At the first mention of domestic Oka washing machines, many will grin, and completely in vain. Despite its not particularly “ceremonious” appearance and limited functionality, in many situations such a unit can become an indispensable assistant. This and much more will be discussed in our article.
History of the brand
The history of this brand dates back to 1956. It was then that the Oka washing machine appeared on the shelves of household appliance stores. The manufacturer was none other than the Nizhny Novgorod plant named after Ya. M. Sverdlov. Belonging to the military-industrial complex, the enterprise was engaged in the production of ammunition and explosives during the Civil War. Today, such products account for about 20% of the total volume of manufactured goods. Household chemicals, water heaters, and electric stoves produced by the plant are in consumer demand. Not the last place in this list is occupied by such household appliances as washing machines.
Design and types of Oka washing mashines
The first Oka models were bulky and noisy, and their appearance, to put it mildly, left much to be desired. The situation was saved only by the absence of goods from foreign manufacturers in domestic stores. Today the manufacturer offers a more diverse range of models activator washing machines. Nevertheless, the design has not undergone any special modifications. So, most models still have the same cylindrical body shape, traditionally corresponding to a small-sized tank. For buyers who have a rational approach to organizing their living space, this characteristic of Oka will be among the negative. There is no variety of colors. The models are presented in only a few options - blue and white-blue.
Over the past years, Oka washing machines of the following varieties have rolled off the production line of the enterprise:
- small washing mashines;
- activator type machines;
- centrifuge machines;
- semi-automatic devices.
Activator washing machines
It is no secret that some experts consider the absence of a drum to be a serious advantage of the models. The simplicity of the design means that such equipment will require repairs less often. It's no surprise that some summer residents still successfully exploit "Oka", released during the Soviet Union. Having set a goal, you can even find units that, over the years of operation, only needed to replace some spare parts. This task is not one of the difficult ones - Oka service centers can be found in every region of Russia.
The lineup
- A plastic tank with a volume of 30 liters is a distinctive characteristic of the Oka-9 model.The “drying” function is not provided, as well as protection against leaks. In one cycle you can wash no more than two kilograms of laundry.
- But “Oka-18” is capable of handling as much as three kilograms per wash. Moreover, the tank of the machine is made of stainless steel, and its weight is 16 kg.
- The Oka-10 model, which weighs 13 kg, is similar in principle of operation. There is a timer on the case. The hose holder is located near the cover. The tank volume is 32 liters, which allows you to wash 2 kg of laundry.
- The tank housings of the small-sized Oka-50 and Oka-60 are made of plastic. If the first model is designed to wash two and a half kilograms of clothes, then you cannot load more than one kilogram into the second. Both models are not suitable for intensive use. The main disadvantage of these machines is their weak power. However, they are quite suitable for baby clothes, as well as personal items.
- Knitwear can be washed and rinsed perfectly by the Oka-8 activator machine. In addition, you can wash clothes made from cotton, wool and synthetic fabrics in it. Distinctive external features of this model are an aluminum tank and an enamel-coated body.
- The cylindrical body of the Oka-7 model is made of carbon steel. This equipment will be convenient to move around your apartment or house. And all thanks to the running rollers. The presence of a special bracket guarantees stability when spinning clothes. This model has several washing modes. Depending on what exactly you want to wash, you need to choose the direction of rotation of the paddle wheel. The ability to rotate the paddle disk counterclockwise during normal operation ensures high-quality washing of items made from dense fabrics.During the "gentle" mode, the paddle disk rotates clockwise. This is a universal option for washing clothes made from regular fabrics and low-density fabrics.
- The Oka-11 washing machine is one of the models with mechanical control. The material for the manufacture of the case was stainless steel. During vertical loading, the maximum weight of loaded laundry is 2.5 kg.
Recommendations
Since both the design and operating principle of this equipment are quite simple, you should not expect any special nuances in the operating instructions. Anyone can easily operate such models. This technique is likely to be especially convenient for older people.
Rotary switches located on the body will greatly simplify the tasks associated with organizing washing. However, between washing cycles it is better to give the equipment a chance to “rest”. Otherwise, intense load can lead to breakage of the plastic activator circle and even damage to the electric motor.
