How Does a Washing Machine Work: Revealing the Construction and Characteristics of Appliances

Statistically, around 75% of households worldwide own washing machines, and the percentage of fully-automatic models prevails. Such appliances make daily chores much easier and more pleasant. Just load the laundry into the drum, add detergent, select a desired program and extra settings, and a machine will handle the rest. Up-to-date models are even fitted with remote control functionality; start, pause, and stop cleaning using a mobile app and get alerts about the status of your laundry!

Our guide is dedicated to the core washer information, including its operating principles, available types of home appliances, and innovative features that manufacturers implement. The article also provides insights into useful accessories that can enhance the functionality of your appliance.

The Anatomy of Washing Machines

To understand the fundamentals of the working of a washing machine, let’s begin by describing its functional elements. Even though hundreds of models are available on the market, all of them are fitted with similar essential components. We’ve subdivided all the parts into categories to enhance understanding of their peculiarities.

The Plumbing System: Study Water & Drainage Parts
The plumbing system’s functions are water intake, drainage, and maintaining water levels during the cleaning process. Thus, corresponding components guarantee that the appliance has a proper water supply, removes dirty water effectively, and averts leaks. The plumbing system consists of the following elements:

A water pump. The element performs several functions: circulating water during the cycle and removing dirty water at the end of the washing, rinsing, and spinning cycles. The water pump is placed inside the appliance, and you can’t see it.
A drain pipe. The component is located near the water pump. Dirty water comes out of the washing machine through this pipe.
Water inlet control valves (solenoid valves). This part is situated close to the water entry point. It intermittently opens and closes to ensure optimal water flow into the appliance.

The Physical Elements
A washer’s mechanical system includes the elements responsible for proper agitation and spinning during the wash cycle. The key parts are the following:

A drum/tub. A washer typically comprises two tubs — inner and outer. The former (a drum) is a movable container that holds the clothes while cleaning. It features a perforated surface, vital for water and detergent to come in and out. Usually, a drum is made of stainless steel. Inside this part, there are paddles/agitators that help tumble and mix laundry during cycles. An outer tub (or tank) is a stationary, sizable stainless steel or plastic container that holds an inner tub in place.
An agitator, lifter, or impeller, depending on a specific model. Regardless of the type, such movable mechanisms located inside the inner tub of a washing machine let clothing move and rub against each other. That increases the cleaning quality and assists in removing blemishes from clothes. Classic agitators are central posts with fins/vanes that twist back and forth to stir the fabric slightly. Paddle lifters gently lift laundry and release it into the water with care. Impellers are low-profile discs or fins that create currents in the water and ensure a careful attitude to the fabric. Notably, some state-of-the-art washers are equipped with removable agitators, and you might choose how you care for your clothes at your discretion.
A motor. The element providing the power for washing cycles is commonly located at the bottom of the tank. Based on the principle of operation, manufacturers typically use two types of motors — commutator and inverter. The former is cheaper, while the latter beckons consumers with quieter and more energy-effective operation. Motors can be direct-drive (directly attached to the drum/agitator) or belt-drive (connected to the drum/agitator with the help of belts). Direct-drive components are considered more modern since they are quieter and more efficient. At the same time, belt-drive motors are more affordable and easier to repair.
Transmission. This gear or pulley system is used to connect the motor to the drum, agitator, or other moving components of a washing machine. They adjust the speed and direction of moving elements, enabling different rotations for washing, rinsing, and spinning cycles.

Electrical and Automation Components
The control system is a washer’s brain. It controls and regulates all functions depending on user settings and sensor data. Here is a list of the most widespread electrical and automation components:

PCB (Printed circuit board) — the main control center, commanding the control panel and cleaning cycles, activating various electronic parts needed for a washer to work, managing water levels, detergent dispensing, etc.
Control panel (a digital display + buttons + timer) — you use it to select appropriate wash cycles, water temperature, spin speed, and other parameters.

Modern appliances are also equipped with a lid switch, preventing a washer from working when a lid is open.

Supplementary Elements You Should Know About
We’ve sorted out the basic washing machine design above. Remember that the construction of appliances can vary. Manufacturers consistently equip washers with extra parts to optimize the cleaning process. Let’s reveal the most widespread types of additional components and functions in different kinds of washing machines:

A dryer.A washer-dryer combo includes a heating component, warming the air inside the drum and evaporating moisture. The newest models of such appliances are based on heat pump technology, consuming about three times less electricity.
A steam-clean option. Water is turned into steam and sprayed into the drum as a mist during the prewash, wash, and postwash stages. That feature helps soak fabrics more thoroughly, strengthen the detergent’s effectiveness, sterilize, and even soften clothes.
LED drum lightning. It helps load laundry effectively and not overlook clothes after washing.
Dual wash drums. Such a washing machine function is a go-to solution for busy people. You can simultaneously clean delicate and heavy-duty items.

Furthermore, some appliances are fitted with antibacterial and eco-friendly wash cycles. Manufacturers are increasingly implementing the Allergy Care program; thanks to high temperatures, allergens are eliminated.

The Washing Process Step By Step

Let’s take a glance at the typical cleaning procedure and respond to the main question — How does a washing machine work?

You start the wash cycle. Load your clothes into the drum and close the lid. Then, pick an appropriate wash cycle, temperature, and spin speed. You can commonly select between numerous preset programs, such as Normal, Delicate, Bedding, Eco Cotton, Quick 15, Sports, etc. Next, command the appliance to begin cleaning by pressing a corresponding button on the panel. Notably, most models are fitted with the Delay Start function. You might set a desired time for the wash cycle’s start and put off the process.
Your washing machine uses sensors to assess the task you have set. Modern-day models come with various detectors. Load sensors, usually under the drum, weigh the clothes you have loaded. Water level detectors, commonly positioned in the side parts of the case, estimate the amount of water required for the load. Motor sensors determine resistance during drum rotation for evaluating the weight and distribution of the clothes. Some washers are also equipped with the turbidity sensor, measuring the cleanliness of the water and adjusting the rinse cycle’s lengths based on the data obtained.
The appliance moves and agitates items. In combination with using cleaning powder or another detergent, this process effectively removes contaminants and stains and eliminates unpleasant odors.
The rinse stage starts. When the agitation step is complete, your washer removes the soiled water and spins the drum to eliminate the remaining moisture. Next, clean water is getting into the drum for the rinse cycle.
The spin cycle begins. The machine removes water from the drum, and your laundry is spun at a chosen speed.

The latest models of washers impress consumers with a bunch of valuable innovations. For example, the auto dispenser calculates and releases the proper amount of detergent for each load.

Working Principles of Different Kinds of Washing Machines

Now that you know the basic principles of the cleaning process and almost all about washing machines, it’s time to delve into some subtleties. Let’s briefly discuss the peculiarities of top-load washers, front-load models, and other types of consumer electronics.

Top-load washers. You load laundry from the top of the appliance. The best thing is that you can usually add clothes during the wash cycle since the lid is accessible from the top. Most top-load models are fitted with an agitator (a central post with fins) or impeller (low-profile discs or fins). Those elements move the laundry in the washer. Compared to front-load appliances, top-load ones feature shorter washing cycles.
Front-load washers. You load clothes from the front of the machine. Most models lack conventional agitators; washers utilize a horizontal drum that rotates and tumbles the laundry in and out of the water. That process imitates hand-washing by gently lifting and dropping the items to clean them. Therefore, front-load models are a win-win solution if you frequently wash delicate materials. In addition, a tumbling action minimizes the number of wrinkles, simplifying ironing. Furthermore, these appliances suit big families due to their larger capacity. Occasionally, front-load washers can be equipped with impellers, low-profile components that spin and create water currents to gently agitate the laundry without the intense mechanical action.
High-efficiency models. These are top-load appliances with impellers/agitators or front-load washers with groundbreaking functions. HE models clean the laundry, consuming lower water levels and requiring less detergent. Most commonly, they’re fitted with a dispenser for detergent, releasing gel or powder at the right time during the cycles. Thus, you can forget about detergent stains on clothes. High-efficiency models frequently come with additional sensors that analyze the dirt level of clothes and adjust the wash cycle depending on it.

We’ve uncovered the characteristics and advantages of the most popular types of washers. However, you can also encounter space-saving portable machines. Their working principles are akin to those of traditional ones, but small models come with resized drums and lower weight. Some portable devices are also equipped with a built-in handle or wheels.

Interestingly, Americans give preference to top-load washers. 60% of local households own such appliances. At the same time, European residents prefer front-load machines, making up around 80% of the market in some regions.

Must-Have Accessories for Washing Machines

To make the washing process even more convenient and effective, don’t forget about handy accessories for home appliances. The modern market offers a multitude of add-ons like the following:

Washing machine stands. These pedestals are used to keep washers off the floor and raise them to a more suitable working height. When opting for such an accessory, pay attention to models with rubberized feet and non-slip pads. Some stands also provide enclosed drawers as extra storage spaces.
Dryer racks. The accessories are designed for drying delicate clothes inside the appliances.
Smart plugs. Such accessories let you remotely operate your home appliances using a smartphone.
Hard water protection. You can purchase a small hard water filter that connects to the water inlet of your appliance and guarantees that your laundry will be cleaned effectively and gently.
Special machine cleaners. These products remove dirt, grime, and detergent residue that pile up inside the washer over time. As a result, the cleaning efficiency decreases, and unpleasant odors come from the drum. Moreover, accumulated substances can provoke pump or drum damage. You might buy tablets, liquid or powder cleaners, gels, or wipes. Tablets are usually placed in the tub or detergent drawer. Liquid and powder cleaners are typically added to the detergent compartment.

Furthermore, you can find extension hoses, lint filters, washing machine covers, and other accessories on sale. Such accessories are available at an array of online retailers.

Instead of the Conclusion: Tips for Using Washers

To extend the lifespan of your washing machine and ensure optimal performance, heed some practical recommendations.

First, sort your clothes properly. Separate them by color and fabric type to avert color bleeding and damage. Second, avoid overloading your home appliance to prevent extra strain on the motor and other elements, fabric damage, and water and detergent distribution issues. Third, please don’t use too much detergent because it results in excess suds and the appearance of residues on your clothes. Familiarize yourself with the instructions the detergent’s manufacturer provides.

Pay special attention to selecting a wash cycle. Normal is designed for cleaning regular closes. The Delicate/Gentle program is optimal for fragile items like wool and lingerie. Don’t use the Quick Wash cycle too often since it leads to rapid fabric wear and tear. Scrutinize care labels to choose the correct water temperature and spin speed.

Using laundry bags for delicate items is reasonable. Purchase such accessories to clean socks, bras, and lingerie and protect them during the wash cycle. You might also buy shoe laundry bags to safeguard items from scratches and deformation. Moreover, such bags minimize noise and vibration during the cleaning process.

Check pockets before each washing procedure. Remove items that can lead to damaging the washing machine (paper, coins, etc.).

Follow these tips, and let your home appliance serve you faithfully for many years!