Most problems people are experiencing with their front load
washers are due to consumer misunderstandings about how the
machine should operate. Actual problems are rare, rather than
inherent.
Anyone who purchases a front loader will find they have to do
something that seems completely unbelievable to most North
Americans. They will have to actually read the operating manual.
We all seem to believe we come pre-programmed knowing the proper
way to operate washing machines. Our mother took five minutes
one day to show us the proper way to do a washing, therefore we
don’t need to learn any more. Wrong! Front loading washing
machines are a whole new breed.
The first thing to understand about front loaders is that most
require a special detergent to operate properly. It is a low
suds detergent, often referred to as “he” detergent. It means
high efficiency. Tide produces a HE detergent, as does Gain and
Sunlight.
Do not be tempted to use regular detergent. It will produce too
much suds for a front loader. Excess suds in a front loader will
interfere with its whole washing process.
Suds are basically air bubbles and by themselves do not clean
anything. Excess suds in a front loader simply lay on top of the
water, creating a cushion or barrier between the water and the
clothing.
While its top load cousin submerses the clothes in water this
machine does not. It works by picking up the clothes and then
dropping then into the water. Excess suds will actually stop the
clothes from reaching the water. Rather than dropping into water
the clothes will hit the suds and not get through to the water
below. So if the clothes rarely touch the water a poor wash will
result.
Compounding this misunderstanding are sales people. Some are
falsely informing customers that a front loader will operate
with any type of detergent.
The second consideration is that they seem to work better using
a hot or warm wash temperature. A cold rinse is fine, but for
the wash temperature warm or hot is better.
Again let me refer to the European models. They usually have a
built in water heater to maintain wash and rinse temperatures.
In North America we use household water tanks for hot water. For
cold water we depend upon the ground water temperature. This
means our washing temperatures can vary drastically depending
upon the season. If the water temperature entering the machine
is too cold the detergent will not dissolve. This can cause a
buildup of detergent inside the working surfaces of the machine.
Can you do a cold-water wash? Yes, of course. If you need to
wash delicates (lingerie or blouses) or other items in cold
water go right ahead. For everyday (bedding, whites, permanent
press) washing though the hot or warm wash, followed by a cold
rinse will give the best overall results.
This problem has been recognized by manufacturers. Many are now
adding a temperature sensor that will mix the hot and cold water
to compensate for the ground water effects.
Lastly, poor washing practices can lead to odours from these
machines. Do not leave wet clothes in them overnight. Do not
allow dirt or grime to build up around the door or rubber boot
where the clothes are inserted. It may even be a good idea to
leave the door open slightly after using the washer. This allows
the interior to dry. If there are small children in your home
then wipe the interior dry when finished washing – then lock the
door.
Also, it will be to your advantage to properly measure laundry
products when using this type machine. Follow the manufactures
suggestions about amounts and types of products. If unsure,
contact the manufacturer. Most have a customers service
department or website that can answer all your queries.
It is my experience that North Americans tend to be sloppy
washers. That is, we do not read instructions (men are much
worse than women), measure, or use much care about household
activities. Therefore, using a front loader washing machine may
require a rethinking for consumers.
So if a front load washing machine is in your future be prepared
to re-learn a few laundry practices. A small effort and an open
mind will result in many years of trouble-free washing. And
welcome to the 21st century.
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