Review of activator washing machines with spin

activator washing machine with wringer When talking about a washing machine with a spin function, most people picture the Sibir or Assol models—the kind used three decades ago. In fact, washing machines with a spin function aren't just outdated models, popular today only among summer residents, students, or bachelors. Modern models with this feature exist, and they can easily compete with automatic drum-type machines.

Briefly about the structure of such a machine

Modern appliance manufacturing technologies have advanced significantly. While Soviet washing machines used an asymmetrical paddle activator to spin the laundry, today this type of activator is called an impeller. An impeller resembles a bell, with symmetrical ribs of varying sizes that rotate in different directions. This way, the water in the drum rotates smoothly, and the laundry does not get twisted or worn out.

The impeller has holes through which air bubbles pass during the wash cycle. This "bubble" technology provides better cleaning results and helps rinse detergents out of the fabric.

The spin cycle in this type of machine works like a centrifuge. The laundry remains in the drum, so there's no need to move it. As the drum rotates, water drains through small holes in the drum walls.

Review of semi-automatic machines with spin

Activator washing machines can be divided into two price categories: expensive and inexpensive. We've already described the inexpensive washing machines in the article. How to choose a semi-automatic washing machine with spin, but we will take a closer look at the models of modern activator machines:

The Whirlpool Vantage is a luxury machine with 33 wash programs. It can wash not only children's clothes, school uniforms, and sportswear, but also bath mats, shoes, and other specialty items. This beauty has a drum capacity of 11.5 kg. Its touchscreen controls are also appealing, something that's no longer surprising to younger users. The approximately 18 cm display provides detailed information about the washing process. Overall, this machine deserves the highest praise, costing around $2,000.
The Maytag Centennial MVWC360AW is a spin-activated washing machine with 11 wash cycles. This machine uses water efficiently thanks to a built-in load weight sensor. Its direct drive also reduces energy consumption.
The Daewoo DWF-806 is a bubble wash washing machine from a Korean manufacturer. It has a maximum load capacity of 6 kg of dry laundry. What's special about this machine is that you can not only select a preset program but also customize the wash, rinse, and spin times. It can be connected to both cold and hot water.

Strengths and weaknesses

The activator-type washing machines we discussed above are automatic. They, like any other machine, have their strengths and weaknesses. Let's start with the advantages:

Firstly, they are top-loading, which is much more convenient than front-loading. There's no need to bend over when loading or unloading laundry;
Secondly, unlike vertical drum machines, a machine with an actuator doesn't have closing flaps on the drum. If a power outage occurs during a wash cycle and the drum stops with the flaps down, the laundry will remain in the machine until it's turned on again. A machine with an actuator can be opened without any problem.
Thirdly, these washing machines are less picky about detergents. This means that you can use hand washing powder and even shampoo without worrying about creating a lot of foam;
fourthly, activator machines can be connected to hot water, saving electricity and washing time;
Fifthly, the absence of a water heater and a drive belt on the engine makes it more reliable and easier to repair if necessary.

It's also important to note that machines with this type of tank placement are quieter. And the price for these machines is no higher than that of front-loading automatic machines.

The disadvantages of this technique are quite subjective:

Saving energy reduces water costs. Furthermore, they may consume more water, as the drum fills almost completely;
There's little variety among automatic models, but there are plenty of semi-automatics, but people prefer to buy them exclusively for their summer cottages.

As you can see, activator washing machines with a spin function can be not only the two-tank type we're used to, but also single-tank. They also offer a wide range of functions and programs, handling even delicate items.