Which brand washing machine is better: how to choose + rating of brands and models

An automatic washing machine is an indispensable assistant for the 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, a logical question arises: 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 device of a typical “washing machine”

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 select the desired program, after which the consumer electronics will accurately carry out all the 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 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 to this type of machine, their model range is constantly expanding.

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

pros vertical washing machines — compactness due to the elongated shape. Such machines have maximum protection against leaks, making it more convenient to load laundry, which is especially important for people with health problems.

Among the disadvantages are the inability to be built into furniture in the bathroom or kitchen and the not very wide range of models.

Exploitation semi-automatic activator type forces owners to be present during the process and even take some part in it.

However, they are still in demand due to their low price, unpretentiousness and ease of operation. In addition, such machines do not require a mandatory connection to water supply or sewerage.

Mini-washers with an activator are still popular among summer residents and owners of small-sized homes. The working body of the unit is located in the bottom or side wall of the machine. This is what sets the working environment in motion during the washing period

The main element of the unit is the activator, which directly performs the washing. It is located at the bottom of the tank, which has a vertical design.

Some models activator type washing machines equipped with an additional centrifuge for spinning clothes. Modern machines are compact and quite effective for their price.

Differences by control method

The specifics of the control unit are closely related to the technical features of the models. Activator-type machines use a mechanical circuit that operates using rotary knobs.

The functions of such a device are minimized; often it only allows you to change the time period of the cycle or arbitrarily stop the engine.

Modern machines with front or vertical loading use an electronic control system, the selection of modes in which is carried out using buttons or a rotary dial

The newest models are equipped with a touch screen on which you can not only select programs, but also monitor the washing stages.

Dimensional parameters of machines

The installation location of the automatic machine should be selected in advance in order to consider models with certain dimensions. It is important to understand that the size of the unit is directly related to its capacity. On compact washing machine, which takes up minimal space, will have to be washed one and a half to two times more often than on a standard size machine.

Full-size units usually have a height of 0.7-0.9 m, while their width and depth can vary. For front cameras, the standard parameters are 0.6-0.8 m.

Front-type washing machines are divided into narrow and full-size. A full-size model will require a lot of space, the choice of which should be taken care of in advance

However, if the width usually remains unchanged, then the depth of the models can be reduced to 0.3-0.4 m, which is especially important for built-in machines.Vertical loading machines are quite narrow 0.4-0.6 m, but have a greater depth of 0.6-0.65 m.

Finding a suitable niche for installing a vertical machine is much easier, but it cannot be built into a kitchen set because it is loaded through a hatch located at the top

Selection by tank material

This factor is of primary importance, since it largely determines the durability of the washing machine.

The tank can be made from the following materials:

• Stainless steel. The most durable, but also the most expensive option, which is most often used in cars of famous brands.
• Enameled steel. Slightly cheaper option. Under normal conditions, it is quite reliable and durable, but a hard object caught in the tank can damage the enamel, which will dramatically reduce the service life of the device.
• Plastic. The most democratic option, most often used in budget automatic and activator models. This element is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, but may crack if subjected to mechanical stress or imbalance.

Not only the durability, but also the cost of the model directly depends on the material from which the drum is made.

The washing machine tank, made of plastic, weighs significantly less than its metal counterparts, does not rust and is easily cleaned of mineral deposits.

Technical characteristics of washing machines

Each washing machine has a marking consisting of three Latin letters that indicate the operating qualities of the device, namely, energy consumption class, washing quality and spin quality.

Average power consumption of the machine

The efficiency of the unit depends on energy consumption.This indicator is determined by the actual energy consumption required to wash 1 kg of cotton laundry at 60°C.

Most washing machines on the market fall into classes A, A+ in terms of energy saving parameters, and A and B in terms of washing efficiency. At the same time, spin quality indicators may fall into class C

According to the results obtained, the machine is assigned the following marking:

• A — 170–190 W/h;
• B — 190–230 W/h;
• C — 230–270 W/h;
• D, E, F, G– up to 400 W/h, such devices are extremely rare on sale.

Machines of the class are also distinguished by increased energy-saving qualities A+, A++ And A+++. Since washing units are used occasionally, this factor should hardly be considered decisive.

Quality of washing and spinning

The next letter of the marking indicates wash quality. To determine this indicator, a reference sample of cotton laundry is created that has been processed in a reference washing machine.

In the tested model, a similar item is washed, which after washing is compared with the standard. If the appearance of the products matches 100%, then the device that is being tested is awarded the highest class A.

At the same time, the standard even for the lowest class G should be no lower than 80%, which visually is not too different from perfectly washed laundry.

The speed and quality of the spin cycle depend on the number of revolutions gained by the unit during the procedure. The faster the spin is performed, the more the drum spins and the more energy is wasted. Therefore, energy-saving models usually do not have the highest spin class

The third letter indicates the spin efficiency of the unit.To determine this, the laundry is weighed before and after washing. If the difference between the first and second indicators does not exceed 10%, the spin system receives the highest rating of A.

The highest number of revolutions is intended for spinning terry items (towels); for cotton, 800 rpm is enough; It is advisable to spin delicate fabrics (silk, wool) at 400.

Standard washing programs

Washing machines have several washing modes, each of which has a specific temperature, rinse duration, methods and amount of water supplied to the drum, and spin speed.

All washing programs are set using the control panel, which is usually located on the front of the automatic machine. It is not recommended to cancel or change the selected mode while running the program

The most common programs include:

• Cotton. In this case, water heated to 90°C is used to wash clothes.
• Wool. Gentle operating mode in water heated to 30-40°C.
• Synthetics. A specially designed program for washing synthetic items at 60°C.
• Delicate wash. At a temperature of 40°C, products made from silk, tulle or other delicate fabrics are carefully processed.
• Quick wash. In this case, average process indicators are used. Washing is carried out at 60°C, spinning at an average speed (600-800).
• Handwash imitates a similar process due to the low temperature of 30-40°C with slow rotation of the drum. Does not require spinning.
• Prewash. The process includes a soaking period to remove stubborn stains.
• Economy. A program that optimizes the consumption of electricity, detergents and water.

Don't chase too many modes. As practice shows, housewives are usually limited to 3-4 programs.

It should be remembered that the more functionality a household appliance has, the more expensive it is. If there is no urgent need to perform “hand washing” or “automatic drum cleaning”, it is better to take a simpler model

Additional features and options

In addition to the basic modes, modern washing machines can also be equipped with additional features:

• Half load. This function allows you to wash with less laundry than indicated in the specifications of the model. This reduces the process time and reduces the consumption of electricity and water.
• Intensive wash. To wash heavily soiled laundry, an aggressive operating mode is used with increased water and electricity consumption, as well as an increased number of drum revolutions.
• Additional rinse. Thorough rinsing of washed laundry can minimize the amount of detergent particles left on the clothes.
• Water ionization. The function provides for additional disinfection of linen using silver ions, which is considered beneficial to health.
• Pre-ironing. The program allows you to slightly straighten things in the drum, creating the effect of light ironing.

A number of manufacturers leading in the production of washing machines now offer models with a drying function. Such equipment is more expensive than standard offers, but it makes it possible to refuse to dry things out or to buy a drying machine that is not at all cheap.

A washer and dryer is more expensive than a regular machine, but it eliminates the need to dry clothes and the desire to buy a drying cabinet or machine

In addition, it is worth paying attention to such nuances as:

• Availability of display, which reflects all stages of washing.
• Leak protection. It can be complete or partial. The first involves special protection of the housing, thanks to which water cannot overflow, even if there is excess water in the drum. With partial protection, the water supply to the washing machine is stopped in case of an emergency.
• Turning off the machine if there are problems with the water supply. Many models are equipped with a similar function, which guarantees emergency shutdown of the unit if there is no water in the pipes.
• Silence. The special design of the machine allows to reduce the noise level during its operation. It is worth considering that the noisiest units are those that operate on a belt drive. At the same time, direct drive devices, which have a minimum of connecting elements between the motor and the drum, operate much quieter. In addition, they vibrate much less during operation.
• Child protection. To prevent children from interfering with the washing process, manufacturers offer an additional device lock, which can be removed only if you know a certain key combination.

Other options include adjusting the water level in the tank, delayed start, foam control, drum imbalance control and others.

The function of blocking curious young researchers from interfering in the process will prevent unexpected breakdowns of the command apparatus and extend the operating life of the equipment

Some tips for choosing

For families with children, it is best to choose the automatic option, which allows loading 6-7 kg of laundry. It is desirable that the car has an efficiency class of at least A and several programs.Functions such as a shortened wash cycle, child protection, and delayed start will be useful.

For small families or people living alone, a compact washing machine with a load of up to 4-5 kg ​​is sufficient. A basic version with several programs and an enamel or plastic tank is enough. Energy consumption class can be taken either A or B.

For a summer residence, an activator type device is quite suitable - a regular one or, if space allows, with a centrifuge.

A small family or single users do not have to chase an impressive volume of washing capacity. A unit with a load of 4-5 kg ​​of dry laundry is sufficient

Popular manufacturers of automatic machines

The range of washing devices on the market can be divided into three categories:

• elite models;
• middle class;
• budget devices.

Below we will look at them in more detail.

Luxury washing machines

Well-known German companies can be included in this category AEG, Miele. They produce extremely reliable equipment, the service life of which is at least 10-15 years.

AEG machines are equipped with a tank made of a special plastic alloy, the strength of which exceeds even stainless steel.

A special feature of Miele models is the use of a special drum design, the inner surface of which resembles a honeycomb, which guarantees exceptionally gentle treatment of laundry

Production of the company Miele characterized by widespread use of innovation; In addition to traditional frontal options, the company also offers a line of vertical devices.

Washing machines from these companies operate silently and are equipped with a large number of useful functions, which guarantees the highest quality of washing.The downside of such machines is the price, which exceeds $1000.

Middle class cars and budget models

This segment includes cars costing 600-800 dollars, which are produced by well-known companies: Bosch, Whirlpool, Electrolux. These are high-quality machines, characterized by reliability, functionality and excellent performance.

The Samsung WF7450SAV washing machine is specially designed for washing children's clothes. It not only provides thorough rinsing of clothes, but also treats them with silver ions

Budget washing devices are also popular. This category includes household appliances both European (Ariston, Zanussi, Indesit), and Asian (Samsung, LG) manufacturers.

Although these machines are somewhat inferior to expensive products from German companies, they will become faithful assistants, providing high-quality washing for many years.

The best models according to experts

Ratings of modern washing machines will help you decide on the choice of unit. According to data provided by service centers for 2017, the German brand is the leader among middle and budget class cars Bosch, producing the most reliable machines.

Following closely behind is the equally famous German brand. Siemens, and the third is completed by equipment from the Swedish concern Electrolux.

Popular Korean brands are in the middle of the ranking (LG, Samsung), cars of which also appear quite rarely in repair shops. The first of them pleases customers with a reliable engine and direct drive, which ensures minimal noise during operation.

Technique Ariston And Indesit In terms of reliability, it is inferior to “Asians”. The rating is completed by washing machines from BEKO.

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

Top 7 washing machines

Among the models that have received the best reviews are 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 distinguished by its affordable cost, 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 of useful features: half loading, 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++. The washing device 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 smartphoneby 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

The washing unit, which belongs to the middle price category, has a direct drive motor, which is guaranteed for 10 years. 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 has a good quality-to-price ratio; it is a silent device with high energy class A+. The device is equipped with an intelligent control system that allows you to determine the optimal amount of 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.