Washing machine bearings are designed to withstand heavy loads. However, poor-quality components, manufacturing defects, and long-term use inevitably lead to failure. A similar fate awaits the bearing crosspieces, which become deformed, crack, and require replacement. Worse, repairing these parts requires splitting the drum in half. To avoid the hassle of sawing, drilling, and subsequent tightening, it's best to choose machines with detachable drums.
What types of tanks are there?
Washing machines are produced with both a detachable drum and a solid drum. The operational capabilities of the equipment and its maintainability depend on the type of tank. We suggest considering both options.
Non-detachable tanks. A one-piece design is considered more reliable and durable, which is why many washing machines are equipped with cast tanks. However, if there are problems with the bearings or spider, the manufacturer does not provide for local repairs: either the entire unit must be replaced or a new machine must be purchased. In either case, the cost is substantial. Some technicians offer an alternative: cutting the tank apart by hand, then joining the halves together and gluing them back together securely after repair. However, no one can guarantee the tank will be leak-proof, and the work will require considerable time and effort.
Separable tanks. An improved option is a separable tank, where the two halves are connected with bolts that can be easily removed for disassembly and repair. Bearing replacement is straightforward: simply remove the tank, loosen the fasteners, unhook the front half-tank, repair the damage, and replace everything. A tight fit and secure fixation ensure a proper seal, eliminating leaks. As a result, the machine can be repaired safely, with minimal costs.
The detachable tanks consist of two half-tanks that are easily connected thanks to the provided fasteners and ties.
Both non-separable and separable tanks can be cut in half. However, the latter is easier and much cheaper to repair. Cutting apart solid tanks is quite risky and expensive – there's a high risk of failing to restore the seal and worsening the situation.
LG models with detachable tanks
Front-loading washing machines from the Korean brand LG have proven themselves to be excellent – they are durable and inexpensive to repair. They are also highly affordable, with models available in a wide price range, from $180 to $2,750. These washing machines are also distinguished by their energy efficiency, sophisticated functionality, and support for the brand's advanced technologies.
Even better, LG offers a number of models with detachable tanks. Here's a list of the most popular ones:
LG F-1096SD3 – a front-loading washer with a capacity of up to 4 kg and a maximum spin speed of 1000 rpm for $209;
LG F1296ND0 – a model with a load capacity of up to 6 kg, spin speed of up to 1200 rpm and cost from $259;
LG F-2J6WS1W – a washing machine designed for washing items weighing up to 6.5 kg at a time and spinning at up to 1200 rpm, will cost $290;
LG F-2J5HS6W – a 7 kg front-loading washer with a spin speed of up to 1200 rpm, for $279;
LG Steam F4M5VS6S – the model holds 9 kg of laundry in the drum at a time, spins at a speed of up to 1400 rpm and costs about $360.
The detachable drum of any of the washing machines listed above allows for quick and easy access to the bearings. The key is to follow safety precautions and consider several LG design features.
Samsung washing machines with removable tanks
The Korean company Samsung is known for its innovative washing machines. These machines feature stable software and a number of unique technologies. The brand's other strengths include stylish design, high-quality washing, and an affordable price.
Most Samsung washing machines have removable tanks. These models include:
Samsung WW60K40G09W is a washing machine with a capacity of up to 6 kg, a spin speed of up to 1000 rpm and a price tag starting from $277;
Samsung WW65K42E00W – a front-loading machine for $304.50, which has a drum capacity of up to 6.5 kg and a motor that accelerates to 1200;
Samsung WW70J52E03W – a washing machine with a maximum load of 7 kg, spin speed up to 1200 and a cost of $324;
Samsung WW80R42LHDW – the model has a capacity of 8 kg, spins at a speed of up to 1200 rpm and costs $279.90;
The Samsung WW10N64PRBX is a front-loading washer that washes 10.5 kg of clothes at a time, accelerates to 1400 rpm, and costs about $351.
The list provided is far from complete. There are dozens more "disassemblable" models in the Samsung lineup, among which you can find the one that best suits your functionality, price, and power.
Electrolux appliances with detachable tanks
The Swedish brand Electrolux boasts a wide selection. Its product lines include front-loading and top-loading, compact and full-size machines, including built-in and freestanding models. All the while, the price remains relatively low.
As for the tanks, most Electrolux washing machines have detachable ones. Some of these are popular models.
Electrolux PerfectCare 600 EW6S3R06S. The drum holds 6 kg, the motor accelerates to 400-1000 rpm, and the price for this model starts at 21,000 rubles.
Electrolux PerfectCare 600 EW6S3R07SI. Maximum load capacity: 7 kg, spin speed: up to 1000 rpm, price: $229.90.
Electrolux PerfectCare 600 EW6T4R062. This top-loading model washes up to 6 kg per cycle. It has a maximum spin speed of 1000 rpm and costs $316.
Electrolux EW6F4R28B. A full-size automatic with an 8 kg drum, spin speed of 1200 rpm, and retails for $359.
Electrolux EW6F4R21B. Capacity: up to 10 kg, spin speed: up to 1200 rpm, price: around $478.
Dismountable tanks make Electrolux models repairable, but they don't significantly reduce repair costs. Due to the high cost of components, replacing bearings or universal joints is expensive.
Other machines with collapsible and non-collapsible tanks
In addition to the brands listed above, other manufacturers also produce equipment with detachable tanks. These are less well-known, but they are less expensive and have similar build quality. Five brands can be included in this list.
Budget-friendly Belarusian vending machines costing between $125 and $250. They are characterized by simple and inexpensive maintenance.
German automatic machines in the mid- to high-end price range. Prices for a single model range from 32,000 to 100,000 rubles.
A Slovenian brand that produces both standard automatic washers and washers with an additional tank. Prices range from $160 to $300.
The German company produces washing machines with a detachable drum priced at both 20,000 and 120,000 rubles. Functionality, design, dimensions, and load types also vary.
A Chinese company with a selection to suit every budget. They even have unique models with two reels.
There's also a "blacklist" where technicians include appliances with non-detachable tanks. These machines are non-repairable and best avoided. These brands include Indesit, Ariston, Candy, Zanussi, ARDO, Beko, and Whirlpool. As for Bosch, both tank types are common. Just look at the model's serial number: "WAA" indicates a non-detachable design, while "WAE" indicates a detachable design.
How to examine a machine before buying?
Finding out the type of drum in a washing machine is not easy – the manufacturer does not describe this information in the technical data sheet. You'll have to take the seller's word for it, but many consultants don't know these subtleties or brazenly lie for profit. There is another option - to inspect the insides of the machine:
remove the top cover of the case;
look inside the machine;
inspect the tank from above.
If screws or bolts are visible in the center of the drum, it's a disassemblable unit. A barely noticeable seam or sealed gap suggests otherwise. However, not every store will allow you to disassemble a washing machine. So, the third option is to search for the make or serial number of the washing machine online. It's best to browse forums and social media for washing machine repair technicians. They've likely worked with or lived with the model you're looking for.
Washing machine bearings are designed to withstand heavy loads. However, poor-quality components, manufacturing defects, and long-term use inevitably lead to failure. A similar fate awaits the bearing crosspieces, which become deformed, crack, and require replacement. Worse, repairing these parts requires splitting the drum in half. To avoid the hassle of sawing, drilling, and subsequent tightening, it's best to choose machines with detachable drums.
What kind of tank does Bosch have the WGA index for?
I wonder who will let me take the car apart in the store?
On some machines, it's simpler. There's a sticker with information like a code.
The Electrolux EW6F4R28B has a soldered tank, verified by personal experience.
Could you please tell me if the Samsung WW80A6S28AE/LD washing machine has a detachable tank?
Thank you in advance!
The Zanussi tank is collapsible. Why did the author indicate that it is not collapsible?
Zanussi's tank is detachable. I've personally disassembled more than one model.
Please tell me, is the Midea MFE05W80B/W-RU top-loading washing machine's drum detachable?
I have Zanussi and the tank is detachable!
Zanussi has a detachable tank!
You can tilt the washing machine slightly and look at the tank from below through a mirror or take a photo with your smartphone.