Inverter vs Non Inverter Washing Machine

When researching which washing machine to buy for your home, you come across terms like ‘Digital Inverter technology,’ ‘Direct Drive Technology,’ Intellisense Inverter Technology.’ and words to similar effect. So what exactly is inverter technology in washing machines, and how is it beneficial to the consumer?

We shall go through these aspects in this article. Meanwhile, here is a brief comparison between washing machines with inverter technology and non-inverter motors. This information should prove helpful to understand the concept and benefits of selecting a washing machine with inverter technology.

Comparison between inverter and non-inverter washing machine

Inference

Today, almost 80% of the washing machines come with inverter motors. Amongst the top-loading models discussed above, the Whirlpool Whitemagic Premier 7 Kg GenX model is the only non-inverter washing machine. The BEE star ratings certify it as a 5-star rated appliance with energy consumption at par with the Whirlpool Whitemagic Elite 7.5 Kg washing machine (0.0119 kWhr/kg/cycle).

If we take the BEE energy consumption rating as the base, the LG model seems to be the most efficient, with the lowest energy consumption figure of 0.0113 kWhr/kg/cycle.

Inverter Technology Vs. Non-inverter technology

First of all, we clarify that inverter technology in washing machines has nothing to do with your home inverter system.

The primary difference between an inverter and a non-inverter washing machine is in the motor’s functioning. The electric current flows to the rotor through brushes that create a magnetic field to set the motor windings into motion in the conventional motor.

The inverter motor is different because it does not have any friction-causing components like brushes. You can refer to an inverter as a frequency converter because it converts AC into DC and then generates AC with the desired frequency level. Therefore, it adjusts with the speed and frequency modes of the wash drum.

Thus, we can infer that inverter motors vary the machine’s speed to consume less energy. It makes sense to have an inverter motor in a washing machine as we do not have the same load every day.

The conventional motors work at the same speed irrespective of the load inside the washing machine. Therefore, they consume the same amount of power even if the load is less. The inverter motor does away with this problem. These washing machines come equipped with sensors to determine the load. It enables them to decide on the quantity of water and varies the motor’s speed accordingly to deliver the job by consuming less power.

Besides, inverter motors do not have components like belts and pulleys like the conventional non-inverter motors do. Therefore, the inverter washing machines make less noise while functioning.

Different technologies used by manufacturers

LG has introduced a new technology, Direct Drive technology, where the wash drum is directly connected to the motor. This outer rotor-type BLDC motor connects to the washing tub without using a pulley or a belt. This technology improves washing efficiency by allowing precise control of the washing operations. As this technology ensures accurate alignment between the motor and the washing tub, there is less vibration and minimum noise. Compared to conventional washing machines, this technology enhances the lifespan of inverter washing machines.

Samsung’s Digital Inverter technology is similar to LG’s Direct Drive technology as it connects the motor directly to the washing drum. However, the technology uses strong magnets to provide durability and power. As a result, these washing machines consume up to 40% less power and make less noise. In addition, this technology senses the washing load and helps optimize performance levels by saving water and electricity.

Whirlpool offers a similar technology and names it the 6^th Sense Soft Move technology. This feature intelligently senses the washing load and adapts the drum rotation speed to minimize friction and maximize washing performance. In addition, the Intellisense inverter motor works silently with minimum friction and vibration to provide an ultimate washing experience.

Though we have different names with minor differences in functioning, the overall features of the technology are the same. The primary advantage of using inverter motors in washing machines is maximizing energy efficiency, ensuring optimum water usage, and making less noise. All these factors contribute towards a longer lifespan for the washing machine.

Advantages of Inverter Technology in Washing machines

• Inverter washing machines use brushless motors that can deliver efficient performances. In addition, as the sensors present in the motor identify the washing load, it helps keep power consumption under check.
• The reduced power consumption helps to minimize your electricity bill considerably and thus, result in maximum savings.
• The absence of pulleys, belts, and gears in these machines reduces friction. Besides, it minimizes the wear and tear of the machine parts to reduce overall maintenance costs.
• As there is less friction, the noise levels of inverter washing machines are less than the non-inverter washing machines.
• Since inverter washing machines are more durable, the OEMs offer extended warranties on such machines.

Drawbacks of Inverter washing machines

• The primary drawback of an inverter machine is its higher cost than its non-inverter counterpart. However, you can replenish the additional initial outflow by savings in water consumption and energy.

Inverter vs Non-Inverter Washing machine

Conclusion

The energy efficiency of washing machines is reflected in the BEE Star Ratings. The ratings account for various factors like water consumption, load, usage, number of wash cycles, etc. The lower the rating, the better is the washing machine’s efficiency. Thus, from our above comparison table, you can find that the LG washing machine model seems to be the most efficient.