Washing machines are designed to detect an uneven load to prevent damage to the machine and ensure proper cleaning. When a washing machine detects an uneven load, it typically stops the cycle and attempts to redistribute the load before proceeding. Here's why they fill up with water before stopping:
Balanced Washing: Even distribution of clothes inside the washing machine drum is important for efficient and effective cleaning. If the load is unevenly distributed, it can cause the machine to vibrate excessively or become unstable during the spin cycle, potentially leading to damage or even toppling over.
Water as a Counterbalance: By filling up with water before stopping, the washing machine adds weight and acts as a counterbalance to help stabilize the load. The water fills the drum and effectively redistributes the weight of the clothes, minimizing the imbalance.
Load Redistribution: Once the water is added, the washing machine attempts to redistribute the clothes more evenly. It may agitate or rotate the drum back and forth to encourage the clothes to shift and balance out.
Safety Precautions: Stopping the cycle when an uneven load is detected is a safety measure to prevent excessive vibrations, damage to the machine, and potential hazards such as the machine moving or falling over.
By stopping the cycle, filling up with water, and redistributing the load, the washing machine aims to ensure a smoother and safer washing experience. If the machine were to simply drain the water immediately, without addressing the uneven load, it could lead to imbalanced spinning and potentially cause damage to the machine or nearby objects.