Activator-type washing machine: types and rating of the best!

Updated: 04/22/2021 17:10:58

Expert: Vladislav Samoshkin

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Unfortunately, not everyone can afford to buy and install a stationary washing machine with a vertical or front-loading type. Some people don’t have enough money for this, and they don’t want to take out a loan at all. Others have too little space in their apartment even for a narrow model. Still others are planning to buy a washing machine for their dacha, but transporting a stationary model there is difficult and pointless. That's why we decided to introduce you to the best activator washing machines. These are real little ones that don’t require much effort to transport. Such a device will be useful both at the dacha and in the hostel.

What is this?

Activator machines are those in which the detergent drives a paddle disk, which is made of durable material. Blades, in turn, are called convex ribs.

The working disk itself is called an activator. It is usually located on the bottom of the washing machine, but sometimes on one of the side walls. Such a disk rotates in three ways: with pauses in one or different directions, or with reversal, but without pauses.

Conclusion

An activator type washing machine is suitable for :

• For those who have a limited budget and want to save money on the purchase and then on repairs.
• For those who need a machine for their dacha or for washing large quantities of overalls, rags and rags, for example, owners of cleaning companies.
• Those who have little space in the kitchen or bathroom and need a device that is lightweight and compact in size.

An activator type washing machine will not work :

• For those who need to wash delicate clothes, the quality of the wash is generally important.
• For those who do not have the opportunity to heat water separately for the washing machine.
• For those who value comfort and do not want to waste time manually pouring water and then spinning clothes.

Tips for washing machine owners:

• How to clean the drain filter in a washing machine: step-by-step instructions
• How to remove stains that the machine cannot remove?

Types of machines with activator

Activator-type washing machines are divided by the number of tanks: single-tank and double-tank.

A machine with one tank performs all the intended functionality in one container, and with two tanks it separates these operations - washing takes place in one, drying in the other.

In addition to the tanks and activators already described, washing machines are provided with a relay or other similar device, with the help of which the operating period of the washing drum, the activator itself, the drying centrifuge and the pump that pumps out the liquid is set.

In the simplest models of machines, a level gauge is installed inside the tanks, designed to control the filling of the working cavity, taking into account the washing mode.

Based on the type of control systems, activator machines are divided into electromechanical and electronic. Mechanics are more affordable and more reliable in operation, because... It is not equipped with complex components or programming devices.

Electronics are more expensive, more vulnerable to breakdowns, but much more convenient to use.

Based on the degree of automation, machines with an activator are conventionally divided into:

• The simplest models . These are electromechanically controlled cars. They have a tank, an activator and a rudimentary type of time relay. Most models do not provide a spin, and if they do, it is a device with two rubberized rollers and a drive handle.
• Semi-automatic devices . Includes washing tub and spin dryer. The electric motors of the activator and centrifuge are driven by a time relay. The activator is activated through a V-belt drive, the centrifuge basket through an elastic coupling.
• Automata . They come with one or two tanks. Perform laundry processing operations according to programs that take into account the type of fabric and degree of contamination. All processes in them are automated; there is an electronic control panel to select the required procedure.

Machines with an activator operated in the United States are connected to pipelines with hot and cold water. In them, as in the simplest models, there are no heating elements for preparing water for washing, which significantly reduces energy consumption.

In the simplest machines with an activator, only washing is performed by mechanical rotation of the working medium with laundry inside the tank. To start the wash, you just need to switch the relay toggle switch on the control panel. It is not necessary to connect them to the water supply system: it is easier to fill them with water through a hose, focusing on the level gauge.

Upon completion of the wash, the soapy water is drained through a hose connected to the bottom of the tank into the sewer. In automatic machines, the pumping process is stimulated by a pump. All models are equipped with filters to retain fabric lint, hair, animal fur, threads, etc.

Operating principle and features of the activator washing machine

The activator machine consists of the following structural elements:

1. Control panel with washing modes.
2. Washing tank.
3. Activator.
4. Engine.

The operating principle of such machines is as follows: the engine rotates the shaft on which the activator is located, and it, in turn, rotates the laundry in the washing solution (water + powder). Then the dirty water is drained and new water is poured in for rinsing.

Depending on the design, the role of the activator can be a bladed rod ( 1 ), similar to a drill, or an activator-impeller ( 2 ). Most modern devices have an impeller, since it allows you to load more laundry than the rod, and its washing efficiency is higher. It can be located in the middle or side of a horizontal bottom, or in the middle of an inclined bottom.

For example, in the Snow White HRB 3000S , the activator is located in the middle of the horizontal bottom, but to prevent the formation of a funnel, the tank has ribs that break the funnel.

There are models that additionally have a centrifuge for spinning. After washing and rinsing, the items must be transferred to the next compartment, into a centrifuge, which will squeeze out the water. True, you cannot choose the spin speed - it is always the same for all types of laundry. But even inexpensive models have a fairly high spin speed. the Slavda WS-80PET model has a spin speed of 1350 rpm - not every machine is capable of this.

The design of certain units can be equipped with a filter to collect lint and fluff. Basically, this filter does not protect the washing machine itself, but the place where the water will drain. For example, if you drain water into a bathtub (there is no separate drain into the sewer), the filter will catch most of the lint and threads, and the siphon under the bathtub will not clog.

Scope of application

The specifics of installing and connecting washing machines with an activator are determined by the technical complexity of the units and the degree of contamination of the laundry.
The machines, which most often include a drying chamber, weigh about 70–100 kg. They are installed and connected according to a stationary circuit for continuous operation.

The simplest electromechanical and semi-automatic models weigh on average 10–25 kg, which is their undeniable advantage. Lightness is actually a guarantee of mobility, making it possible to take them with you out of town in the summer for use in the country, or to easily transport them to a new apartment for those who do not yet have permanent housing.

Expert opinion

Borodina Galina Valerievna

Lightweight washing equipment is a real godsend for young parents. It washes in literally a couple of tens of minutes. Using electromechanical washing machines with an activator, you can quickly and easily tidy up baby clothes and diapers, eliminate the formation of stubborn stains, and always have fresh washed clothes in stock.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The promotional video will introduce you to the proven advantages of miniature washing machines with an activator:

It cannot be said that activator-type washing machines are really in demand in the CIS countries. For a long time no one has considered them as the main unit for home washing. But they can be an excellent help for young families and fans of country life in the summer.

Please leave feedback in the block form below, post photographs and ask questions about the topic of the article. Tell us about your own experience in choosing and operating a machine with an activator. Share useful information and subtleties of using washing equipment with site visitors.

Advantages

In addition to priority mobility and the ability to use activator machines without connecting to communications, there are a number of positive qualities that cannot be ignored, these are:

• Low water consumption . This is also a relative criterion. Only electromechanical varieties with a washing tank load of 1 - 4 kg of dry laundry consume little. Stationary machines with dryers do laundry like mini-laundries, and consume water according to their status.
• Reliability of operation . In the assembly of machines with an electromechanical control type, elementary mechanical devices and components are used. Situations that can disable them rarely arise.
• Undemanding to detergents . Electromechanical units with an activator “accept” any type of powder, including hand washing detergents. Loading them into foam-sensitive electronic equipment is not recommended.

• Saving electricity . Washing machine tanks are filled with already heated water, which significantly reduces costs. True, in the assortment offered for sale there are also models with heating elements, in this case the economic effect will come from the fact that a relatively small volume of water needs to be heated.
• Extremely short washing time . The period for processing laundry in equipment with an activator varies from 5 to 30 minutes. Equipment owners have the opportunity to choose the optimal time mode and run the machine several times without the long breaks that electronic types require.

What washing machine do you use?

DrumActivator

How to choose an activator spinning machine

If you decide to buy a semi-automatic machine, then pay attention to the following points:

• Energy class. Possible options are A, B, C, D, the most economical of which are class A and higher.
• Washing class - A, B, C. As in the first case, class A is the most effective in removing contaminants.
• Tank material: plastic or stainless steel. The first is cheaper and more practical, the second is more durable.
• Maximum load. It all depends on the conditions of further use: for a summer house a model with a load of up to 4 kg is quite suitable; for a home it is better to choose a machine with a larger capacity.

All the points described above will affect the cost of the equipment. The better the quality and more features, the higher the price.

Flaws

The indisputable advantages of washing machines with an activator do not deprive them of their disadvantages, the list of which includes:

• Top loading . Machines with an activator are produced exclusively with top loading, which is why they cannot be built into furniture kitchen sets.
• Need for manual work . Activator washing technology requires the participation of owners in the spinning and rinsing processes. If the unit is not connected to water supply lines, then temperature preparation and water supply are also carried out manually.

• Limitations in washing modes . Owners of electromagnetic models have only a timer at their disposal, with which they set the washing and drying period if the equipment is equipped with a centrifuge. Electronically controlled cars also have few programs.

Rating of the best models

FAIRY SMP-40N

• Country Russia

• Average price : 4990 rub.

According to many buyers, this is one of the best activator washing machines. The domestic brand has been familiar to users for a very long time and inspires their trust. In addition, the model boasts advanced functionality. Unlike most similar washing machines, it has an additional delicate wash program. The rest of the characteristics are standard - 4 kg load, the ability to add laundry during the washing process.

The characteristics of the washing machine are superior to all other similar models, but reviews about it are contradictory. Users are divided into two camps - some rate it an A, others show complete disappointment. Among the positive reviews there is information about the excellent quality of washing and spinning (1300 rpm), and noiselessness. Among the negative comments you can find complaints about quick breakdown and a short inlet hose.

SNOW WHITE XPB 3000S

• Country Russia

• Average price : 2972 ​​rub.

A very compact, nice activator washing machine, made in blue. A distinctive feature is the transparent tank, thanks to which you can observe the washing process. The model does not differ in any special technical characteristics; it is a standard activator machine. The big advantage is the low price.

Although not all users agree with this. In the reviews, many write that the machine is very light, compact and convenient. Despite its modest dimensions and characteristics, it washes clothes perfectly. This is the best option for a dacha or summer country house. But there are also unpleasant moments. The obvious ones are a short cord and hose, too thin plastic of the tank, which can crack under increased loads.

SLAVDA WS-30ET

• Country Russia

• Average price : 2850 rub.

If an activator washing machine is purchased for periodic, infrequent washing of small amounts of laundry, you can consider the cheapest and most compact option. The model from the Slavda company has small dimensions (41x33x64 cm) and holds only 3 kg of laundry. At the same time, it is possible to reload it during the washing process. The appearance of the machine is quite nice and modern. The manufacturer's model has a one-year warranty.

Judging by the number of reviews, this model is quite popular among buyers. They consider it an excellent option for a summer residence, highlighting the following advantages - compactness, compatibility with any detergents, low price, minimal water consumption, good washing quality. Additional advantages of the model include quiet operation, ease of operation and a not too long washing cycle.

VOLTEK RAINBOW SM-5 WHITE

• Country Russia

• Average price : 4280 rub.

Very compact activator washing machine (49x42x73 cm) with a load of 5 kg. Among the useful functions, we can note the possibility of reloading laundry already during the washing process. The model does not have an exquisite design, but it performs its tasks properly. This is a good option for small country houses, when compact dimensions and low water consumption for washing are required. In addition, the machine is quite light - it weighs only 10 kg.

The model can hardly be called the most popular, but many people use it and write in reviews about the good quality of washing, durability and reliability of the equipment. One small drawback is that the handles for draining and turning on the washing machine are not made of the highest quality plastic, so you need to handle them carefully.

RENOVA WAT-60PT

• Country : Russia (manufactured in China)

• Average price : 6345 rub.

One of the most worthy models among the limited range of activator washing machines. It has a fairly large load of 6 kg, is equipped with a drain pump and a multipulsator. It has relatively small dimensions (74x43x91 cm) and looks quite nice compared to old-style models. The controls are extremely simple, the functions are minimal - washing, spinning.

Studying reviews about the washing machine, you can see that user opinions differ widely. Some are completely satisfied with the spaciousness, quality of washing, spinning and the equipment itself in general. They believe that it is not worth asking more from an inexpensive activator machine. Other users express dissatisfaction with the noisy operation, vibration, and the need to take breaks between wash cycles.

After studying this article, you can easily choose a suitable washing machine.

What to look for when purchasing?

When choosing such a device, you should consider a number of important factors:

• efficiency;
• volume and dimensions;
• tank material;
• washing class;
• availability of additional functions;
• permissible load;
• price.

An important criterion for selecting any household appliance is the level of electricity consumption. The most economical models belong to class A, followed by units of class B and C, the operation of which requires greater electrical current consumption.

Having low weight, semi-automatic machines are easy to transport, thanks to which they can be taken to the country using a personal car or other type of transport

You should also pay attention to the washing class, which is also indicated in Latin letters: A - indicates the highest quality, and G - the worst. The load on the device depends on the number of people in the family, as well as on the conditions in which it is intended to be used.

If the machine is purchased for occasional washing at the dacha or as a backup option for the home, a small model designed to process 2.5-4 kg of items is sufficient. If you intend to constantly use the washing machine, it is appropriate to purchase a unit with a large capacity.

Semi-automatic machines are distinguished by their rather modest size and light weight, while single-tank models weigh less than double-tank ones. If you plan to periodically transport the device, for example, to a country house, first of all you need to consider compact models with a durable body.

The main part of this equipment is the tank, for the manufacture of which stainless steel or plastic is used. The first option is distinguished by its reliability and long service life, which affects the increased price of the machine. Models equipped with polymer tanks are much cheaper, but require careful maintenance and careful handling.

Some modifications of semi-automatic machines are equipped with additional functions, for example, water heating. This option is especially useful if there is no hot water supply.

Although a semi-automatic machine with two compartments is more expensive and weighs more than analogues with one tank, this technique is much more convenient

Machines can also be equipped with filters, have special modes (for delicate fabrics, wool), and oxygen washing. It is necessary to take into account that the presence of additional functions directly affects the cost of the device.

When purchasing, you should use the following algorithm:

1. Consider the volume of items you plan to wash in the machine, as well as what features might be useful to you. Based on these criteria, as well as the information provided earlier, select a model.
2. When purchasing in a regular store, inspect the unit for external defects, check how tightly the laundry tank closes.
3. Also inspect the hose and other items included in the package.
4. To check that the machine is working properly, ask the seller to plug it into the network.

It is also advisable to inquire about the terms of the warranty and the availability of service centers.