Tasks of filtering water for washing
The machine has a regular mesh installed near the inlet hose, which catches coarse mechanical impurities, which is clearly not enough. This device is not intended for removing rust and small particles.
Additional filters can be installed:
- on the main line that supplies water to the entire apartment;
- on the water supply pipe to the washing machine.
The water filter is used for the following purposes:
- cleaning from impurities that clog the mesh in the machine and block the supply of incoming water;
- removal of rust, sand and other abrasive particles that cause rapid wear of the drain pump;
- softening water to prevent the formation of scale on heating elements, drums and other metal surfaces, as well as to improve the quality of washing things.
Is it necessary or not?
It is believed that if the water supplied through the main water supply complies with GOST, then additional filters for domestic needs are not required.
But before it reaches the consumer, water:
- runs kilometers of pipes,
- enriched with rust,
- filled with mechanical and biological impurities.
In addition, mineral salts, which form scale, are not dangerous to humans, but are guaranteed to damage household appliances. During washing, mechanical impurities will settle on linen and clothes and get into food and drink.
Only cleaning it from contaminants will help minimize the costs of repairing household appliances, their wear and treatment of diseases caused by drinking tap water.
Pros of use:
- improving water quality;
- reducing the cost of repairing and updating devices.
There are few disadvantages to using filters for washing machines, and they depend on the type of device used to purify water in the household.
Common ones include:
- installation costs;
- the possibility of leakage due to poor-quality plastic of the flask and threaded connections;
- the need to periodically buy fillers and gaskets for the correct operation of the device.
A filter is needed. Which one to use is decided individually and depends on the condition of the water supplied to the household and the financial capabilities of the consumer.
Do they soften the water?
Not all models of flow filters can influence the hardness index. However, even chemical types of purification devices can minimize the impact of water with a high percentage of salt content.
After chemical or electromagnetic treatment, salts lose their ability to form solid deposits. Such water is no longer capable of causing significant harm to the mechanisms and
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Additional filters
Additional filters have various biochemical effects on water; in everyday life, these devices are called water softening filters. They serve to reduce iron levels and water hardness. Based on the type of impact on water, they are divided into several categories.
Polyphosphate
A salt filter for a washing machine is used to soften water. It is a flask filled with large transparent crystals of sodium polyphosphate, similar in appearance to table salt. Upon contact with the filler in water, complex biochemical processes occur that prevent the creation of deposits on the heating elements. Based on the type of impact, the device is called an anti-scale filter for washing machines.
The liquid that passes through the flask of this filter does not form scale - the dishwasher, washing machine, and boiler will last much longer. After passing through this device, water can be used exclusively for technical purposes. Crystals are added to the transparent tube as they dissolve, but their total amount should not be less than half the flask.
For deferrization of water
Iron can be contained in water in divalent and trivalent forms. Valency can be determined in a simple way - leave a filled glass container in the sun for several days. If a rusty coating appears on the walls, it means the iron is in the trivalent state.
Iron removal is carried out at central water supply stations; in households with their own source, an individual device can be installed. These devices are bulky and require the involvement of specialists for installation and subsequent filling with reagents. Passing through the filter flask, the water changes from a 3-valent to a 2-valent state and rust on bathtubs and sinks disappears. The iron content does not affect the washing machine.
Magnetic
You can soften water by using a magnetic type of filtration device. By influencing the liquid flowing through the pipe with a magnetic field, this water filter for the washing machine changes its structure and binds calcite, which forms a dense salt deposit on the heating elements. Ordered molecules dissolve washing powder better and push out dirt bound by fabric fibers.
Fresh water from natural sources, like tap water, is rarely suitable for domestic use without additional modifications. Installing an anti-scale filter for washing machines or other post-treatment devices is economically justified; it extends the service life of the SMA and other household devices.
Advantages of installing a filter for a washing machine
A number of models of washing machines have a built-in coarse cleaning mechanism, mainly located near the drain hose mount. Large debris gets into it - threads, buttons and other small elements, but it is not able to retain small particles of debris, impurities, or purify rusty water. Additional filters come in two types:
- to purify water immediately before washing. Mostly installed separately on a pipe leading only to the machine;
- common for the apartment - purifies all tap water.
Water purification filter
Replaceable polyphosphate backfill
Installing an additional water filter, despite its high cost, is an economically beneficial purchase, as it helps to increase the life of the washing machine:
- prevents impurities from getting inside that can clog the internal filter. Because of this, the pressure decreases and the machine cannot consume water.
- cleans water from rust and sand, the ingress of which can reduce the service life of the drain pump.
- Some devices can change water hardness.
In addition, if purified water is used, washing is more effective.
Types of cleaning systems
Household cleaning systems vary in shape, cleaning methods and type of installation. Before purchasing them, you need to find out the main problems with water and select the appropriate filter material. If sediment from mechanical impurities and rust forms, a main filter should be installed for the entire apartment. If you have hard water, you need a softener in front of the washing machine.
Polyphosphate
Such modules are used only for technical needs (washing clothes, washing dishes), since a substance dissolves in water, making it impossible to use for drinking. Sodium polyphosphate granules are placed in the flask. When water passes through, they gradually dissolve and form complexes with hardness salts and rust, making them water-soluble. In addition, a film is formed on metal surfaces that prevents scale deposition.
If there is a sufficient amount of softeners in the washing powder, a polyphosphate filter is not needed, although with very hard water it will always be useful in terms of reducing the consumption of detergents.
The system is installed after the tap in front of the machine, and all incoming water passes through it. Maintenance consists of periodically adding the reagent to the flask, which is easy to do yourself.
Ion exchange, sorption and magnetic filters are also suitable for softening, and the last two can be used for drinking water.
Trunk
The main filter is used to filter all tap water in the apartment. It can be designed for coarse filtration (mesh), fine purification (cartridge), for water softening (magnetic). The device is installed after the water meter with a tap.
- The mesh filter traps large particles, thereby extending the life of many household appliances. Its service life is unlimited; only periodic washing of the mesh is necessary. Often used as a pre-filter before a fine cleaning system.
- A cartridge filter can have several stages of cleaning; replaceable cartridges are selected depending on the needs and quality of the water.
- The magnetic filter creates an electromagnetic field that facilitates the dissolution of chemicals and softening of water. The advantage of a magnetic filter is that it does not need to be embedded into existing communications. Simply attach it to the top of the inlet hose.
The industry produces mesh filters similar to main ones, but with a lower capacity and smaller dimensions. Such a device can be placed directly in front of the machine. The ideal option would be to install a softening filter after it. The fine filter is not installed separately for the washing machine, since this is not necessary.
Water softener for washing machine
There are many methods used to reduce the hardness of water in the machine, but the most accessible is a small magnetic ball. It works directly in the drum when washing things.
A strong magnet softens hard water, and scale particles are crushed and discharged into the drain. This device works for more than 25 years and does not require replacement or cleaning.
Traditional methods of water softening
To soften hard water in the washing machine, you can add a small amount of citric acid to the washing powder. For one process, two tablespoons of acid per wash will be enough.
Regular rock salt reduces the level of calcium and magnesium salts. In a specialized store you can buy it in the form of tablets or granules, but its composition is no different from table salt.
Use of chemicals
In household chemical stores you can purchase products in tablets and powders - such as Calgon, Finich and others. They are used according to the instructions. Protective powders must be used every time the equipment is used.
How to clean the drain and fill filter
Initially, in all washing machines, for their productive and safe operation, the manufacturer already provides two factory filters:
- filler (or inlet) - installed immediately after the inlet pipe;
- drain (or outlet), which removes water after a rinse wash.
Let's look at the design and maintenance features of each filter.
Overview of the inlet cleaner and its service
The inlet filter is mounted at the junction of the inlet hose with the machine. And at the very bottom of the device there is a drain filter; in various models it is located either on the left or on the right and is covered with a special rectangular cover.
Its main function is to retain large and medium-sized debris, which can cause malfunction or breakdown of the machine.
The instructions for the washing machine say that you need to call a specialist to clean the filters. But if the user is familiar with the tools, he will be able to perform these simple steps independently.
The inlet filter is cleaned in all brands and models according to the same principle - you need to carefully remove the thimble-like device using pliers
First, you need to disconnect the device from the network, turn off the water and free access to the back of the device. Be sure to place a piece of thick rag under the bottom of the washer to prevent water from flowing in there, and carefully unscrew the water-filling hose.
Then carefully remove the cleaner (it looks like a thimble) using tweezers or pliers. It is necessary to rinse the metal filter mesh under running warm water, using a toothbrush to remove dirt.
Then wipe with a rag (do not use a cloth with very long pile). After this, install the part in place and screw the hose.
The procedure for cleaning the drain type of filter
Different brands of laundry appliances differ slightly in design, and drain cleaners also differ.
Indesit washing machines , for example, the drain filter is cleaned in this way:
- You should carefully open the panel located on the left or right bottom of the device;
- remove the inner part by unscrewing the plug counterclockwise;
- After removing dirt and debris, you need to screw the element tightly in a clockwise direction until it stops.
When cleaning the filter of a Samsung , be sure to pay attention to the location of the screw handle.
In some models, for a tight seal, it must be locked in the correct position. If this is not done, water will flow out of the drain cleaner during the wash set.
The inlet mesh filter for purifying water in a washing machine is a small part that, if washed frequently, must be cleaned at least once every 3 months.
You can avoid contamination of the drain filter if you follow simple rules for its operation. It is necessary to wash the part regularly to prevent dirt from accumulating.
If you wash it a couple of times a day or once every 2 days, then it is enough to do only 1 cleaning every 3 months. In addition, you should carefully check pockets and other recesses in dirty laundry to prevent dirt, hair, and small parts from getting into the drum.
Try to use only proven detergents. It is better to test new ones by hand washing, since large particles of powder can only partially dissolve in water and clog the cleaner, especially if the program involves the use of cold water.
Selection rules
When choosing a filter, you should take into account the goals and quality of water used on the farm, and the financial capabilities of the consumer.
General principles of selection
Before purchasing a flow filter, it is advisable to analyze your tap water. Its purpose is to establish the level of hardness and degree of contamination.
If the hardness is at an acceptable value, but the water is heavily polluted, then the best option is a main filter. If you lack finances, you can get by with a deep cleaning device.
By purpose
Water quality is regulated by GOST 51232-98. Indicators of its rigidity are defined in SanPiN 2.1.4.1074–01. The latter states that the maximum mineral salts is 7 mEq/L.
Classifications of water by hardness:
- soft – less than 2°F;
- average – from 2 to 10°F;
- hard – more than 10°F.
The presence of iron and other components that affect hardness indicators can vary depending on the sources used to obtain it from the enterprises that purify it and supply it to consumers.
If the region has soft water, then purifiers are not required. There are enough additives found in washing powders. In this case, prefilters are installed for household appliances, and fine purification systems for drinking water. They will retain mechanical particles, rust, and microorganisms.
If scale forms in the kettle - this is already 4-5 °F - then it is advisable to install specialized cleaning systems for the washing machine. This can be a polyphosphate or prefilter.
If the water quality complies with GOST, but the hardness indicators are close to the maximum values, then it is recommended to install a device for rough cleaning at the entrance to the house, special filters for the washing machine and for drinking needs.
By equipment brand
One of the components of a washing machine, be it Samsung, Indesit, Bosch or others, is the water pump filter.
These parts vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the equipment.
Filters that are installed in water pipelines are universal devices. They purify water regardless of the model and manufacturer of the washing machine.
According to technical characteristics
According to technical characteristics, industrial and household filters are distinguished. A feature of the former is high productivity, which provides a large amount of purified water.
The second has a small throughput capacity, but is sufficient to purify water for domestic needs. For washing machines, flow filters with a capacity of 3000 to 5000 liters are used. The duration of their operation depends on the type of device.
For example , the thread filler of a prefilter will have to be changed once every 3 months, and the polyphosphate filler for water softening will have to be changed on average after 200–400 washes.
Examples of good choices
Let's look at 3 examples:
- In areas with soft water from underground artesian wells, it is enough to install a prefilter from any manufacturer.
- An area with water intake from surface sources , soft water - a pre-filter at the entrance of the water supply pipes to the house, a fine purification device for the drinking water tap.
- Areas with hard water, regardless of the source - a prefilter at the entrance of the water supply pipes to the house, a polyphosphate filter - to soften the water in the washing machine. If desired and financially possible, a reverse osmosis system for drinking water.
Accessories for water treatment
You can get rid of mechanical particles (impurities) only by pre-purifying the water before it enters the washing machine.
In order to reduce the level of hardness and gently protect the machine from scale, use special chemicals during the washing process or prepare the water in advance - soften it.
To solve such problems, it is necessary to install special cleaning filters at the water input.
Coarse filters
In order to reduce the amount of impurities, water must be treated with coarse filters.
One such mesh filter is installed at the entrance to the washing machine, but, unfortunately, the size of the cells of this device, which allow mechanical impurities to pass through, are designed only for large particles, which means that small particles pass through unhindered.
Manufacturers design filters for clean and high-quality water supply conditions. But as a result of the high concentration of impurities, such a filter becomes clogged very quickly.
In such cases, you require additional external coarse filters.
Main filter
The best option is a main filter.
Why is the filter called main? Because it services the main cold water pipeline at the entry point into the apartment. It purifies water from various types of contaminants before it enters the apartment.
The best solution to the above problems is to purchase mesh filters with cell sizes of 50 - 500 micrometers.
This filtration is considered good for household needs.
If you need to purify the water even more (that is, get water even purer than it is and at the same time of good quality), then you should resort to additional water purification.
Interesting! The devices of some main filters purify incoming water not only mechanically, but can also bring it to sanitary standards for certain chemical compositions.
In this embodiment, the filter includes sorption filter parts with activated carbon and parts that use other similar operating principles.
When installing a main filter, additional purification of the incoming water is not required.
If this main filter is not installed at the entrance to your house, then to clean it from mechanical particles, such a filter is mounted in front of the machine.
The sizes will be slightly smaller, and the required cell sizes will be selected according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
In such cases, the structure is installed on the outlet of the water supply system, to which the hose (filler) is directly connected.
Important! In order for your washing assistant to be used without any problems, it is necessary to promptly clean the built-in filters and change cartridges for the same filters for rough cleaning of the individual or main element.
Liquid softeners
In order to prevent large scale formation during the process of heating water in a washing machine, I install special softener filters at the inlet of the structure.
Important! The cost of such a special filter softener is small, however, installing such a device will require you to spend a lot of time and some money. To install this filter, it is necessary to change the pipe layout, because it is installed in a pipeline gap.
Basically, such a filter is installed based on the results of a chemical examination, precisely in the case when the answer is: “increased hardness.”
Let's be honest, these special softener filters do not particularly reduce the hardness of the water entering the washing structure.
Softening water is the removal of various dissolved hardness salts from it, especially calcite (calcium carbonate).
Using special equipment and special processes of biological and chemical treatments, filters purify water.
Household filters cannot do this job. They only reduce the appearance of scale in the machine.
To soften water so that it is less hard, magnetic and chemical treatment methods are used.
Polyphosphate based washing machine filters
The chemical treatment method is performed by a polyphosphate filter. This filter is made in the form of a transparent container filled with sodium polyphosphate crystals.
As water passes through this filter, the crystals inside gradually dissolve.
When sodium polyphosphate gets into water, it binds carbonates (the basis of hardness salts) and blocks their path to the heating element and other parts of the washing machine (this also includes the dishwasher).
As a result, the formation of scale on the heating element and other elements of the machine is reduced.
For your information! Polyphosphate does not require a special dosage.
The consumer needs to control the level of filling of the filter container with sodium polyphosphate crystals and when it is not enough to replenish them.
Polyphosphate filters do not completely treat the water entering the machine, because this substance, which is located in the filter (crystals), makes the water unsuitable for use.
Important! Sodium polyphosphate is an inorganic fertilizer that, when released into rivers or lakes, causes a sharp growth of algae in them.
So basically, this method of combating scale is not used on an industrial scale.
Such special filters are usually installed in front of the washing structure itself.
The filter cuts into the water supply (into the outlet), to which the inlet hose of the washing assistant is connected.
Advice! When buying a washing machine for their apartment, some buyers immediately look at the future installation of softener filters, as well as coarse filters.
For this purpose, two flasks for replaceable cartridges are specially mounted on the water pipe with a special valve to which the inlet hose is connected.
During the installation process, such an addition is not particularly expensive, but will save you from the need to change the wiring if the results of the examination are not in a very good position (water analysis).
Magnetic cleaners
The operation of a magnetic filter is based on the effect of a phase transition of a substance under the influence of a magnetic field.
At the moment of treatment with hard water, calcite (calcium carbonate), the concentration of which in the hardness salt exceeds the content in all other substances, when exposed to a magnetic field and a flow of hard water, does not change the chemical composition, but turns into aragonite (another structural form).
The smooth structure of calcium carbonate is characterized by a large adhesion area. As a result, it is precisely because of this that the substance deposits on the walls of the washing unit and on the heating elements.
The structure of aragonite does not have such a smooth surface.
Aragonite also forms spatial structures in the centers of crystallization that do not sit on the walls of the machine and the heating element, but at the ionic and molecular levels they interact with other deposits.
In this case, the scale that has already settled on the walls of the machine is destroyed, and its particles, also falling into the water, lose their ability to sit on the walls again.
In this case, water after treatment with a magnetic field is able to clean the walls of the washing machine from other various deposits.
This filter for a washing machine, like the previous ones, does not soften water, however, it provides a kind of barrier against scale and other sediments when using chemical or mechanical cleaning of the washing structure.
The effectiveness of such filters has so far been confirmed only by the results of scientific laboratories.
Flaws
The use of magnetic filters is a controversial issue due to their disadvantages:
- used in the filter cannot create a high magnetic field voltage, and a weak one will not give a high-quality effect. The only working way is to purchase rare earth magnets, but their price is quite high.
- The effect is lost at high water temperatures. Also, the degree of efficiency varies depending on the pressure of the water flow. In this case, the simplest and more practical option is electromagnetic filters, which provide a high voltage magnetic field due to pulsed action. However, such devices are used only on an industrial scale; they have not yet been introduced into the household level.
Advantages
The advantages of such special filters for installation in a washing machine:
- Simple installation process. No wiring changes are required, and it is also installed on the supply pipeline. Manufacturers have designed magnetic filters with a detachable housing that are placed on the inlet hose of the washing machine.
- Durability. Even if a given filter is used for a long time, the strength of the magnetic field still changes very slowly, and the effect may remain the same for about ten years or more.
- The magnetic filter does not require any cleaning or maintenance.
- Acceptable cost.
Helpful advice! When you are deciding whether to install certain filters, you should know that you will not spend much more when installing and using these filters than the cost of repairing your machine or even replacing it with a newer model.
Which one is better to choose?
Electronics supermarkets and specialty stores offer devices of varying cost and technical characteristics.
Geyser 1-P
offers a main filter for purifying cold tap water. It separates large and small impurities. The device is equipped with a replaceable cartridge made of foamed polypropylene that can withstand pressure up to 30 atm. After the resource is exhausted, the element is replaced.
Aquaphor Styron
The use of a compact and easily connected polyphosphate water filter for washing machines ensures savings in detergents, effective reduction of water hardness, and prevention of corrosion and scale. Its use also allows you to remove previously accumulated lime deposits from the heater. One backfill costs 300 rubles. enough for 300 washes. Thanks to the transparent body, you can clearly see how much reagent is left. The device can also be installed on a dishwasher.
and Atlantic also produce polyphosphate filters that deserve attention.
Aquashield Pro
The electromagnetic filter of NPI "Generation" operates on the basis of force magnetic irradiation of water. The undeniable advantage of the device is reagent-free water treatment. The device consists of a plastic case with a chip and microprocessor inside. There are buttons on the body with which you can change the frequency of electromagnetic waves within 50 kHz.
Two emitter wires extend from the body, which are wound around the pipe in opposite directions. The device itself is attached to it. Power is supplied from a 220 V network. Power consumption is no more than 5 kW per month.
Atlantic
Atlantic Corporation is an Italian company with production facilities located in Taiwan. Produces reverse osmosis systems and polyphosphate devices .
There are no reviews of the Atlantic Dosalite polyphosphate filter. But users praise this manufacturer’s fine cleaning devices. The only downsides are the high cost and size of the device.
Unicorn WM34
This filter is purchased along with the washing machine. When purchasing, you can be sure that the machine spiral is protected from scale.
- Cost : 202 rubles (filler included in price).
- Description : polyphosphate filter, productivity – 50-60 l/min., filler is changed after 6,000-7,000 l of filtered water for washing household appliances.
- Advantages : can withstand temperatures up to 50 degrees, durable housing.
- Disadvantages : none.
Unicorn FHN2P
A universal main filter configured for different levels of water purification.
- Cost : 380 rubles.
- Description : cleaning capacity – 12 l/min.
- Advantages : affordable price.
- Disadvantages : solid body, which interferes with contamination analysis.
New water AU010
It is used in conjunction with another filter, since it is only capable of initial water protection.
- Cost : 730 rubles (including cartridge).
- Description : model for small apartments, productivity up to 10 l/min.
- Advantages : affordable price, there is a pressure control button.
- Disadvantages : fragile plastic case.
Geyser 1PF
One of the cheapest filters for water purification (310 rubles).
- Description : the chemical preparation is enough to purify 8-10 thousand water.
- Advantages : affordable price, transparent flask, which makes it much easier to monitor the condition of the filter.
- Disadvantages : unreliable connection, which can lead to leakage if installed carelessly.
Geyser Jumbo 10
Main filter produced by the same company as the previous one. Removes only sand, rust and other dirt without affecting the chemical composition of the water. Installed in conjunction with another cleaning device.
- Cost : 1229 rubles (without cartridge).
- Description : filter for cold water, connected to the water supply, capacity – 22.5 l/min.
- Advantages : one of the most popular models.
- Disadvantages : unreliable plastic housing, as with the previous filter, everything depends on the installation.
Geyser Typhoon 10 BB
Main filter, so before installation it is necessary to calculate the entire future load. This purifier is more convenient to use not only because of its versatility, but also because it is able to filter hot water.
- Cost : 8621 rubles (including the cartridge).
- Description : water is purified using coal, productivity - 20 l/min, there is a hole for draining filtered residues and a valve for relieving excess pressure.
- Advantages : carbon cleaning, durable steel case, ability to restore cartridges.
- Disadvantages : high price, easily corroded.
Electronic flocculating device "Aquaflow"
The device, without reagents, but comparable in efficiency to chemical water purification, works using high-frequency electrical pulses. An electric field is created across the pipeline, charging suspended particles of contaminants to form large flakes, which are then filtered in a fine cleaning system. In addition, the device suppresses certain types of microorganisms and bacteria.
Maximum efficiency is achieved if an additional fine filter is installed in the system, which is not included in the kit. The devices are used both in enterprises and among ordinary consumers who can afford to buy them.
Review of popular models of external filters
Currently, consumers are presented with a wide range of input filters for washing machines. However, not all of them meet the requirements of quality and efficiency. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, it is recommended to choose one of the most popular models. Any of them can perfectly purify water and soften it:
- Aquashield Pro;
- Geyser 1-P;
- EFU Aquaflow;
- Aquaphor Styron;
- Atlantic.
By choosing any of these devices, the user can be confident in its efficiency and reliability. It is important to remember that the final choice of model depends on the type of cleaning required. Each model is best if used for certain tasks. An important characteristic of devices is the number of filter elements and sorbents, which are responsible for filtering water from fine particles. Any device is installed very simply and has replaceable filters that can be easily replaced with your own hands, without resorting to the help of specialists.
Aquashield Pro
One of the most modern and effective devices that softens the water supplied to the washing machine. It is necessary to perform a liquid analysis in advance, and if it indicates a high iron content, then Aquashield will be an excellent choice. Its action is based on the use of a magnetic field, which acts on a stream of water flowing through the device.
The main advantage of the model is that cleaning is carried out without the use of reagents. Thus, no chemical elements are involved in water treatment. The filter contains a microprocessor and microcircuits, thanks to which magnetic waves propagate through the pipe system when necessary. In addition, the device has a button with which you can adjust the power of the waves. A pair of wires are attached to the filter, which are wound in a spiral onto the pipe in different directions. When the device is turned on, an induced current is generated. With its help, iron particles are attracted to the walls of the filter and do not get inside the washing machine.
Geyser 1-P
This filter device is installed on main pipelines and is necessary for purifying cold water. It is capable of capturing both large and small particles even in high-pressure water. Its design does not use a flow system, but replaceable cartridges.
Inside the filter block there is foamed polypropylene, which is capable of operating in water under pressure up to 30 atmospheres. Its resource lasts for a whole month with daily washing. After this, the cartridge must be removed and replaced with a new one. It is very easy to do this with your own hands. The filter can be mounted on the floor or wall. For this purpose, fixing elements are provided in its upper part.
EFU Aquaflow
This model does not use chemicals to purify water. The operating principle is based on the influence of electrical impulses. The device is excellent for softening water and protecting the internal components of the washing machine from scale. This is achieved using wires that create an electromagnetic field in the liquid that traps metal particles. After this, the water enters the fine filter. In it, bacteria and other microorganisms settle on special membranes.
Aquaphor Styron
Polyphosphate filter, which is easy to install and use. It is used to soften water and reduce the risk of rust and scale. One replaceable cartridge is enough for 300 washing cycles. So that the user can see the amount of reagent remaining in the device, its body is made of transparent material. Aquaphor Stinor is used not only for washing machines, but also for dishwashers.
Atlantic
The model of the Italian brand is characterized by high performance. These main-line devices are necessary to soften water. The device has a small flask through which water flows into the washing machine. The filter is designed to withstand temperatures from 5 to 35 degrees. It is easy to mount on the wall, and one replaceable cassette is enough for 150 washes.
How and how to install water purification filters for a washing machine
Installing a water filter on a washing machine is not difficult and can be done without the help of specialists.
Main: installation is carried out after the tap that shuts off the water supply to the apartment. The pipe will have to be cut to install the device.
Coarse filter: make a separate outlet from the pipe with a tap, then install the filter, then connect the washing machine.
Polyphosphate: installation is similar to a coarse filter. Before starting installation, read the manufacturer's instructions.
Magnetic: does not require any interference in communications; it is attached to the hose with a screwdriver and bolts.
Washing machine filter for water softening - manufacturer rating
Among the manufacturers of filters for protecting washing machines on the market, two models are especially worth highlighting.
1. Geyser 1P. This is a main filter for removing impurities from cold water. Installed on the cold water pipeline at the entrance to the apartment. Protects not only washing machines, but also water heaters, dishwashers, heating boilers and other equipment from clogging, plaque and corrosion.
The device is equipped with a PP-series cartridge made of foamed polypropylene with a porosity of 5 microns. The cartridge cannot be restored; it must be replaced after contamination.
The housing can withstand up to 25-30 atmospheres, which is the best indicator among all modern filter elements.
Filters Geyser 1P and Aquaphor Stirone
2. Aquaphor Styron. This prefilter deservedly takes second place. It is used to protect equipment from scale, improves the effectiveness of detergents, and reduces the need for their quantity.
The filling inside the device is designed for 300 washing cycles. The special chemical composition ensures both water softening and corrosion prevention. Used only for process water.
3. Among polyphosphate devices, Atlantic products are also worth noting.
But before choosing products from one manufacturer or another, it is recommended to conduct a water analysis and understand what its main “problems” are. Based on this, a filter device is selected.
So, if there is rust, dirt and other precipitated impurities, it is best to install a main filter at the entrance to the house. If this is not possible, then it is imperative to use a filter element directly in front of the washing machine.
In most Russian regions, the water is very hard, which means that you cannot do without a softener, for example, a polyphosphate device. Those who believe in the miraculous properties of the magnetic option can try it.
Experts believe that it would be ideal to have two filters:
- to remove dirt, rust, litter and sand,
- to soften water.
Such protection will ensure long and uninterrupted operation of your expensive equipment, regardless of the quality of the water in the water supply or in the well, if the machine is used in a country house.
Based on a water analysis, employees of specialized stores selling filters can help with choosing a device.
How to properly install and connect (connect) a filter to a washing machine
The installation process directly depends on the selected type of filter device from among those listed above. If you chose the first option (saline or polyphosphate), its location is the connecting section between the washing machine and the water hose.
It is recommended to place main units after the water supply tap. They cut into the system to protect it from various impurities, which are often discovered after repair work is carried out in the main line.
A coarse water softener filter for washing machine water to remove iron and other compounds is installed after the water tap for effective protection against large particles of sand and other impurities. At the same time, it protects not only household appliances, but also water meters, mixers, inlet valves and other system elements.
Magnetic, as mentioned above, is simply fixed on the hose.
Installation
Installing a filter in front of the washing machine is easy. All you need is a wrench of the appropriate size. The device is mounted in front of the inlet hose as follows.
- The water supply is cut off.
- The inlet hose is unscrewed from the water supply pipe with a 3/4″ thread.
- The filter is screwed to the pipe.
- An inlet hose is screwed onto the filter.
- The water supply is opened and the system is checked for leaks.
Coarse cleaning
Prefilters are installed at the point where water pipes enter the house.
It is forbidden to place a cold water device on a hot water supply pipe and vice versa.
When choosing a device, consider:
- highway type;
- the required level of purification - the number of flasks with filter elements depends on this;
- body type – for high water consumption Big blue, for low water consumption – Slim Line;
- type of cartridge.
Before installing a coarse filter, you should turn off the water supply to your apartment or house.
The filter is attached using nuts and adapters. Therefore, you should prepare in advance the place where the device will be mounted and take care of the fastening elements.
Installation steps:
- Turn off the water supply.
- Wrap seals to prevent leaks and allow removal for cleaning.
- The main filtration equipment should be located below the level of water supply outlets. As a last resort, you can install the filter (only oblique) vertically.
- After installation, check the device for leaks.
Magnetic
This type of device is easy to install yourself. But if the pipes are old, then it is better to entrust the installation to professionals. First you need to turn off the water supply in the apartment.
Installation steps:
- Cut off a small piece of pipe.
- Remove water from the pipe and descale it.
- Wrap fumlenta around the cuts.
- Secure the fittings with adapters. They must match the size of the device itself.
- Attach the device to the pipe.
- Turn on the water and inspect the connections for leaks.
Deep cleaning
The cost of equipment for deep cleaning is quite high. Therefore, without special skills, it is better not to take risks, but to entrust this work to plumbers.
Installation steps:
- Install a purified water supply tap.
- Shut off the water supply to the apartment.
- Make water supply branches to the deep cleaning filter.
- Disconnect the hose leading from the water supply to the tap. A tee adapter is inserted into the resulting gap. The faucet included with the filter is screwed into it. Next, the cleaning system is connected to the water supply.
- Assemble and install the device itself according to the recommendations in the technical data sheet. After assembling the device, hoses from the filtered water supply tap are connected to it.
- Connect the water, check the connections and eliminate leaks.
Operation and Maintenance
There are no specialized operating rules, except for changing cartridges or fillers according to the instructions for the equipment.
The purifier is cleaned once a year or when the filler is replaced.
When replacing sorbents, wash the flask under running water. A new portion of filler should be poured into the flask, and not topped up.
And change cartridges in the quantity specified in the manufacturer's instructions. The mesh in the main filters is also washed with water.
If leaks are detected, the water supply in the water pipeline should be turned off, the cause of their occurrence should be identified and eliminated, for example, cracks in the flasks, wear of gaskets.