Capacity
The maximum amount of dry laundry at which the washing machine provides normal washing quality and does not experience overload. For two people, a machine with a capacity of up to
5 kg is enough, for more — accordingly, more. The optimal value for families are
models for 6 and
7 kg. For large families,
washing machines for 8 kg,
9 kg and even
10+ kg will be appropriate. For small apartments, it is worth noting
narrow washing machines that have a depth of up to 40 cm, but at the same time capacity like in full-size machines.
Note that for different work programmes the allowable capacity can also be different. For example, for a quick wash, this number is most often noticeably less than the maximum stated in the specifications. These details should be specified in the instructions for the unit.
Drum volume
The internal volume of the drum of the washing machine.
A larger drum can accommodate more laundry, but there is no rigid dependence here: models with the same volume may differ in maximum capacity. It is because to process a large mass of laundry you need not only a capacious drum but also an engine of appropriate power. At the same time, it should be noted that in a larger drum, the same mass of laundry will be washed and dried more efficiently than in a small one. On the other hand, a volumetric drum takes up more space — the size of the device is largely determined by the size of the drum.
Water consumption per cycle
The volume of water used by the washing machine during a standard wash cycle. It is measured while washing the maximum amount of cotton underwear for this model with a normal programme and a temperature of 60 degrees.
When evaluating efficiency, one should consider not only the actual water consumption but also the maximum load. So, for example, a model with a load of 7 kg and a consumption of 49 litres per kilogram of laundry will be more economical than a model of 5 kg with a consumption of 40 litres: the first consumes 49/7 = 7 litres per 1 kg of laundry, the second 40/5 = 8 litres per kilogram. This moment is important, first of all, if a large amount of washing is expected.
Many modern automatic washing machines are equipped with intelligent systems that can adjust the water consumption to the actual load and avoid overspending.
Leak protection
An automatic safety system that controls the integrity of the system for supplying and draining water to the washing machine and stops the water supply in the event of a leak. The protection can be installed on the hoses, on the body, or both (full protection).
Leak-proof hoses are equipped with special sensors and solenoid valves at both ends that shut off the water supply in the event of a breach in the hose. They can be used for both sampling and draining water. It is worth noting that for most washing machines, leak-proof hoses can be purchased separately, even if they are not included in the original package.
Protection of the body of the washing machine is carried out using sensors installed on the bottom of the device isolated from water. When water enters the bottom, its supply to the machine is turned off. The presence of leak protection allows you to avoid troubles like a short circuit or a flood in the house. However,
leak-proof machines are more expensive than conventional machines, all other things being equal.
Voice assistant
Compatibility of the machine with one or another
voice assistant. It can be either a universal service like Google Assistant, or a specialized solution like Hoover Talks. it is not uncommon to support several options at once.
This compatibility allows you to control the washing machine using voice commands. Often this is more convenient than using a traditional control panel — especially since modern voice assistants are becoming more and more “smart”, able to recognize complex requests and even predict the user’s intentions (based on his past actions). However, you need to keep in mind that to use this function, you need a smartphone, tablet or another gadget with a voice assistant installed on it. It is this gadget that is the “brain” of voice control, and the machine only receives and processes commands from it. On the other hand, this format of work also has its advantages: the unit can be controlled from a distance, and the device with a voice assistant plays the role of remote control.
The specific capabilities of voice assistants (including supported languages) should be specified separately.
Dimensions (HxWxD)
General dimensions of the washing machine in height, width and depth.
The size of the unit determines not only the size of the space required for installation but also the ability to bring it into a particular room. At the same time, even a relatively small protruding part (like a door latch) can create problems with passing through a doorway. Therefore, in our catalogue, we try, if possible, to indicate exactly the maximum size of the machine — taking into account all the protruding parts. On the other hand, not all manufacturers provide such data. So if there is any doubt, it is worth evaluating the product by size with a certain margin. And specific information on how the dimensions were measured can usually be found in the manufacturer's documentation.
Finally, let's touch on the specifics of individual dimensions. So, in the case of front loaded machines, note that additional space in front inevitably will be required to open the door. Machines whose depth
does not exceed 40 cm are considered narrow. They can be a lifesaver in cramped conditions, especially if the design provides top loading. And a height of 120 cm or more is an almost unmistakable sign of
a machine with 2 drums which are located one above the other. It does not only increase capacity but also allows you to simultaneously wash two sets of things in different modes. The reverse side of these advantages is traditional
...— high cost.
