Advantages and disadvantages of the LG direct drive washing machine

Several years ago, the Korean company LG introduced its new invention to the market: a direct drive washing machine. According to manufacturers, a direct drive washing machine is incomparably better than classic models, and it is its many advantages that explain its considerable price. Is it really?

Advantages of a direct drive washing machine

The list of the main declared advantages of the new model of washing machine includes the following:

1. No noise during operation. Most advertising focuses on this feature. Of course, here classic washing machines are noticeably inferior to the improved version.
2. The better quality of washing is explained by the fact that the drum rotates much faster during operation of the machine, which allows you to wash clothes more efficiently and get rid of stains on them.
3. Increased operating efficiency reduces washing time, which has a beneficial effect on energy consumption.
4. During washing, the machine does not vibrate or shake, which eliminates the need for the owner to buy special mats for the device.
5. Since the level of vibration is much lower, the components of the machine shake much less during the washing process, which significantly increases the service life of the device.
6. The tank of a direct drive machine is much larger than that of a conventional one. This allows you to wash a much larger number of items at once.
7. Controlled water flow. Before washing, the machine evaluates the weight of the laundry in the tank and consumes the appropriate amount of water.

These are the advantages that you can hear from sales consultants in a household appliance store.

Buyers themselves in reviews most often praise the following features of a direct drive machine:

• Low noise level during washing and spinning;
• Weak vibration;
• Linen weight estimation function;
• Good washing quality;
• Steam cleaning function;
• Capacious tank;
• High-quality spin;
• A large number of washing programs;
• Attractive design.

We can safely conclude that the machine is really high quality and meets the specifications declared by the manufacturer. However, there are also negative reviews, which also need to be studied before purchasing a washing machine.

Disadvantages of a direct drive washing machine

Various technology reviewers note the following problems that an owner may encounter during the process of purchasing and operating a machine:

1. An LG direct drive washing machine usually costs significantly more than classic machines, which makes buyers think about purchasing a cheaper option.
2. If something breaks in the machine, the repair will most likely cost the owner a pretty penny.

The owners of the machine themselves make the following comments to the device:

• Problems with powder collection;
• An unpleasant and loud sound signal that the machine makes at different stages of washing;
• Impressive price;
• Noise that occurs when washing at a high number of revolutions;
• No “Delicate Wash” mode.

Based on these reviews, we can assume that direct drive technology has indeed made the machine quieter, but not by much. Some users continue to complain about noise during the washing and spinning process.

What can break?

No matter how high-quality the equipment is, sooner or later it will break, and the LG direct drive washing machine is no exception.

The most common causes of failure include the following:

1. Pump problems, which entail failures in the process of supplying and draining water. If the pump breaks down, the owner will have to replace it completely, because replacing individual parts will most likely not give the desired result. Often the cause of pump failure is the owners themselves, who forget to check their clothing pockets before washing.
2. Bearing wear, on which the silent rotation of the drum depends. If the machine begins to make a rattling noise during washing or there are problems with the rotation of the drum, there is reason to think about replacing the bearings.
3. Failure of the heating element (heating element). Heating elements are responsible for the temperature regime during washing, so malfunctions in their operation can lead not only to damage to things, but also to breakdown of the entire machine. Damage to the heating element can be caused by poor quality water, power surges, or failure to use products that prevent the appearance of scale.
4. Electronics faults - the most serious problem, which often results in expensive repairs.Such a breakdown can be identified by the following signs: the machine refuses to turn on, confuses or arbitrarily selects washing modes.

Preventive measures

Following a few simple rules will help you avoid breakdowns and repairs to your LG direct drive washing machine:

• Before washing, you need to carefully check the pockets of your clothes, remove from there not only small change, but also paper waste: receipts, candy wrappers, wrappers, tickets. All this clogs the washing machine pump.
• To protect heating elements from damage, use a special filter that will soften the water and reduce the formation of scale.
• The scale problem can also be solved using special powders.
• Every 10-15 washes, it is recommended to run the machine’s self-cleaning function, which will clean the device of debris accumulated inside.
• The machine must be connected to a separate outlet, which will partially solve the problem of power surges.
• Installation and repair of the machine should be carried out by an experienced technician.
• It is better to install the device on a flat surface; if desired, you can place a mat under the machine.