Everything you need to know about washing machines

Appliances have become a household name in this jet-setting world, one of the most important being a washing machine. They are all over the place, available in myriad models, sizes, and prices. The requirements of every other household are bound to vary depending on factors like the number of members living, the daily usage, budget, and so on.

While a small family of three could do with a basic washing machine, a heavy-duty washing machine with a much bigger capacity might be needed for a joint family. On the other hand, where a bachelor’s pad could do with a mini washing machine, few would only be comfortable using small washing machines. Some budget-conscious people make a beeline for washing machine prices, and then some others prefer a smart-looking plush model and would not mind spending more for it.

Here is an in-depth analysis that would throw light on the dynamics of a washing machine and give complete clarity on what, when, and how to buy according to the consumer's choice.

What is a washing machine?

It can be best described as an appliance used for laundering all sorts of dirty linen mechanically. It is a clothes washer programmed to wash clothes without using physical movements and supervision. One of the most brilliant appliances to save time and energy for the housewife or washer-person, a wide range of these machines are now available in the markets, varying from a small washing machine to the most advanced one with ultra- enhanced features.

The washing machine price tends to increase as the features of the machine get enhanced. A high-performance washing machine usually includes most of the advanced features, a good body, is cost-effective, and has a good period of warranty. However, some of these advanced features are usually missing in a mini washing machine.

How do washing machines work?

All the washing machines are engineered with an array of programs that need to be selected, bearing in mind the type of clothes to be washed. Briefly, all that is required to do externally is to put in the dirty clothes, along with the prescribed amount of detergent, press relevant buttons to set a program, and switch the washing machine on. The machine then automatically washes, rinse, spins, and completely dries the clothes. Although depending on some models, for example, LG front-loading washing machines include both a washer and a dryer.

A washing machine cleans your clothes in two ways:

• Loosens filth and grime by moving water and detergent through your clothes.
• Scrub your clothes by friction from other garments, with the drum walls functioning as the washboard.

How does a semi-automatic washing machine work?

These machines have two tubs: one for washing and one for rinsing. Filling the washtub with water and adding detergent is the first step. After the wash cycle is finished, manually transfer the clothing to the rinse tub for the rinse cycle and drying.

How does a fully automatic washing machine work?

The layout of a fully automatic washing machine will determine how it operates. The configuration relates to the orientation of the washing machine's tub, which might be vertically (top loading) or horizontally (front loading).

What happens during every wash cycle?

For top-loaders: Clothes are loaded from top:

• You put clothing and detergent in the washing machine. For this batch, the programmer determines the amount of water and time required.
• The water inlet allows only the amount of water required to enter the tub. Depending on the water pressure, this could take some time.
• The pulsator alternates between clockwise and counterclockwise rotations. The machines combine the garments, water, and detergent in a mixing bowl to remove the dirt.
• The filthy water is drained from the drum.
• As the drum turns slowly, the water intake lets in another batch of clean water to rinse your garments.
• The spin-drying process now begins. The inside tub spins at a fast speed, efficiently wringing excess water out of your garments.
• The outer tub collects the water, which will then be led out by the drain hose. The wash cycle is now complete.

For front-loaders: Clothes are loaded from the front:

All the steps mentioned above for top-loaders are the same for these machines but you need to remember the following points;

• Since the door is in the front, it must be closed when filling it with water. As a result, you won't be able to add any forgotten clothes to the cycle once it starts.
• The washing cycle is complete if your front-load washer is merely a washer. You may now either put it in the dryer or hang it to dry. If your dryer is built-in, the heating element will begin to dry your garments. It will take roughly 30-45 minutes to complete this task.

Components of a washing machine:

Generally, a washing machine comprises a barrel or a drum, an inlet hose pipe along with a valve, a drain pipe, a water filter, a specialized motor, paddles, a circuit board, and a timer. Some include a heating element too.

The water filter is one of the main components of the machine that aids in the suction of water. The inlet pipe that carries the water in is as important as the valve that regulates the quantity and flow of water within the machine. The outlet or the drainpipe is thicker and responsible for eliminating the dirty water every time the rinsing process takes place.

The drum is the biggest part of the machine and has two compartments comprising the inner and outer units. The inner barrel that contains the soiled clothes is perforated with holes and is supported by the outer one to prevent the water from entering other parts of the machine.

Within the tub, itself lies the paddles, also known as agitators. They are designed to create a random movement for dirt removal while the washing process enables cleansing by rubbing.

The motor of the machine, the printed circuit breaker, and the timer are the main operators of the machine and are responsible for the movement, their programming, and coordinating the timing with the machine for smooth functioning. The washing unit comes to a halt if either of these units faces a malfunction.

Different wash programs or cycles:

All washing machines are programmed separately, and every machine has a specific set number of wash cycles that pre-set the process of washing clothes, depending on their type and quality. Every program set includes:

• A starting wash cycle.
• A rinse.
• A pause period.
• A final rinse and spin for ultimately removing the excess water.

The number of rinses and spin cycles varies in the various wash cycles depending on the programs chosen. Some of the most common cycles or programs are Normal/cotton/regular, bulky/heavy, fast/quick, color/dark cycle, gentle/delicate, whites, wool, synthetics, and sports-wear.

• The normal/cotton is perfect for daily wear. This cycle is designed to clean daily wear cotton clothes that are routinely soiled and therefore have the feature of maximum agitation, fastest wash, and spin cycle for deep cleansing.
• The heavy/bulky cycle is suitable for large-sized clothes like bedspreads, duvets, and severely spoiled clothes. It starts with a soak and proceeds at medium speed.
• The fast/quick program is offered for a rapid washing of fewer clothes that are non-stained. The cycle has a faster speed and can complete the cycle in less than 30 minutes.
• The Color/dark cycle is gentler than the normal wash and is thus excellent for bright-colored garments provided to be washed in separate loads.
• Whites cycle basically has the scope of adding bleaching agents within the program but is not compulsory. It is specialized for just white fabrics.
• Programs for woolen, synthetics, or sportswear are all designed as per the requirement of washing. These programs are gentler, use milder temperatures.

Maintenance tips:

Any machine works well for a longer time if its upkeep is up to date. Maintaining washing machines is no rocket science, and any layperson can do it. However, there are some fantastic tips that, if followed, can prevent the machine from going to the repairs soon and allow it to work efficiently for a longer period of time.

Prevention is better than cure, and avoiding overloading the machine is the apt prevention. Also, important body parts like water hose pipes should be properly positioned and regularly checked. It should be periodically replaced to avoid damages due to untoward leakages.

Regular washes result in lint accumulation in the lint filter that needs to be cleaned regularly, depending on the usage. This collector is usually found around the brim or sometimes in the agitator tube.

The residual detergent put in the machine increases the wear and tear, so the best thing to do is wash the machine on an empty load after a couple of wash loads, preferably with hot water. Baking soda and vinegar are two excellent cleaning agents for the wash.

Specific washing machine cleaners are also available. Some of the best washing machines recommend the use of good quality soaps to enhance the quality of wash and contribute to the maintenance of washing machines.

To ensure an odor-free washing machine, keep the lid open and let it air dry at regular intervals. The rubber seal of the covers also requires wiping after every wash.

Conclusion:

Buying a washing machine is very easy, but the selection process is of primary concern as the markets are flooded with brands Like LG, Whirlpool, Llyod, Bosch, Samsung, and others. Well if you are looking forward to upgrading or purchase a new washing machine then it is highly recommended to do in-depth market research. One of the most efficient ones is Moglix, an ideal online platform that offers a wide variety of washing machines and provides ample information, bringing clarity to a confused mind.

Washing Machines: FAQs

Q. Which is the best washing machine to buy?

A. Washing machines by reputed brands like Bosch, Whirlpool, LG, Godrej, and Samsung are considered the best in terms of quality, performance, and features.

Q. Why top load washers are better?

A. Since you don't have to bend over to load and unload clothing, top-loading washers are usually more convenient. Plus, top-loading washers are also better at collecting and distributing fabric softeners than front-loading washers.

Q. Which company is famous for washing machines?

A. LG is a popular choice for buying a washing machine or any other electronic or kitchen appliances. This company specializes in the production of washing machines and is one of the most well-known in the country. Turbo drum, smart inverter technology, six motion technologies, jet spray technology, and a few others are among LG's most notable technologies.

Q. Which type of washing machine is best?

A. Although front load washing machines are slightly more expensive than top-loading machines, they provide a higher-quality clean and use less electricity and water than top-loaders. Furthermore, front-load washers have more wash capabilities to fit various types of fabrics and filth levels.