How Does A Top-Load Washer Work?
Tools
These are some common tools used to work on this device. You might not need every tool for every procedure.
Background and Identification
A washing machine (laundry machine, clothes washer, or washer) is a machine to wash laundry, such as clothing and sheets. The term is mostly applied only to machines that use water as opposed to dry cleaning (which uses alternative cleaning fluids, and is performed by specialist businesses) or ultrasonic cleaners. Washing entails immersing, dipping, rubbing, or scrubbing in water usually accompanied by detergent, or bleach.
The simplest machines may simply agitate clothes in water while switched on; automatic machines may fill, empty, wash, spin, and heat in a cycle. Most washing machines remove substantial amounts of water from the laundry at the end of a wash cycle, but do not completely dry it.
Types
- Top-loading
- Front-loading
Parts Terms
| Concept | Description |
|---|---|
| Timer | An electomechanical device referred to as the "brain" of the automatic washer because it controls all switch operations for all functions except start-up. |
| Motor | Drives or turns the transmission or power train to provide power for agitation and spin motion. |
| Transmission | Converts motor power into directional control of agitate and spin functions including reciprocating back and forth motion for agitation. |
| Water Pump | Pumps water from the tub and may also recirculate the water in the tub by pulling it from the bottom of the tub and dumping it back in at the top. |
| Water Pressure or Water Level Switch | Controls the water level in the tub. |