Activator-type washing machine: TOP

When choosing a washing machine on the pages of online stores, in the filter you can come across such a thing as activator-type washing machines. Every housewife understands what an automatic, semi-automatic, vertical or horizontal loading machine means in relation to classic drum-type machines.

But not everyone knows what an activator type of machine is. As a rule, the older generation of Russians is familiar with them. The article will talk about seemingly outdated and unnecessary units, but this is only at first glance. With a more detailed dive into the topic, we will see that such machines have undeniable advantages, and there are many of them. This is what helps them stay afloat.

What is an activator type washing machine?

An activator-type washing machine is a washing device in which water and powder move due to the operation of an activator. Hence the name. The activator is a plastic disk with convex blades or ribs. Soapy water rotates with the laundry, just like in a drum washing machine, and thus removes stains.

The heyday of activator machines occurred in 1980-90 of the twentieth century. Back then, these machines helped women a lot in housework. Even though I had to do some of the work myself. Previously, activator machines were heavy and clumsy due to their metal structure, they often spoiled things and did not cause delight at all. But the lack of an alternative helped their spread. Models of activator machines have undergone significant positive changes since those times, and now they are lightweight plastic units.

Currently, these machines are not as popular as in the Soviet Union, but they still find their buyers, since in some situations they are an indispensable household assistant. The advantages and disadvantages of models with an activator will be described in a separate section.

These machines are used not only in the home. They are also used by industrial enterprises. They differ in size; industrial machines have a larger capacity and, accordingly, are larger in size.

Technical characteristics and device

Representatives of the older generation know well what an activator-type washing machine is. Some functional shortcomings have caused a massive transition to drum instruments, but modern performance is devoid of such disadvantages.

It is noteworthy that US residents prefer this type. Such machines are a robust design in which the soap solution is driven by a paddle disk. It is made of reinforced plastic, which is highly durable. On its surface there are convex ribs that serve as blades.

Water with detergent and laundry rotate together. Movement is carried out in both directions with stops and pauses. The disk is called an “activator”, which is why the technique has such a designation.

In most cases, it is located at the bottom of the tank; there are models with a side design. Rotation is carried out with stops in one direction, or in two opposite directions, but without pauses. Manufacturers have significantly improved the new models; in them, the impeller perfectly replaces the outdated bladed disk, so rotation occurs along a more efficient trajectory.

Types of washing machines with activator

Progress does not stand still, and it also affected activator-type washing machines. If previously these were the simplest primitive units, now among them there are both semi-automatic and automatic machines. The more modern the machine, the more functions it performs. Let’s take a closer look at what each type of activator machine is, depending on its automation:

Simple models do not have any functions other than washing. The structure of the machine is quite simple: a V-belt drive, an engine, a plastic tank and a very ordinary timer. Spinning is carried out by spinning the laundry between 2 rubber rollers. Sometimes you can adjust the height of the gap between the rollers in order to spin laundry of different thicknesses. The rollers are driven by a drive handle.
Semi-automatic machines can have one or two tanks: for washing and a centrifuge for spinning. The water in the tank is driven by a V-belt drive, and the movement of the centrifuge is driven by an elastic coupling. Sometimes it is possible to select a delicate mode for fabric, a choice of washing time, or a delayed timer.
Automatic machines may already have an electronic control panel with a choice of different modes depending on the type of fabric and contamination. There are models with 10 washing modes and a choice of water filling level in the tank. May have one or two tanks. A heating element is installed for heating water, the water is drained automatically through the operation of the pump. Filters are installed to trap lint. They differ from drum machines in the presence of an activator. The weight of the automatic activator machine reaches 70 kg. The price of such a machine is not small.

You can also divide the machines by the number of tanks: one or two. In a machine with one tank, washing and rinsing occurs. If there are two tanks, then both washing and drying clothes are possible.

List of the most popular cars

The most famous ASMs are considered to be “Malyutka” and “Siberia”. But there are also automatic AFMs. They don't have the problems that simpler versions have. But there are serious prices and impressive water consumption.

Slavda WS-30ET

Pros:

Low price.
No special connection required.
Expensive powders and anti-scale preparations are not required.
Programs are easy to configure.
The device is semi-automatic.
Ease of Management.

Minuses:

Manual rinsing method.
The hose is poorly attached to the device, the hook is fragile.
Before washing, water is poured in manually and drained in the same way.
Low position of the electric motor. The model cannot be placed directly in the bathtub.
Inconvenient shape. She is tall and narrow. It is difficult to throw the drain hose into the bathtub. The model cannot be placed on a wooden stand. Only on the floor.
High probability of leaks.

Cost: 3500 rub.

RENOVA WS-50PT

Pros:

Price.
Easy maintenance.
Long service life.
High-quality washing even after 1-2 years of use.
Availability of a filter. It can be easily removed for cleaning.
The presence of a pump for pumping dirty water out of the machine.
Standard and gentle modes are available.
There is a timer - up to 12 minutes of washing.
Availability of a centrifuge – up to 5 minutes.

Minuses:

Strong vibration. When the laundry is placed in the centrifuge, it is spun. At the same time, the activator-type washing machine makes a lot of noise and vibrates. The reason is that the top of this centrifuge is not fixed in any way. When rotated, it is thrown in different directions. This defect is not possible for all models of this line.

Overall, this model works reliably. With normal use it can last a very long time.

Cost: 4500 rub.

Fairy SMP-50N

Pros:

Good quality wash.
An excellent option for country and rural conditions.
Easy to use. The laundry is simply placed in a large compartment, powder is poured into it, and water of the required temperature conditions is poured in. The device turns on. Washing is in progress. At the end of it, the laundry is taken out and placed in a smaller compartment - in the drum. The spin takes place there.
High quality spin. For example, jackets come out of the car almost dry.
Automatic drain. On the function panel, you simply turn the knob to a certain position.
Excellent energy savings.
The use of the cheapest consumables, for example, various powders, softeners, conditioners, etc.

Minuses:

The need to fill water yourself.
The need to repeatedly rearrange laundry during washing. The laundry is first put in for the main washing process. Then this action is performed to rinse things, for the same, but repeated procedure. And then after each such operation, the laundry is transferred to the spinning department. True, the laundry is washed very efficiently, just like in an automatic model.
The device cannot heat water.
The drum must be closed with a lid. Otherwise, the laundry will fly out of this compartment. If it gets between it and the wall of the device, it will be difficult to get it out. The hand of an adult cannot penetrate there: the gap is very narrow. A child’s hand will not reach the thing: it is very deep.

Cost – 3300 rub.

Renova ws 40 pet

Strengths of the model:

Price.
Weight.
Options.
High quality spin.
Excellent wash.

Weak sides:

When draining, the engine makes a lot of noise, but the drain itself practically does not occur. Water has to be scooped out manually using different containers.
Poor quality inlet hose. It is necessary to place some kind of very rigid gutter under it. This hose itself sags under the influence of the water mass.
Washing takes a lot of effort and time.
Three rinses are necessary (if you follow the instructions). But they don’t work because the water from the tank is not drained. And it needs to be replaced with clean water.
The instructions indicate that there are special marks on the washing tub. They reflect the minimum and maximum water filling limits. But there are none. You need to determine these boundaries yourself.

Perhaps only fake models have these disadvantages. But when purchasing, pay special attention to these aspects.

The cost of the model is 3900 rubles.

Top 5 best models of activator washing machines

The market offers a wide selection of activator-type washing machines. The machines differ in price and functionality. Let's take a closer look at the most popular models.

The most famous activator machines are produced under the Malyutka brand. These are the old-timers among activator machines. One of the models of this manufacturer is called “ Malyutka-2 ”. It got its name for its miniature size and fully lives up to its name. The load volume does not exceed 1 kilogram of dry laundry, the volume of water is 28 liters. The washing cycle lasts only 5 minutes. There is a 4 minute rinse function. If necessary, the washing time can be made even shorter, for example for delicate fabrics. For this model, the activator is located on the side, and the engine is located outside the machine body. Since the washing time is not long, pre-soaking the laundry is recommended. It is better to wash delicate items in special laundry bags. The tank is plastic, so you should never pour boiling water into it. The temperature should not be higher than +80 degrees. Rinsing is carried out after washing by manually pouring clean water. This model is one of the cheapest in price. In addition to “Malyutka-2”, there are analogues from others, and “Snow White”, even Bosch has such models.

If we take models in the middle price segment, then the popular models are VolTek Rainbow SM-2 and Renova WS40Pet.

VolTek Rainbow SM-2

received 5 stars, according to user reviews on online shopping sites. The machine represents the class of semi-automatic machines. The model weighs about 7 kilograms and has a carrying handle, so it’s perfect for a summer house. Compared to Renova WS40Pet, it can wash only 2 kilograms of laundry, but it is much more compact. Equipped with an indicator for the end of the washing time. There are 2 modes to choose from: normal and delicate wash. There is no drying. Washing class - F. The minimum washing time is 5 minutes. Cost: about 4,000 rubles.

Renova WS40Pet

has a relatively small weight, not exceeding 13 kg. The dimensions of the machine are quite compact, allowing it to be transported, for example, to the countryside. This model also belongs to the category of semi-automatic machines and already has 3 washing modes. The activator movements are reversible. Due to the presence of 2 compartments, in addition to washing and rinsing, there is a high-quality spin in a centrifuge. Spin speed: 1350 rpm. The machine is spacious and designed for 4 kilograms of laundry. 30 liters of water is enough for high-quality washing.

Modern drum machines cannot always boast such indicators in terms of spin and laundry volume. Washing class – A. You can delay the start of washing by 15 minutes. Another advantage is its price – approximately 5,000 rubles. Among the models of this manufacturer there are many worthy options for different needs and the quality of all is excellent.

VolTek and Renova have analogues from Assol, Daewoo and others.

Among the expensive options for activator machines, the most popular are Snow White BN5500SG and Slavda WS-85PE.

Model Slavda WS-85PE

has one tank for washing and rinsing. There is no spin, but this is compensated by the washing class. This machine has a washing class of A and energy efficiency of A+. We can say that this machine will save your budget a lot, but at the same time it will wash no worse than drum machines. The machine is very spacious and can load 8 kg of laundry. But due to this, the weight of this unit is already 18 kg. It has 2 washing programs, the drain is automatic, and the hatch is blocked during washing for safety reasons. Washing requires 50 liters of water. Cost: about 7,000 rubles.

Snow White BN5500SG

has 2 tanks, so a spin speed of 1350 rpm is added to the advantage of this model. Has 2 washing programs for normal and delicate laundry. Loading capacity is 5.5 kg, which is also not small. Washing class - C. Mechanical control, interesting country design, small dimensions - this is precisely why it earned the right to be on this list. The cost is 8,000 rubles.

As we see, progress, although slowly, is reaching these machines. You can already find machines on sale with touch controls, a display with multi-colored backlighting, the ability to customize the washing mode yourself or choose one of 33 modes. We are talking about the Whirlpool Vantage model. Among the functions there is even a USB interface. True, before purchasing, you should think about whether such a unit is needed, since its price has exceeded 100,000 rubles. At the same time, there are no obvious advantages over cheaper drum machines.

Types of activator machines

Today the machines are available in three versions:

The simplest with a basic set of functions. They are distinguished by a limited activator mechanism and a manual spin system consisting of two shafts through which wet laundry passes. With good washing quality, such units have another undeniable “plus” - an affordable price. This washing machine is an ideal choice for the realities of the countryside.
Semi-automatic washing machines. Units of this type are a kind of transitional option between the previous model and automation. In addition to the main tank, this design also has a centrifuge for spinning clothes. In addition, you will be pleasantly surprised by functions such as delicate mode and the ability to set a specific time for washing.
Automatic models have an activator instead of a drum mechanism. They have a more diverse set of functions. In particular, air bubble rinsing, water drainage, the ability to change the water temperature, as well as special modes for particularly demanding fabrics. It is not surprising that these washing machines are more expensive than those in the above categories.

How to use an activator type washing machine

When using an activator type machine, you do not need to know any special operating rules. Everything is as simple and convenient as possible. Just read the instructions carefully. There are no abundance of buttons to select a mode, so even a child can handle it. To start using the machine, you do not need to call a plumber, since most often a connection to the water supply network is not required.

If the machine will always work in the same place, then there is no need to place it close to the wall. A sufficient distance from the wall is 5 cm. This is necessary so that vibration during operation of the centrifuge does not make loud noise. It is also good if there is an electrical outlet at a short distance from the device. If the cable is not long enough, you will have to use an extension cord.

Consider where the drain will be carried out: bathtub, sink, toilet or directly into the sewer. As a rule, the drain hose is no more than 1 meter. If you intend to use it outdoors in your dacha, then the machine needs to be installed on a flat, elevated place.

Before first use, wipe the machine's tank with a damp cloth. After each use, wipe the tank and centrifuge dry with a cloth. It’s good to leave the machine open for a couple of hours after use to ventilate the machine. Then no odors or microorganisms will appear. Never use hard or metal brushes for cleaning. This will lead to scratches on the plastic and additional contamination.

Be sure to sort your laundry by color to avoid staining. Wash white clothes separately from colored and dark ones. It is advisable to pre-soak heavily soiled laundry to obtain better washing results.

It is important to remember that the weight of the laundry is calculated for each machine in dry form.

For best results, it is better to fill the machine with warm or hot water, depending on the type of fabric. Washing in cold water is not as effective. Follow the recommendations on the clothing label.

You can use washing powder for hand washing or an automatic machine; such units are not demanding in terms of washing agents.

If the machine provides spinning, then after transferring the laundry from the tank to the centrifuge, drain the water and only then turn on the spin. You cannot wash in one compartment and spin in another at the same time.

You need to remove the laundry only after disconnecting the machine from the power supply.

To prevent the electrical cable from getting into the water, there is a special hook on the side of the machine. Broadcast cable to it for security reasons.

Do not allow the machine to hit various objects. Although the plastic of the body and tank is durable, it can still be deformed or damaged. If you plan to move the machine frequently, secure it securely in the car during transportation.

Do not leave the machine over the winter in rooms where the temperature is below freezing. This will cause it to break. It is advisable to maintain a value not lower than +5 degrees and humidity - no more than 80%.

Features of the device and principle of operation

So what is an activator type washing machine? The design consists of the following main elements:

control panel with washing modes;
engine;
activator;
washing tank.

The design of such machines consists of a control panel, motor, activator and washing tank. The unit works on the following principle: the engine rotates a shaft with an activator located on it, and it rotates the laundry inside the washing tub. After the end of the cycle, the dirty water is drained and clean water is poured in for rinsing.

The drainage of water in such machines occurs automatically. Depending on the model of the washing machine, the activator function can be performed by a paddle rod (similar to a drill) or an impeller activator. The vast majority of washing machines belong to the latter option. It is the impeller that allows you to load more laundry and guarantees a higher quality wash.

Most of these washing machines operate using impeller activators.

Advantages

Activated washing machines have many advantages. In particular:

Unlimited access to laundry. Thanks to this, you can add powder or other products at any time during the process, as well as add laundry.
The units allow the owner to observe the washing process. To do this, either purchase models with a transparent hatch, or open the hatch.
The activator washing machine is one of the most durable. According to statistics, only two components can become unusable: the engine or the timer. Today, not all models have a durable plastic sunroof, so you should pay attention to that too.
Since there are practically no electronics in such washing machines, breakdowns are extremely rare. In this regard, they are much more reliable than their automatic cousins.
Activator washing machines also “work” on hand washing powder. This is an advantage, since such powder usually costs less than products for automatic machines.
Activator-type washing machines are much cheaper than automatic machines.
If desired (or, in case of urgent need), you can wash with any detergent, including shampoo and soap.
If you pour hot water directly, the washing process speeds up several times.
Most models do not have a heating element, which means the quality of the water does not play a special role and you will not have to incur additional costs to install a filter.
In such machines you can wash absolutely everything: from dirty work clothes to shoes, without fear of damaging the unit.
No energy is consumed to heat water, since activator-type washing machines do not have a heater powered by electricity.
Many activator models are capable of washing 10 kg of laundry in one technological process, while the maximum volume of laundry for automatic machines is 8 kg.
During the spinning process, there are no strong vibrations, since all the laundry ends up at the bottom of the tank.

Activator-type washing machines have a fairly impressive list of advantages.

Flaws

Unfortunately, household appliances that consist only of advantages have not yet been invented. Activator-type machines have few disadvantages, but they do exist.

A lot of manual labor. Probably, when you are strong and young, this is not a big problem. However, with the appearance of health problems (weak back, arms), the operation of such a machine becomes simply impossible.
Despite its compactness, it is not possible to place such a machine under the sink, since there is a hatch on top for loading laundry. Therefore, you will need to find a suitable location for the unit.
Even if there are certain modes and functions for demanding fabrics, if possible, it is better to avoid washing such fabrics in an activator washing machine. You run the risk of ruining things beyond repair.

The tank for loading laundry, which is located on top in such machines, requires a certain amount of free space to open.