Which brand of washing machine is the most reliable? Tips for choosing a washing machine. How to choose a washing machine: we help you decide on the criteria Characteristics for a good washing machine

Automatic washing machine – indispensable assistant modern housewife. The stores offer a huge number of such miracle devices that carefully remove dirt, thoroughly rinse laundry, and also dry and even iron things.

When choosing a model, it gets up logical question: Which brand of washing machine is better for everyday use? We will try to answer it in detail, and also indicate the models that occupy leading places in the ratings.

To figure out which washing machine is best to buy, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the classification of existing units, evaluate their characteristics, and also study the main selection criteria that should definitely be taken into account before purchasing a home assistant.

The main working element of a modern automatic machine is a drum, riddled with numerous holes. This part is installed inside the tank where the laundry is loaded.

Water heated by the heating element gets there, as well as detergent. The drum rotates in different modes, first soaking, then washing, and then rinsing and spinning the laundry.

All actions of the unit are controlled by a processor, the memory of which contains the washing modes available for this model. The control unit also monitors operations using signals received from sensors.

The owner of the washing unit just needs to choose the desired program, then consumer electronics will accurately carry out all processes planned by a certain mode

In addition to automatic machines, there are also top-loading activator washing machines. They are characterized by a simple device and the ability to intervene in the process at any time. In such models, water is poured manually, and washing using an activator is carried out at one speed.

Hoses are attached to the body of the unit, through which water flows from the water supply system into the machine and, after the washing cycle, is drained into the sewer. The pump is located inside the housing

Classification of modern machines

Before choosing a new washing machine model, you need to consider the various options on sale, paying attention to the functional features.

Divided by load type

Washing machines With front loading - the most common type of washing machine today, where things are placed inside through the front door. Such models fit perfectly into the interior; they are available for embedding.

The disadvantages of front-facing machines include their complex design, the inability to interfere with the selected program and some difficulty in loading: to put laundry in the drum, you need to bend over or squat down

Units of this type are distinguished by high functionality due to the fact that they are equipped with technologically advanced control units. Since manufacturers pay Special attention precisely this type of machine, their the lineup is constantly increasing.

Slot machines top loading They work similarly to the type described above, however, the open part of the drum is located not on the side, but at the top.

Vertical loading machines are distinguished by high wear resistance of the bearings on which the drum is mounted. They also have less vibration and noise levels than front-facing models

The following automatic units lead in washing quality: Bosch, Indesit, LG. Users, judging by surveys, give preference to brands such as Bosch And LG.

Top 7 washing machines

Among the models that received best reviews, we can name the following.

Location #1: Bosch WLG20061

Premium quality at a budget price. The model is compact in size (depth only 45 cm), silent operation with minimal vibration.

This model has a vertical loading type and a capacity of up to 5 kg. The machine has 12 standard programs washing, as well as special programs for washing children's clothes, removing stains, etc. Provided complete protection against leaks.

Refers to models with energy consumption class A - consumes 0.19 kWh/kg. She needs 57 liters of water for one wash. Users note affordable price, simple operation, excellent washing quality, as well as thorough rinsing and spinning of laundry.

Among the shortcomings, users noted the lack of a display and a hose for emergency draining of water from the drum, although for fairly little money these can hardly be considered disadvantages.

Place #2: Electrolux EWF1287HDW

The drying machine is perfect for a large family (load up to 8 kg). The equipment is affordable, but at the same time high quality and excellent functionality.

The model is a very economical unit with energy class A++. The noise level created during the washing mode is only 51 dB, and during the spin cycle it can increase to 73 dB.

The manufacturer has provided a number of useful additional functions: imbalance control, the ability to wash blankets and other large textiles, stain removal, delayed start. Users like the quiet operation of the Electrolux EWF1287HDW, simple operation, steaming mode and good build quality.

Some users complain about noise and vibration during the spin cycle, although the problem here may be that the machine is not leveled.

Location #3: Bosch WIW28540

Built-in model with a capacity of 8 kg with a front loading type. It will be an ideal solution for a large family, because... allows you to wash a large amount of laundry at one time.

This is one of the quietest models from Bosch, the noise level in washing mode is only 41 dB. In addition, the machine belongs to the category of very economical devices, since it has energy efficiency class A+++.

The manufacturer has provided 14 standard washing programs, as well as special programs: night mode, economical wash, quick wash and much more.

Users are provided with a number useful functions: half load, foam and imbalance control, delayed start, child protection. The machine is equipped with a stainless steel drum, which guarantees a long service life.

On the Internet you can find many enthusiastic reviews from users who like the quality of washing, a basic set of programs and quiet operation.

Location #4: Electrolux EWF1408WDL

The capacious unit, capable of washing up to 10 kg of laundry at a time, has an increased energy efficiency class A++. Washing device It is also equipped with special equipment that allows, based on the weight of the laundry, to accurately calculate the amount of water and detergent needed.

The Electrolux EWF1408WDL machine has steam treatment function, which refreshes things by removing odors, and also straightens wrinkles, making ironing easier.

The device has especially proven itself in washing delicate fabrics, having received a gold certificate from the International Wool Union. It is also possible to stop washing by reloading laundry and individually set the program.

Users really like the capacity of the washing machine, the good quality of washing, and the ability to process items with steam. The only disadvantage that can be noted is the cost, but models from other manufacturers with such functionality are much more expensive.

Place #5: Samsung WW60H2200EWDLP

A high-tech machine with the ability control via smartphone by installing a special program on it. Designed for loading up to 12 kg.

Washing machine Samsung WW60H2200EWDLP has energy class A++ and consumes only 39 liters of water per wash cycle.

The manufacturer has provided 12 standard washing programs and special programs that allow you to wash delicates and children's items, remove stains, effectively wash outerwear and much more. Among the useful functions in the washing machine are child protection, control of foam level and imbalance.

The owners highly appreciated quiet work, affordable price, many washing modes, stylish design. Disadvantages include the noisy operation of the machine and a short drain hose. Although for such a price it will be quite difficult to find a device with similar functionality.

Place #6: Siemens WS10G140

The compact device, 40 cm wide, is distinguished by its reliability and high quality washing. It has a front loading type and is designed for washing no more than 5 kg of laundry in one cycle.

The Siemens WS10G140 model has a number of important functions useful for home washing: for example, imbalance control, foam, leak protection, protection from children.

The unit, which has an affordable price, has 15 basic programs, as well as special programs for washing delicate laundry, quick and pre-wash modes, including washing items made from mixed fabrics and wool.

The advantages of the washing unit include compact size, ease of operation, good capacity and reliability. Cons: short drain hose and quite noisy operation.

Location #7: LG F-80B8LD0

Washing unit belonging to the average price category, has a direct drive motor that comes with a 10 year warranty. The machine of this series offers users 14 programs And silent washing. Spin is performed at 800 rpm, maximum heating is 95°C.

The LG F-80B8LD0 machine is different good value quality and price, this is a silent device with high energy class A+. The device is equipped with an intelligent control system that allows you to determine optimal quantity powder and water.

Among the advantages it is worth noting: affordable cost and good quality of washing. Disadvantages: lack of display, inconvenient powder tray, noisy operation, long washing modes.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

In the video presented, you will hear the opinion of the master about common brands of washing machines.

Choosing a washing machine is not an easy task. First of all, you should decide on the budget that you are willing to allocate, and also identify which functions of the unit will be especially useful to you.

Taking these factors into account, you can begin to study the assortment of specialized household appliance stores, where, undoubtedly, you will find the desired option.

Share with readers your experience of choosing and using a washing machine. Tell us what unit you bought and whether you are satisfied with the work of your home assistant. Please leave comments and participate in discussions - the feedback form is located below.

As you know, in modern world household appliances there are washing equipment of various types of loads, dimensions, energy consumption class and maximum capacity. We will now talk in more detail about how to choose an automatic washing machine in 2018 based on price and quality!

Load Type

There are two main types of download:

To choose correctly washing machine according to the type of loading, you need to rely on how much free space you have. Of course, the first option is preferable in terms of functionality.

Dimensions

Case sizes may vary depending on loading type and capacity. As a rule, for washing machines with a front cover, the standard dimensions can be:

width – 60 cm;
height – 85 cm;
depth 32-60 cm.

As for the second option (top loading), the standard dimensions are:

width – 40-45 cm;
height – 85 cm;
depth – 60 cm.

It all depends, again, on the size of the room. If you have free space, it is better to buy a full-fledged model with a depth of 60 cm. For small bathrooms, it is recommended to choose a narrow washing machine with a depth of 33 cm, which will save a sufficient amount of space!

Advice from the experts

Maximum capacity

Another important criterion that directly depends on the purpose of the equipment and the number of people in the family.

The maximum clothing capacity can be:

3.5 kg (at a depth of 32 cm)
4.5 kg (depth 40 cm)
5-7kg (depth 60 cm)

The first two options are best chosen for a small family (2-3 people). The latter is for a family of 4 people, as well as for enterprises.

Tank material

The quality of washing, quiet operation and durability of the equipment will depend on the material of the machine’s tank. Now let’s look at what tank material is better to choose so that you don’t regret it after the purchase.

There are three main materials of manufacture:

Stainless steel. The most durable (up to 80 years of service), but at the same time the worst in terms of noise level during operation and has a high cost. We do not approve at all of choosing a washing machine with a stainless steel tank.
Enameled steel. IN modern models is not used, and also has negative reviews not only from buyers, but also from specialists selling this equipment.
Plastic (polyplex, polynox, carbon). A worthy alternative to stainless steel if money is an issue. Modern composite materials do not make washing silent and, moreover, due to their thermal conductivity, they can save a little electricity. The only drawback is that the service life is no more than 25 years, although this minus is quite insignificant (few people buy equipment that lasts a quarter of a century).

When choosing between the first and third options, rely on your financial capabilities. Both tanks can be of quite high quality; the main thing is to check the integrity of the coating before purchasing so that there is no defect. This point is relevant if you decide to choose a cheap washing machine, for example, for your dacha.

Connection type

There are two main connection methods:

to cold water;
to cold and hot water.

In the first case, energy costs will be higher, but the washing will be of higher quality (since the machine itself heats the water to the appropriate temperature). When both cold and hot water are connected, a problem with unstable temperature in the hot circuit may arise (especially true for rural areas), which will undoubtedly affect the washing of clothes. Based on this, we advise you to choose a more reliable washing machine that connects only to the cold water supply.

Control method

The control panel can be mechanical or electronic. Mechanical buttons and rotary switches are more reliable to use and will not affect the cost of the equipment.

Modern electronic control - touch display is a step into the future, but does not have decent quality (the sensor quickly fails). In addition, the electronic option can greatly affect the cost of the washing machine you decide to choose.

Of course, it is better to give preference to classic buttons; the main thing is to check in the store how well they are pressed. If you still decide to choose more modern version, then look at the menu on the display so that it is understandable, and most importantly - in Russian!

Classification of main parameters

There are three main parameters: energy consumption, spin and wash. They all have their own class, designated in English letters from A (that is, high) to G (low). It is clear that the higher the class you choose, the better the characteristics of the washing machine will be.

For your attention, a detailed transcript:

Manufacturer

It is very important to choose the right washing machine by manufacturer, because... its reliability, durability and, as you understand, price will depend on this. If you don’t know which brand of machine is better, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the most popular brands in 2018:

AEG, Miele - occupy the top of the rating and are the most expensive and high quality.
Bosch, Electrolux, Siemens - in the “price-quality” category are the most optimal brands of imported assembly.
LG, Ariston, Samsung, Indesit, Beko - popular middle-class equipment, inexpensive but of good quality.
Atlant, Malyutka, Vyatka are the most famous domestic manufacturers with positive customer reviews and a relatively cheap price.

It is impossible to say clearly which brand is more durable and better than all the others, because... All of the above manufacturers produce fairly reliable equipment. For home use, you need to choose washing machines of the second and third row. They have a fairly good build, long service life and at the same time a reasonable price. In addition, budget models are suitable for use in the country, because... In this case, there is no point in spending money on multifunctional equipment.

Additional features

The versatility of a washing machine is not a significant parameter when choosing. This is due to the fact that all models have a single standard set of functions, which will be sufficient for home use (synthetics, wool, quick wash, cotton, colored fabrics, washing children's clothes, etc.).

Very often, the buyer overpays a sufficient amount of money for absolutely unnecessary functionality, for example, drying clothes. On the one hand, it is a convenient function, but on the other hand, it is used extremely rarely. This is due to the fact that when the drum is fully loaded, drying is impossible; you need to take out half of the things, and then just turn on this function. Now we will tell you what you need to pay attention to when choosing a washing machine in order to avoid overpaying extra money.

Fuzzy Logic— based on what type of items are loaded into the drum and how many of them, selects the most economical type of washing, which allows you to reduce energy costs and water consumption.
Intensive wash, removing stains.
Bubble wash- a technology that allows you to create a large number of bubbles, facilitating better dissolution of the powder and removing dirt from things. It should be noted that bubble washing allows you to remove stains and dirt even when washed in cold water.
The spin speed should be at least 800 rpm, which is quite enough to gently squeeze water out of things.
Child lock(control panel lock).
Direct Drive- rather refers to the design features of the washing machine, because is a direct drive, instead of the outdated belt drive; Direct drive makes washing silent, and the washing machine body itself is more compact.
Delayed start— you can start the machine with a time delay, which is very convenient if you need things to be clean in the morning or when you come home.
Aquastop- protection against water leaks, an equally important function that must be present.
Imbalance control - washing machine in automatic mode monitors the balancing of the drum during spinning.
Foam level control— automatic control of foam formation during the washing process.
Noise level- less is better. Good result a level of up to 50 dB is considered when washing.

useful opportunity

Rating of 2018 models

So, you have become familiar with the main types of products, and now you probably know how to choose a washing machine based on price and quality in 2018. Finally, I would like to provide you with a rating of inexpensive but reliable washing machines that have a fairly large number of positive reviews on the Internet. To the right of the model, in brackets, is the current price in rubles for today.

Top loading:

Indesit BTW E71253 P (24,500)
Electrolux EWT 1066 ESW (32,500)
Whirlpool TDLR 70220 (34,500)

Narrow, up to 40 cm deep:

Hotpoint-Ariston VMSG 601 B (16,000)
LG F-1096SD3 (23,000)
Candy CS4 1052D1/2 (14,000)
Bosch WLG 20160 (23,000)
LG F-10B8SD0 (21,000)

Depth 40-50 cm:

Samsung WW65K42E08W (28,000)
Haier HW60-BP12758 (from 22,000)
Hotpoint-Ariston VMSL 5081 B (from 14,000)
LG FH-0C3ND (20,000)
Indesit BWSA 51051 1 (16,000)

We hope you now understand how to choose a washing machine in 2018 and what to look for in order to choose the best option in terms of price and quality!

Related materials:

Machine type and size

The starting point is the location where the washing machine will be installed. It is this that determines the type and dimensions of the model that suits you.

There are two types of washing machines:

Front loading (the hatch cover is on the front side).
Vertical loading (lid on top).

Front-mounted machines, unlike vertical ones, differ quite greatly in size:

Standard: height 85–90 cm, depth 45–60 cm, width 60 cm.
Narrow: depth less than 45 cm.
Compact: all parameters are smaller than standard.

Standard models are good for relatively spacious rooms because they take up the most space. Compact and narrow, suitable for installation in small spaces, under a countertop or sink. However, they have a weakness: they can break faster.

Top-loading models usually differ slightly in size and in some cases may be the only possible option.

Mikhail Prosvirnin, head of the Home and Self-Care department at M.Video

Load capacity

The second important parameter that influences the choice of machine is the loading volume you need. It is directly related to the number of people who will use the device.

There are approximate calculations according to which:

For 1–2 people, a machine with a loading capacity of 4 kg is enough.
For 3–5 people - 6 kg.
For more than 5 people - 8–9 kg.

If you have small children or are planning to have them, choose models with maximum load capacity. There will be a lot of washing to do.

Don't think that maximum load volume is always the best solution.

Firstly, the more spacious the car, the larger it is, which means it takes up more space. Secondly, if you wash two items at a time in a model designed for 8 kg of laundry, the water consumption will be quite impressive. So choose the volume based on your actual needs.

Functionality

Modern models are equipped with basic modes (washing at different temperatures, rinsing, spinning). You just have to decide which of the additional functions you need and which will only be a waste of money.

Leak protection. This is insurance in case something is damaged in the liner or in the washing machine itself.

Special modes. They will help you save money on dry cleaning. These include programs for washing children's and sportswear, shoes, and pillows. There are also modes for removing stains or for quick washing.

Gentle wash mode. It is characterized by the use of a larger volume of water, low washing temperature and reduced spin speed. The mode is suitable for and will be useful for owners of a wardrobe that requires special care.

Quiet wash. Models that provide this function are equipped with an inverter motor or direct drive, so they are noticeably less noisy than usual.

Such washing machines can be safely used at night, when reduced electricity tariffs apply, and during the day they will be less distracting.

Steam wash. Suitable for any material, including silk, down, wool. It helps get rid of ingrained odor.

Drying. It saves time and space, since the laundry does not need to be hung after washing, but it has a very noticeable effect on the cost of the machine.

What else to pay attention to

Control type

The machine can be controlled:

Mechanical, when all washing parameters are set manually using buttons and rotary switches. Such control occurs in older or inexpensive models with a basic set of functions.
Electronic, when the user selects a mode, and the machine automatically adjusts the washing parameters. It is common among models of the middle and highest price categories.

Electronically controlled machines are more convenient to use, but they break down more often than their simpler counterparts.

Mechanically controlled machines have a very simple mechanism of moving parts, so they last 50-60% longer than electronic ones. In addition, there are simply fewer parts, so the likelihood of breakdowns is less.

Washing, spinning, energy consumption classes

Using classes, you can determine how well a machine washes, spins, and how much electricity it consumes. They are designated by Latin letters from A (highest class) to G (lowest class).

It would seem that this is very helpful information, but in reality it turns out to be the most meaningless: the characteristics of most of the machines are identical.

The quality of spin and the level of electricity consumption are now similar for most models. When it comes to the assortment of large brands, the lion's share of goods corresponds to class A, A+.
Mikhail Prosvirnin, head of the Home and Self-Care department at M.Video

Of course, during the selection process you should make sure that in all respects the equipment belongs to a high class. But don't make a decision based solely on this point.

Which washing machines are noisier and more mobile?

The noise of the machine primarily depends on the material of the tank. It is made of either plastic or stainless steel. The latter option is more durable and reliable, but also noisier. Also, the volume of the machine may depend on the motor.

Choose models with the Quiet Wash function, or try reducing the noise level with direct drive and variable speed control.

Some machines may jump or move during operation. This is directly related to their dimensions: the smaller they are, the more unstable the car.

What to do? Be sure to place the machine on a hard floor and level it using the adjustable feet.

How to protect yourself from breakdowns

All household appliances break down sooner or later, and washing machines are no exception. The most common problems that owners encounter are:

The heating element fails.
The control module burns out.
The electric drive belt breaks or slips off.
The engine breaks down.
The drum bearings are wearing out.
A hole is formed in the tank.
Shock absorbers wear out.
The plastic hatch handle breaks.
The pump fails.

Despite the fact that most breakdowns are associated with improper installation and operation, you can protect yourself even at the purchase stage.

For example, if you choose a car whose control module is filled with wax and completely sealed: in this case, moisture will definitely not get inside, which means the likelihood of breakdown will be reduced. Or pay attention to models with stainless steel tanks: plastic tanks are more prone to damage.

Another point is related to incorrect selection and operation. For example, when a person buys a 5 kg machine, but loads 6 kg of laundry with each wash. In such cases, the likelihood of breakdown increases.

Another mistake is setting the maximum speed during the spin cycle.

We do not recommend using this function, since it puts a heavy load on almost all parts of the washing machine and, accordingly, their potential is exhausted much faster. If it is very important for a person to receive dry laundry after washing, it is better to purchase a washing machine with dryer.
Sergey Lutkov, repairman for washing machines and dishwashers at Stirrem-Service

How to protect yourself when purchasing

Be sure to inspect your washing machine. Make sure there are no dents or scratches on the case: these may indicate problems during transportation. Check the contents, test how the door opens and the washing powder drawer slides out.

It is better to entrust the connection of the machine to the service center specialists.

If problems are identified during installation, the technician will issue a report on the basis of which the store will replace the product. If you find shortcomings during the connection yourself, you will have to prove to the seller that they are not the result of your incorrect actions.

Choosing a washing machine for your home is a relatively simple task (compared to many other types of household and computer equipment), however, there are some nuances here too. Therefore, it would be best to decide in advance on the main criteria, which will allow you to minimize the number specific models, among which you will need to make a final choice. Let's list these parameters and see what they affect.

Washing machine type and size

The simplest and most obvious parameter is the size of your future washing machine and the type of laundry loading (front-facing or vertical).

You should also decide whether you need a built-in or free-standing machine. Built-in washing machines are usually installed in the kitchen. It must be said that built-in machines are not very popular in Russia. The more common option is with a free-standing washing machine, which is installed in the bathroom (in small apartments, smaller machines are often installed - “under the sink”).

Built-in washing machine

Most washing machines have a height of 81-85 cm. For compact models that are installed under the sink, the height does not exceed 65-70 cm. Built-in machines are equipped with legs that allow you to change the height so that the machine fits the height of the kitchen unit. We add that if you prefer a model with vertical loading, then you will need to add a few tens of centimeters to the height of the machine for the opening lid. The same is true for a model with horizontal loading: it is better to check in advance how convenient it will be to open the hatch during everyday use.

Please note that top-loading models have two significant advantages. The first is universal: they allow you to add laundry to the wash after starting the program without canceling it (who, half a minute after pressing the “Start” button, has never found a T-shirt accidentally forgotten outside?). The second will certainly be appreciated by older people: in order to load and remove laundry, you practically do not have to bend or squat. If you are planning to buy a washing machine for an elderly person, top loading can safely be placed on the list of the most important priorities. But “verticals” do not come in a built-in version (after all, it would require a special rising tabletop), and it cannot be used as an additional shelf in the bathroom.

However, to be fair, it is worth noting that there are still front-loading washing machines that allow you to add something to the tank during the washing process. Samsung has recently started producing them; in its terminology this is called the “AddWash” function. It is implemented quite simply.

with AddWash function

The maximum volume of laundry that can be loaded into it depends on the depth of the washing machine. If there is not enough free space, you can limit yourself to a small machine with a depth of 30-40 centimeters, which will allow you to wash from 3 to 5 kg of laundry - this is quite enough for one or two people. Machines with a depth of up to 50 centimeters allow you to wash up to 6-7 kg at a time. Increasing the depth to 60 centimeters will increase the maximum volume of laundry to 8-10 kg, which is best suited for a large family.

A narrow washing machine is a rare example of non-standard design

More popular front-loading machines will require about 50 centimeters of space in front of the machine in order to fully open the loading hatch. By the way: one of the modern trends that can only be welcomed is to make the loading hatches of front-loading washing machines as large as possible in diameter. This really simplifies and facilitates the process of loading laundry.

Activator machines

Note that in addition to traditional drum washing machines, there are also activator-type machines. In an activator-type machine, laundry is loaded from above into a stationary tank, and the contents of the tank are mixed due to the work of the activator - a rotating shaft with blades. It must be said that such machines are not very common. This is primarily due to the fact that most of them are not connected to a water supply and will require the user to manually fill and drain water (using a special hose). If spinning is present in such machines, it is usually in the form of a separate centrifuge drum. Models in which washing and spinning are performed in one tank are not very common. But such machines can be used where there is no running water. For example, at the dacha.

Detergents

The most common scheme is in which the washing machine is equipped with a drawer with three compartments: for pre-wash detergent, main wash detergent and rinse aid. The first two compartments, again traditionally and in the vast majority of cases, imply the use of powder detergents, while the rinse aid, on the contrary, is assumed to be liquid.

This scheme suits almost everyone, except those who use gel, but do not want to completely abandon pre-washing: in all other cases, the gel can be poured directly into the drum, but after the pre-wash, it will be drained, and the main wash will simply take place without detergent. In this case, it is worth looking for a model in which the drawer is equipped with an additional partition that prevents the gel from pouring out: this partition is removed when using powder and installed if you use gel.

There are washing machines with automatic feeding detergent: washing gel and conditioner-rinse aid are poured into special containers in the machine, after which you can simply load laundry and select a washing program - the machine will add the required amount of detergent at the appropriate stages. The main thing is not to forget to add funds to the tanks on time: in some models, control over their availability is completely transferred to the user.

Inverter motor

Not long ago, washing machines with an inverter motor appeared on the market, the design of which does not involve the use of brushes, and therefore, such an engine will have reduced wear. Key Feature Such an engine is equipped with a frequency converter, which changes the speed and frequency of the drum, converting the current from direct to alternating. This allows you to more accurately control the operation of the mechanism.

Compared to traditional inverter motors, they operate almost silently, and their efficiency is on average 20% higher. In addition, inverter machines are capable of spinning laundry at high speed.

Despite all of the above, we cannot unequivocally say that buying a washing machine with an inverter motor is certainly a rational decision in terms of price-quality ratio. The price of such engines is high, and the cost of repairs will also be high if it fails.

Quality of washing and spinning

The next point that usually interests a person choosing a washing machine is the quality of washing and spinning of clothes. The first parameter determines how clean your laundry will be after washing. From the second - how dry it will be.

The washing class is a rather difficult to understand parameter, invented more than 20 years ago and calculated based on the washing of “reference” soiled laundry in various machines. To date this parameter has practically lost its meaning: almost all modern washing machines have class A or higher (A+, A++, A+++), and it is unlikely that it will be possible to notice the difference between these classes with the naked eye.

But the spin class is a completely understandable and adequate characteristic by which you can understand how dry (or vice versa, how damp) the laundry that you take out of the washing machine will be.

A (less than 45% humidity)
B (45%—54% humidity)
C (54%—63% humidity)
D (63%—72% humidity)
E (72%—81% humidity)
F (81%—90% humidity)
G (more than 90%)

At the same time, models in the range from A to E are widely represented on the market, and therefore this parameter is very important when choosing.

with a spin speed of up to 1500 rpm

Spin quality can also be determined by the maximum available spin speed. For most home washing machines, it is usually in the range of 800 to 1200 rpm. For most household tasks, 1000 rpm is sufficient, and higher values usually mean that a greater load will be placed on the machine (for example, you will be washing a lot of clothes for a large family).

Energy class and water consumption

Since we're talking about various classes, it would not be superfluous to mention the energy consumption class. The exact same scale is adopted here - from A+++ to G. Calculations are made for washing 1 kilogram of cotton underwear at a water temperature of 60°C.

Class A models, which were previously the most economical, consume less than 0.19 kWh/kg. Class A+ corresponds to a consumption of less than 0.17 kWh/kg, A++ - less than 0.15 kWh/kg, and A+++ - less than 0.13 kWh/kg. In addition, the standard water consumption per wash is indicated for each machine. On average, this parameter ranges from 36 to 60 liters, although you can also find models that require more than 100 liters. It is clear that if you have a water meter, such water consumption can significantly affect the amount of your monthly bill.

Drying clothes

The laundry drying function is a rather useful feature that allows you to use freshly washed laundry immediately after the machine has finished working (of course, you still have to iron it). In addition, you won’t have to hang out your laundry, which means you can save money. free place in the apartment. If you decide to opt for a washing machine with drying function, it would be a good idea to check a few nuances.

Firstly, this is the number of drying programs. For various types Different drying modes are suitable for fabrics, so it is better that your machine is universal and can dry synthetic fabrics, cotton, wool, etc.

Secondly, we must not forget that the maximum volume of laundry that a machine can dry will be approximately half as much as the maximum volume of laundry that it can wash.

Thirdly, we note that simple models simply dry laundry for a certain time, while more advanced ones measure the humidity in the tank, thus allowing not only to save energy, but also, for example, to obtain slightly damp laundry, which is best suited for ironing .

Noise level

The noise level is a simple and understandable parameter, based on which you can determine whether your machine is suitable for installation in close proximity to, for example, a bedroom or in a combined kitchen-living room. For most standard situations, a machine with a noise level of no more than 55 dB will be fine.

Control

Almost all modern washing machines (with the exception of activator ones) have electronic system management. However appearance control panels, as well as the overall ease of use, can vary quite significantly. Some machines are equipped with a special display that shows what stage of the program the machine is in. this moment. It can also display prompts and error codes in case something goes wrong.

Washing machine with large display

In activator machines you can still find a mechanical control system, in which the user sets all the necessary parameters manually - using knobs and buttons.

Availability of additional programs

Depending on the needs of different users, it may be important to have certain special programs and additional features. Let's mention the most important ones. The name of many of them speaks for itself:

Bio-phase - preheating water to 40°C for 10-15 minutes, which allows bioadditives to act on organic pollutants
Quick wash
Extra rinse
Foam level control - draining water and then removing foam after completing a certain cycle
Delayed start
Night mode is a special mode in which the machine does not go into “noisy” modes (for example, it does not spin clothes after washing is completed)
Pre-wash or soak
Special programs for outerwear, delicate fabrics, children's items, jeans, down items, mixed fabrics, sports shoes, sportswear, black items, silk, wool, etc.

All of these features only make sense if you actually plan to use at least some of them. From our point of view, the minimum required set of programs is as follows:

wash with pre-wash
normal wash
washing synthetics
gentle (“gentle”, “hand”) wash
quick wash
ability to disable spin

This set, in combination with manual temperature control, is 99% likely to be enough for all occasions, and it is present in almost all modern washing machines.

Fuzzy Logic

After talking about programs, it's time to mention such a fashionable combination as Fuzzy Logic or " intelligent control washing." A washing machine with this function has a set of sensors that monitor the weight of the laundry, the degree of soiling, water hardness, etc.

Based on the data received from these sensors, CPU automatically determines the required washing time, amount of water and suitable mode.

For example, an optical sensor will determine the degree of contamination of the laundry based on the transparency of the water, and the nature of the contamination will be determined by the rate of contamination of the water with microparticles.

with Fuzzy Logic function

It is clear that such machines will cost significantly more, and some users may even be put off by such “technological intervention” in their usual area. After all, surprises are possible here: for example, you decided that your laundry would be ready in an hour, but the machine calculated that it needed at least two hours. However, judging by user reviews, most of them are inclined to trust automation and evaluate such innovation positively. After all, automation will allow you to avoid overconsumption of washing powder and eliminate situations where the machine wastes time on additional washing of already clean laundry.

Leak protection

Finally, the last but not least important point for many is protection against leaks. After all, a washing machine interacts with water every day, and therefore, if any part fails, a flood can occur. The most vulnerable places in this case are the water supply and drainage hoses, as well as the body of the machine itself.

The machine body is traditionally protected using a pan and a float: if water gets into the pan, the float rises and turns off the system. The hoses are protected by nested “double” hoses and solenoid valves. If water gets into the “external” hose, the protection system is activated and the water supply stops. By the way, such a hose can be installed separately - they are suitable for almost all washing machines. Having full protection allows you not to worry about potential accidents and safely start the wash even if you are not at home (using the delayed start function).

Bottom line

In fact, almost any modern washing machine is 99% likely to cope with the tasks you set for it. Therefore, the most important selection criteria are purely geometric parameters: whether it can fit into the room that you are planning for it. Everything else is options, not so significant. One of the most important is capacity: how much laundry the machine can wash at one time. Obviously, this amount should not “strain you” - that is, the amount of laundry washed should be greater than that used in order to ensure the necessary supply: at least one set should always remain “clean”.