Pros and cons of a direct drive motor in a washing machine

Pros and cons of a direct drive motor in a washing machine Manufacturers are intensively promoting the inverter motor and direct drive of the washing machine motor, replicating its undeniable advantages over belt models. But they are often silent about the shortcomings of modern machines, considerable risks and large overpayments. We suggest you figure out whether you should trust advertising. Our detailed review of the pros and cons of beltless units will help with this. And for dessert – the top 5 best direct-drive washing machines.

Main advantages

The direct drive system is distinguished by the absence of a drive belt. The drum fits directly onto the shaft, eliminating the need for an intermediate link. All this allows the machine to reach new capacities.

Engine durability. Inverter motors, unlike asynchronous or commutator motors, do not have rubbing parts - brushes, therefore they are more durable and reliable. This is confirmed by the manufacturer's 10-year engine warranty. However, the warranty period does not apply to other spare parts.
Silence. Direct transmission has a great effect on noise levels. So, without a belt and brushes, the vibration and hum during operation of the machine is several times lower.
Washing efficiency. The brushless motor is electronically controlled and is capable of stopping abruptly, accelerating quickly and rotating in both directions. All this allows you to better wash and dry your laundry.
High speed. The above-mentioned ability of sharp rotation of the drum also reduces the overall duration of the wash. Due to the rapid increase in speed and rapid washing, the modes are programmed for express cycles.
Energy efficiency.The fewer elements there are in the system, the less energy is spent on its operation, so the absence of a belt has a positive effect on the electricity consumed by the machine.

There is one more plus - direct drive machines can “read” the weight of loaded laundry and control the power sufficient for washing.

main advantages of direct drive

The main thing is that there is no need to constantly change a breaking belt. Moreover, if the drum is overloaded or there is a risk of imbalance, the system warns with an error rather than continuing to work until the end.. Among the advantages are the reduced dimensions of the washing machine, since the missing pulley and belt make the machine compact and more convenient to use.

Main disadvantages

No matter how attractive the listed advantages are, we must not forget about the pitfalls. If you lose sight of them, you can only get a large overpayment from direct transmission. We are talking about the following omissions of manufacturers.

Bearing load. When there is no additional support point - the drive belt, the entire load is transferred to the bearings and seals. All this leads to rapid wear and the need for regular replacement.
Vulnerable motor. With direct drive, the electric motor is located under the tank, and even the slightest leakage of the seals will lead to serious problems. The ten-year warranty does not cover such damage, and repairs will be very expensive.
Sensitive electronics. The inverter motor is controlled by a complex system of triacs, which reacts sensitively to any voltage surges in the network. And if a stabilizer is not connected to the machine, you can spend a lot of money on repairs.

The reason for the listed shortcomings lies in the ill-conceived design, which was not fully prepared for removing the belt.It is likely that in the future manufacturers will correct all the shortcomings. But so far, expensive beltless automatic machines are generally very unreliable and can easily fail if there is a water leak.

Review of popular models

The mentioned pros and cons are typical for all direct drive machines, and if the advantages attract you more, choose among a wide range of modern models. True, you shouldn’t buy the first machine you come across with the “DirectDrive” sticker. Not all equipment is worthy of attention, so first check out the top 5 best washing machines of this type:

LG F-10B8QD. The rating opens with a front-facing model weighing 7 kg with electronic control and digital display. It represents the “golden mean” with an optimal price-quality ratio. So, for a good price just above $200 you can get class A washing, a spin speed of 1000 rpm, economical consumption with energy consumption A++, increased safety and 13 modes.

This model has a delay start timer of 19 hours, as well as a convenient hatch with a diameter of 30 cm and a door opening of 180 degrees.

LG F-12B8WDS7. The next LG has similar characteristics, which differs from the previous one in its smaller capacity of up to 6.5 kg and amazing compactness with a depth of 44 cm. There are other advantages: a spin speed of 1200 rpm, sound, self-cleaning of the drum and Smart Diagnosis mobile diagnostics. Consumers also note the bubble drum type and the unique “6 care movements” technology.
LG F-2J5NN4L. Has a direct drive motor and LG F-2J5NN4L. This silver model has a loading capacity of up to 6 kg and touch controls. Otherwise, the machine repeats the power and capabilities of its “sisters”: spinning is possible up to 1200 rpm, varying the water temperature, bubble drum and 13 programs.The only difference is complete protection against water leaks.
Samsung WW70K62E09WDLP. Samsung offers a machine that is more powerful and functional. Firstly, the capacity is 7 kg with the ability to reload laundry at any time during washing. Secondly, high energy efficiency class A+++. Thirdly, an expanded list of modes with a children's program, steam supply, soaking and an economical cycle. And, of course, leading Samsung technologies with eco-cleaning, bubble washing, Swirl Drum and 24-hour delay start.
BEKO WDW 85120 B3. The leading feature of this model is the presence of a drying mode for up to 5 kg of laundry. This is a useful addition to the 8 kg capacity, accelerated spin speed of 1200 rpm, 16 programs, delayed start for 24 hours and Hi-Tech ceramic heating element. But there are also several disadvantages: low energy consumption class (B) and a wide body with a depth of 54 cm.

It is worth understanding that a direct drive motor is not a defining characteristic when choosing a washing machine. It is better to pay attention to the brand, power, useful functionality and warranty period. Then a beltless transmission will eliminate unpleasant surprises and make the machine easier to operate.