A top load washing machine cleans clothes by using either an agitator or an impeller to create a washing motion within a tub filled with water and detergent.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Two Main Types of Top Load Washers
Top load washing machines primarily differ in how they create the washing action:
-
Agitator Washers: These washers have a central post, called an agitator, located in the middle of the wash basket. The agitator typically has fins or paddles. It twists back and forth, rubbing the clothes against each other and against the sides of the tub to loosen dirt and stains. This provides a robust and traditional cleaning method.
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Impeller Washers: Impeller washers feature a low-profile cone, fins, or disc at the bottom of the wash basket. Instead of a central post, the impeller spins and rotates, creating a gentler washing action that rubs clothes against each other. This design often allows for larger wash loads because there is more usable space in the drum.
The Washing Process (Regardless of Agitator/Impeller Type)
While the method of creating the washing motion differs, the overall washing process is similar for both types of top load washers:
- Loading the Clothes: Clothes are loaded into the wash basket from the top.
- Adding Detergent and Water: Detergent is added (either directly into the drum or into a dispenser), and the machine fills the tub with water to the appropriate level.
- The Wash Cycle:
- For agitator washers, the agitator twists back and forth, creating friction and forcing water and detergent through the clothes.
- For impeller washers, the impeller spins, creating currents and gently rubbing the clothes together.
- Draining the Dirty Water: Once the wash cycle is complete, the dirty water is drained from the tub.
- Rinsing: The tub is filled with clean water, and the clothes are rinsed to remove any remaining detergent and dirt.
- Spinning: The washer spins the wash basket at high speed to extract water from the clothes. This reduces the drying time.
- Unloading the Clothes: The clean, damp clothes are removed from the machine and transferred to a dryer.
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | Agitator Washer | Impeller Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Action | More aggressive rubbing action | Gentler rubbing action |
| Capacity | Typically smaller loads | Can handle larger loads |
| Space Usage | Less usable space due to the agitator | More usable space in the drum |
| Gentleness | Can be harsher on clothes | Gentler on clothes |
In summary, top load washing machines clean clothes by agitating them in water and detergent using either a central agitator or a bottom-mounted impeller, followed by rinsing and spinning to remove water.
