How to choose an automatic washing machine - types and main parameters. Which washing machine is better to buy? Washing machine or machine

Nowadays, you can find a very large number of different products on store shelves, and before buying a washing machine, we often go to the Internet for expert advice and reviews from specialists in order to solve the age-old question - which washing machine is better and which one should we buy.

In fact, it's not that simple. It is impossible to give an unambiguous answer to this difficult question, because each type of equipment has its own technical and other characteristics. Therefore, we would like to invite you to understand this issue by looking at washing machines from different angles and understand which machine is right for you.

Which machine is better: vertical or front loading?

The first thing you need to decide before choosing a washing machine is the type of load. There are machines with vertical loading, and some with front loading. And each of these types has its own advantages, let's talk about them.

Front loading

The best washing machine With front loading It’s much easier to choose, because there are more washing machines with this type of load on the market. This is due to the fact that they are more affordable and are probably more familiar to us. Their advantages are as follows:

Lower price compared to vertical machines
Possibility of integrating them into furniture
Lower height of the washing machine, especially for some models.

The disadvantages of such machines are:

Large dimensions compared to top-loading machines
When the door for loading laundry is open, the dimensions increase even more.
Inability to reload laundry during washing.

But all these disadvantages are not very critical and are not a compelling argument to abandon this type of download.

Vertical loading

Machines with this type of loading are less in demand, but as the market grows, their share increases and they are gaining popularity. This is natural, because they have the following advantages:

Small in size – these washing machines are more compact than front-loading machines.
Possibility to add additional laundry during washing.
When opening the door, it does not require additional space like front-loading machines.

There are only two shortcomings:

Higher cost compared to similar models of front-loading machines.
It is impossible to install under the sink and in the kitchen under the countertop, since the loading door opens upwards.

After reading the pros and cons of both types of washing machines, you now have to decide for yourself which one is better for you and which one is worth buying. We can only advise you to pay attention to the following points.

If you have a fairly small area for a washing machine and limited space, then you should consider a top-loading model; otherwise, you can safely buy a front-loading machine.

What capacity should a washing machine have?

A very important criterion when choosing a washing machine is its capacity. It is measured in kg. For example, there are washing machines for 3.5 kg of dry laundry. This means that in one wash you can load no more than this amount of dry laundry, otherwise the machine will refuse to wash.

The amount of laundry that the machine can hold in one wash also determines its dimensions, in particular the width of the washing machine. The more laundry the machine can hold, the larger its dimensions and vice versa. Therefore, when buying a washing machine, give preference to the one that meets your requirements. For example, if you live alone, then a narrow washing machine with a load of up to 3.5 kg of laundry per wash is suitable for you. If you have a large family and children, then you need to look at models from 6 kg, because you will have to do a lot of washing and quite often.

In addition, it is worth noting: the larger the washing machine, the less susceptible it is to vibration, and vice versa, narrower washing machines are more vibrating and noisier. This is true all other things being equal.

Which spin class, washing class and energy saving class is better?

To determine which washing machine is better for a given type of characteristics, you need to understand what these characteristics are.

Spin class

Spin class is a parameter that determines how well the machine spins clothes and, accordingly, the higher the spin class, the better. The highest spin class at the moment is class “A” with maximum number rpm 1300-2000.

But do you need such a spin class? That's the question. In fact, in order to keep clothes damp, no more than 1400 rpm, or even 1200 rpm, is enough. Of course, you can adjust the number of revolutions and set it lower, but you will still have to pay more for a higher spin class.

In order not to make a mistake with your choice and choose the spin class that is right for you, read our recommendations for choosing the spin class of washing machines in a detailed article.

Washing class

The washing class is similar to the spin class – the higher the better. But today, most washing machines, even from the budget price segment, have the highest spin class “A”. Therefore, choose a machine with spin class “A” without hesitation.

Energy class

As you may have guessed, the higher the class, the better. And this is true, but you need to take into account the fact that you will need to pay extra for a higher class, because more economical cars are more expensive. The energy saving class is better for cars with an inverter engine, you can read more about them, but in our opinion, it’s not worth overpaying for this today.

Therefore, other things being equal, give preference to a machine with more high class energy saving.

Which washing machine programs are better?

Do you need to pay attention to the availability of certain programs when choosing a washing machine? Of course, if you have asked yourself a similar question, then it is worth taking a closer look and understanding it. Today, different manufacturers of washing machines and different models have completely different programs washing. At first glance, it may seem that the choice of programs is so large that it is almost impossible to understand it.

But it is worth noting that with all the variety of washing programs in different models, they are all similar in application. Let's give a list of typical programs that are present in almost every washing machine and answer 99% of user requests:

Regular wash (cotton)
Synthetics
Delicate wash
Quick wash
Hand wash
Wool

These programs solve almost any problem of washing clothes; all others can be chosen only according to your preferences and wishes. They tend to add convenience when washing certain types of clothes.

What additional features should you pay attention to?

Since there are a huge variety of washing machines, and each manufacturer is trying to add some know-how to this unit, it is worth knowing the main functions that are worth paying attention to.

Leak protection– quite a popular function today. It allows the washing machine to monitor water leakage and, if so, block the water supply, thereby preventing flooding of the floor (and, accordingly, the neighbors below). The function is quite useful and, undoubtedly, necessary, but it is not available on all models.

Partial protection against water leaks is more common - it prevents water leaks using a special hose, which you can buy in a store and install on any washing machine.

Models with full protection against water leaks with the Aqua Stop system will prevent leakage if water gets into any inappropriate place in the washing machine. Full protection against water leaks has an additional solenoid valve on the hose, which is controlled by the washing machine itself. Only the manufacturer of the washing machine can install such protection against leaks.

Of course, you should choose a washing machine with full protection against water leaks, but keep in mind that such models are in a more expensive segment.

Direct drive machines– today there are a lot of different myths around these washing machines. It should be noted that direct drive machines are manufactured by LG and if you decide to buy just such a washing machine, then consider that you have already decided on the manufacturer.

Advantages of this type The drive is that the drum rotates directly from the engine itself without the use of a belt, accordingly the number of rotating parts is reduced, their service life is extended and noise is reduced.

Eco bubble, “Six movements of caring”, etc.- this is, so to speak, know-how that every manufacturer has, and each has their own. We tend to believe that, undoubtedly, they have their advantages, and they have a positive effect on the quality of washing. But the role of this know-how is greatly overestimated and is more of a commercial move. Therefore, we recommend not focusing on them.

Various control systems– modern washing machines have a bunch of various sensors for monitoring various parameters: imbalance control, foam control, water quality control, washing powder dissolution control, protection against wrinkles and the like. Undoubtedly, these types of sensors make operating the washing machine easier. But it’s worth noting that you have to pay for pleasure: the equipment itself with additional functions comes in a more expensive segment.

Also pay attention to the conditions in which you plan to use the washer. For example, if you want to choose a washing machine for your dacha, then there are many nuances here, if you ignore them, you will experience inconvenience or even the impossibility of using the washing machine in the future. This situation may arise, for example, in the case of insufficient water pressure at the dacha. You can read more about all the intricacies of choosing a washing machine for your dacha on our website.

It is impossible to list all the functions of washing machines, because manufacturers come up with new ones every day. Therefore, pay attention to key functions washing machine, namely the quality of washing, spinning, programs, dimensions, capacity, type of load. And choose all additional functions from your preferences.

Buy a washing machine with or without dryer

Recently, more and more washing machines with a drying function began to appear on the market, and people began to ask a logical question: which washing machine is better with or without drying?

The presence of a dryer in a washing machine is, of course, a very positive point - after all, in one device you have the function of two. Buying a washer and dryer is cheaper than purchasing a separate washer and dryer. But there are also pitfalls here, let’s talk about them:

Washer-dryers take up much more space, because in order to use the dryer you need a fairly large drum. Therefore, such a washing machine may not even fit through the door - it will have to be disassembled a little.
High power consumption– compared to a conventional washing machine, drying requires additional energy consumption and consumes more electricity.
The drying quality of washing machines is worse than that of individual dryers– if you are faced with the choice of buying a washing machine with dryer or a set of two units, then it is better to choose the second. First, the dryer can hold more clothes to dry. Secondly, the quality of drying clothes is higher.

We're not saying that washers and dryers are evil. No, of course, this is a wonderful invention, which is undoubtedly necessary. But you should be aware of the disadvantages of these devices.

Which brand of washing machine is better?

This is a very difficult question to which no professional will give you an objective answer. Here everyone decides for themselves what they like best. But, if we talk about the frequency of breakdowns in a washing machine from a particular manufacturer, then it’s worth looking at the rating of washing machines for this year and drawing the appropriate conclusions from it. It’s definitely not possible to say that LG is the best washing machine; or Hotpoint-Ariston is worse than Samsung.

Washing machines of all brands are worthy of attention. LG, for example, is famous for its direct drive and its 5-year warranty. Bosh – for its build quality and ease of use, BEKO – for its low price and availability.

In short, every buyer can find the best washing machine according to their needs and wallet.

As you know, in modern world household appliances there are washing equipment various types load, dimensions, energy 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 the right washing machine by load type, 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. It is not used in modern models; moreover, it 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 may arise with unstable temperature in the hot circuit (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 a more modern option, then look at the menu on the display so that it is clear, 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- the less, the better. A level of up to 50 dB during washing is considered a good result.

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 it is now clear to you 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:

What to give preference when choosing this household appliance? What features of each model should I pay attention to? Answering all these questions is not so simple. There is a truth for everyone. However, according to statistics, there are unsurpassed leaders among manufacturers of washing machines for the home. Who are we talking about? And what tips and recommendations will help you choose one or another model of equipment?

By download type

Initially, you should focus on a few key points. They will help you choose a specific model of washing household appliances without taking into account the manufacturer.

The type of laundry load is the first thing the buyer must decide on. The thing is, with vertical loading, there is with front loading. Each option has a number of advantages.

If you are wondering which brand of washing machine is the most reliable, it is worth considering that the leaders usually have both front-facing and vertical models of high quality. What are the advantages of each type of download?

Choosing a front-facing model is the easiest. This type of washing machine is often found. The drum is located at the front of the device. Such units have a lower cost, are convenient for housewives, and can be built into furniture. Front-loading washing machines tend to be shorter in height. But this technique is more cumbersome. It does not support the ability to reload laundry.

It is not so common on the commodity market. It is compact, but at the same time tall. It is allowed to add additional items during washing. Such models are usually not very cheap. Therefore, they are not often preferred.

About capacity

We continue to give advice on The next criterion is capacity. It is measured in kilograms. This parameter is considered one of the most important when choosing household appliances for washing.

Some parameters of the device and its dimensions (width) depend on the capacity. Preference should be given to those models that fit into the allotted space. To do this, measure the space for the washing machine in advance.

Which brand of washing machine is the most reliable? Manufacturers' ratings do not depend on capacity. In practice, preference is given to washing machines with a capacity of about 5-6 kilograms. This is an ideal setting for families with children.

Another nuance: the wider the washing machine, the quieter it works. Narrow models are more susceptible to vibrations and make more noise. These features are usually forgotten. And after installing the washing machine, it turns out that the device is too loud.

Spin, wash, save energy

The next important components are the spin class, washing class and energy saving. What are these parameters for? What is best to give preference to?

Spin class is how well the washing machine will spin clothes. The highest score to date is marked "A". It is about 1400-2000 rpm.

In practice, about 1200 rpm is enough to keep the laundry dry by the end of the wash. Yes, on most models you can adjust this parameter, but you will have to pay extra for a higher number of revolutions.

The washing class is how well the device washes things. As in the case of spin, the higher this indicator, the better. Today, all washing machine manufacturers offer class "A". This is the highest figure. Even budget models are endowed with a similar characteristic. Therefore, the washing class is usually not given enough attention.

Energy saving also plays a very important role. Especially for families where they plan to do a lot of laundry. It is recommended to give preference to devices with a higher energy saving rate. In practice, such machines are more expensive, but these are justified expenses.

Washing programs

If you want to choose the best and most convenient equipment for washing clothes and clothes, you will have to pay attention to the washing programs. Now all manufacturers of such household appliances offer approximately the same capabilities in this area.

Sometimes it may seem that the choice of washing programs is huge, and you can easily get confused. In fact, housewives mainly use the following modes:

cotton;
children's things;
hand wash;
synthetics;
delicate things;
wool;
quick wash.

The selected washing machine model should have all these programs. All other possibilities are usually ignored. Stop at specific model recommended based on what items predominate in the home and in the family’s wardrobe.

Design

Some buyers say that for them the external aspect is an important nuance. Accordingly, preference is given to manufacturing companies that are capable of surprising.

If you take a close look, each washing machine model has its own characteristics. Samsung often offers devices to suit every taste. However, if you want to find out which brand of washing machine is the most reliable, appearance It is not recommended to watch technology. It often happens that an attractive appearance is achieved at the cost of compromising the quality of washing or the operation of equipment.

Leading manufacturers

Which brand of washing machine is the most reliable? This is the most difficult question of all. As already mentioned, everyone has their own opinion on each company that produces home appliances. Therefore, it is very difficult to name leaders.

If you take a close look at the statistical data and the results of surveys, then most often preference is given to the following brands:

Siemens.
Miele.
BOSCH.

These manufacturers are considered the best. Moreover, regardless of the model of the washing machine.

Please note that Siemens and BOSCH are German washing machines. Many experts recommend giving preference to this technique. By the way, the country of origin also leaves its mark on the quality of the device. What can you say about this?

By country

It's no secret that more and more things from China are appearing in Russia. This applies not only to clothes and gadgets, but also to large household appliances for the home. Therefore, experts advise when choosing washing machines to pay attention to the country of origin. And only then to a specific company.

The most best models The technology being studied is German. Washing machines from Germany are distinguished by their quality and durability. They rarely break. The development and creation of such equipment is carried out by experienced specialists who think about the comfort of use and the quality of the devices.

Korean washing machines aren't that bad either. In Russia, some Italian models of equipment are in special demand. Yes, such devices are inferior to the “Germans,” but they still allow you to wash for a long time and without difficulty.

Washing machine rating

It is already clear which washing machine company is the most reliable. However, the list of leaders does not end with the previously listed list. Many manufacturers are in demand in Russia. Among them, as already mentioned, you can find both Korean and Italian devices.

If you look at some statistics, you will notice that after the previously listed leaders, consumers prefer manufacturers with the following names:

LG. A Korean brainchild that has proven itself well in the product market. Differs in a variety of models. There are LG washing machines to suit every taste and at different prices. The manufacturer has both budget models and expensive ones.
Samsung. Another Korean manufacturer. Like LG, it has a wide selection of models. Buyers note that the appearance of such equipment does not leave anyone indifferent. Most of Samsung's devices are of excellent quality. Repairing a washing machine if it breaks down is not difficult. There are models from inexpensive, but functional to expensive “premium” class.
Ariston. Italian manufacturer of washing machines. He has reliable ones for everyone. Today, similar equipment is being assembled in Russia.
Indesit. A company that produces washing machines similar to Ariston. Experts say that Ariston is often understood as Indesit. After all, these washing machines are assembled at similar factories from the same components.
ARDO. One of the best companies operating in Italy. Typically, models from this manufacturer are characterized by quiet operation and stability. The design and prices are also pleasing. Only a reliable vertical washing machine (or any other - not so important) is unlikely to come from ARDO. Experts note that this organization often breaks fastenings that ensure the stability of the structure. The tank suspension and electronics also leave much to be desired.
Zanussi. An Italian creation that has earned the praise of many people. It is noted that the Zanussi (washing machine) is a technique that will serve for a long time. But it can be different. Experts divide washing machines into 2 categories: those produced before 2011 and after it. Early models deserve special attention. They are not inferior in quality of washing and work to German manufacturers. What more can be said about Zanussi? A washing machine from this manufacturer, released after 2011, is highly likely to disappoint. Some call the new Zanussi a symbiosis of Chinese, Russian, Italian, German and other components, the work of which is difficult to predict.

Perhaps these are all the most common manufacturing companies. It doesn’t matter what model the device will be - front-loading or vertical loading. The main thing is that the advantages and disadvantages of all manufacturers will be reflected in each technique.

Instructions

Load type.

Washing machines are divided into two groups: front-facing or vertical. Washing machines with a vertical loading type have several advantages: they are more convenient and reliable, they take up little space, and during the washing process you can remove the item or, on the contrary, throw in a new one.
When purchasing a front-loading one, you must not forget whether you have free space in the . Such washing machines are not inferior in washing quality to front-facing ones. But for greater convenience, you should choose a hatch door that opens 180 degrees.

Size and maximum load. The standard size of a washing machine is 85 cm in height and 58 cm in depth. But you can also find other models with a depth of 35 to 60 cm. For small rooms, narrow ones with a depth of 32 cm are suitable. But compactness leads to a decrease in the volume of the washing drum, and, as a result, to a decrease in the maximum load.

Tank and drum.

You need to find out the material from which the washing machine tank is made. The drum must be made of stainless steel, and the base for the tank can be composite materials, stainless or enameled steel. “Stainless steel” is the most reliable and durable material, but is inferior in noise. Composite materials are characterized by lower quality, but sufficient wear resistance and less noise due to vibration absorption.

Washing programs. Modern models of washing machines are equipped with a set standard programs for washing various types of laundry. But there are also a number of additional programs:
“Quick wash” – for washing lightly soiled items.

“Soak”, “Intensive wash”, “Stain removal” - for heavily soiled items.

“Extra rinse” - this program is intended for people who suffer from allergies.

“Economical wash” - designed to save energy.

There are two types of connecting a washing machine. Connecting to cold or hot water allows you to save energy, but the disadvantage is that the temperature in the water supply is not constant, and in the washing machine itself the water will heat up to a certain temperature. Connecting to cold water only is more practical, but it requires additional water softeners. You also need to pay attention to the hoses. It is desirable that they be flexible, this increases their wear resistance.

Build quality. In Turkey, assembly is carried out by automatic machines, so the average operating time of such washing machines will be 4 years. Austria and Sweden build cars that can last you up to 20 years. The German assembly is designed for 15 years, and the Italian or Korean - 8 years.