What is a washing Machine
A washing machine, or washer, is a machine designed to clean laundry, such as clothing, towels and sheets. The term is mostly applied only to machines that use water as the primary cleaning solution, as opposed to dry cleaning (which uses alternative cleaning fluids, and is performed by specialist businesses) or even ultrasonic cleaners.
All washing machines work by using mechanical energy, thermal energy, and chemical action. Mechanical energy is imparted to the clothes load by the rotation of the agitator in top loaders, or by the tumbling action of the drum in front loaders. Thermal energy is supplied by the temperature of the wash bath.
What are the types of Washing Machines
Depending on the spot where clothes are loaded into, there are two types of washing machines top loading and front loading.
Some top-loader advocates have argued that a top-loader leans more towards efficiency with dramatically faster wash times, although comparisons of energy use show this to be wrong -- front loaders generally use less energy, water and detergent and are more efficient as well as sometimes more effective at cleaning. The new top loaders compare especially poorly since the government regulations have reduced the amount of energy they consume, which has resulted in shortened cycles and less effective cleaning. Front loaders do tend to have longer cycle times although they still consume less energy. Front-loaders lean toward less consumption with dramatically lower amounts of water and less detergent required.
| Feature | Top Loading Washer | Front Loading Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Water | -- | ++ |
| Detergent | - | + |
| Energy | Varies by manufacture | Varies by manufacture |
| Feature | Top Loading Washer | Front Loading Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Time (fastest) | √ | √* |
| Cycle Options | √ | √ |
| Cleaning Effectiveness | √ | √ |
Features of Washing Machines
Some features available in modern consumer washing machines:
Aquastop
Child lock
Delayed execution
Time remaining indication
Steam
