First wash - running the washing machine according to all the rules

A test run of an automatic washing machine is carried out in a special mode: without laundry in the drum, at maximum water temperature and with a special anti-factory detergent. Such recommendations are given by manufacturers of household appliances to their customers.

The first run of a washing machine is often called experimental or test. Its purpose is to check the functionality of the parts and components of the device, remove traces of grease and unpleasant odors. A correctly carried out test wash ensures a long service life of the device and helps to identify manufacturing defects.

Preparing to start the washing machine

Before testing, the machine is installed and connected to the water supply, sewerage and electricity supply. Preliminary preparation consists of several stages.

1. A new washing machine delivered from the store is unpacked and inspected. You cannot sign acceptance documents before this! Visually, you can determine serious mechanical damage: dents, scratches, cracks on the hatch.At the same time, they check the completeness - the presence of hoses, the integrity of the power cord and plug. If you forget about the preliminary inspection, it will become impossible to prove the presence of a manufacturing defect.
2. Factory packaging items are stored in case of breakage during the warranty period. Some manufacturers require that the faulty machine be returned in the original box and frame.
3. There are transport bolts on the back surface of the washer. They secure the drum during transportation. The fasteners are removed and the holes are closed with plastic or rubber plugs.
4. After this, the unit is installed in the selected location. The floor under the machine must be strong and level. It is advisable to install by level; The maximum permissible angle of inclination of the base is two degrees. In this case, the device will stand still in any operating mode (washing, rinsing, spinning).
5. The water supply hose is connected to the water supply, the drain hose is connected to the sewer pipe. If it is not possible to drain directly into the sewer, firmly attach a corrugated hose to remove water at the edge of the sink or bathtub.
6. The water supply valve on the hose must be open, otherwise the pump will fail after a few minutes of idle operation.
7. To power your washing machine, you must have a grounded outlet designed for high-power consumer electronics. It is not advisable to use extension cords.
8. At the end, the device is inspected again, small packaging parts (film, adhesive tape) are removed, and the drum and detergent tray are checked for the presence of foreign objects and debris. The washing machine is ready for a test run.

Important! During the cold season, the machine is kept indoors at room temperature for 5–7 hours. This is necessary to ensure that all components and parts (especially the electronic control unit) operate at their usual temperature conditions.

Tool for first starting the washing machine

The purpose of a test wash in a new washing machine is to remove technical contaminants (grease, oil and solvent residues).

Special tools are suitable for this:

• set of ORO tablets. The first cleaning agent (labeled “Clean”) is used during a test run of the machine. The second (marked “Calk”) is added when descaling after long-term use (25–30 washes with maximum load);
• Helfer Start drug (for starting and preventing washing machines). It removes foreign technical substances and odors from the metal surfaces of the device
• WIMAX powder for dissolving oil residues and other factory contaminants.

During the first wash, you can use regular washing machine powder. It is recommended to fill the detergent compartment with about half the usual amount: this is enough to remove odors and dirt.

First wash: is it possible to run a washing machine without laundry?

The first time they start the washing machine without laundry. This will protect things from oil stains, which are almost impossible to remove. In addition, if problems are discovered during idle startup (leaks, motor or pump malfunctions), draining the water from the drum is easier than fiddling with wet laundry.

Step-by-step instruction

A trial run of an automatic washing machine of different brands is carried out almost the same way.Minor differences are reflected in the operating instructions for the specific model, so please read the relevant sections of the brochure before washing for the first time. The types of detergents for a test run do not differ: you can use any special composition or powder for automatic machines.

Launch of LG washing machine

Most LG models will be tested using a single algorithm.

1. The machine is connected to the water supply, sewerage and connected to the network.
2. Place detergent in the tray (half the dose recommended in normal mode).
3. Select the “Cotton” program, set the temperature to 90⁰C and the minimum number of spin speeds (400 or 500).
4. Close the door until it clicks.
5. Turn on the "Start" button.

During the entire “wash-spin-rinse” cycle, the machine is monitored and leaks and engine noise are monitored. After automatic shutdown, open the hatch, wipe the rubber cuff and drum. It is recommended to ventilate the car for 2–3 hours. The next wash is carried out as usual, selecting a program according to the type of item and the intensity of contamination.

Launch of Haier washing machine

Preparing for a test wash in a Haier machine is easy:

• remove the shipping fasteners;
• the unit is connected to communications;
• check the drum and tray for foreign objects;
• Load the detergent for the first start of the washing machine or automatic powder into the compartment (no more than half the norm).

For the first use, start the “Drum Cleaning” program. The mode is selected by turning the knob located on the display. Washing is carried out without laundry at a preset temperature of 90⁰C with a spin speed of 600 rpm.

Launch of Samsung washing machine

The first wash in a Samsung automatic machine is carried out according to standard rules:

• remove the bolts securing the drum during transportation;
• connect water and electricity to the device;
• inspect the drum and remove small debris and dust;
• Laundry detergent or liquid detergent is placed in the tray. Enough is 100 g of dry product or 80 ml of liquid.

Depending on the model, select the “Cotton” or “Eco Drum Clean” program. The test run is carried out at a temperature of 95⁰C and minimum spin speed (400). On average, a test wash takes a little over an hour.

Launch of the Indesit washing machine

A test run of the Indesit machine can be carried out immediately after the unit is installed in a permanent place and connected to the water supply and electricity system. A detergent for the first wash in a machine or regular powder with reduced foaming is placed in a special compartment.

In older models, the temperature (90⁰C) and the number of revolutions (400–600) are set using adjustment knobs on the panel. In new Indesit machines, they select the “Drum Self-Cleaning” program. The test wash is carried out without laundry and with half the amount of powder.

In what cases should you contact a specialist?

During the first start-up, the machine is not left unattended. After turning on, listen to the engine: the engine should not growl or grind. Observe the tightness of the hose connections and leaks from under the bottom of the machine.

If the engine runs rhythmically and without excessive noise, there are no leaks, the hoses are connected securely, water is poured and drained without difficulty - the test run was successful. The washing machine can be used for its intended purpose and run any program.

Contact a specialist if the motor makes uncharacteristic sounds, the machine vibrates or moves during operation. The help of a specialist is necessary in case of leaks, especially if puddles flow from under the bottom of the unit.

Important! You cannot fix problems with new equipment yourself. The washing machine is under warranty for a year; service center specialists will fix the faults free of charge.

Recommendations for caring for your washing machine

The average service life of an automatic washing machine is 7–10 years. To ensure that the equipment operates without breakdowns during this time, follow the simple recommendations of specialists.

1. The machine is not overloaded. The maximum weight of laundry for one run is indicated in the instructions for the device, and you should not exceed the norm. Experienced housewives advise not to load the machine “to the maximum”: this way things are washed better.
2. Spinning at high centrifuge speeds (more than 1000 per minute) greatly wears out the motor, bearing and destroys the crosspiece. You should not constantly use intensive spinning.
3. For washing, use washing powder for automatic machines, gel or capsules. You should not exceed the norm of detergents: this will negatively affect the condition of the machine and laundry. Do not put hand wash detergent into the tray!
4. Hard water has a negative effect on the condition of the water heating element. To soften, use detergent with special additives.
5. After 30–40 washing cycles, turn on the drum self-cleaning mode or carry out a dry wash with a special product.
6. If the machine has a removable filter, it should be cleaned regularly.
7. After completing the wash, wipe the machine dry from the inside. Take special care to remove any remaining water from under the rubber cuff.
8. For several hours after the device is turned off, the hatch door is not closed. This will prevent mold from forming inside the tank. It is also useful to ventilate the detergent tray.

With careful care, the washing machine will last for many years without breakdowns.