Horizontal loading washing machine. Professional advice: which washing machine is better

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Top-loading washing machines are not very common in our homes, although they have a number of special advantages. And the main advantage is that they take up little space and do not spoil the appearance of small rooms.

Dimensions: Due to its design, a top-loading washing machine is often more compact than a horizontal-loading machine. In addition, you do not have to leave room to open the door, since loading occurs from the top. The dimensions of the machine are usually between 80x40x60 cm and 91x46x60 cm.

Ease of use: Top-loading washing machines load and unload from the top, which means you don't have to squat or bend over to get laundry. In addition, such a machine allows you to add things already during washing, if you suddenly forgot to put them in right away.

And if any clothes may suffer from the spinning process, then you can get them out before it. Unfortunately, top-loading machines only allow you to wash a small number of items at a time. The standard maximum load is 5 kg, some models allow you to wash up to 7 kg.

Technical features: Unlike front-loading machines, vertical washing machines are much less likely to have problems with leaking rubber seals. In addition, with a drum secured on both sides, problems also occur less often.

True, due to their design, top-loading machines are not very stable and can move greatly to the sides during the spin process. It is not uncommon for individual small items of clothing, such as socks, to disappear in the car without a trace. The mechanism, of course, quickly shreds them, but you must be prepared that after some time of use you will have to remove and clean the drum.

Front loading: advantages and disadvantages of a large machine

For those who do laundry frequently, a traditional top-loading washing machine is a better option. These machines allow you to load much more laundry at a time than top-loading machines, they are more stable, they can be placed under the countertop, and you also have the option of installing a clothes dryer on this machine.

Dimensions: The standard dimensions of front-loading washing machines vary only in depth. Typically, such machines have dimensions within the range of 85x60x60 cm, so you can easily place a similar model under the countertop. Thanks to its width, a front-loading washing machine stands more stable on the floor and does not move to the sides even at high spin speeds.

Ease of use: The big advantage of a front-loading washing machine is the additional usable space on top of the device. You can place a laundry basket in front of the machine door and easily remove washed items from the drum.

This is especially convenient for short people. In addition, the maximum possible load volume of machines with a horizontal loading method is usually much larger than that of machines with a vertical loading method, so they are better suited if you need to wash a lot of things.

Technical features: Front-loading machines are considered reliable devices. In the event of a malfunction, individual parts can be easily repaired, since there is enough space in the device. However, small items of clothing may disappear without a trace from time to time due to worn-out seals in the car. In addition, the one-sided drum mounting is not as reliable as that of machines with a vertical loading method.

Price: You can purchase such a model much cheaper than a top-loading machine. And in case of problems, repairs will most likely also cost less, so purchasing this type of machine is more profitable.

Which washing machine is better, front loading or top loading? — This question arises, for example, among a newly-made family that has acquired its own home, or among other residents of cities and villages whose old washing machine has “decided to live for a long time.” If you have had a front-loading machine, you might wonder: “What if top-loading is more convenient? More durable?“ If you had a vertical washing machine, on the contrary, you might think: “Or maybe the front washing machine washes better? Maybe it will fit better into the interior?”

To come to the store and spend your honestly earned money on “the very best of the best washing machines in the world,” you need to familiarize yourself with the features of front-loading and top-loading washing machines. This article will help you understand the important nuances of choosing this technique.

Price and manufacturers

In order to compare prices for horizontal-loading washing machines and vertical washing machines, you need to take two machines from the same manufacturer, the same washing class, designed for the same number of kilograms of laundry and so that other parameters are similar.

Whatever one may say, equipment with vertical stacking of laundry is much more expensive. But does this mean that it will last longer and wash better? Unfortunately no.

The price is increased by the features of the factory assembly, and not by any additional benefits. The “famous” brand also significantly affects the cost. If a vertical one is right for you and you trust only well-known manufacturers (Bosch, and others), then you will have to spend a lot of money. A front-loading machine will cost a little less.

Choosing a washing machine. Which is better, vertical or front loading?

The compartment for storing dirty laundry in vertical and front-loading washing machines is located on different sides, respectively. Therefore, their internal structure is also different.

Front Load Washing Machine:

The linen feed hatch is located in the center of the front wall. It has a diameter of 23 to 33 cm and can open to a width of 90 to 180 degrees.
Above the door there is usually a control panel - buttons or a touch screen.<
The hatch has a transparent window through which you can see the entire washing process. It is unlikely that anyone will have the desire to sit for an hour and a half in front of a machine and watch with emotion how things spin in the drum. But there is still a plus in having a window. If an item that is not intended for washing is lost in a pile of dirty clothes (a wallet forgotten in a trouser pocket or a doll that your child “hid”), then you can stop the washer at the beginning of the cycle and take it out.
When the program starts, the door is locked with a special lock. That is, you will not be able to open it at any time. The door will unlock automatically after the wash is completed or when the machine is turned off.
Between the drum and the hatch there is a rubber seal (cuff) that prevents water from penetrating out. It is quite strong and durable, so it takes a lot of effort for the seal to fail.
When loading laundry, you will have to bend or squat in front of the machine. For most, this is not a problem, but for the elderly or people with sore legs or spine, this is a significant disadvantage. This detail is worth thinking about when choosing an automatic car.

Important! When choosing such a washing machine, in order not to make a mistake on quality, use ours.

Top loading washing machine

This device has a slightly different design:

The hatch for loading and unloading laundry is located on top. When it is folded back, we see a drum located horizontally, on which there is another hatch with a simple mechanical lock. The laundry gets into the washing compartment through it.
The big advantage is that you don’t need to “bow” to this technique. It's quite convenient to load laundry, although, frankly, you still have to bend down if you need to get socks or a T-shirt that are at the bottom of the drum.
On older models, the drum door is not always opposite the top hatch. You will have to scroll it to the desired position manually. Although in newer models this problem has been eliminated - manufacturers have added a “drum parking” function.
Of course, there is no window through which the washing process is visible, but you can add laundry while the machine is running (for example, socks that were suddenly found under the bed), without water spilling on the floor.
The control panel can be located on the side or on the top cover, and the detergent dispenser can be located under the cover.

Important! Use the ready-made review of such models to make the right choice. Click on the link with a separate article.

Dimensions

This question is of key importance when choosing which washing machine is better - vertical or frontal.

Front washing machine

Automatic front-loading washing machines can have different dimensions:

full-size: width - 60 cm, depth - 60 cm, height - from 85 to 90 cm, designed for 5-7 kg of laundry.
narrow: width - 60 cm, depth - from 35 to 40 cm, height - from 85 to 90 cm, designed for 3.5-5.5 kg of laundry.
very narrow: width - 60 cm, depth from 32 to 35 cm, height from 85 to 90 cm, designed for 3.5-4 kg of laundry.
compact: width from 47 to 50 cm, depth from 43 to 45 cm, height from 68 to 70 cm, designed for 3 kg of laundry.

You can choose the model that is suitable in size for your room.

Important! At the same time, do not forget that there should be free space in front of the machine for unhindered opening of the door and loading of laundry.

Additional advantages and opportunities:

The upper part of the machine can be used as a shelf for storing, for example, bath towels.
And if the equipment practically does not vibrate during washing, then you can place shampoos, shower gels, and tubes of cream on it.

Important! Many people embedfront loading washing machinesin kitchen furniture. This is also very convenient, especially if the bathroom is small.

When choosing, you should also take into account the expected washing volumes: there are models in front-facing machines that can accommodate up to 12 kg of dry laundry. Vertical ones allow you to load a maximum of 7 kg.

Vertical washing machine

Top-loading washing machines are usually 80-85 cm high, 40 cm wide, and 60 cm deep. It turns out that they are narrower than front-loading ones and more compact. In this case, there is no need for free space in front of the car, since the hatch opens from above.

This technique is an excellent choice for apartments with a small area, where every centimeter is worth its weight in gold.

Important! Such models are not often built into kitchen furniture, as it is not very convenient.

You cannot use such a machine as a shelf for bath accessories. But you can place this technique end-to-end in any corner.

Important! Most models have wheels under the bottom. This is convenient if you need to move the car to another place or simply clean up the dust behind it.

Service life and repair. Which washer is better: vertical or horizontal?

Practice shows that if you choose equipment from a reputable manufacturer, then front-facing and vertical-facing cameras last the same long time.

Important! Ifwashing machine - frontal or vertical, assembled with high quality, it will not vibrate during operation. The quality of washing is also no different - both types wash perfectly. Here you just need to pay attention to the technical data on the parameter when choosing a suitable model.

However, there are some nuances that may be useful to you in deciding which washing machine is better - front-loading or top-loading:

Previously, there was an opinion that vertical models were less likely to fail due to their design. Their drum is located horizontally and rests on two symmetrically located shafts. Allegedly, this fact suggests that the drum is more stable during operation and therefore lasts longer. But in modern front-facing washing machines, the design is also very well thought out; there is an automatic laundry balancer, so the drum does not loosen too much during washing and spinning.
It is impossible to say that some type breaks down faster. As for the cost of repairs, it must be said that putting the vertical in order will cost a little more, since repairs are more difficult, because the parts are very close to each other, and the spare parts themselves are more expensive.
If the vertical model breaks during the washing process, you will be able to remove the laundry without spilling water on the floor, which cannot be said about front-facing models. If they break down, then water leakage is more than likely.

Important! Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever and all types of machines break down without exception. Therefore, when purchasing, try to consider whether there is a service center of the selected manufacturer in your locality.

Design and variety of models

If the space in your apartment allows you to choose any model of automatic washing machines, then of course front-facing machines have an advantage. All manufacturers have a model range to suit every taste and budget - from classic, modest white cars to futuristic bright ones with touch panels.

Important!Horizontal loading washing machinesoccupy 85% of all models on the market. But vertical models make up only 15% of the market.

Almost all brands can offer a vertical type of washing machine, but in appearance they are not very different from each other. These are simple, reliable “helpers”.

How to choose a washing machine?

In order to make a choice in favor of the model that is truly right for you, it is worth considering the following important aspects:

Decide on the location of the washing machine. If there is enough space, then choose any model you like. But if space is limited, then a vertical machine will definitely suit you better.
Think about whether it is important for you to have an inspection hatch and whether you need an additional shelf in the bathroom? If yes, then you need to buy a front-loading machine.
If you have small children and, after turning on the wash, there are constantly new soiled things in all the nooks and crannies of the apartment, then the vertical model is perfect. You can add more laundry to the machine at any time.

The money question: if you are not short on funds, then choose any model, but if the budget is limited, then a front-facing washing machine will cost you less, and subsequent costs if repairs are necessary will be lower.

Video material

When choosing a suitable model of an automatic machine, rely on the above points, since the quality of washing, service life and ease of use do not differ significantly.

It is necessary to take into account its technical and operational characteristics, dimensions, volume, appearance and a number of other factors. But the first thing you should decide on is the type of download. There are two main types of washing machines - vertical and frontal. In this article, we will help you figure out in what cases you should purchase a particular device, based on the strengths of each of them.

Which washing machine should you choose – top-loading or front-loading?

In order to make a choice, first of all you should clearly understand how one type of washing machine differs from another. The operating principle of both vertical and front-facing washing machines is the same. The laundry is loaded into a drum, which is driven by a motor, and water and detergents are supplied there. Depending on the selected program, the water temperature, washing time and number of rinses may vary. At the end of the cycle, the liquid is drained and spinning occurs through accelerated rotation of the drum.

The main difference between a vertical-loading unit and a front-loading device is the method of attaching the loading tank. In the first case, it is connected to two symmetrical shafts, and the laundry is loaded from above, which requires opening special doors with a mechanical lock. In the second, the drum is located “facing” the user, and loading occurs through a special hatch on the front side of the equipment. In this case, the washing process can be observed through a glass window.

Design and design differences

Front washing machines have a hatch (diameter varies from 23 to 33 cm), which is closed by a metal or plastic door with a glass window. During washing, the door is locked and can only be opened after the process is completed. The larger the drum size, the more convenient it is to load laundry into it. Operating comfort also depends on the door opening angle. In more advanced units it opens 180 degrees. Thanks to the rubber seal (cuff), the hatch fits tightly around the entire perimeter, which ensures complete tightness and, as a result, no water leaks.

The main difference between the types of washing machines, as mentioned above, is the method of loading laundry. In a vertical device - from above, in a frontal device - from the front. Moreover, in the first case, loading and unloading occurs in two stages: first you need to open the external hatch, then the drum. One of the unpleasant moments for the user is that the flaps are not always opposite the hatch, and you have to scroll the drum to the desired point. Modern models are equipped with a “drum parking system” in a position convenient for unloading things.

For models with a door, the controls are located on the front panel. The upper horizontal plane is free, so it can be used as a shelf for household items. The display of a top-loading washer can be located on the top cover or on the side. One way or another, the lid must be free to access.

Dimensions and required space

The dimensions of full-size front-facing vehicles look quite impressive. A unit with a height of 85-90 cm, a width and a depth of 60 cm cannot be installed everywhere. In addition, you should take into account the amount of space for opening the hatch. Full-size equipment is usually purchased for large and medium-sized rooms; moreover, it can be built into a suite. There are also narrow and ultra-narrow units, the depth of which is 35-40 cm and 32-35 cm, respectively. If you want to install a washing machine under the sink, you should pay attention to the compact model, the height of which is in the range of 60-70 cm, width - 47-50 cm, depth - 43-45 cm.

Vertical machines are small in size and have better ergonomics. Firstly, the washing machine can be installed on the wall in two ways (backward or sideways), which increases the variability of placement; secondly, there is no need to provide additional space for loading and unloading laundry. The depth of devices with top installation is usually 60 cm, the width can be in the range of 40-45 cm, and the height is 85 cm. Such a model cannot be built under a countertop or installed under a sink.

Load volume

For household needs, the best option would be a washing machine with a capacity of 5-7 kg. If you decide to save space and pay attention to a narrow, ultra-narrow or compact front-loading unit, be prepared for the fact that it will have less volume. Such models can hold from 3 to 5 kg of laundry. The same rules apply to vertical devices, the standard capacity of which is 5-6 kg; accordingly, equipment with reduced dimensions has more modest performance.

You should know that in addition to the maximum permissible, there is also a minimum permissible volume of loaded laundry. It is usually 1 kilogram. Fewer items are much more difficult to balance in the drum. As a result, there is an uneven load on the components and parts of the device, and increased wear. You should also not load the laundry to the maximum, since things in this case are poorly washed.

Energy costs

Before reaching the end consumer, the washing machine undergoes laboratory tests, based on the results of which it is assigned an energy consumption class. To do this, cotton laundry is loaded into the device and washed at a temperature of 60°C, after which the indicators are displayed - the number of kW/h per kilogram of clothes. Energy consumption classes are indicated by letters of the Latin alphabet (just like washing and spinning classes).

Today you are unlikely to find equipment of types C, D, E, F and G. Units of class B are also quite rare. All modern models consume from 0.17 to 0.19 kWh per kilogram of laundry, more advanced ones - less than 0 .17 kW/h, the most advanced - less than 0.15 kW/h. Based on this, they are assigned energy consumption classes A, A+ and A++. There are also ultra-modern devices that consume half as much electricity as type A devices. Such equipment is assigned class A+++. Energy costs are also affected by the efficiency of the wash itself.

It should be noted that the new European sticker for washing machines does not contain information about the efficiency of washing clothes, which was previously available. The fact is that the new CECED rules oblige all units with a load of more than three kilograms to have class A. Otherwise, their sale on the European market is prohibited. And since the classification A+, A++ and A+++ is not provided for determining efficiency, indicating the maximum (and only) possible class A becomes unnecessary.

Pros and cons of the two models

Each of the two types of washing machines has its own pros and cons, so there is approximate parity among users of front-facing and vertical units. Domestic consumers give preference to the first type, but abroad the picture is somewhat different. For example, in the USA and France the number of owners of top-loading devices is higher.

Advantages of front-facing machines

Let us summarize and list the advantages and disadvantages of units of this type. The advantages of front washing machine technology include the following factors:

equipment can be built under the countertop or sink in the bathroom;
it is possible to use the device as an additional shelf;
if desired, you can observe the washing process through the glass window of the hatch;
stylish design.

The disadvantages are the limited possibilities for installing equipment in a small apartment and the use of additional space due to the opening of the door.

Pros of vertical models

As for top-loading units, the first thing to note is their compactness. You can install such a machine in the smallest corner of the bathroom or kitchen. Let's consider the main advantages of the technology:

compact dimensions;
no need to provide additional space for loading laundry; ease of use - no need to bend over or sit down to load things;
safety of use - the upper location of the control panel limits access to it for small children;
the ability to add items during washing.

The disadvantages of vertical washing machines include some uniformity in design, the inability to integrate equipment under the countertop, install it under the sink and use it as an additional shelf. Otherwise, top-loading devices are in no way inferior to front-loading equipment in terms of functionality, reliability and durability.

Features and advantages of Gorenje washing machines

The equipment of the manufacturer from Slovenia has long been well-known; this brand has earned the respect of buyers in many countries around the world, producing high-quality household devices for many years.

Gorenje washing machines are famous not only for their impeccable quality, but also for their ease of operation, elegant appearance, reliability and durability. In addition, the devices of the Slovenian manufacturer save water and electricity. In this way, the company takes care of the environment.

SensoCare technology

This option is designed to select the optimal mode. For example, when using regular washing programs (“Synthetics”, “Cotton”, “Wool”, “Mixed”, “Delicates”), you can select one of four modes - “Eco-friendly”, “Normal”, “Fast” and “Anti-allergy” ” – optimized to achieve impeccable results.

People with hypersensitive skin will especially appreciate the “Anti-Allergy” mode of SensoCare technology, in which thorough rinsing is carried out and the washing powder is completely washed out during the washing process.

InverterPowerDrive motor

This powerful motor is installed on advanced models of Gorenje washing machines. The InverterPowerDrive inverter motor operates without brushes, which eliminates mechanical stress, friction and, as a result, wear of engine elements. At the same time, the results of washing regular and mixed fabrics are improved, energy efficiency is increased, quiet operation of the unit is ensured, and its service life is extended.

Large loading volume

The Gorenje washing machine model range includes units with an impressive load capacity of 9 kilograms. Moreover, the devices have standard sizes and are suitable for most houses and apartments.

In addition to the fact that a large volume of laundry can be washed in one cycle, items can be made of different materials and have different colors. In addition to increased capacity, washing machines use water and electricity sparingly.

Self-cleaning program

The “Self-cleaning” program is carried out without loading laundry and is designed to eliminate bacteria that may appear due to low water temperature (in some modes), as well as the use of non-aggressive agents, as a result of which things have an unpleasant odor. And this function allows you to maintain ideal cleanliness and sterility in the loading tank.

AquaStop system

If the permissible water level is exceeded or the fill valve malfunctions, the pump begins to automatically pump out liquid until the level required for this program is reached. Thus, the AquaStop system allows you to leave the washing machine unattended without fear of leaks. Top Gorenje models are equipped with a special sensor, which in case of leakage will immediately stop the water supply to the tank.

QuickWet system

This program is designed to soak laundry quickly and reduce washing time. The QuickWet system supplies water to the tank simultaneously from above and below. As a result, the laundry is soaked much faster, the cycle time is reduced, which leads to energy savings.

TimeComfort

In most washing machines, the wash start time can be programmed in advance. The TimeComfort function analyzes the selected program and independently determines when it is necessary to start the process so that the time for drying the washed laundry is the most optimal. In addition, advanced Gorenje models have an EndTime option, which allows you to set the end time of the wash.

SpaDrum

The loading tank in Gorenje units is made of the highest quality stainless steel. The SpaDrum drum has an exceptionally smooth surface, which ensures a thorough and gentle wash. When rinsing and spinning, damage to items is completely eliminated.

Detergent Saving System (DSS)

This is a laundry detergent saving system. Gorenje washing machines are equipped with a special Eco-protection program, which makes the equipment as safe as possible for nature. The DSS system prevents the consumption of powder during water collection, which leads to a 20% saving in washing products, and as a result, environmental protection.

Stability control

Vibration of Gorenje units during operation is minimal. This is ensured thanks to a special stability control system, which allows you to evenly distribute the laundry in the drum. If the sensor detects an imbalance, the rotation of the drum stops to distribute things more evenly.

Child lock

It is impossible to open the door of the Gorenje washing machine during washing. In addition, the manufacturer has provided an additional child lock - just press a simple combination of buttons on the control panel.

SoftSound

In addition to the stylish design, Gorenje units do not irritate with unpleasant sound during operation. High-quality speakers and soft sound signals ensure maximum operating comfort of the device. Engineers paid special attention to the functional buttons, the movement of the program selector, the door and the detergent dispenser.

Heater DurableHeater

The surface of the heating element is made of nickel, which prevents the formation of scale on it (the most common cause of breakdowns). Compared to conventional washing machines, models with DurableHeater are more economical and have a longer service life.

Before you decide to buy an expensive item, you should collect more information about it. So this article will put everything in order and help you answer the question of which washing machine is best for you specifically.

Criterias of choice

When you come to the store and see dozens of different models of washing machines in front of you, you involuntarily get lost and for a long time cannot choose something specific. Then the price most often decides, but you want to make informed purchases and understand what you are buying and why.

Customer reviews on the Internet, ratings and reviews on specialized sites, for example, such as https://tehnokiev.com.ua/, will help you decide which washing machine is better.

You should resolve the following issues on land:

Which type of loading is preferable: vertical or frontal?
What volume is needed?
Where will it be located?
Are any special features needed?

Measure the place where you plan to place your purchase in advance so that you can go to the store with specific measurements. The standard dimensions of washing machines are 60x65x85, but there are exceptions. There are both little ones and real washing giants.

Consider where the drain will go: through a hose into the bathroom, sink, or it will be built into the sewer.

The functionality of 90% of models is the same; there are not so many distinctive functions. Some manufacturers offer a Children's clothing program, others have a Duvet, and still others offer Jeans. Even if the model you like does not have such sections, this does not mean that you cannot wash everything listed there. Just select the appropriate washing mode from those presented.

Now let’s look at the most difficult points, which usually confuse inexperienced housewives.

Which washing machine is better and more reliable: top-loading or front-loading?

To answer this question, you need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Vertical type

It was these machines that were the first to come to the Soviet market and were found in almost every apartment. However, now for some reason these beauties are chosen only in case of special needs, although they have a lot of advantages. Take a look for yourself:

Slender and petite. Such models are usually much narrower than their opponents, so they are ideal for even the smallest bathrooms;
The lid opens upward, thereby saving space in the room, the hatch does not block the passage;
The control panel is also located on top, so it will be difficult for a naughty child to click something unnecessary;
Many models have the ability to add laundry even during washing.

Speaking about the shortcomings, we highlight the following:

Smaller range compared to horizontal devices;
Higher cost;
The slimness of such models is achieved by increasing the height. So they are significantly higher than conventional washing machines;
Inability to build into countertops and use the top surface as a shelf.

Front loading

You can really find a lot of such home helpers in any hardware store - there is a choice in price, color, and functionality. What are their advantages?

Large assortment, better price;
Possibility of installation under a countertop or sink;
The top cover can serve as a stand for bath or washing supplies.

We will also discuss the weaknesses:

Dimensions. They require significantly more space in the bathroom for themselves;
During a breakdown, water often pours out through the hatch onto the floor. In particular, this happens when the gasket that serves to seal the drum becomes outdated;
Inability to download forgotten items while the process is running.

As you can see, all this does not affect the quality of washing, but only design preferences. So it would be wise to be guided, first of all, by the size of your bathroom.

Deciding on the volume

How much capacity do you need? This is one of the first questions you will hear from a sales consultant in a household appliances showroom.

The volume of the tank is measured in kilograms of dry laundry that it can accept in one cycle. The minimum capacity is 3.5 kg, such units are suitable for bachelors and small families.

Average machines are ready to wash 6 kg at a time. This will be enough for married couples with children. Considering that one double set of linen weighs approximately 2 kg, you can also add baby accessories or towels to it.

If you plan to wash bulky blankets, pillows and outerwear, consider devices with a capacity of 7 kg or more.

Please note that the cost of the unit will increase with the appetite of its tank.