Pros and cons of a plastic washing machine tank

The most durable washing machine tubs are considered to be those made of stainless steel. Manufacturers are forced to install plastic tubs in washing machines because metal is very expensive, plus the high technology required to produce a stainless steel tub. Because of all this, the price of such a "home helper" can exceed $1,000, which is why plastic-tub models are so common today, and they're certainly not something to be afraid of. Let's take a closer look at the features of these washing machines.

The pros and cons of plastic containers

For a long time, enameled washing machine tubs, rather than plastic ones, were commonplace. However, the disadvantage of this type of tub was cracking and rusting of the metal beneath damaged areas of the enamel. This significantly shortened the tub's lifespan, leading companies to switch to other materials for household appliances. After the abandonment of enamel, tanks made of plastic and stainless steel appeared on the market.

Every material has its pros and cons, and plastic is no exception. It has many advantages.

• Plastic is much cheaper than metal.
• It weighs much less.
• Relatively durable.
• A container made of this material does not leak.
• It is not subject to corrosion.
• It retains heat significantly better than metal, which helps save energy.
• It has low vibration and noise levels.
• The service life of plastic is from 20 to 25 years.

Essentially, the only drawback of plastic is its fragility, which makes it prone to cracking. This factor should be taken into account when transporting washing machines to avoid accidentally damaging the plastic drum.

Carefully monitor the transportation of the washing machine to avoid damaging the tank, which could lead to further damage. Also, don't forget about the transport bolts, which allow you to safely transport the equipment, but can damage it during the work cycle if they are not removed.

Is stainless steel really that good?

Stainless steel is often overrated by the general public, who believe it should be used for all washing machine tubs. Let's explore whether this material is as ideal as it's often portrayed, or whether it has both pros and cons.

A stainless steel tank truly withstands liquid contact very well. The material is durable and withstands various chemicals, so it's impervious to damage not only water but also detergents and even household descalers. However, the following are some disadvantages:

• heavy weight, especially compared to plastic;
• inability to dampen vibration and noise;
• low level of thermal insulation, which negatively affects energy consumption;
• serious price.

Another drawback is the need to buy expensive household appliances, as choosing cheap steel will cause it to corrode. Therefore, if you choose a stainless steel tank, make sure it's made from high-quality materials.

Why you shouldn't be afraid of plastic?

So, we've come to the conclusion that a plastic washing machine tub is a good thing. These "home helpers" often last over 10 years, and if something does break down, it's definitely not the tub, but other components. And given that we live in an era where household appliances are typically replaced once or even several times a decade, there's no need to worry about your machine breaking down, and there's even less point in buying equipment made from the most expensive materials.

A plastic tank in a washing machine is a safe way to save money on purchasing new appliances for your home.

Plus, modern plastics, such as Silicate and Carborane, can withstand heavy loads, so washing machines with drums made of these materials are guaranteed to be leak-proof. Therefore, the key isn't the drum material, but following the operating instructions, which will ensure your machine lasts a long time.

   

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