Washing Machine

A washing machine is an electrical appliance that cleans clothes by agitating them together with water and soap or detergent. The machine rotates a drum internally, causing dirt and oils trapped in the fabric to be flushed away. After the wash cycle, most machines spin at high speed to remove water remaining in the clothes.

The washing machine is among the most common household appliances in the world. It replaced the labor of hand washing, which required considerable time and effort. This change affected the distribution of household tasks and household water and electricity consumption.

Construction

The main components include an inner drum (perforated), an outer drum to hold water, a rotating motor, water inlet and outlet pipes, a pump to drain water, and a small computer to control the spin cycles. Many models have a temperature controller to set the desired heat level. The door is sealed with a lock to prevent water from leaking during operation.

Types

Two main types exist. The front-loading model has a horizontally rotating drum and typically uses less water and electricity. The top-loading model receives clothes from above; some have an agitator that moves through the water. There are also combination machines that wash and dry in a single unit.

Operation

A standard cycle consists of three stages: filling with water and washing, rinsing and draining with fresh water a second time, and finally a high-speed spin to remove water from the clothes. Temperature setting and duration depend on the fabric type; delicate fabrics such as wool require a gentle cycle at lower temperature.

Water and Energy

Water and electricity consumption varies by machine type and size. Many countries have issued standards indicating energy efficiency so consumers can compare models. Lower temperature washing and filling the machine completely reduce energy use.