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How to choose a surge protector for a washing machine

washing machine surge protectorSophisticated household appliances, which include a washing machine, are afraid of power surges, because one such surge, and it can fail. That is why experts recommend protecting equipment using special surge protectors. It is the surge protector that smooths out differences, saving the machine from repair.

What is a network filter machine automatic

What is a surge protector for an automatic machine? Many people understand this phrase as an extension cord with several outlets and a built-in surge protector. But in fact, this is not entirely true. A similar device, of course, can be used to protect the washing machine, but it is suitable for any other equipment.

The surge protector of a washing machine is a device that has a shockproof and non-conductive housing, inside of which all details are hidden. The filter itself is located inside the washing machine. The picture shows an example of such a device.washing machine surge protector

Let us briefly describe what his work is and why it is needed. The principle of operation of this device is that all oscillations with a frequency of 50 GHz going through the electric network pass through the filter, and if they are more or less, they are blocked.

In addition, surge protectors built into most modern washing machines pick up reverse current surges supplied by an induction motor, passing them to ground. And this is very important because such jumps are also dangerous for machine parts.

Very important! The surge protector protects not only the washing machine itself from voltage surges in the electrical network, but also other household appliances from the washing machine.

With unstable operation of the electrical network and the absence of such a filter in the machine, such parts are subject to combustion and failure:

  • TEN;
  • induction motor;
  • CPU;
  • touch control panel.

The surge protector protects the parts not only from a power surge above the norm, but also a sharp voltage surge below the norm, which is especially important for the machine engine. When a power filter fails, as a rule, a complete blockage of the machine. Sometimes a filter breakdown is accompanied by malfunctioning programs, and a spontaneous transition from one program to another.

Types of similar device

washing machine surge protectorBy the connection method, all network filters can be divided into two groups:

  1. internal filters;
  2. filters extension cords.

The internal filter is factory installed. In the event of a breakdown, such a surge protector cannot be repaired, it must be changed. Different washing machine models may have different filters. They have not only external differences, but also different indicators of technical characteristics. These characteristics determine the level of protection of the washing machine, these include:

  • rated current and voltage;
  • voltage drop threshold;
  • reaction time;
  • maximum current;
  • maximum load.

The extension cord filter also has such characteristics, depending on which extension cords can be divided into three types:

  • filters with basic protection;
  • filters with advanced protection;
  • filters with professional protection.

The extension cord filter can have a different number of sockets from 3 to 8. As well as additional functions such as child protection, power on and off buttons on each individual outlet.

The maximum filter efficiency (declared by the manufacturer) will be achieved if it is included in ground outlet. Even if there is no such outlet, the filter will still provide some protection.

Criteria to consider when choosing

If you need to replace the surge protector inside the washing machine, then the easiest way is to remove the broken unit and bring it to the parts store or look for a filter according to the model of the washing machine. However, most cars do not have such filters, so consumers use an extension cable as protection. About what you should pay attention to when choosing such a filter, which is more reliable and will be discussed.

  1. The number of ports (sockets). Think about how many nearby appliances you need to turn on. Firstly, by including several devices in one extension cord, you will reduce the number of cables in the apartment, which means lower security. Secondly, experts argue that power strips with a large number of outlets are more powerful. There is an extension cord with one outlet for one device, it is reliable and able to protect expensive equipment.
  2. The length of the line filter. It varies from 1.8 to 5 m. Usually 3 m is enough, but it all depends on where the outlet and the washing machine are located.
  3. Maximum load. It shows what maximum burst of energy the filter can absorb. For filters with professional protection, this indicator is at least 2500 J, and for basic ones about 960 J. Some models are able to protect the equipment from lightning, but they are also expensive. The optimum ratio of quality and price for filters with advanced (universal) protection.
  4. Response speed. The most important indicator that determines how quickly the operation of the washing machine is blocked, and whether its internal parts will damage the power surge.
  5. Appointment of the device. An important criterion, since the extension cord can be used for a TV, computer, washing machine, etc.
  6. Number and types of fuses. A fuse is an important element of an extension cord, so you should pay attention to it. It is better if there are several fuses, the main one being fuse, and the auxiliary ones are thermal and quick-acting.
  7. Work indicator. The indicator is easy enough to see if the extension cord is working. If it is plugged in and working, the LED light is on; if not, the light is off.
  8. Availability of instructions. Instructions, operating rules, clearly described technical specifications may indicate the quality of the goods. And if the brand of the device is known, then even better. AND Do not forget to check the quality certificate of the selected product.

Important! A high-quality power strip can not be cheap; most likely, it is a simple power strip without protection against power surges.

Safety precautions

Before you check the operation of the surge protector, be sure to read the safety recommendations. You need to know the following:

  • DO NOT connect the power strip to a 380 V network;
  • the surge protector is included only in the outlet with grounding;
  • the maximum power of the device is about 3.5 kW;
  • DO NOT operate extension cord in rooms with high humidity;
  • DO NOT include power strips in each other;
  • Try not to include heating appliances (vacuum cleaner, air conditioning, hair dryer) in the power strip.

Filter Manufacturers Overview

To better visualize which line filters are suitable for protecting the washing machine, we give a few specific examples.

Filter SVEN Fort Pro Black

Universal surge protector with overload and short circuit protection; as well as protection against voltage surges and from overheating of the housing more than 105 ° C. The maximum absorbed energy is 1050 J. The number of sockets with a power button is 6. The price is from 20 cusurge protector extension cord

APC SurgeArrest PM6U-RS Filter

A universal surge protector, the maximum absorbed energy of which is 1836 J. A feature of this filter is the presence of two USB ports that are used to charge electronic devices.It also has an overload indicator, a power-on indicator, and a protection and ground indicator. Price from 37 cusurge protector extension cord

VDPS Extreme Surge Protector

An Israeli-made filter designed specifically for washing machines. Protects equipment from power surges, short circuits, lightning strikes. The response time of the device is 1 nsec. Price from 23 cusurge protector for automatic machine

Filter Q-Protector VDPS-5

Israeli-made filter for washers and dryers with wire. It has an automatic connection after voltage stabilization. The response time of the device is 1 nsec. Price from 26 cusurge protector for automatic machine

So, the issue of protecting the washing machine from power surges in the electrical network is quite serious. Therefore, you should take care of protecting expensive household appliances in advance, and not shrug your hands when the washing machine “burns out”. Take care of your typewriter and it will last you a long time.

   

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