Inverter motor in a washing machine: what it is, how it works, pros and cons
Every year the use of modern household appliances becomes more convenient. The latest technology is the inverter motor in the washing machine. This device has many advantages and characteristics over its predecessor. Many owners of washing machines have already appreciated the quality of inverter motors.
What is an inverter motor?
In order for the washing machine to function normally, it must be equipped with a motor that can change the direction and speed of the rotational movements of the shaft, which depends on the operation being performed. Not every unit is capable of performing the above task. If the unit has an inverter motor, it means that it is manufactured using the latest technology.
These types of motors are considered a new development of specialists in the manufacture of household appliances. Previously, they were used in microwave ovens, as well as in climatic equipment. The main feature of the mechanism is considered its ability to equalize the current, namely the conversion of an alternating charge into a constant one.
This characteristic of the inverter motor contributes to the fact that the user can adjust with maximum precision not only the speed, but also the frequency of the rotational movements of the drum.
Principle of operation
The inverter type of motor in the washing machine is based on the use of electromagnetic induction. However, the difference is that instead of the graphite brush, the inverter controls the winding current. The rotor that rotates is not characterized by excessive inertia, it is able to simply gain the required number of revolutions. Since there are no rubbing parts in a motor of this type, unwanted heating and waste of energy have been significantly reduced.
Inverter motors do not run at high speeds. These mechanisms in washing machines are presented in the form of a disc with a shaft, which is located on the central axis.
Advantages and disadvantages
In order to understand whether the consumer needs a washing machine with an inverter motor, it is worth evaluating all its advantages.
- Absence in the design of carbon brushes that conduct current, as well as a rubber drive belt. Due to this feature, some breakdowns are excluded. Therefore, we can conclude that the motor on the inverter is a guarantee of reliable and durable operation.
- Stable operation of oil seals contributes to the fact that the unit does not make noise during operation. During washing and rinsing, users of the machine do not hear any extraneous sounds.
- Silent rotor rotation. In addition to this feature, the rotor operates at high speed and at the same time quite clearly. The drum does not tend to drop the speed, so the spin is carried out with high quality. Thanks to the presence of an inverter motor, owners of washing machines get almost dry laundry after washing.
- Lack of a lot of additional parts, which eliminates the need for additional maintenance. Therefore, when buying a unit on an inverter-type motor, the owner can significantly save the family budget.
- Economical consumption of electricity and water.
- Accuracy of setting the washing modes.
There are few disadvantages of inverter motors, but they still exist:
- a high spin speed can damage things;
- high cost of equipment.
Comparison with other types of motors
Today, household appliance manufacturers produce washing machines with 3 types of motors.
- Collector. The device has a copper drum that is divided into sections, as well as brushes that rub against the surface. The latter are designed to redirect current to moving parts. Engines of this type are capable of rapidly gaining speed and are also easy to adjust. The disadvantages of motors include noise and the need to constantly change worn particles.
- Asynchronous... Motors are characterized by the presence of main and auxiliary windings. The direct drive is better than the previous one as it produces less noise. However, it requires the use of a complex circuit and additional devices.
- Inverter. They are considered more advanced and easier to use. This motor differs from the usual collector motor in its high efficiency, reliability, good washing and spinning quality.
Subtleties of repair
Manufacturers of inverter washing machines claim that such equipment is not intended for home repair. The best option in this case is system testing, of course, if the unit has such capabilities.
After self-diagnosis, you can find the breakdown code and start fixing it. Before starting testing, it is worth removing the hatch and taking out all the laundry.
If you want to remove the inverter, you should follow the diagram:
- disconnect the unit from the power supply;
- unscrew the bolts and remove the panel from the rear;
- find the screws under the rotor, which are intended for attaching the wiring, and unscrew them;
- before starting to disconnect the wires, it is worth photographing or sketching their correct location;
- remove the central bolt that holds the rotor, holding the elements to prevent them from rotating;
- remove the rotor assembly, then the starter;
- disconnect each wire connector.
After completing all of the above procedures, you can check the engine. Next, it is worth assessing the integrity of the rotor winding. To create a new motor winding, you will need to call a specialist. To replace the engine in place of the old device, a new one is determined.
To increase the life of the inverter motor, you will need to perform the following preventive measures:
- correctly connect the washing machine to the network;
- use equipment carefully;
- use powders with the "Automatic" icon;
- do not add a large amount of detergent;
take a break between washings for several hours.
Manufacturers
The first inverter washing machines for the home can rightfully be called technology from LG... It is very popular among consumers. Direct Drive model, which, in addition to an improved motor, has a high-quality drum design, as well as a convenient door and advanced adjustment options. In addition to the engine, LG technicians changed the drum, making its surface not smooth, but covered with bubbles of different diameters. In these models, the grip of the laundry has a new shape and greater height. Innovation not only improves the quality of the washing process, but also delicately affects the fabric.
Washing machine "6 Motion" is able to provide for different drum movements. She has 6 options for rotational movements:
- standard;
- reversible, which are provided for high-quality splitting of detergents;
- shaking, used when soaking laundry;
- twists that wash things perfectly;
- saturating, which evenly distribute the detergents on the laundry that has been loaded;
- smoothing, providing stretching of the linen.
Samsung brand launches the Crystal Standard series of machines, which not only have a built-in inverter motor, but also have bubble washing technology. At the same time, the unit washes things with high quality even at a temperature of 15 degrees.The machine has the ability to work not only in delicate mode, but also removes the most frequent dirt, while saving money for its owner. Samsung appliances are not only functional, but also fit perfectly into the interior thanks to their futuristic design.
Famous brands such as Electrolux, Candy, Bosch, Whirlpool also sell washing machines with a motor of this type. The brand has AEG inverter units are sold with a 10-year warranty. Very popular Belarusian equipment "Atlant".
In addition to durability, these cars are characterized by a smooth start and low wear of the motor.
An inverter washing machine belongs to units that are equipped with modern motors. When choosing this type of household appliance for personal use, it is worth taking into account such points.
- Energy efficiency... In this case, the best option is considered to be a product on which the letter "A" with pluses is indicated. It is worth noting that the more advantages are indicated in the marking, the more economical the machine will function.
- Spin speed... Typically, consumers purchase units with a spinning of 1600 rpm. However, it is worth remembering that some products can be damaged even when spinning at 1000 rpm.
- The weight. This indicator should be family-oriented. For example, for 3-4 people, the drum of a washing machine should hold 6 kg of laundry.
- Noise... The noise level emitted by the technician during washing and spinning should not exceed 75 dB.
- Functionality. Better to buy a washing machine that has foam control, steam wash, childproof, night dry, delayed start.
Modern inverter washing machines are simple and easy to use. Before buying, it is worth weighing all the pros and cons of such a technique, since despite the many advantages, units with inverter motors are expensive. At the same time, the cost of such machines is justified by their high efficiency.
For an overview of the Hotpoint-Ariston WMSF 602 UA inverter motor washing machine, see the following video.
The comment was sent successfully.