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Whether front- or top-loading, single tub washing machines are designed as a single unit that does your laundry and spin drying in one tub. Meanwhile, a twin tub washing machine consists of two separate tubs which are located adjacent to each other where one tub is used exclusively for washing and the other only for drying. The twin tub is considered a semi-automatic type of washing machine while the single tub an automatic one.
If you want to find out more, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will take a look at the main differences between a single tub and twin tub washing machine.
Appearance and configuration
Twin tub washing machines are usually made of plastic and are bulkier in appearance and size when compared to a single tub washing machine. The latter are more compact and tend to look better than their twin tub counterparts. In addition, twin tubs are top-loading which essentially means that they cannot be stored under any counters, for example, meaning that they can take up more space.
Functions and electricity consumption
Although both washing machine types have a comparable electricity consumption, the fully automatic machines offer more functions related to both the washing and the drying and can therefore use up more energy over the longer term.
Water consumption
Even though there are many different types of twin tub and single tub washing machines, their levels of water consumption differ quite significantly. In terms of general estimates, it can be said that a top-loading single tub machine will use about 140 litres of water per wash. A twin tub will use in the region of 120 litres of water. Meanwhile, a front loading washing machine will use around half (or 60 litres of water). Therefore, when it comes to water consumption, the differences between twin and single tubs is not too significant, although when a front loader is introduced to the equation, the consumption practically halves and can lead to a reduction in costs.
Maintenance and durability
When it comes to maintenance and durability or the longevity of single versus twin tub washing machines, it’s important to note that single tubs, due to their design and make up, comprise and use more spare and additional parts. Moreover, they are made of metal, which means they can be vulnerable to rust. On the other hand, a twin tub is made of plastic, which makes it easier to maintain and clean. There are fewer chances of mould or rust developing. Also, since these tubs don’t have an inner and outer tube, they consist of fewer parts due to a less complicated manufacturing process making them easier to maintain.
Washing and drying
Since it is considered a semi-automatic washing machine, filling up a twin tub requires either connecting a tap to a hose which fills the tub meant for washing or manually adding water to the tub using a bucket. Once a load has been washed in this type of tub, the user will need to physically move the sopping wet (and often heavy) clothes into the other tub meant for drying. The drying rate for twin tubs is usually around 70%. As for single tubs, there is an automatic filling up of the machine with water and the drying rate is much higher at 90%.
Affordability
As the distant cousin of single tub washing machines, twin tubs are generally made of plastic, are bulkier and have fewer features and parts. On the other hand, single tubs are more modern, usually are made of a sleeker metal for a better appearance and because of all their rich features, they tend to have more parts that are more sophisticated. As a result they can go for as high as three quarters above the price of a twin tub.
All the help you need
Whether you are in need of twin tub washing machine repairs or single tub washing machine repairs, you can always rely on our trusted professionals to come to your assistance. With a guarantee on labour and parts, you can rest assured that your washing machine will again operate at its optimal ability. Our experts are award winning pros that do not charge call-out fees and who offer same- or next-day visits. For quality results, don’t hesitate and get in touch with us today.