Samsung washing machine models are equipped with the Eco self-cleaning function, which is designed to remove scale deposits, grease and detergent residues from the walls of the drum. When you select this mode, a special washing cycle is launched at high temperature, followed by intense rinsing, after which all dirt disappears from the inner surface of the chamber. Regular cleaning of the Samsung Eco drum improves the quality of the wash, extends the life of the washer and helps save energy, since the machine will consume less electricity to heat water.
How various dirt gets into the washing machine drum
There are several ways in which dirt penetrates into the chamber of a household device:
- Hole for loading laundry. This happens when items intended for washing contain particles of fat and poorly soluble dirt.
- Clothes pockets. They accumulate lint, dust, and debris. Getting stuck in the tank, they gradually lead to the appearance of persistent contaminants on its surface.
- Water filter. Some machines have a filter that catches large debris such as hair, pieces of paper, and buttons. If it is not cleaned regularly, accumulated dirt can find its way back into the drum during the wash cycle and contaminate the tub.
- Pump. If the pump filter is clogged, dirty water may remain in the chamber after washing, which leads to the deposition of plaque on its walls and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
Why do you need to clean the drum in a washing machine?
The drum's self-cleaning function is essential to keeping your home appliances running efficiently. It extends the service life of the unit and improves the quality of washing. When the tank is cleaned in a timely manner, malfunctions in the operation of the machine are less likely to occur.
Possible danger of a dirty drum
Drum contamination causes the following problems:
- Unpleasant odor in the cell and on the linen. If it gets dirty, it can cause mold and bacteria to form, producing a musty smell. Sometimes it is so strong that it remains on washed and dried items.
- Deterioration in wash quality. A dirty drum reduces its effectiveness, since dirt and microorganisms remain in the fibers of the fabrics, preventing stains from being removed.
- Damage to linen.A dirty chamber can result in solid particles of debris remaining on washed items, which can ruin the fabric.
Where is the Eco Drum Cleaning function in Samsung?
The self-cleaning function in Samsung models is located on the control panel next to the washing modes. It is indicated by the inscription “Eco Drum Cleaning”.
The principle of using self-cleaning drum
The latest models of Samsung washing machines have an alert function, thanks to which the machine itself informs the owner that it is time to clean it. The principle of operation of the option is simple: when the drum is dirty, a light on the control panel opposite the “Tank Cleaning” button lights up, and an image of a drum with an asterisk appears on the display.
The appearance of a warning does not mean that the machine needs to be cleaned immediately, since there are no breakdowns. But it is advisable to do this in the coming days so as not to create a problem.
Older models do not provide a notification function, so the decision to clean the tank must be made by the owner of the household device. If you use your washing machine frequently, experts recommend using the program once a month. For those who rarely turn on the machine, the drum should be cleaned every 20–30 wash cycles.
Using the self-cleaning function may take time, so it is recommended to run it when you do not plan to urgently wash items.
Step-by-step instructions for starting Eco drum cleaning in Samsung
Before turning on self-cleaning, you must remove dirty laundry from the tank and close the machine door tightly. After this, you should follow the steps described in the manual.
Turn on the washing machine
To clean the machine from scale and dirt, you need to make sure that there is electricity in the house, since this function only works if the device is connected to the network.
After connecting the wire to the outlet, press the “On/Off” button on the control panel
Select the “Eco Drum Clean” cycle on the mode selector
When the machine is ready for use, you need to select the option to clean the tank on the control panel. In most models, it is located under the list of washing programs to the right of the switch.
Press the start/pause button to start “Eco Drum Cleaning”
After selecting the mode, all you have to do is press the “Start/Pause” button to start the tank self-cleaning process. Further actions:
- Wait for the cycle to complete. This may take a few minutes.
- Open the machine door, remove water and remaining dirt.
- Make sure the drum is completely clean. Wipe its walls with a dry, lint-free cloth.
- Close the door and press the “On/Off” button to turn off the equipment.
What other drum cleaning modes are there?
In addition to Eco, modern Samsung washing machines offer other cleaning programs. These include Eco Bubble and Eco Drum Clean.
Eco Bubble function
Eco Bubble removes accumulated dirt, germs and odors from the washing machine tub. The function is found in Samsung brand models that are specially equipped with Eco Bubble technology.
The difference between the option and “Eco” is that it uses technology that creates bubbles formed from air, water and detergent. They penetrate deep into dirt, which allows you to more effectively remove grease and scale deposits, as well as reduce the water temperature to save the mechanism and energy.
Eco Drum Clean function
Eco Drum Clean works on a wash cycle using hot water and detergent that is sprayed onto the inside of the tub to effectively remove dirt.
The program carries out a deeper and more comprehensive cleaning of the camera, and not just a superficial one. It uses hot water and detergent to ensure highly effective results.
In addition, the function may have additional features, for example, the Intensive Wash mode, which provides deep cleansing for heavily soiled areas.
Benefits of using the cleaning mode of a drum washing machine
Using the program has the following advantages:
- Removing unpleasant odors. After cleaning the chamber, they completely disappear, and the washed clothes smell fresh.
- Reduces the risk of spreading bacteria and fungi. Dirt becomes an ideal environment for the emergence of dangerous microorganisms that cause various diseases in people.
- Increasing the service life of equipment. Deposits lead to wear of washing machine parts and reduce its service life. The cleaning mode reduces the risk of breakdowns.
- Improving the quality of work. Limescale negatively affects the washing result, leaving dirt on the laundry that was not there before.
- Saving time and money. If your washer is not cleaned regularly, it may take more time and money to wash one load of laundry.
What effective methods for cleaning a washing machine drum exist?
Not all machines have a self-cleaning function. In order for “Lji”, “Candy”, as well as old Samsung models to work properly, the following products will help to clean their drum:
- Vinegar. Add 2 cups of white vinegar to the empty drum and start the boil mode.
- Soda.Pour ½ cup of baking soda into the empty tub and set the control panel to wash at the highest temperature.
Both products remove scale from the walls of the chamber and eliminate unpleasant odors.
Using different cleaners
In addition to vinegar and baking soda, products sold in household chemical stores will help restore shine and freshness to your camera. They are divided into the following categories:
- Acidic cleaners. Contains acid that destroys accumulated deposits and limescale.
- Alkali-based products. In their production, hydroxides of alkaline elements are used, which effectively clean the drum from dirt and odors.
- Tablets and powders for cleaning the washing machine. They contain components that remove dirt and limescale, and also prevent the formation of new deposits.
Selecting quality cleaning products
It is important to choose a product that is suitable for the existing type of machine and takes into account the material from which the tank is made. Among the purifiers on sale, the most universal are Dr Beckmann, Nagara, Filtero 601.
Dr Beckmann
Cleaner Dr. Beckmann is sold in liquid and powder form. Contains citric acid, which helps remove scale, deposits and other contaminants from the chamber walls. In addition, the composition contains special additives that prevent the formation of new deposits and keep the drum clean.
Nagara
Japanese remedy in tablets. Effectively removes dirt, mold spores and germs that accumulate inside the chamber. Created on the basis of sodium salt.
Filtero 601
The liquid cleaner contains citric acid. Designed to remove scale from washing machines and dishwashers.The manufacturer guarantees intensive cleansing in one use. Suitable for all brands of washing machines. Removes even stubborn deposits.
Methods for cleaning the washing machine door and door seal
To clean the door and door seal of your appliance, you can use:
- A damp cloth. Wipe the door and seal with a soft, damp cloth soaked in water. This method works well in cases of light soiling.
- A solution of vinegar and water. Mix equal parts vinegar and water, soak a sponge in the resulting solution, wipe the door and seal. Vinegar will help remove stains and eliminate odors.
- Special detergents. There are solutions and powders designed for cleaning hatches and seals of washing machines. They can be found in household chemical stores.
- Soda and water. Mix 1 tbsp. l. soda with 1 tbsp. water and apply the resulting paste to dirty surfaces. Leave for a few minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth.
- Toothbrush. If the dirt is very strong, you can use a medium-hard brush to remove it.
When cleaning the hatch and seal, do not use abrasives or metal brushes, as they can damage the surface. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that water does not get inside the equipment.
