as convenient as possible for you. Unfortunately, very often buyers, passionate about selecting great features, forget about these “little things”. And this is very important, it will largely depend on whether you are satisfied with the purchase.