Choosing a washing machine, each and every buyer will be attentive and scrupulous in choosing. In particular, it will focus on the model, functionality, warranty period and the like. What else should the consumer know when choosing a washing machine? Actually, the material from which its most important parts are made is equally important. In particular, we are talking about a tank, which can be made of different materials. In this article, we will examine in more detail which material is better for the tank of the washing machine.
Having learned more information about this part, it will be easier to make a choice, given its characteristics.
Types of tank (drum) of the washing machine
The washing machine tank is one of the important parts. In almost all washing machines, its fixation is the same. Fastens with springs and shock absorbers to ensure its relative mobility. To reduce the level of vibration, the tank is equipped with concrete counterweights.
Very often, the cause of malfunctions in the washers associated with the failure of this element. It could be:
- Hit in the tank, foreign parts from pockets or items of clothing, which in turn creates a knock and uncharacteristic noise during the movement of the drum.
- Jams of work (movement) of a tank in connection with hit of extraneous details.
- Cracks in the tank, which becomes a cause of leakage, and disables its operation.
There is an opinion that washing machines with a vertical loading are characterized by better fastening of the tank, in contrast to front loading machines. Just want to dispel this opinion. Fixation in both types is almost the same.
When choosing a washing machine, it is recommended to pay attention to the material of manufacture of the drum. It really can be important, because its life depends on it. In particular, the washing machine tub may be made of the following material.
- Metal.
- Plastic.
- Stainless steel.
Considering that during operation the tank is subjected to heavy load, high temperature, pressure - it is important that the material of manufacture is resistant to these factors. Let us consider in more detail the features of each of them, which will help to understand what is the best material for the tank of the washing machine.
See also - Choosing a good washing machine with drying function
Metal tank
Metal, namely steel that is coated with special enamel. It is absolutely adapted for the washing process, but can be unstable to any kind of shock.
All kinds of impacts can damage the enamel, which over time will lead to a significant destruction of the protective layer and cause corrosion (rust).Rust in its worms will slowly but surely lead to the formation of cracks and the tank will begin to leak. As a result, a replacement tank is required.
Therefore, not too reliable material for the tank of the washing machine. Fortunately, they are almost never used in modern models. Therefore, when you have to replace such a tank with a new one, this can be a problem. Since the production practically does not produce such units, there are no auxiliary parts for repair and replacement. Most likely, you will not have to repair, but to buy a new washing machine.
Plastic tank
Plastic or polyplex. In principle, manufacturers improve this alloy in different ways because the name of polymeric materials may sound different. In terms of functionality, it:
- somewhat isolates the noise return during rotation of the drum;
- to a certain extent reduce the level of electricity consumption;
- quite light in weight;
- does not leak;
- unlike metal, it does not corrode and is resistant to chemicals;
- optimal price.
Pretty strong, but unlike metal, it can be somewhat brittle. Although, manufacturers consider this material the most favorable and constantly improve it. Its modification made the material closest to steel in strength. Different types of plastic have slightly different properties: fragile, more durable. Among the segment of polymeric materials, particular preference is given in favor of carboran.
The service life of a plastic tank is approximately up to 30 years, and maybe more. This is several times less than a stainless steel tank could serve, however, in general, an absolutely satisfactory service life.
Stainless steel tank
Stainless steel. A common material for the manufacture of tanks for washing machines. It has been used for a long time for this purpose.
- It responds well to contact with water - it does not rust.
- Such a tank has increased strength and resistance to mechanical and chemical damage.
- Service life up to 100 years.
Of the minuses
- The weight of the stainless steel tank will be more than plastic, so it produces more noise.
- Low thermal insulation of the metal requires a greater cost of electricity.
- High price.
Provided that the washing machine is equipped with such a tank, this is perhaps one of the elements that can survive all other elements of the washing machine in terms of service life. When choosing a washing machine with a stainless steel tank, the following should be understood:
Steel should be of high quality, and the technology of its assembly and soldering at the highest level. Only under such conditions will the tank really be durable and live up to expectations.
This will immediately affect the price. A washing machine with a stainless steel tank will cost more than, for example, with a plastic tank.
Therefore, if you are offered a washing machine with a stainless steel tank at a lower price, then this is probably a poor-quality unit and its service life will be short.
Summary
This article has expanded the issues of the characteristics of the tank washing machine. As you can see, the manufacturing material is of great importance.
From the above it can be concluded that the most common and optimal type of washing machines are those that are equipped with a plastic drum.
In any case, an expert characteristic will help to objectively assess the price-quality ratio of the proposed units. In general, understanding the differences between the technique made of various types of materials, the consumer will be more confident and will be able to choose a product that will serve for a long and reliable time.
See also:
Is the tank made of metal? It turns out that stainless steel is not metal? It is very unfortunate that such a serious website contains an illiterate text.
Good day! Undoubtedly, stainless steel is an alloy of several metals, mainly (chromium and iron). But the article is not about metals, but about the varieties of the washing machine tank. On sale there are washing machines with a tank made of "Stainless steel, Plastic (also metal-plastic) and Enamelled metal".