How To Choose a Top-Load Washing Machine
Top-load washing machines are designed especially for smaller rooms and excel not only in saving space, but also in the convenient loading of laundry from above. They also offer a range of intelligent features for efficient washing. They are usually taller than front-load washing machines, most often measuring around 90 cm in height. As this type of washing machine opens from the top, it is not possible to place a dryer on them. If you have small children, you will appreciate that they won’t be able to access the door of top-load washing machines.
Some tips for choosing a front-load washing machine
The main consideration is the size of the space for the washing machine, choose your washing machine according to its appropriate depth and width
Remember to have enough space for the door to open upwards and enough space to comfortably load the washing machine
Think about what features are essential to you, not all washing machines have the same
If you have a small baby or sleep in the immediate vicinity of a washing machine, it pays to pay extra for a low-noise washing machine
If you are going to wash bulky pieces of clothing, consider the number of revolutions and the range which the washing machine allows you to set
If you frequently wash large volumes of laundry, choose a washing machine with a capacity of around 7 kg and more
Basic parameters for selecting a top-load washing machine
Washing machine depth
Top-load washing machines have the following standard dimensions: height 90 cm, width 40 cm and depth most often around 60 cm. However, washing machines with non-standard dimensions, such as greater depth, are also available. Therefore, before purchasing, carefully measure the size of the space where the new washing machine will be located, and make sure that the selected model will fit comfortably and not interfere with your movement.
Washing machine width
In the case of top-load washing machines,it is the opposite of front-load washing machines. Washing machines with a width of around 40 cm are usually the norm. Even so, medium-sized households can wash their laundry without any problems, because their depth is 60 cm.
Washing machine capacity
Top-load washing machines have a smaller drum than front-load washing machines, but they still wash up to around 10 kg of laundry and comfortably serve even a medium-sized household. For households with 1-2 members, a capacity of up to 6 kg will suffice, for families with 3 or more members, we recommend choosing a washing machine with a capacity of 7 kg or more.
Washing machine motor
The motor affects the noise of the washing machine and the electricity consumed. You will come across three basic types of engines, though the first type is used only minimally and we can consider it rather obsolete.
Compared to newer models, the classic motor is noisier and has higher energy consumption because it is located off the axis of the drum and the transmission of electricity to the motor takes place by means of carbons. However, they wear out over time and need to be changed. It consists of four basic components: engine, belt, pulley and drum.
The inverter motor, like the classic one, consists of a motor, a belt, a pulley and a drum, and its location is also identical. However, it is significantly less noisy and has lower energy consumption than a conventional motor, because it is controlled electronically. Thanks to this, its regulation is direct and smooth. In addition, the principle of electronic speed control reduces vibration, wear and provides higher performance at lower noise levels.
The direct drive motor is the most modern type of motor for the best washing machines. It is located in the axis of the drum, so no belt or pulley is needed anymore. It directly drives the motor and increases its controllability and stability. The vibrations of the washing machine are reduced when using the direct drive motor.
Noise of the washing machine
The noise the washing machine makes is of two types - we distinguish between noise during washing and during spinning. Top-load washing machines, as well as front-load washing machines, most often reach a noise level between 50 and 60 dB, but there are also quieter models. When spinning, the noise levels of most models are between 70 and 80 dB. To give you an idea, you can imagine 30 dB as a quiet whisper, 60 dB as a normal two-person call and 80 dB as a sound when you are in close proximity to a vacuum cleaner.
Speed
Higher spin speeds are especially important if you frequently wash jackets, sweaters and other larger pieces of clothing. A washing machine with at least 1,200 revolutions can also remove most of the moisture from clothing.
Do you already own or plan to buy a dryer? Then we recommend a washing machine with 1,400 rpm or more to remove residual moisture. The laundry will be dried more efficiently and will be perfectly dry after only one drying cycle. The speed can be regulated downwards, so you don't have to worry about buying a washing machine with 1,400 revolutions and washing delicate laundry in it.
Energy Class
The energy class indicates the grouping according to the energy intensity of the appliance while in operation. For easier selection, there is an energy label, which is mandatory for each washing machine. Annual water and energy consumption is derived from 220 standard wash cycles per year with a half drum load at 60 ° C and 40 ° C. The most economical washing machines are currently marked A +++.
Energy consumption |
Consumption in kWh |
Costs in CZK |
|---|---|---|
| A+++ | 0,65 | 3,1 |
| A++ | 0,70 | 3,4 |
| A+ | 0,75 | 3,6 |
| A | 0,85 | 4,1 |
|
* Calculated with the price of CZK 4.80 / kWh * Energy consumption is affected by the quality of the washing machine motor, the selected program, the volume of the drum and other factors. |
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Other additional features
When choosing a front-load washing machine, pay attention to other useful features:
Types of top-load washing machines
Standard top-load washing machines are particularly suitable for smaller bathrooms. They can wash a large amount of laundry without taking up too much space because they open upwards. It is easy to fill them with laundry and if you have allergies in your family, you can wash a large amount of not only clothes, but also pillows, blankets and other bulky items in this type of washing machines without any issues. However, when it comes to a dryer, the washed laundry needs to be divided into several loads due to its smaller capacity.
The high steam temperature can heat the inside of the drum faster than water, which is why steam washers are an energy-saving solution. In addition, steam can reliably remove bacteria and allergens found in laundry.
Frequently asked questions when choosing a top-load washing machine
What washing machine capacity to choose?
A top-load washing machine is often purchased by households with smaller utility rooms or an unusual interior layout. When it comes to capacity the same applies to front-load washing machines, and therefore for households with 1 or 2 members, a capacity of up to 6 kg is suitable. An ordinary family with 4 members should look for a machine with a load capacity of around 9 kg, but larger families should choose a front-load washing machine.
Which energy class of the washing machine is the most advantageous?
Energy class expresses energy and water consumption and washing efficiency. Very economical washing machines are marked A +, A ++ and A +++. With a higher energy class, the price of the appliance also often increases, which is why washing machines in class A +++ are suitable for frequent washing, as the money you will save on energy and water bills will pay for the machine in a relatively short period of time.
Does a top-load washing machine wash as well as a front-load washing machine?
In general, there is no difference in washing quality between a top-load and a front-load washing machine. The quality of washing is thus determined by the features and technologies of the specific model.
Glossary - washing machines
Fuzzy logic / 6th sense
Fuzzy Logic and 6th sense technologies work on the same principle. They differ only in the name depending on which manufacturer the washing machine comes from. It is a sensor technology that weighs the laundry itself and recognizes how the washing should take place. It then sets the consumption of water, detergent and the length of the wash cycle according to the measured values. Washing machines with this technology wash more efficiently and can save electricity and water.
Inverter motor
The inverter motor is more reliable and durable than a conventional motor using carbons, which wear out over time and cause friction and sparking. The inverter motor works on the principle of electronic speed control, which reduces vibration and wear and provides higher power at lower noise levels. Inverter motor manufacturers usually provide a 10-year warranty.
Steam programs
Steam programs are used to freshen delicate items, to remove creases and to eliminate odors and allergens. Everything is done thanks to a steam generator, which changes water of normal temperature into steam. It naturally loosens the fibers, fluffs them and loosens creases. Therefore, the detergent penetrates deeper and can remove stubborn stains, unpleasant odors and detergent residue. After 20 minutes, the laundry is smoother and softer in the steam washer than when using normal programs.
