How to choose a top-loading washing machine? Its pros and cons. Best selection tips

Before you figure out how to choose a top-loading washing machine, you need to understand how it works. This device functions the same as a regular front-facing model. But thanks to the vertical position of the drum, the unit provides several advantages. At the same time, there are also disadvantages - the article describes the features of the device and selection rules in more detail.

Pros and cons of the unit

The operating principle of such a device is the same as in the case of a classic horizontal-loading machine. But because the hatch door opens from the top rather than the side, the installation is more compact and takes up less space. Along with this, a top-loading machine has other pros and cons. Among the obvious advantages are the following:

1. The door opens from the top, so you can put it close to the wall, in a corner, without worrying about how to load the laundry.
2. You can stop the washing process at any time and add new clothes. All types of top loading washing machines have this advantage. As you know, this is impossible to do in classic models with a horizontal drum.
3. It is more convenient to place laundry from top to bottom than from the side. This is a small plus, but it makes a difference, for example, for older people.
4. The vertical unit produces much less vibration, so it is less noisy.For the same reason, it moves less away from its original installation location.
5. Even if there is quite a lot of clothing, vertical machines can handle the overload. In this sense, they are more durable compared to traditional frontal models.
6. The engine does not consume much energy. Although this same advantage can be attributed to conventional devices with a horizontal drum.

The advantages of a top-loading washing machine are obvious. But do not forget about the disadvantages:

1. It will not be possible to install such a unit in a standard kitchen with a small area, since the surface of the table will interfere with loading clothes.
2. A significant disadvantage is that the cost of the model exceeds the price of horizontal devices by 20-30%.
3. Laundry detergent and softener trays are more difficult to maintain.
4. The top surface cannot be used as a shelf or tabletop.

Conventionally, one of the disadvantages is the lack of a “drum parking” function. This is a latch that completely blocks the drum at the end of the process. Thanks to this, you can conveniently and safely retrieve your laundry.

But if you figure out correctly which top-loading washing machine to choose, this drawback can easily be avoided. Many modern models have a parking option, and this practically does not change their cost.

Main selection criteria

To make a good purchase, you need to understand how a top-loading washing machine works. Technical and consumer characteristics depend on this. Among them it is worth paying attention to the following:

1. Compactness – depends on power and maximum load. If there is enough space in the apartment or house, this indicator can be ignored.
2. Good load - 5-6 kg is enough for a small family.Although there are also models with a capacity of 3-4 kg (they are the most compact in size). Other devices, on the contrary, are very spacious - 7-8 kg.
3. Another criterion for choosing a vertical automatic washing machine is related to the control method. In most cases, work is regulated using an electronic scoreboard. You can rarely find models with touch controls - they are more expensive.
4. Energy consumption class - it is better to choose category A (from one to 3 “+” signs). Class B can also be considered, but in this case more electricity will be wasted.
5. Leakage protection system - it is present only in branded models, the cost of which is higher than the market average. This system is useful for city apartments as it eliminates leakage even in extreme cases.
6. The ability to carry out self-diagnosis - cars with modern electronics have such a system.
7. The spin speed is usually 1200 rpm.

The pros and cons of a vertical washing machine described above show the features of this device. The mechanism works in the same way as with front-facing models. The motor, powered by electricity, accelerates the drum to high speeds, due to which both washing and drying are performed. And despite the higher cost, vertical models are more reliable and convenient. They make less noise and can last for several years without repair.