Since ancient times, people have washed clothes and clothes. At first it was just rinsing clothes and minimally removing dirt in ordinary river or sea water. After the invention of soap, washing became more efficient. Then they came up with a special comb for washing, which undoubtedly eased the lot of laundresses. Then the centrifuge was invented, and then the washing process became much easier. The main difficulty was that you had to constantly add water yourself. In the modern world, in the age of technological progress, a huge number of different automatic washing machines have been invented, where the housewife only needs to add detergent and select the desired mode. But how to use an automatic washing machine?
Brief description of the operating principle of the washing machine
Usually there are no problems using an automatic washing machine. Modern devices make them as convenient and understandable as possible for any user. But ignorance of the basic basics, improper use of the machine, overloading the drum, and the use of inappropriate detergents can lead to breakdown or even unusability of the equipment. How to use an automatic washing machine? It is necessary to follow basic rules in choosing a detergent, correctly installing the device, calculating the maximum weight of loaded items, and choosing the appropriate mode:
- First you need to choose a suitable place to install the device. Usually this is the bathroom or kitchen. The surface should be as smooth as possible. You should periodically check the position of the machine, as it may change due to vibration from the spin cycle.
- It is advisable to place equipment near a water supply and an outlet.
- After installing and connecting the automatic machine, you must carefully read the instructions for using the washing machine.
- The first wash should be with powder only and without loading the drum.
- The machine should only be used if there is sufficient water pressure.
- Periodically it is necessary to carry out preventive diagnostics and cleaning of the device elements. This will help extend the period of uninterrupted operation.
- You need to choose your detergent carefully. For an automatic machine, you must use only appropriate products. Powders and capsules for hand washing create a large amount of foam, but do not remove dirt well and significantly damage the elements of the machine.
- You should also check the appropriate wash cycle and temperature before each load. In each model, these indicators may differ slightly.
- It is not advisable to load more weight than the system allows. This will negatively affect the overall operation of the device and may cause damage to the drum or other important parts. More advanced models have a built-in function that does not allow you to start washing if the load of things is greater than the capabilities of the equipment. Weight must be calculated based on the mass of not dry, but already wet things.
- Detergents must be added to specially designated compartments. There is a compartment for powders, conditioner or rinse aid. There are also special soluble capsules for washing that need to be thrown directly into the drum of the washing machine.
- Items must be sorted: separately white and colored, children's clothing, cotton, silk, knitted items. For each type there is a separate washing mode. The fastest and most economical is “express” or “quick wash”.
- It is not advisable to wash items that could damage the drum or clog the filter during the washing process.
Preparing laundry
Even before starting the washing machine, it is necessary to carry out preparatory measures.
These include:
- checking items for damage (holes, poorly sewn buttons, etc.);
- checking pockets to ensure that foreign objects do not fall into the drum;
- sorting things;
- stain removal.
If the clothes that need to be washed have damage, they must be dealt with before washing.
Sorting
The first thing you have to deal with is sorting the laundry that needs to be washed.
All items should be sorted in advance, guided by the following laundry parameters:
- Color (dark linen is washed separately, white - separately, colored - also separately).
- Material composition (cotton, wool, synthetics, etc.).
- The density of things and texture (jackets, underwear, etc.)
Items in contrasting shades should be washed separately. Even if they do not shed, you should not put them in the same load, as this will affect the quality of processing, and even dark items may appear dusty if you put them in the drum along with white laundry.
Sorting all items by type of fabric is necessary due to the fact that different materials require their own washing modes, setting the temperature, choosing a detergent, etc. Also, all items should be separated by type of clothing.
For example, jackets should not be processed together with underwear and shoes , even if they are the same color. Bed linen can be washed separately, shirts can be placed in the same load as T-shirts and tank tops, etc.
If there are too many things of one type, they can be divided into two or more lots.
Removing stains
Heavily soiled clothing with significant stains may not be washed out in the normal wash cycle. It is recommended to treat such contaminants in advance. Not only special stain removers are used for these purposes, but also homemade folk recipes.
They choose a means of dealing with stains based on what caused the marks and what material the item is made of.
Washing modes
The huge variety presented on the household appliances market allows you to choose a washing machine to suit every budget and taste. Depending on the price and production date, the device’s functionality can contain from five to thirty different programs and modes. However, almost all machines have standard programs:
- Washing cotton items - temperature range 95 °C, 60 °C and 40 °C. The washing time varies depending on the selected temperature - from one and a half to two hours (the higher the temperature, the longer it takes).
- Delicate wash - temperature 40 °C. Washing time is one and a half hours, spinning required.
- Washing synthetic items at 60°C. Washing time is two hours.
- Enhanced wash mode. Temperature: 90 °C. Spin is required. The most unforgiving mode. Washing time is from 2.5 to four hours.
- Hand wash mode - temperature 40 °C. Spinning is not provided. Washing time is one hour.
- Washing silk or knitted items - temperature 30 ° C. Washing time is one hour.
- Express mode - temperature 30 °C. Washing time is half an hour.
There are also modes for washing shoes, duvets, children's clothes, economical washing with minimal need for water and energy costs. More expensive models provide a “delayed start” mode, self-diagnosis, control of the level and transparency of the liquid, the amount of foam, ironing of laundry, additional activation or disabling of rinsing, spinning or draining.
How to use an automatic washing machine correctly? Let's look at the example of equipment from famous brands.
Washing machines "Indesit"
Devices from this manufacturer are distinguished by minimal, but despite this, modes accessible to the average user, without the need for complex manipulations. The machine is equipped with standard washing modes, as well as the ability to wash denim, shoes in a separate mode and the ability to rinse or spin separately. There is also a function for adjusting the temperature and spin speed of things. A distinctive and comfortable feature is the ability to stop the washing process, even with a full drum.
The key to long-term operation is the correct connection of the device to the electrical network, that is, you need to connect the machine exclusively to a grounded 220-volt outlet. It is highly not recommended to use carriers or extension cords because the voltage during operation of the device reaches 170 volts or more, and carriers can withstand a maximum of 20.
Brief instructions for using the Indesit washing machine:
- In order to save electricity and protect the device from damage, it is not advisable to wash it frequently at high temperatures.
- It is also undesirable to set the spin speed to high. The difference between 600 and 800 revolutions is not noticeable in the quality of spinning things, but this will prevent premature wear of parts.
- After washing, it is better to leave the door of the drum and the powder compartment ajar for ventilation.
- It is recommended to place the drain hose almost at the level of the top panel of the machine.
More detailed recommendations can be found by carefully studying the instructions for using the Indesit washing machine.
What powders and other products should I use?
How clean yours will be depends not only on the washing machine, but also on the powders you use.
Our recommendations:
- Choose powders that are machine washable and also look at the type of fabric (indicated on the packaging).
- Wash white items with bleach powder. This will help not only get rid of dirt, but also return things to their original white color.
- On the contrary, wash colored items without bleach so that they do not lose their brightness.
- Between dry and liquid products, choose liquid ones, because... they contain more active substances and are easily removed from things.
- If a stain remains after washing, try bleach (for whites) and stain remover (for colors).
- To keep things soft after using the washing machine, add not only the powder, but also the rinse aid.
Hansa washing machines
Household appliances from a German manufacturer have quite firmly strengthened their position in the market due to their quality, long-term warranty of operation and simplicity of the device.
Almost the entire series of this technology provides the ability to:
- almost perfectly gentle spin;
- determining the washing time, depending on the weight and load of the drum;
- disinfection of linen;
- active and effective rinsing, leaving no streaks, and minimal creasing of things;
- protection against unwanted water leakage;
- stop washing if you forgot to put something in or something valuable was left in your pockets;
- add laundry detergent several washes ahead, as the system independently takes the required amount of powder, depending on the number and weight of items.
How you can use a Hansa automatic washing machine is described in detail in the instructions for each model of the company.
Non-stop operation of the washing machine: dangerous or not?
The service life of a washing machine largely depends on the intensity of its use and compliance with the rules.
There is no clear answer to how often you can start the machine. But there is a connection between the load on the equipment and the service life .
How many times in a row can you run the wash? The optimal launch frequency is 3-4 times a week. If you need to wash a large volume of clothes - once a day.
More intensive use can lead to a shorter service life of the equipment.
Bosch Max washing machines
The operating instructions provide detailed instructions on safety precautions, proper connection and use of the machine. It is clear that the instructions will be different for each model. However, there are also general points. For example:
- The safety regulations for each device will be the same. This means being careful when washing at high temperatures, being careful with sockets, not loading the machine both inside and outside while washing - the machine should not support heavy objects.
- The mode is selected using a special handle, which is fixed automatically during the washing process.
- Using special lights, you can determine the stage of washing or the malfunction of the device.
- In addition to the main modes, it is possible to use additional ones, and you can also combine several modes.
- You can change the program or stop it completely.
- There is a function that allows you to soak or starch your laundry.
More details on how to use the Bosch Max washing machine, as well as about the specific model, can be found in the instructions supplied with the device.
Manufacturer
In fact, there are few companies involved in the production of smart washing machines. Particular attention should be paid to Sasmung products, which are of high quality in all price classes. However, the cost of premium models is too high.
The German company Miele also produces excellent models. Unfortunately, the cost of these is too high. The optimal solutions for the budget category are produced by the rapidly growing manufacturer Candy. Also, do not forget about LG and Bosch equipment.
Samsung washing machines
The Samsung brand is one of the most popular due to its quality and reliability. Models have both positive qualities and disadvantages.
The maximum weight of a load of laundry is about 12 kg, and the minimum is 6 kg. In addition to the main modes, there are also some special ones: for cleaning grease and blood stains, food stains, ink, grass and soil. In some models, it is possible to use intensive soaking of laundry before washing. There is also a quick wash mode that allows you to clean a small amount of items in 15-30 minutes. You can use only the rinse and spin mode or turn off the spin. There is a built-in smoothing function that allows things to remain almost even and not wrinkled.
How to use an automatic washing machine of more modern variations? Some models provide the function of adding laundry after the wash has started using a special valve in the drum door. More modern models have the ability to connect to the Internet and are controlled remotely. An option has been added that allows you to use the machine at voltages from 160 to 280 volts. The only significant drawback is the noise of the machine while spinning things. A detailed description of how to use the Samsung automatic washing machine should be read in the operating instructions.
Installation Rules
Proper washing begins with the correct installation of the machine. A machine placed on an imperfectly flat surface will make noise and vibrate. You can't put it anywhere. The device is placed on a hard and level surface, using a building level. The legs are firmly fixed with locknuts. It is imperative to place a rubber mat on the tiles so that the machine does not move during operation.
Home appliances from LG
All models of this brand have their own characteristics, indicated in the description of each individual technical unit. However, most devices have the following built-in options:
- protection from child interference;
- smart wash mode;
- the ability to regulate the washing speed;
- possibility of drum self-cleaning;
- built-in automatic diagnostics;
- all-wheel drive system.
Also, more modern and new models provide the ability to control via the Internet. How to use an LG automatic washing machine will be explained in detail by the instructions for use included with each piece of equipment.
Brief information about Whirlpool devices
The main advantage is considered to be the fairly large functionality of the machine in comparison with the low pricing policy. A standard washing machine has about eighteen modes. It provides protection against child intervention, control of water and foam levels, and the possibility of self-diagnosis. Also, the advantage of devices of this brand is the economical consumption of electricity. Some models provide an express mode that allows you to wash clothes in fifteen minutes. Repeated rinsing, adjustable spin speed, and temperature control are also advantages of models from this brand. The downside is that it is noisy when wrung out. However, this problem can be solved with the help of special mats and proper installation of the machine on the floor surface. For long-term use, you must follow the instructions for using the Whirlpool washing machine.
Is the washing machine working correctly?
Before starting the washing process, you need to make sure that the equipment is actually connected correctly.
- The water valve must be open, otherwise the washing simply will not take place. This circumstance implies that the machine is installed and pre-connected to both the sewer and water supply.
- It is important that the drain hose is installed correctly - otherwise a flood may occur.
- The machine operates from the mains. After completing the process, the plug from its cord must be unplugged from the socket.
- Next, all you have to do is press the power button: it will start lighting the entire control panel.
- All that remains is to pour powder specially designed for washing into the tray.
What to do if it is not possible to connect the machine to a water tap?
There are situations when it is impossible to connect a washing appliance to a centralized water supply. For example, in rural areas or due to lack of sufficient space. How to use an automatic washing machine without running water?
Even ultra-modern technology, called smart technology, is not able to determine the source where the liquid comes from. Therefore, using some tricks, you can wash even without connecting to a water supply. The machine will start the washing process only if the tank is completely filled. The easiest, but tedious way is to add water through the powder compartment. However, the most effective and relatively simple way is to create a primitive pumping station. To do it, you will need to install a relay, an irrigation hose, any pump and plumbing tools. How to use a washing machine without automatic water supply after turning on? After you have managed to pour water into the drum, you need to turn on the machine and wash according to the instructions.
Caring for the machine
In order for equipment to serve for a long time and work properly, it needs care. There are a few simple rules to remember:
- There should be no foreign objects in the drum, so before washing, be sure to check the pockets and remove coins, buttons, etc. from them. Otherwise, foreign bodies may damage the washer.
- If you need to turn off the machine during washing, press the “Pause” button. Do not unplug the power cord from the outlet to avoid damaging the electronics.
- It is recommended to clean the drain filter at least once a month, where small debris accumulates.
- Once every few months, descale your washer using citric acid, soda ash or vinegar.
Now you know how to use the washing machine correctly. You no longer need to think about which washing program to choose for a particular fabric and what detergents to use. Feel free to start the machine.
