Currently, the consumer has the opportunity to choose household appliances that suit him not only in price, but also in appearance. When choosing a washing machine, a person can purchase a machine with horizontal or vertical loading. The main difference between them is the location of the loading hatch. For front-loading washing machines it is located on the front panel, and for vertical models it is on the top. To load laundry into a front-loading machine, simply open the hatch. For vertical cameras, the loading process will be a little more complicated: first you need to open the top cover of the case, and then open the lock on the drum itself.
Questions and Answers Why is there an unpleasant smell in the washing machine?
Once upon a time, the choice of a machine with horizontal or vertical loading was influenced by the area of the room. Now, among all types of models, you can choose a machine that will easily fit in a small bathroom. But there is one caveat: when installing a washing machine, you always need to provide free space for the hatch, which swings open to the side, usually to the left. When buying a front-loading machine, you should keep in mind that there should be no furniture in front of it at a distance of at least one meter.
According to experts, the choice of a specific washing machine model depends on which loading method is more convenient for the consumer. For some, the front one is more comfortable, while others prefer to load the machine from the top. This does not affect the quality of washing. “Everyone is looking for convenience for themselves. But in general, if you look at professional washing machines, they are never made with vertical loading. Only from the front. But whether such a load is better or worse is a matter of personal preference and a purely personal evaluation criterion,” says expert on large household appliances Ernest Yudaev .
How does a washing machine work? Infographics Read more
How well the machine will cope with various stains depends more on the specific model, its functions and washing class than on the location of the lid. Before going on sale, washing machines undergo special testing. Depending on how well they wash heavy stains in the standard mode, they are assigned one of seven washing classes, designated in Latin letters from A to G. The higher the class, the better the quality of washing.
Thus, in order to accurately decide which is better, a vertical hatch or a horizontal one, you need to study what functions the machine has, how well it washes and what its overall dimensions are.
Question answer
What items cannot be machine washed?
Design and design differences between vertical and front loading washing machines
Any automatic washing machine can be either front-facing or vertical. The latter differs in that the laundry items are placed on top. To do this, the top cover is folded back and the laundry is loaded into a special hatch in the drum. This opening must be closed during washing.
Front-type washing machines involve loading dirty clothes (and unloading washed ones) through a special hatch. It is located on the front plane of the washing machine.
Both professionals and ordinary users do not find any fundamental differences in the quality of washing with these two types of machines. That is, both devices fulfill their main mission in good faith. So it’s too early to draw conclusions - first we’ll compare the advantages and disadvantages of different types of washing machines.
Tips for using and maintaining all types of washing machines
These recommendations are valid for all washing machines with any type of load:
- First of all, there is no need to overload the washing machine;
- do not forget to pre-treat stains;
- It is advisable to use a detergent recommended by the manufacturer;
- To prevent the appearance of a damp smell, try to remove clothes immediately after washing;
- Sometimes mold occurs in the detergent compartment, try to remove it effectively.
Water-lime will shorten the lifespan and cause serious damage, and it will also reduce the performance of the washing machine to a minimum. Therefore, use products to combat it regularly.
One final piece of advice: If your washing machine is noisy or vibrates too much: make sure it is level and all parts of the base are in firm contact with the floor.
It remains to add that CHISTOWN washing powders are suitable for washing machines with both front and vertical loading.
Now it will be easier for you to decide which washing machine to buy, front-loading or top-loading.
What is the difference between hatches of models with different types of loading?
Let us immediately note that neither the type nor the design of the drum, for the most part, has a significant impact on the quality of washing and spinning. However, by comparing front-loading and top-loading washing machines, you can determine which model is best suited for your home or apartment.
Hatch in front-type cars
Their hatch (with a diameter of 23 to 33 cm) is closed by a plastic or metal door with a glass window. During washing, a special lock secures it firmly in the closed position. And only when the program is completed, the door can be opened (the automatic lock will be unlocked). For ease of use of the machine, the size of the hatch is important - a large hole is easier to put and remove laundry. It is also important how wide the door can open - for simple models, its opening angle can be only 90 or 120 degrees, and for more “advanced” ones - 180 degrees.
The rubber seal, called the hatch cuff, fits tightly around the entire perimeter. The absence of gaps and high-quality material does not allow a drop of water to leak out. There is an opinion that the rubber cuff can quickly tear, but this is not at all true. Of course, it can be damaged, but this usually happens when the device is handled extremely carelessly.
Rubber cuff for sealing the hatch.
Hatch in vertical machines
Top-loading washing machines may be structurally different from each other. Most often there are models with a drum located horizontally. On the sides it has two symmetrical shafts on which it is attached. This design is in particular demand among European (especially French) consumers. And Russians also often buy just such models. Loading and unloading of laundry in them occurs in two steps: first, the outer hatch opens, and then the drum.
The drum has doors with a simple mechanical lock. But after washing, these doors do not always end up opposite the hatch - this is often the case with simple models. Manually turning the drum to the desired point is not much pleasure, and the developers took this into account. More expensive new models are equipped with a “drum parking system”. This means that after stopping the drum will always have its flaps facing the hatch opening.
Drum door lock.
Open drum flaps of a top-loading washing machine.
Less common among us, “American” large-volume models, allow you to load 8 - 10 kg of dry laundry. They do not have a hatch in the drum, which stands vertically, but there is a special activator in the middle. There are also models of the “Asian” type, which also have not taken root with us. They also have a vertical drum, not a horizontal one, but its volume is small. Often, such devices are equipped with an air bubble generator, which helps wash cleaner. In any case, that's what the manufacturers say.
Automatic washing machine of activator type with vertical loading.
It is very convenient that with top-loading machines you can pause the wash at any time to add items. And water will never spill onto the floor - because the lid opens upward. This option is useful for thrifty housewives who can put dirtier things first, and then less dirty ones. This will take less time, powder, and electricity.
Best models
We present an overview of several models of automatic washing machines of both types, combining a harmonious balance of characteristics, price and quality.
Vertical
Indesit ITW A 5851 W
pros
- Convenient location of program management
- The drum opens and closes easily
- Washes and spins clothes well
- High quality build
Minuses
- Noisy when washing
From 25600 ₽
The model with a capacity of up to 5 kg is equipped with intelligent electronic control, 18 programs and several degrees of protection. Maximum spin speed – 800 rpm. The width of the case is 60 cm, there are wheels on the bottom for easy movement. The Indesit machine does not have a display, but each setting is indicated by a light indicator. The unit belongs to class A in terms of energy consumption and washing efficiency. Quite a nice, high-quality vertical washing machine at an affordable price.
Slavda WS-30ET
pros
- Easy to use
- Compact
- Works quietly
- Lightweight, can be carried from place to place
Minuses
- Lack of full spin
From 3100 ₽
A small-sized and very simple in functionality activator-type machine, belonging to the budget class. Its height is 63 cm and width is 41 cm. There are no “chips” in it and only 2 washing programs are provided. Nevertheless, it is quite high quality and practical. The model will be a profitable solution for a summer residence and will save you from hand washing during the financial crisis. The average price of Slavda WS-30ET is 3100 rub.
Candy Vita G374TM
pros
- High-quality spin at 1400 rpm
- Convenient, intuitive controls
- Compact, takes up little space
- Fits a lot of laundry
Minuses
- The powder compartment is clogged
From 21800 ₽
A vertical washing machine with advanced functionality holds 7 kg of laundry. The Candy model is assigned energy consumption class A+++, intelligent electronic control is complemented by a display. The number of programs is 16; laundry can be spun at speeds up to 1400 rpm.
The device has a delay start timer for up to 24 hours. The following protective systems are provided: foam level control, leakage protection, drum imbalance control. This is one of the best cars in its category, which can be bought for 26,000 rubles.
Whirlpool AWE 6516
pros
- Simple and reliable design
- Removes even stains that cannot be washed by hand
- Many washing programs
- Woolen items can be washed
Minuses
- Noisy
From 23500 ₽
Those who decide to choose a vertical washing machine can take a closer look at the model from Whirlpool. The device is fully automated, the machine holds 5 kg of laundry, has a large number of programs and several levels of protection. Any program can be supplemented with your own settings. Spin speed – up to 1000 rpm. Estimated price from 23,000 rub.
Brandt WTD 6384 K
pros
- There is a clothes dryer
- Convenient, intuitive interface
- Small dimensions
- Programs can be customized to suit your own needs
Minuses
- Jumps during the spin cycle
From 56000 ₽
One of the most expensive models, equipped with a drying function. The machine is designed for 6 kg of laundry, equipped with 13 programs and additional manual settings. It has a delay start timer and a display on the body. The laundry is spun at a speed of 1300 rpm. The device has a memory option and can remember the last manual settings for each category of things.
Frontal
Hansa ProWash WHP8141DBLS
pros
- Roomy (up to 8 kg)
- There is a function for reloading laundry
- Low noise level: 78 dB during spin and 54 dB during washing
- Automatic dosing of detergents (Opti Dose)
- Steam wash
Minuses
- There is no separate spin mode, only through rinsing
From 17300 ₽
The front-loading washing machine can hold up to 8 kg of laundry in its drum. It has a fairly large hatch and an economical energy class (A+++). There are 16 preset programs, and manual settings are also provided. The case is protected from leaks, there is protection from foam, from drum imbalance and from children. The delay start timer lasts 24 hours. The large display shows all selected settings and program progress.
Samsung WW65K42E08W
pros
- There is a very fast wash mode - 15 minutes
- There is a hatch for adding things directly during washing
- Steam wash function
- Well balanced
Minuses
- A bit noisy when spinning
From 20300 ₽
One of the latest models from Samsung, updated with new features. The maximum load is 6.5 kg, the machine allows you to reload during washing. The control is completely electronic, with a display installed on the body. There are 12 automatic programs, each can be adjusted. Among the advantages, we can note the option of cleaning the drum and a ceramic heater protected from scale.
LG FR-296WD4
pros
- Very quiet during washing
- Price/functionality ratio
- Has a large number of programs
- Nice design
Minuses
- At the end of the wash, you can open the hatch only after a minute
From 20500 ₽
The free-standing front washing machine holds 6.5 kg of laundry. Spin speed – up to 1200 rpm, number of programs – 13. Stylish design combined with the latest technologies make this machine a practical solution for the home. The LG machine has a special Smart Diagnosis mobile diagnostic function and “6 care movements” technology. The multi-stage protection system significantly extends the life of the device. The approximate cost of the unit is 23,000 rubles.
Bosch WLT 24460
pros
- When spinning at 1200 rpm, the laundry is almost dry
- Very quiet
- There is an intelligent washing mode
- Shows the recommended laundry weight on all programs
- Collapsible drum
Minuses
- Doesn't weigh laundry
From 20150 ₽
Bosch has always been associated with quality and reliability. The Bosch WLT 24460 washing machine is equipped with 15 programs, a maximum spin speed of up to 1200 rpm, a delay start timer, and a drum for 7 kg of laundry. The model has the ability to select the washing temperature, a signal for the end of the program is set, and the extended functionality includes soaking, stain removal, and pre-wash modes.
Which machine is more practical and easier to use?
For front devices, buttons and touch elements are located on the front panel - in the same place as the hatch. Many models have a liquid crystal display. A dispenser with three compartments is mounted on the left side of the same panel. Powder is poured into one of them, liquid detergent is poured into the other, and conditioner or rinse aid can be added to the third. The dispenser is easy to pull out, so there are no problems with cleaning it.
The upper horizontal plane of machines of this type is not equipped with either buttons or sensors. Therefore, it is quite possible to use it as a shelf, placing the things you need in the household. If such a device is installed in the kitchen, it is usually mounted under the countertop. This gives the housewife an additional working surface. Therefore, in the kitchen, frontal models can be found more often than vertical ones.
For vertical SMs, control elements can be located differently. For some, they are all located on the top panel-lid, for others they are on the side panel. The dispenser is usually located in the same place - under the lid. The downside to using such units is that the lid must be free to access. Therefore, these machines cannot serve as a shelf, nor can they be built under a tabletop. However, there are other options for integrating them into furniture - with an open top panel.
Which unit will not require repair longer?
In terms of reliability, which washing machine is better - vertical or front-loading? For some reason, many are confident that front-loading devices can fail and break more often than vertical-type machines. They say the drum, which is attached to only one shaft, vibrates more. Accordingly, the bearing of this shaft bears heavy loads and therefore wears out quickly. All this is not true - if the machine is well assembled, then it will not vibrate excessively, and its parts will not require replacement for a long time. In any case, laboratory tests gave exactly these results.
Summing up and making the final choice
Step 1.
Before you go to the store to look for a car model, decide where you will have it. Perhaps you want to build it into furniture - then you need to make accurate measurements. However, for a free-standing device, you should also outline the required space.
Also consider the following nuances:
- Is it planned to use the machine as a shelf or a work surface?
- will it be necessary to add new portions of laundry during washing;
- Is an inspection hatch necessary to allow you to see the washing process in detail?
Small apartments often do not allow a front-facing machine to be placed in them. There is not enough space to open the door, and it does not fit in width. In this case, choosing a model with vertically loaded laundry may be a good solution.
If we are talking about built-in appliances, then, as already mentioned, a front-loading model is better suited.
Step #2.
Now let's look at the issue of security. Here vertical units are in the lead. True, leadership is rather theoretical. It is based on the fact that water cannot accidentally spill out of such a machine. But the presence of a hatch on the front panel of the front devices is a risk area.
After all, there is a possibility (as practice has shown, negligible) that it will depressurize and water will splash out onto the floor. And if such a unit breaks down, you must definitely wait for the repairman to arrive - you cannot open the hatch yourself. If a top-loading machine breaks down, you can safely open the lid and take things out.
Step #3.
Next is the price. For front-facing models it is significantly lower. Their designs are more varied, and there are sizes to suit every taste. Therefore, they are more in demand among Russians, occupying up to 85% of the market.
European and African countries also mostly buy them, but Americans prefer vertical loading. In Australia and Asian countries, both types of cars are sold at approximately the same rate. However, for the quality of washing it does not matter whether you choose a vertical or front-facing washing machine. Both of them cope with their work “excellently”. After all, these technologies have now reached considerable heights.
Prices for front loading washing machines:
Prices for top-loading washing machines:
Front washing machines
More than 80% of consumers choose front-loading washing machines due to their attractive and easier-to-see design. But a presentable appearance is not the only advantage of automatic front washing machines. The range of front-loading machines is regularly updated with many models that differ in style and size. Online stores in Moscow offer white and colored machines of various sizes: - full-size washing machines with a loading volume of 5 to 11 kg (width - 60 cm, depth - 60 cm, height - 85-90 cm); - narrow cars with a capacity of 3.5-5 kg (depth - 35-40 cm); - ultra-narrow washing machines with front loading (depth - 32-35 cm, load - up to 4 kg); - compact models under the sink (loading up to 3 kg, height - 68-70 cm).
Features of front-loading washing machines
The main feature of the front-facing machine is the presence of a round lid with a glass window, which is located on the front plane. To calculate the minimum dimensions of the free space in front of the machine that will be required to open the lid, add 5-10 cm to the diameter of the hatch (23-33 cm). Consider: - the larger the size of the hatch, the more convenient it is to load bulky laundry; — the greater the lid opening angle (90, 120 or 180 degrees), the easier it is to load.
Pay attention to the controls that affect the cost of the machine - models with mechanical buttons and rotary handles are cheaper than machines equipped with touch buttons and a liquid crystal display. Prices set for washing machines “Zanussi”, “Bosch”, “Hotpoint Ariston” and other brands depend on the load volume, installation method (free-standing, fully built-in) and characteristics (washing class, energy efficiency class, etc.).
Pros and cons of frontal washing machines
Front-loading washing machines have a number of advantages: - stylish appearance of a transparent “viewing” window; — the upper horizontal plane can be used as an additional shelf; — any models can be built into a kitchen set; - significant capacity - 5-11 kg.
Front-mounted washing machines also have their disadvantages: - additional space is required in the front to open the door; — front-loading machines are wider than top-loading models (take up more space).
By the way: frontal and vertical machines are not inferior to each other in terms of reliability and functionality - both models perfectly wash any type of fabric, preserving the original appearance of things.
