Bubble type washing machines are quite popular today.
This is a new generation, because technologies are developing further and there are more and more of them every year.
The most popular design of this type has been leading the way for the last ten years as the bubble washing machine. This trend is most common in Asia, and also in America. However, it recently touched Russia, and is now quickly gaining popularity and gaining authority here.
What is air bubble technology in washing machines?
A model with a bubble wash function was developed 15 years ago.
Models with built-in Eco Bubble were presented by Samsung. Externally, a product with air-bubble washing technology is no different from standard ones. The main difference is in the principle of cleaning clothes.
Thus, the Eco Bubble function allows you to wash at low temperatures, but while maintaining efficiency. Air enters the drum through the holes provided on its surface. When started, the equipment begins to conduct air flows through the perforations, which are converted into bubbles.
When they reach the fabric, they burst, literally pushing out dirt of any complexity. This technology allows not only to effectively clean stubborn stains, but also to reduce powder consumption. In addition, bubbles reduce friction, so the laundry maintains its original quality.
The Eco Bubble function allows you to wash even clothes intended for dry cleaning. Since washing takes place at a low temperature, shrinkage of items does not occur. The bubble cycle, compared to the usual one, is a more gentle cleaning method.
This allows you to safely wash clothes that require careful handling. Thus, Eco Bubble delicately cleans items made of silk, cashmere, wool, and angora. Things with an abundance of decor will also retain their original appearance. For example, with sequins, rhinestones, beads and other finishing elements.
In addition, the movement of bubbles inside the drum creates an effect comparable to boiling. Therefore, clothes after Eco Bubble are also disinfected. Bubbles enter the water along with the air flow, resulting in the release of oxygen. It interacts with hydrogen ions. As a result, a radical is formed that destroys mold and mildew.
Operating principle of the washing unit
As is already clear from the name, this unit removes various types of stains using the circulation of bubbles.
Air bubbles constantly move in the water and pierce things; with the help of washing powders or liquid conditioners, the bubbles wash away contaminated areas.
Something similar to boiling, but if you boil, you will simply ruin your things, because hot water wears out and weakens the fibers.
Types of air bubble washing machines
There are only two types of machines equipped with bubble washing technology. The first option is automatic models, the second is activator. Technological features influence the principle of implementation of bubble washing.
Automatic cars
Such products have the usual horizontal loading. One of the main parts in automatic machines is the tank. After all, water flows into it and things are stored. The stainless steel drum is hidden inside the tank. It is he who will rotate, moving the laundry.
When started, the hose begins to pump water into the tank, and it also fills the detergent tray. The soap solution enters the bubble generator located under the drum. As a result, water and powder combine with air. A mixture of bubbles, foam and soap solution is formed, which enters the drum through the perforations.
The generated bubbles penetrate the tissue, pushing out contaminants. This technology allows you to eliminate any stains, even dried and persistent ones. This is achieved largely due to the heat generated when the bubbles burst.
Many experts consider this process to be similar to boiling. However, exposure to high temperatures can cause items to deteriorate, and bubble technology maintains texture and quality.
Activator machines
The main feature of activator-type machines is vertical loading. The difference between such devices is the absence of a heating element, since they are connected to hot and cold water supplies. The bottom of the drum is equipped with a pulsator that creates vortex flows of water.
Through a special nozzle, the bubbles enter the activator, which is responsible for their uniform distribution. And the generator continues to produce new portions throughout the entire cycle. Effective removal of contaminants occurs due to the supply of bubbles under high pressure.
How to choose?
Every major manufacturer of household appliances has already released one, or even several models of air-bubble washing machines. In order not to get confused in the range of models, you need to decide in advance on the requirements for the unit. Let's look at them:
- Type. Air bubble machines are more expensive than activator machines and are larger in size. They also require plumbing. But at the same time, the machines have wide functionality.
- SMA size.
- Availability and spin parameters. Is the buyer willing to pay extra for this feature?
- Maximum load requirements. So, a person living alone does not need to buy a machine with a large drum. But a married couple with several children would rather prefer a washing machine, which can wash a large amount of laundry in one go.
- Horizontal or vertical loading. Here you need to start from the layout of the room in which the washing unit will be installed. For some, the size of the living space or the furniture does not even allow them to open the door.
- Necessary energy saving parameters.
- Brand.
- Price.
Activator machine "Fairy"
Pros and cons of technology
The new washing system has several undeniable advantages:
- preservation of the texture and quality of clothing, thanks to washing at low temperatures;
- cleaning efficiency due to an effect similar to boiling;
- economical due to the absence of heating and reduced powder consumption;
- reduced washing time, bubbles effectively remove stains, eliminating the need for pre-soaking.
And activator-type washing machines have two more advantages:
- you can start the cycle without connecting to the water supply, you just need to fill the tank with water;
- It is permissible to add laundry while the appliance is operating.
Disadvantages of air bubble products:
- Such a machine will require a lot of space. Unfortunately, it is not possible to implement the technology without increasing the dimensions of the product. Therefore, devices with the Eco Bubble function are much larger than standard machines.
- The need to use softeners. Bubbles can only form in soft water. Therefore, it is necessary to use additional means so that the process of bubble formation is not disrupted. Softeners are required in almost every case, since the water from the pipeline is usually hard.
- High price. Automatic machines are an order of magnitude more expensive than standard devices.
- Activator-type models often lack the ability to automatically drain water after a cycle. The functionality often does not include spinning, so it will not be possible to rid the laundry of excess moisture.
Flaws
Like any technology, such machines are not without their negative sides. Here are some of the cons:
- Requirements for water hardness. The harder the water, the worse the formation of bubbles.
- Cheap models are not always equipped with a spin.
You can choose a model to suit your taste and budget - domestic or imported. But users respond especially well to Daewoo washing machines, which are an order of magnitude higher in price and quality than conventional activator washing machines.
The operating instructions and our review of Daewoo washing machines will help you with use.
Top 6 washing machines with air bubble technology
The list contains the best models from different price categories. They differ in functionality, loading method and dimensions.
Fairy 2 M
Activator type washing machine. Convenient for use at a summer cottage or in rural areas. After all, changes in water supply will not become an obstacle to starting the cycle. The model works without connection to the water supply. The price ranges from 4,000 rubles.
Advantages of the device:
- vertical loading makes it easier to put things into the drum;
- its small size allows you to place the washing machine in a tight area;
- simple controls, the cycle can be started through a rotary mechanism;
- light weight - 14 kg, allows you to easily move the model.
Disadvantages of the model:
- small loading level – 2 kg;
- no spin.
Daewoo DWF-806WPS
Activator type device with built-in spin. The drum can operate up to 800 rpm, which corresponds to class D. The vertical loading type makes it easy to use, and the spacious tank (6 kg) can satisfy the needs of an ordinary family. The cost on the market starts from 10,000 rubles.
Pros of the model:
- high level of energy efficiency corresponding to class A;
- touch control;
- stainless steel tank;
- the built-in super-rinse function allows you to wash the powder completely;
- Nano Silver technology provides antibacterial treatment of the fabric.
Disadvantages of the device:
- a small number of programs – 4;
- there is no protection against leaks.
LG FH0B8LD6
A washing machine in a classic style will fit into the design of any room. Front loading allows you to use the top panel as an additional work surface. In addition, the cover can be removed to integrate the device into a set.
The average load level is 5 kg, suitable for the needs of the average family. Despite the budget price, the model is protected from leaks and voltage surges. The price on the market can reach 22,999 rubles.
Product advantages:
- the self-diagnosis function informs the user of any breakdowns;
- a large number of programs - 13, will ensure high-quality cleaning of clothes from stains of any type;
- inverter motor guarantees low noise level – 55 dB;
- The quality of washing and spinning corresponds to class A.
The main disadvantage is insufficient spin. The maximum drum rotation speed is 1000 rpm.
Haier RTXS G382TM/1-07
Washing machine from a Chinese manufacturer, equipped with an inverter motor. The device allows you to wash up to 8 kg at a time, which is suitable for the needs of a large family. The door located on the top will simplify loading laundry.
After all, you don’t have to constantly bend over to put things away. In addition, the absence of a hatch on the front panel will allow the device to be placed in a narrow space. For example, in the bathroom or hallway. The average cost is 34,999 rubles.
The advantages of the model include:
- steam treatment, which allows you to refresh and disinfect laundry after a short period of use;
- the ability to run a quick cycle for 14 minutes;
- economical electricity consumption corresponding to class A+ ++;
- multi-stage protection: panel blocking during washing, AquaStop, automatic balance of items inside the drum;
- automatic dosage of resources. The volume of water and detergent is selected based on the weight of the laundry.
Among the disadvantages:
- there is no notification about the end of the wash;
- noisy spinning, the indicator reaches – 78 dB.
Samsung WW70K62E69W
Model from a Korean brand with the ability to reload. The manufacturer equipped the model with an inverter motor, which reduces the noise level to 54 dB. The average load level is 7 kg, meeting the needs of a family of 3-4 people. The price on the market can reach 35,900 rubles.
Among the advantages are:
- low water consumption – 42 l;
- a large number of programs, including express wash;
- protection against power surges;
- delayed start allows you to complete the cycle at a convenient time;
- locking the control panel during the cycle.
The main disadvantage is the spin class B. After washing, items will be freed from excess water, but will still be quite damp. While a higher spin class allows you to get semi-dry laundry.
Samsung WD80K5410OW
The model with a front loading level allows you to clean up to 8 kg of laundry. Moreover, things can also be dried; up to 6 kg can be prepared at a time. Through the additional door you can add laundry after starting the wash. The average cost is 49,999 rubles.
The advantages of the model can be added:
- a large number of modes - 14, provides a class A cleaning level;
- the ability to delay the launch for a day;
- a self-diagnosis system that informs the user about any problems;
- good spin, the machine spins up to 1400 rpm;
- multi-level protection: against pressing during washing, knocking things together, power surges.
Disadvantages of the product:
- lack of steam treatment, it will not be possible to refresh the laundry;
- large dimensions, width and depth of 60 cm.