Typically, when purchasing a washing machine for a summer residence, consumers give preference to units with the following characteristics:
low cost;
high efficiency class;
reliability;
the presence of a service center near the locality.
In addition to the listed characteristics, the parameters of the equipment must be compatible with the original data of the home - then you will be able to obtain the ideal device for use.
If you have an uninterrupted supply of water and electricity, choose an automatic machine with a standard set of functions and a high washing class - a necessary quality for any unit. It is designated by letters from A to G, where A corresponds to the highest class. It is better not to choose a machine lower than class B. Of course, devices with washing classes C and D cope with stains better than hand washing, but this may not be enough for country house use.
An important selection criterion is the energy efficiency of the device. If you want to purchase budget equipment for your dacha, you can choose a washing machine with class B or C. Considering the frequency of use of the device (only a few months a year), you will in any case save both on its cost and on electricity bills.
The maximum drum load is determined by the size of the washing machine. In practice, most owners of country houses need a compact model with a load of 3.5-4 kg. The control panels of modern units are highly functional and can perform all necessary tasks. You should not choose equipment with extensive functionality - this will reduce dependence on sudden voltage changes and a decrease in water pressure.
Another important selection criterion is the washing machine tank. It is made of steel or plastic. Devices with a steel tank are overpriced, and the element itself can cause an increase in noise levels. A plastic tank is more reliable and practical, it does not corrode and suppresses vibrations.
Popular due to low water consumption, large loading volumes and gentle treatment of clothing. It was thanks to large front-loading washing machines that home washing of small rugs or, say, bedspreads and large tablecloths became possible. In addition, cars of this type are the first to receive all the new exciting features and technologies. Some models can even be stacked on top of each other to save space.
Slightly cheaper than horizontal loading models. In most cases, they are not too different from their counterparts from the first category and have many modes, touch screens, and so on. The main subjective disadvantage is the impossibility of storing various items on such a machine, since the top cover must be opened every time you wash it. But there is also a plus - such machines require less space, since the lid opens upwards rather than to the side.
Very cheap washing machines that do not use a drum with holes for washing, but a container with moving blades. Traditional, reliable and not overly burdened with functions, models in which laundry is loaded through an open lid on top. Quite efficient and usually don't use much electricity, but they do use more water. By the way, this design requires manual filling of water, but this is its advantage - an activator washing machine can, for example, be used in the country. In addition, the sizes of activator machines vary greatly, and one can be selected for any room.
If the country house is equipped with sewerage and water supply, there will be no problems with choosing and connecting the machine. Any standard unit will do. Everything becomes more complicated if water supply or drainage, or even both, are missing. But even in this case, you can install an automatic machine, although it will have some design features.
Water in this type of machine is supplied from a reservoir, which is filled before starting the wash cycle. Considering that there is no pressure in the water supply, it needs to be compensated somehow. Therefore, the machines have a more powerful pump that supplies liquid to the tank. In some models, the tank is equipped with another pump to pump water into the container. The drainage is carried out into the sewer system, or, if there is none, into a special tank connected to the unit.
The latest models of machines are complemented by systems for monitoring the amount of water used, which is very useful for the consumer. The main disadvantage of such machines is their impressive dimensions, especially if the water tank is attached to the side of the body. The disadvantages include the need to constantly monitor the liquid level in the tank so that the washing cycle does not stop.
Determine your needs. Any washing machine can wash your clothes well; the main differences between different models are in the functions and parameters. Are you going to wash large volumes of dirty clothes - how many people are in your family? Does anyone in your family play professional sports? How are you going to dry your laundry? Answering these and other questions will make your choice easier.
Take a closer look at new technologies. Washing machines are constantly improving: in recent years they have begun to use touch screens, advanced sensors and steam. Try to understand how important these technologies are to you.
Set a budget for your purchase. This is obvious: if you are planning to buy an inexpensive compact machine for a small bathroom, do not look at expensive and bulky models that cost twice as much and are unlikely to find their place in your home without sacrificing comfort. Remember that the washing machine should last you a very long time - approximately 10-12 years.
Unlike the city, in the country there is an acute problem with running water and electricity, as well as with the problem of draining soapy water.
It cannot be poured into the garden, otherwise all the plants will die. In addition, it is necessary to ensure the supply of the required amount of water, since simply bringing water in a bucket from a common well will not work.
Another unusual but effective option would be to purchase automatic machines with an additional tank.
Instead of connecting the device to a water supply or a common tank, a separate tank is used. Water from there goes only to the machine, without being spent on other needs.
The volume of such a tank can reach 100 liters - this is enough for 1-2 full washes. You can top it up in any convenient way.
The disadvantages of such models include their size. It is necessary to decide in advance where it will stand and how the water will flow - nevertheless, a lot of it will be required.