What is direct drive washing machine? It is something you will be asking a lot more about in times today. As the washing machine is an all-important home appliance for most homes, it is no surprise that this is an ever-evolving technology. Manufacturers are forever in the quest to improve the washing machine experience for the users. Aspects like noise-reduction, anti-vibration, and quick wash are some of the aspects that are constantly being improvised upon. So, what does direct drive mean on a washing machine? Let us find out more:
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What Is Direct Drive Technology In Washing Machine?
The Direct-Drive technology involves the direct attachment of the drive motor to the drum. This is quite a contrast to the traditional belt-driven washing machine we have known so far. An electric motor powers this belt and pulley system. The internal mechanism comprises a network that operates the gears to work in sync to spin the drum, and hence, the washing action is put to place.
The Hundred per cent direct drive technology is simple to start with. This system comprises a tub that directly sits atop an operating motor. This way, the machine comprises fewer parts to deal with, hence better performance and less of wearing down of parts. Also, this machine type is more reliable on a long-term basis. This brings us to the question what is LG’s direct drive? Currently, the electronics giant LG has been the first company to mass manufacture the direct drive washing machine. The Horizontal-axis drive washer made its debut in the US. In the year 1998, the LG Wash & Dry Combo with SenseClean was launched in the US market. However, the model is available from independent retailers across the globe.
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The Energy Issue
The direct-drive technology differs from the belt and pulley system a great deal when it comes to saving energy. This is essential because it ‘senses’ the load within and hence executes the electricity requirements. This means you can save electricity if your load is less. Likewise, it ‘pulls in the required amount of electricity if and when the load is more. However, the same amount of energy is used for operation in the traditional washing machine, despite the load within.
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It's Tangled
We all simply hate removing tangled clothes from the washer; most traditional machines have us encounter the issue. This is because the mechanical weight is ‘pressed’ on the fabric load nearest to the agitator. Well, not anymore. The revolutionary direct-drive technology ensures that the clothes do not end up tangled at the end of the wash. This is because the dirt is eliminated due to the back and forth rotation of the drum. Hence there is no need for the agitator. Hence, the most damaging part of the washing machine is removed.
The Noise Factor
We are all accustomed to the rocket-launch type noise of the traditional washing machine. This is basically due to the belt and pulley structure of the traditional washing machine. Hence this also lends to the asymmetrical and unbalanced nature of the appliance, hence all that noise. However, in the case of the direct drive technology, the motor and shaft are directly connected to the basin. Hence making the entire structure symmetrical and thus, eliminating unwanted noise.
The Advantages Of The Direct Drive Technology
What is direct drive washer? It is a ton of advantages to starting with. Let us examine a few:
- Is a much silent version with very little noise production as compared to the traditional washing machine.
- The manufacturers place warranties on the motor as it tends to last longer in comparison. Also, the major aspect of wear and tear has been eliminated; hence the motor lasts longer.
- The tub size is larger as compared to the traditional washing machine.
- As this system has a larger RPM hence less time your clothes spend in the spin, hence less time taken to complete the entire wash cycle.
- The performance is balanced.
The Disadvantages of the Direct Drive Technology
Just like everything else, the direct-drive technology also has its own set of disadvantages:
- The electronic controls used in the direct drive technology can be a bit sensitive in comparison.
- The repairs of this technology type are expensive and also time taking as the spare parts are hard to find.
- This machine type is comparatively more expensive.
How To Choose The Right Machine?
Just like clothes, not all size fits all. This applies the same to the washing machine. Hence it is advised to select the right size according to the number of members of your family:
For 1-3 members —- 6.5 kg
For 4-6 members —- 7.5 kg
For more than 6 members — 8 kg
There are also other factors that you need to take charge of before buying a washing machine:
- Your budget: be sure to get a nice machine in your budget. There are lots of sales and discounts also to help you out.
- The electric consumption: There might be a certain model that will not fetch you long-term savings, despite being a budget-buy. Be sure to calculate the electric consumption of a machine before you buy it.
- The Space: One of the major aspects to consider is the space you have to spare for your washing machine. While the best model might be just the thing for you, however, be sure to figure out where you are going to set it up. The outlet and inlets should also be considered.
What is Direct Drive Washing Machine?: The Conclusion
What is direct drive motor washing machine? Well, we know that it is a lot more than just a heap of tech junk. There is plenty to watch out for when we have the Direct Drive technology at our side. It also means fewer moving parts, shorter wash cycles, and better efficiency. As the belt and pulley are eliminated, this machine type comprises lesser moving parts. Hence we have less to worry about. Whatever your requirements might be, it is advisable to weigh our pros better to benefit the most from this ingenious technology.