How Do Semi-Automatic Washing Machines Work?

A semi-automatic washing machine will have your wash ready for the line more quickly than an automatic model.

A semi-automatic washing machine, also known as a twin tub, has two sections--a washtub in which laundry is agitated in soapy water--and a spin dryer that is used for rinsing and water extraction.

Setup

The machine is positioned in front of the sink. The drain hose is hooked over the sink edge and the fill hose attached to a faucet. The washtub is filled with water and the machine is attached to the electricity supply.

Washing

Detergent is added to the water and the agitation system is briefly activated to dissolve this in the water. The laundry is placed in the washtub and the agitation system is again activated for the desired amount of time.

Rinsing and Spinning

The washing is lifted from the washtub into the spinning drum. The suds are spun out of the washing and water is then poured on top of the load using the fill hose. This water rinses soap out of the clothes when the spinner is again activated. The process should be repeated until the water emerging from the drain hose contains no soap traces. The load should then be spun until water ceases to emerge from the drain hose.

References

• Harris Twin-Tubs: User Guide