When it comes to the washing machines, the Indian market has a preference for the semi-automatic washing machines over the fully automatic top-loading or front-loading washing machines. Of course, people have been moving towards the high-efficiency washers or automatic machines of late, but still – it is the semi-automatic machines that have been ruling the roost.
If you are lost for choice when choosing the perfect semi-automatic washing machine for your home, the options we have featured in this compilation should be quite helpful enough.
The Buying Guide for Best Semi-Automatic Washing Machines in India
Well, before you can move ahead checking out the best-selling semi-automatic washing machines, it would be practical enough to check out a few factors that you should focus on before buying one as we do it for any home appliances. As a part of the right buying guide for the washing machines, this checklist can be helpful enough in taking extreme care when choosing the right machine for your requirements.
Capacity
This is perhaps the first important factor you are expected to pay attention to. The capacity of the machine you choose would be dependent upon the size of your family and the total load of the laundry you would be washing on an average day.
A family of two can do with a washing machine under 5 Kg capacity. A normal Indian family with two people with two kids would need a machine with around 7 Kg capacity. A larger family will, however, need a machine capacity of 8 Kg.
Washing Programs
The number of washing programs on the washing machine will also have a lot of importance. However, you may not get many options on a semi-automatic washing machine as on the fully automatic machines.
The option for a buzzer to indicate the completion of the wash cycle should be one of the plus points.
Pre-Soak Functionality
Pre-Soak functionality can be one of the huge options for taking care of stubborn dirt. Check the soak period that can be configured on your washing machine. A minimum soaking period of around one hour should be the best option.
The machine will soak and agitate the clothes before they are fed into the wash cycle.
Extra Features
Expecting a huge number of additional features may not be the right option on a semi-automatic washing machine. However, the recent breed of machines does offer a few enhanced options and features.
The Tub or Drum Material
The tub can be made of a wide range of materials. The most widely used options would include stainless steel, porcelain and plastic. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic tubs can last longer than the porcelain options, but the stainless steel option can move beyond that. But stainless steel tub can also come with their own disadvantages, the prime among them being susceptibility to corrosion.
Spin Cycle
The spin cycle determines the speed at which the spinning tub moves. The faster spin speed will dry your clothes faster. A variable spin speed can be the best if possible.
The minimum spin speed recommended on a washing machine would range across 300 to 500 RPM. You may also find a few clothes that provide you access to around 1000 RPM speed.
These were a few considerations to be kept in mind before buying the best semi-automatic washing machines in India. However, making it further easier let us list the best-selling semi-automatic washing machines in India.
5 Best Selling Semi-Automatic Washing Machines in India
Having checked out the features and factors you need to check out while buying your new semi-automatic washing machine, let us now check out a few options for the right washing machines you can buy.
Samsung – Best Semi-Automatic Washing Machine under Rs.10000
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The twin tub washing machine with a few excellent features should ideally be a great choice for a moderate family. The 7.2 Kgs should help you take care of a family of at least 4 members. The tub is made of plastic, and that should go a long way in providing access to a better experience in terms of corrosion free long life.
The machine comes with a dual jet functionality. This can help create both vertical and horizontal currents, thereby cleaning up your clothes quite effectively. If deep cleaning is what you are looking for, the Samsung semi-automatic is the right one you should go with. Available under Rs.10000, it is one of the most affordable options you can check out.
The spin speed offered by the machine for the wash tub reads 1000 RPM. The EZ Wash Tray provides you access to an enhanced scrubbing of your clothes before you put them into the machine. The lint filter is yet another useful feature that takes care of removing the lint and does not let them get back into your clothes.
<strong>Pros and Cons of Samsung Washing Machine</strong>
Pros
- The two way inner handle.
- Easy to move around.
- Air Turbo Drying System helps in faster drying of clothes.
Cons
- It does not have a soak feature.
Mitashi – Best Top Loading Semi-Automatic Washing Machine in India
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A lesser known brand, Mitashi has been able to achieve a good customer base in a shorter time span. The washing machine from Mitashi has been one of the excellent options in terms of value for money features. A huge capacity of 9.8 Kgs is what would make it an affordable option at around Rs. 10000. The rust-free construction and a decent build quality can be a few features you would find interesting enough.
The washtub comes with a power scrubber that can be helpful in keeping your clothes cleaner. You have access to washing modes – gentle and power. Choose the right mode depending upon the type of clothes. The other functions worth mentioning would include soak functionality and the buzzer to indicate the end of a washing cycle.
The spin tub operates at 1300 RPM, and thus can effectively dry the clothes in the shortest time period. The Air Jet Dryer Technology ensures that the air enters the spin tub from outside and ensures a proper drying of clothes rather quickly. Not to forget, the five years warranty available on the washing machine stands proof of the quality and the confidence of the manufacturers.
<strong>Pros and Cons of Mitashi Semi-Automatic</strong>
Pros
- A highly powerful motor.
- High capacity at an affordable price point.
- The faster drying of clothes.
Cons
- Slightly expensive due to its higher capacity.
If you are looking for the best semi-automatic washing machine under Rs.9000, the Whirlpool 7 Kgs device is a great choice for your washing performance. It should be a great choice for the medium sized families. The water proof panel is yet another added advantage. You have access to smart scrubbing technology to take care of extensive cleaning.
The Super Soak functionality lets you soak your clothes for 25 minutes. The 66 Litres tub can be yet another great option for accommodating almost all your clothes in one go. Perhaps the first instance on a semi-automatic washing machine, it lets you resume the operation from where it left off, in case of a power failure.
You get three different wash programs. The machine also offers a two-year extensive warranty on the product and a five-year warranty on the motor. The multi-utility tray offered on the product is yet another plus point. The impeller technology takes care of the effective movement of the tub to ensure an effective washing efficacy. The spin tub speed of 1400 RPM should be a great option for faster drying.
<strong>Pros and Cons of Whirlpool Best Brand Washing Machine</strong>
Pros
- An efficient motor.
- Larger washing tub.
- The inbuilt memory that resumes the cycle after a power cut.
- Multi-utility tray.
Cons
- Separate water inlet for spin and wash tub.
Best meant for the mid-sized families, the LG semi-automatic washing machine makes it one of the perfect options in the semi-automatic genre of machines. It comes with a roller jet pulsator offering you a high end performance for an enhanced washing. It improves the flow of water in an efficient manner. The higher number of rotations ensures the a better degree of washing.
The washing machine provides access to three wash programs – gentle, normal and strong. The extra attachments like collar scrubber that can be helpful in ensuring a better cleaning performance. The lint collector offered on the washing machine is yet another plus point. It can be helpful in removing the fiber from sticking to your washing machine drain and other areas.
The spin shower functionality offered on the washing machine is yet another advantage that washes away the leftover soap away from your machine. You also have access to the Air Dry Feature is capable of drying your clothes to up to 40 percent. The rat repellent cover is yet another great feature that keeps it safer.
<strong>Pros and Cons of LG-Best Selling Washing Machine</strong>
Pros
- Extremely great spin speed of 1300 RPM.
- It consumes less water and electricity.
- Can clean your clothes well enough.
Cons
- Plastic build.
- The cable wire is short and needs an extension.
The build and design are quite decent enough. The Turbo Dry feature offered on the spin tub should be one of the excellent options and provides you with a better drying of clothes. The buzzer to indicate the completion of the wash cycle is louder enough without being annoying.
The spin motor has a spin speed of 1350 RPM. That should assure an effective cleaning and drying of your clothes. The washing machine does offer you two wash programs to choose from. A seven-year warranty on the motor can definitely be considered to be an excellent option and indicates the trustworthiness of the product. The rust-proof and shock-proof body ensure years of trouble-free services.
<strong>Pros and Cons of Onida Washing Machine</strong>
Pros
- A good build and wash quality.
- Turbo spin mode for faster drying.
- Value for money product.
These were a few best options available in India when it comes to buying the best semi-automatic washing machine in India most of them being under Rs.10000. Now, let us see some further information on semi-automatic washing machines in India.
What is a Semi-Automatic Washing Machine
What is a Semi-Automatic Washing Machine?
A semi-automatic machine is a machine that isn’t completely automatic in terms of its operation. The machine, unlike its Fully Automatic counterpart, needs a manual intervention to complete the wash, rinse or spin cycles.
Ideally, a semi-automatic machine comes with two separate tubs – one for washing and the other for spinning or drying the clothes. Once the wash cycle is completed, you need to put the clothes into the spin tub manually. In fact, a semi-automatic washing machine can be considered to be an entry-level washing machine.
The semi-automatic machine needs you to control a host of operations manually. This would include setting up water supply, setting up soak times and wash times manually. You will also need to drain the water manually after the completion of a wash cycle or midway.
However, the semi-automatic machines come with their own advantages. You can effectively control the ware supply and usage. They can be the best option in the areas where there is a water shortage.
How to Clean the Semi-Automatic Washing Machine?
Well, when you compare the cleaning procedure and efficiency of a fully automatic washing machine, it would be easier to clean a semi-automatic washing machine.
But, why clean a washing machine, when the machine in itself is used for cleaning up the clothes? Well, there are several reasons you need to clean up a washing machine. Some of them would include:
Alleviating the foul odor
A washing machine can hold water in certain positions and components. The collected water can cause the formation of molds and mildew. These cause a foul smell. A proper cleaning regime takes care of the issues.
Removing scaling
Scaling is one of the major issues that can affect a washing machine – or anything that uses water. The water consists of lime, and this can get deposited inside the pipes and cause scaling. The scales restrict the flow of water and put a heavy load on the motor. Regular cleaning can help alleviate scaling.
Here is how you can clean up a semi-automatic machine –
Use Vinegar
Vinegar has been found to be an effective cleaner against scaling and other debris. Set your machine to the highest setting available and fill it up with hot water. Add up two to three cups of vinegar. Spin the machine for a couple of minutes.
Add a little baking soda – say around a half cup and run the machine once again. Stop the machine and let it rest for around an hour. During that period, you can clean up the exteriors of the machine. Use a soft fabric and a mixture of warm water, baking soda and vinegar.
Take care of your machine
Cleaning the washing machine at least once every two months is highly advisable. In case your area has a hard water source, it would be a great idea to clean the machine every month.
Leaving the lid open after the wash cycle is complete can also be helpful. This can help you drive away the unwanted foul odor to be expelled from the washing machines. Close the lid after the insides have dried down.
Opt for a regular servicing of your washing machine for ensuring years of trouble-free service. You can even check out if AMC is offered by your manufacturer.
There are several advantages to using a semi-automatic washing machine. Let us list a few of them.
Advantages of Semi-Automatic Washing Machine
Now that we have checked almost every concept with respect to the semi-automatic washing machines, what are the specific advantages that the machine does offer you? Isn’t it a fair idea to check out what advantages does your semi-automatic washing machine offer you?
Well, let us check out a few benefits provided by the semi-automatic washing machines:
- They help you save money. In fact, the price of a semi-automatic machine is lower than the fully automatic options. Apart from the one time savings, these machines also offer you savings in terms of less water consumption.
- You can start and stop them at your convenience. If you are facing power cuts and similar issues, you can stop the machine and start it back later on.
- You have complete control over your washing cycle. You can control the amount of water, the number of wash and rinse cycles and other basic elements. You can take care of the right kind of treatment for the fabric.
- You can add clothes during a cycle, without affecting the ongoing wash cycle
- You would be able to wash a set of clothes while spinning another. This can help you save time if you have a heavy laundry to clear up.
Having understood the benefits, it may also be worthwhile to understand a few demerits of the semi-automatic washing machines as well. They need a lot of manual intervention to complete an entire wash cycle. That would need you to be attentive with respect to the machine and the stags that it has completed. You may need to maintain a minimum level of water irrespective of the clothes load.
Washing very delicate items like sarees may not be a good idea if you have a semi-automatic washing machine.
Now let us see answers to some commonly asked questions by the users with regards to semi-automatic washing machines.
Few FAQs about Semi-Automatic Washing machine
Having gone through the details of a semi-automatic washing machine, here are a few FAQs worth the mention. Perhaps, you too have those questions, and the answers here should ideally address them.
Q – Machine experiences abnormal vibrations?
A – Placing the machine on uneven surfaces can cause the issue. You might also have to remove a few clothes from the machine as an overload can also make the machine vibrate.
Q – How much detergent is needed for a wash cycle?
A – The quantity of detergent used would be dependent on the laundry load and the hardness of the water. If you experience the soap studs after a wash, it can indicate that you are using more quantity than necessary. Go through the instructions provided in the manual.
Q – My machine is experiencing draining and filing simultaneously. How do I fix it?
A – Since semi-automatic machines come with manual knobs, checking that they are at the correct position would be an ideal solution. If the position is perfect, yet you are experiencing drainage, it can be a fault with the drain valve.
Concluding Thoughts on Best Semi-Automatic Washing Machines in India
Well, that was all we have with respect to the semi-automatic washing machines. We assume the list of the best semi-automatic machines featured in this compilation would go a long way in promoting your best washing regime. Check out the exact needs of your family and choose the washing machine that offers the exact performance.
For any suggestions and improvements in the content related to best-selling semi-automatic washing machines in India write to us in the comments section below.