How to choose a power filter for a washing machine

Complex household appliances, like washing machines, are susceptible to power surges, as one such spike can cause damage. That's why experts recommend protecting your appliances with special surge protectors. Surge protectors smooth out surges, saving your washing machine from repairs.

What is a power strip for an automatic washing machine?

What is a surge protector for a washing machine? Many people think of this term as an extension cord with multiple outlets and a built-in surge protector. But that's not quite true. While such a device can certainly be used to protect a washing machine, it's also suitable for any other appliance.

A washing machine's surge protector is a device with a shock-resistant, non-conductive housing that conceals all components. The filter itself is located inside the washing machine. The image shows an example of such a device.

Let's briefly describe what its work consists of and why it is needed. The operating principle of this device is that all oscillations with a frequency of 50 GHz, going through the electrical network, pass through the filter, and if they are higher or lower, they are blocked.

Furthermore, the surge protectors built into most modern washing machines capture reverse current surges generated by the asynchronous motor, transferring them to the ground. This is crucial, as such surges are also dangerous for the machine's components.

Very important! A surge protector not only protects the washing machine itself from power surges, but also protects other appliances from the washing machine.

If the electrical network is unstable and there is no such filter in the car, the following parts are susceptible to burnout and failure:

• heating element;
• asynchronous motor;
• CPU;
• touch control panel.

A surge protector protects components not only from voltage surges above normal, but also from sudden voltage surges below normal, which is especially important for a washing machine's motor. When a surge protector fails, the machine typically stops working completely. Sometimes, a surge protector failure is accompanied by software crashes and spontaneous program transitions.

Types of similar devices

Based on the connection method, all network filters can be divided into two groups:

1. internal filters;
2. extension filters.

The internal filter is installed by the manufacturer. If it breaks, such a line filter cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Different washing machine models may have different filters. They not only differ in appearance but also in technical specifications. These specifications determine the washing machine's level of protection, and include:

• rated current and voltage;
• voltage surge threshold;
• reaction time;
• maximum current;
• maximum load.

The extension filter also has the following characteristics, depending on which extension cords can be divided into three types:

• filters with basic protection;
• filters with advanced protection;
• filters with professional protection.

The power strip can have a variable number of sockets, from 3 to 8. It also features additional features such as child safety locks and on/off switches on each individual socket.

The maximum efficiency of the filter (as stated by the manufacturer) will be achieved if it is included in grounded socketEven if there is no such outlet, the filter will still provide some protection.

Criteria to consider when choosing

If you need to replace the power filter inside your washing machine, the easiest way is to remove the broken unit and bring it to a parts store, or search for a filter based on your washing machine model. However, most machines don't have such filters, so consumers use an extension cord as protection. What to look for when choosing a power filter and which one is more reliable is what we'll discuss below.

1. Number of ports (outlets). Consider how many nearby appliances you'll need to power. Firstly, by plugging several appliances into a single extension cord, you'll reduce the number of cables throughout your apartment, which will reduce safety. Secondly, experts say that power strips with more outlets are more powerful. Some extension cords have one outlet per appliance; they're reliable and capable of protecting expensive equipment.
2. Surge protector length. It varies from 1.8 to 5 m. Typically, 3 m is sufficient, but it all depends on the location of the outlet and washing machine.
3. Maximum load. This indicates the maximum energy surge the filter can absorb. For filters with professional protection, this figure is at least 2500 J, and for basic ones, it is about 960 J. Some models can protect equipment from lightning strikes, but they are also expensive. Filters with advanced (universal) protection offer the best balance of quality and price.
4. Response speed. This is the most important factor, determining how quickly the washing machine will shut down and whether a power surge will damage its internal components.
5. The intended use of the device. This is an important criterion, as the extension cord may be used for a TV, computer, washing machine, etc.
6. Number and types of fuses. The fuse is an important component of an extension cord, so it's worth paying close attention to it. It's best to have multiple fuses, with the main fuse being a fusible type and the auxiliary fuses being a thermal fuse and a fast-acting fuse.
7. Operation indicator. The indicator makes it easy to tell if the extension cord is working properly. If it's plugged in and working properly, the LED light will be on; if not, the light will be off.
8. Availability of instructions. Instructions, operating instructions, and clearly described technical specifications can all indicate a product's quality. And if the brand of the device is known, even better. Don't forget to check the quality certificate of the product you choose.

Important! A high-quality power strip won't be cheap; it's likely just a simple extension cord without surge protection.

Safety precautions

Before testing your surge protector, be sure to read the safety recommendations. You should know the following:

• DO NOT connect a power strip to a 380V network;
• the surge protector is only connected to a grounded outlet;
• the maximum power of the device is about 3.5 kW;
• DO NOT use the extension cord in rooms with high humidity;
• DO NOT plug extension cords into each other;
• Try not to plug heating devices (vacuum cleaner, air conditioner, hair dryer) into the power extension cord.

Review of filter manufacturers

To better illustrate which surge protectors are suitable for protecting a washing machine, we will provide a few specific examples.

Filter SVEN Fort Pro Black

A universal surge protector with overload and short-circuit protection, as well as protection against power surges and case overheating above 105°C. Maximum power absorption is 1050 J. Number of sockets with an on/off button: 6. Price from $20.

APC SurgeArrest PM6U-RS Filter

A universal surge protector with a maximum absorbed power of 1836 J. This surge protector features two USB ports for charging electronic devices. It also features an overload indicator, a power indicator, and a protection and ground indicator. Price starts at $37.

VDPS Extreme Surge Protector

An Israeli-made filter designed specifically for washing machines. It protects equipment from power surges, short circuits, and lightning strikes. The device's response time is 1 ns. Price from $23.

Q-protector filter VDPS-5

An Israeli-made filter for washing machines and dryers with a cord. It automatically reconnects after the voltage stabilizes. The device's response time is 1 ns. Price from $26.

So, protecting your washing machine from power surges is a serious matter. Therefore, it's worth taking steps to protect your expensive appliances in advance, rather than throwing up your hands when your washing machine "burns out." Take care of your machine, and it will serve you well for a long time.

   

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