Inverter washing machine: device, advantages and disadvantages, rating of the best models

Recently, the market has been captured by a new product - an inverter washing machine. It is the result of continuous improvements in performance and innovation. Inverter motors provide the user with the efficiency and quality of washing of a new generation.

What is an inverter motor?

The motor is responsible for the operation of the washing machine; without it, the device simply cannot function. The motor controls the speed of rotation of the drum, changing its direction. It can be of three types: asynchronous, collector and inverter.

The first type is considered obsolete, and the second is actively used in production. The washing machine market is mainly occupied by models with commutator motors. However, they quickly become unusable due to belts and brushes that are prone to abrasion.

The inverter motor is the latest development of Korean manufacturers.Initially they were used to create microwave ovens and air conditioners. However, now almost every piece of household appliance has a model with an inverter motor.

The innovative development is the brainchild of LG. A specialist from this brand managed to design a new type of engine in 2005. Over time, it began to be used for the production of washing machines. This innovation has increased energy efficiency and improved technical performance.

The inverter motor controls the movement of the drum using an electronic device. It allows you to adjust the speed and frequency of revolutions made by the drum. And its main feature is the conversion of alternating current into direct current.

Design and principle of operation of an inverter motor

The operating principle of the latest generation motor is based on the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction. Engineers replaced the graphite brushes with an inverter. It creates an electromagnetic field, under the influence of which the drum rotates. A frequency converter (inverter) transforms alternating current into direct current. And vice versa.

After which current is supplied to the stator - this allows you to smoothly change the rotation speed of the tank. In addition, it becomes possible to monitor the operation of the drum. The technology allows spinning at higher speeds than devices with commutator motors provide.

The inverter motor is attached to the drum shaft - this allows you not to waste the generated energy on overcoming the friction force. After all, it is transmitted to the drum without intermediaries. The absence of a belt and pulley - the most vulnerable parts - extends the service life of the product. Placing the tank and rotor on the same shaft reduces vibration, providing better balancing.

Pros and cons of inverter motors

Advantages of inverter motors:

Long service life. Inverter motors are more reliable than asynchronous and commutator motors. It's all about the design of the motor, which does not have brushes or belts. The absence of parts that create friction reduces the risk of repair cases. Typically, manufacturers are so confident in quality and reliability that they provide warranty service for up to 10 years.
Silence. The structure of inverter motors implies the absence of brushes, which makes it possible to reduce the volume of the motor to a minimum. Thanks to this, you can start the washing mashine at night. A particularly important plus for families with small children.
Good spin. Inverter motors rotate the drum faster, which allows you to get almost dry clothes.
Energy efficiency. The absence of parts that create friction reduces energy consumption. Studies have shown that inverter motors consume 20% less electricity. Savings are also achieved thanks to the built-in switch-off function after the cycle. Stopping the power supply after finishing the wash allows you to reduce energy costs.
Good quality of dirt removal. This is achieved thanks to several points. The first is a low level of vibration, which makes the distribution of things inside the tank uniform. This provides better cleaning from dirt, because the laundry does not bunch up into a single lump. Secondly, inverter motors better control the movement of the drum, adjusting it to the selected mode. Strict compliance with the specified settings ensures effective cleaning of contaminants.
Low water consumption per cycle. Savings average up to 10% compared to conventional machines.
Beat Wash system. This technology consists of a 3D sensor, which allows you to shorten the cycle and improve the degree of cleaning from dirt. In addition, the washing process becomes more gentle. This is achieved by controlling the distribution of things inside the drum. The technology prevents the laundry from clumping together, which ensures better washing quality.

Although the inverter motor is the latest development, it still has several disadvantages:

high price, due to expensive components;
high drum rotation speed can damage the fabric;
possible breakdowns as a result of power surges;
complex and expensive repairs.

What to look for when buying a washing machine with an inverter motor?

The market is filled with models that differ in characteristics and functions. Therefore, it can be difficult for an inexperienced user to choose the right device. Experts have identified several criteria that should be relied on when buying:

Dimensions and loading volume. Manufacturers present models with different ratios of dimensions and loading capacity. Moreover, the dimensions of the product no longer limit the volume of the tank. Modern technologies have made it possible to create narrow models with a large capacity. A large family should consider buying only models with a load of 6 kg.
Energy consumption class. Modern products rarely have a low level of energy efficiency. Most devices belong to class A, which is the most economical.
Degree of cleaning from dirt. All washing machines are marked depending on the efficiency of washing. The best cleaning will be in models with the A sign and higher.
Speed of rotation of the tank.Some machines with an inverter motor can rotate the tank at 2000 rpm. However, high speed may damage delicate fabrics. In addition, due to expensive components, machines with spin class A and higher have a high price tag. Therefore, it is better to make the optimal choice among devices with an indicator from 1000 to 1600 rpm.
Noise indicator. It is desirable that this figure be less than 75 dB. After all, a lot of noise will make it impossible to use the device at night. In addition, during spinning the noise increases, so this indicator must be considered first.
Functional. Modern models are equipped with a bunch of functions, but not all of them are in demand. It is necessary to decide on the desired functionality, because a large number of modes leads to an increase in cost. For example, if there are allergy sufferers in the family, you should choose a machine with a steam generator that will disinfect things.
Protection systems. Manufacturers equip models with various functions that ensure safe operation of the device. For example, protection against leaks, it can be partial or complete. It is better to choose the second option, it will reduce the risk of leakage to a minimum. After all, not only the body is protected, but also the hose. Other systems include: the ability to lock the dashboard from accidental clicks, imbalance control, and foam control.

Is it worth buying an inverter washing machine?

Purchase can be recommended if:

The family has small children. The low noise level that distinguishes inverter motors will not disturb the child’s daytime sleep.
Saving energy resources comes first. According to statistics, the latest motors consume 20% less electricity.
A good spin is necessary.Inverter motors rotate at a speed faster than a standard motor. This allows you to get things almost dry, but can lead to damage.

Top 8 washing machines with inverter motor

The list includes the best models from different price categories: from budget to premium. They differ in installation types, downloads and functionality.

LG F1096 ND3

Model from the budget segment with front loading. Made from high-tech sheet coated with enamel. The classic design allows the device to fit into any interior. In addition, the removable lid allows it to be easily integrated under a countertop.

Loading laundry is made easier by the wide diameter of the hatch - about 30 cm and the ability to open the door 180 degrees. Despite the low price, the device has a multi-level locking system, which is useful for families with children. The manufacturer has equipped the model with imbalance control.

The presence of direct drive allows you to reduce energy costs. The spin level reaches 1000 revolutions, which allows you to rid things of excess liquid. And many functions and programs allow you to clean clothes from even the most stubborn stains. Complete information about the wash will be provided by the built-in display, and a sound alert will notify you of the end of the wash. The average price is 24,533 rubles.

Among the positive aspects are:

good level of capacity, the tank can be loaded with 6 kg of laundry;
quiet operation of the device during the cycle, only 55 dB;
13 different modes make it possible to customize the unit for any type of clothing;
the manufacturer has equipped the model with self-diagnosis capabilities; the system will notify you of the presence of breakdowns with a code on the display;
The bubble system allows you to eliminate some of the dirt, improving the quality of the wash.

The disadvantages of the model include the spin class and the lack of steam treatment. The model is marked with a C sign, which results in fairly damp laundry. Such a device is capable of squeezing things out only from the bulk of the water. The lack of steam treatment can be a significant disadvantage for allergy sufferers. However, models in higher price segments are often equipped with a similar function.

Gorenje WT 62113

The device with vertical loading belongs to the budget segment. The model allows you to wash up to 6 kg of laundry in one cycle. Mechanical control using a switch and buttons. The manufacturer has added an alert system that allows you to monitor the condition of the machine.

The electronic display displays the time remaining until the end of the cycle. The machine will not “walk” around the room thanks to the built-in imbalance control. And too much foam will not be produced, since the device will automatically regulate its formation. The cost of the device starts from 27,990 rubles.

The advantages include:

The device of the machine allows additional loading after the start of the cycle;
abundance of different modes and programs – 18;
low power consumption;
you can select the temperature and rotation speed of the tank;
The start of the cycle can be delayed by a day.

The disadvantages include:

the inability to block the product from accidental clicks, so the model is not suitable for families with small children;
all washing programs are quite long;
lack of a washing mashine parking system, which should stop the tank flaps directly above the lid.

Haier HW70-BP12969A

A device with a large load - 7 kg, is classified as narrow. It has a door on the front of the case.Energy costs are among the lowest, the machine is classified as A+++. 12 programs allow you to select a mode for any type of laundry and dirt.

The device signals the end of the wash with a sound alert. It is possible to adjust the rotation speed of the tank, the maximum is 1200 revolutions. The engine ensures quiet operation: 54 dB during washing, 77 dB during spinning. Cost – 39,990 rubles.

Advantages of the device:

a small amount of water is consumed per cycle - 36 liters;
the cycle is quiet at all stages;
detergent is dosed automatically;
the manufacturer has equipped the device with protection against voltage surges;
the loaded laundry is weighed automatically;
additional rinse function available;
the hatch door closes automatically;
You can protect the panel from accidental clicks by locking it.

The disadvantage is that the spin class is medium - B. Therefore, the laundry will be a little damp after the cycle.

Electrolux EWG 147540 W

The model is in the mid-price category and is built-in, so its installation will not disrupt the overall style. The tank is filled from the front; the hatch is hidden behind a decorative panel. The brand has equipped the product with electronic control. Moreover, the electronic display is illuminated, so it is easy to see in the absence of light.

The direct drive ensures a low noise level, and the number of revolutions of the tank reaches 1400. This ensures the highest spin class A, clothes are almost dry after washing. Many functions and programs allow you to configure the machine for any type of contamination. The menu includes a mode that removes stains that are difficult to remove. The price starts from 42,400 rubles.

Among the advantages are:

quiet operation: during washing the machine makes noise at a level of -53 dB, and during the spin period -73 dB;
ability to fill the tank with laundry weighing up to 7 kg;
low water consumption with a large tank capacity, about 46 liters when fully loaded;
high quality stain removal from laundry, the machine belongs to class A;
the main modes can be changed, you can set the parameters yourself;
14 different programs, including super rinse;
the cycle can be carried out after the drum is filled with things, the maximum delay is a day;
Built-in anti-wrinkle feature makes laundry easier to iron.

The disadvantages are the following:

small items have to be washed in a special bag, otherwise they end up in the cuff;
the pulley may develop play 2-3 years after purchasing the product;
lint from things gets into the space between the seal and the tank;
low-quality bearings, they can fail after 3 years.

Whirlpool TDLR 70220

A machine with a vertical loading method and economical consumption of resources. The manufacturer has built in special sensors that allow you to adjust the amount of water, detergent and electricity. This allows for optimal resource consumption and increased cleaning efficiency.

The drum is convenient to use, as it has a built-in parking system and smooth opening of the doors. The volume of loaded laundry is quite high - 7 kg, it fully meets the needs of the average family. Mechanical control is carried out by pressing buttons and turning the switch.

The manufacturer protected the model from strong shaking and possible shifts by integrating an imbalance control system.The machine is also protected from excess foam; its formation is regulated automatically. The functionality allows you to start a wash cycle 24 hours after filling the tank. The price on the market varies between 41,790 rubles.

The positive aspects of the device include:

AquaStop function, which protects against flooding if the product breaks;
many modes that allow you to wash off various types of dirt;
the function of protecting the control panel from pressing during the washing period;
low level of noise emitted during washing;
the ability to report the remaining laundry after the start of the program;
high degree of energy efficiency, the model is assigned class A+++;
good spin level, the device is marked with the B sign.

The following can be added to the disadvantages:

lack of notification about the end of the cycle;
After washing, detergent may remain in the powder compartment.

LG AI DD F2T9GW9P

The model has a stylish design and an effective dark gray color. Front loading allows you to use the top as a work surface. The device can be connected to a smart home system and controlled using a voice assistant.

AI DD technology automatically calculates fabric parameters: softness, density, weight. Then, based on the information received, the washing cycle is adjusted. The washing machine allows you to completely clean it from dirt in just 39 minutes. The cost is about 50,990 rubles.

You can add to the advantages:

steam treatment, which eliminates bacteria and allergens;
door material – heavy-duty glass, has an extended service life;
the tank coating prevents the appearance of unpleasant odors and the development of bacteria;
low degree of electricity consumption, the model is assigned class - A;
14 programs provide effective cleaning of any stains;
it is possible to lock the control panel from children;
Steam+ technology makes ironing easier by eliminating wrinkles;
New level of cushioning provides increased load capacity in standard sizes;
Large tank, supports loading volume up to 8.5 kg.

No serious flaws were identified in the model. The only negative is the B level spin; the laundry remains a little damp after the cycle.

Asko W4086C.W/1

The device is made in classic white color, so it will fit into any interior. Front loading allows you to use the top panel as a work surface. The all-metal housing reduces vibration. The design of the tank prevents clothes from bunching up, distributing them evenly.

The Quattro design also minimizes vibration. It involves placing 4 shock absorbers around the tank. The presence of cast iron counterweights makes it possible to wash heavy items. The maximum capacity of the tank is 8 kg, so down jackets and blankets will fit easily.

The brushless motor reaches maximum power in a short time and switches off smoothly after the end of the cycle. This reduces energy costs by 30% compared to collector-type washing machines. Due to its high level of energy efficiency, the product has been awarded the A+++ mark.

A large number of functions and modes make it easy to clean any type of fabric from dirt. In addition, the manufacturer has equipped the model with the ability to customize. The set parameters can be easily saved in memory.

Additionally, there is the ability to process clothes at high temperatures. Small stains can be removed using the express wash mode.And if the volume of things is small, then a half load will come to the rescue. The cycle can be postponed, the permissible period is 24 hours. The price starts from 84,990 rubles.

The model has a number of advantages:

the presence of multi-level protection against leaks - AquaBlockSystem, allows you to minimize the risk of flooding;
the control panel can be blocked from pressing while the device is operating;
15 programs and modes to eliminate any contamination;
low noise level - 49 dB, allows you to plan washing at night;
a door of increased diameter makes it easier to load large items;
electronic control;
display informing about the status of the device and its operation;
The SensiSave sensor regulates water flow depending on the program.

The main disadvantage of the model is its high cost. Due to the model's premium segment, its price may be beyond the budget of most buyers.

Electrolux EWT1567VIW

The vertical loading washing machine belongs to the premium class. Thanks to its narrow width, it is easy to install even in a small area. It is convenient to use the machine because of the tank, the flaps of which automatically stop above the lid.

In addition, you don't have to constantly bend over to fill the drum. This may be especially important if the machine will be used by an elderly person. It is permissible to load the tank with additional items after the start of the cycle. The cost ranges from 85,990 rubles.

The advantages of the device include:

leakage protection provided by the manufacturer to the device;
low power consumption, the model is marked A+++;
low water consumption per cycle with a full tank load - 52 l;
a large number of temperature modes and programs – 14;
quiet engine operation: 47 dB during the cleaning period, 77 dB during the spin cycle;
There is a delayed start function, you can delay washing for 20 hours;
drum volume can hold up to 6 kg of items;
the built-in steam generator smooths out wrinkles, making the ironing process easier;
it is possible to reduce program time thanks to the “Time Manager” function;
high tank circulation speed - 1500, gives almost dry clothes at the output;
SoftAccess technology allows you to open the tank doors with one click;
The machine automatically selects the optimal washing parameters.

Disadvantages of the model:

the menu is not Russified;
high price;
Detergent sometimes remains in the compartment when running an express cycle.

Tips for caring for inverter washing machines

An inverter-type washing machine will last a long time if you follow simple operating rules:

Installation and connection of the machine must be carried out only on a flat surface. The more unevenness and tilt there is, the more the machine will shake during operation. Therefore, installation is carried out only on a prepared surface that does not have differences.
For washing you should use only products marked “Automat”. This will protect the internal parts of the device. After all, conventional detergents produce too much foam; using them for washing in a washing machine can lead to breakdowns. In addition, washing powder or gel labeled “Automat” will provide better cleansing from dirt.
However, you should not add it in too large quantities. Excess powder can also lead to failure of some spare parts. When determining the amount of detergent, you should rely on the user manual that comes with the device.Otherwise, you can rely on the recommendations of the powder manufacturer.
Do not exceed the permissible volume of loaded laundry. This can lead to rapid bearing failure. It is worth carefully studying the instructions supplied by the manufacturer. Using some programs requires cutting the load of laundry in half.
You should not carry out one cycle after another without a break. The washing process causes the motor to become very hot. Therefore, running several cycles in a row can cause its breakdown. To reduce the risk of motor overheating, it is enough to maintain an interval of 1-2 hours between washes.

Conclusion

Inverter models are a profitable investment because they allow you to save on resource consumption. They do a better job of removing stains thanks to the balancing system. The rotation speed of the tank and the low noise level make them stand out compared to models with a commutator motor.

In addition, models for the budget segment began to be equipped with inverter motors. For example, LG F1096 ND3 is a good combination of price and quality. The model has not only an inverter motor, but also many useful functions. These include bubble washing and self-diagnosis.