Mains filters for washing machine: functions, check of operation, selection criteria

Modern household appliances are considered to be quite sensitive to power surges. For this reason, most washing machine manufacturers recommend using surge protectors with their units. They look like an extension cord that has multiple outlets and fuses.

The surge protector for the washing machine is designed to suppress impulse and high-frequency interference that occurs from time to time in the network. Its device contributes to the suppression of various frequencies. The only exception is 50 Hertz.

The function of the surge protector is to trap surges and discharge excess electricity to ground. It protects against the drop not on the washing machine itself, but on the external power supply. When a large voltage drop occurs, the induction motor burns out, however, the current does not stop flowing to the motor winding. If a line filter is present, the unit is quickly turned off. In case of short-term drops, the filter uses the charge from its capacitors to maintain the normal operation of the washing equipment.

Surge protectors are reliable devices that rarely fail. Therefore, to extend the service life of equipment and its early protection, experts recommend purchasing surge protectors. They can be purchased as a stand-alone item, or they can be built into appliances.

Despite their reliability and high build quality, noise filters can break or burn out. The most common reason for this situation is the end of the working life of the device. Since there are capacitors in the mains filter, as time passes, their capacity can be reduced, which is why a breakdown occurs. The following reasons also lead to a violation of the noise filter functionality:

• burned out contacts;
• breakdowns in the device, which occur from a high voltage surge in the electrical network.

The device of many "washing machines" of modern production means that when the noise filter fails, the equipment turns off during operation and will not turn on until it is repaired. Therefore, we can conclude that the inability to turn it on will be the initial sign of a breakdown of the unit. Other causes of malfunctions are a damaged mains cord, plug. If they are intact, we can talk about problems with the extension cord.

If the hostess finds out that the machine is electrifying, there is a burning smell, the unit independently changes the washing modes, then, most likely, the interference filter is burnt out or broken. In order not to call the master, the serviceability of the equipment can be checked with a multimeter. To do this, you will need to perform the following activities:

• ring each of the contacts in pairs, while the resistance should be approximately 680 kOhm;
• measure the input type of resistance on the plug, it should have the same value as in the previous case;
• assessing the condition of condensates is a complex process, however, it is worthwhile to measure the capacitance between different types of inputs.

When choosing a noise filter for an automatic machine, you need to focus on the following points.

1. The number of outlets. To begin with, the consumer should consider how many units located nearby will need to be included in one extension cord. Experts say that those extension cords that have a larger number of outlets are considered more powerful. A single-outlet extension cord, which is designed for one device, is also considered a good option, it is considered reliable and durable.
2. Interference filter length. Manufacturers offer network devices with lengths from 1.8 to 5 meters. The best option is a 3-meter extension cord, but it depends on the proximity of the "washing machine" to the outlet.
3. Maximum load level. This indicator characterizes the ability to absorb the maximum surge in the network. Basic devices have a level of 960 J, and professional ones - 2500 J. There are expensive models that are able to protect the unit from a lightning strike.
4. The speed at which the filter is triggered. This indicator is considered the most important, since it depends on it how quickly the machine turns off, whether its internal parts are damaged.
5. Appointment. When buying an extension cord that will be used for a washing machine, you should not purchase a device for a TV or refrigerator.
6. Number of fuses. The best option is a filter that has several fuses, while the main one must be fusible, and the auxiliary ones must be thermal and fast-acting.
7. Function indicator. By this device, you can determine the serviceability of the extension cord. In the presence of a lit light bulb, it can be argued that the noise filter is working normally.
8. Availability of an operating manual, as well as guarantees for the goods.

Basic connection rules:

• it is forbidden to connect the filter to a 380 V network;
• you need to plug the extension cord exclusively into an outlet that is grounded;
• do not use the jamming device in a room where there is a high level of humidity;
• It is strictly forbidden to plug extension cords into each other.

See below for how to replace the surge protector.