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A solenoid valve is a type of control valve that uses electricity to regulate or control the flow of liquid or gas. When you flip the switch on your washing machine and configure the settings, you power the machine and the solenoid valve. The valve consists of three main components: the solenoid, a plunger and a diaphragm.
A solenoid is made of an inductive coil that becomes magnetic when an electric field is passed through it. The plunger is a movable core that closes or opens the orifice in the valve, allowing or restricting fluid flow. On the other hand, the diaphragm controls the opening and closing of the valve.
There are two main types of solenoid valves: normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC). The difference between these two types is how they work. In an NC valve, current flows through a coil and opens the valve, while in an NO valve, current flows through a coil and closes the valve.
When an electric current passes through the inductive coil, a magnetic field is created, which attracts the plunger, opening the valve (NC valve) and allowing fluid flow. Once the power is off, the coil becomes demagnetized, and the spring action pulls back the plunger, closing the orifice and restricting fluid flow.
Solenoid valves used in washing machines are also known as automatic drain valves or motorized actuated valves. They are designed to automatically drain water from the washing machine at the end of every cycle. These valves are becoming increasingly popular in the market thanks to their efficiency, reliability and durability. Solenoid valves can also be used as inlet/feed valves or control valves to regulate the flow of cold and hot water into the machine.
Depending on the specific function, these valves often have different ratings and design specifications. Solenoid valves often vary based on their circuit functions (i.e., 2-way or 3-way), Valve operation (NO or NC), and valve working principles (direct acting, indirect-acting, and semi-direct acting). Most washing machines use direct-acting valves.
Washing machines come fully operational with fully-configured parts and components. That means you probably won’t need a solenoid valve unless the existing one is faulty. Similarly, you can choose a washing machine based on the type of solenoid valve installed. That means you’ll need to consult widely and do your research to know exactly the type of solenoid valve installed and whether it meets your needs and expectations.
Whether buying a new washing machine or replacing a faulty solenoid valve in your old machine, there are several considerations you should make. First, you should know what you want from your washing machine: in terms of quality and efficiency. Here are the other factors to consider:
Like most components in your washing machine, solenoid valves should be chosen keenly to ensure optimal and safe operation. When buying a washing machine or a solenoid valve replacement, always go for the quality products that have been in the market for a long time. That way, you are guaranteed the durability and ease of getting spare parts if you need some in the future.
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