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In a recent incident, a washing machine in Maanshan City, Anhui Province, exploded while a man was drying his down jacket. The event has raised concerns among consumers about the safety of using washing machines for certain types of clothing, especially down jackets. The Consumers Association of Maanshan City issued a warning to alert people about the risks involved.
The incident occurred in February when Mr. Wang used his washing machine to dry a down jacket. During the drying cycle, the machine suddenly exploded. Fortunately, he was not injured, but the damage was significant. The washing machine’s drum was broken, and a large hole was created. Despite the machine being less than three years old, the explosion left him shocked and concerned.
Upon receiving the complaint, the Consumers Association contacted the manufacturer, who investigated the cause. According to the manufacturer, the washing machine is a pulsator type, which is not designed for drying down jackets. The machine’s lid clearly states that it is not suitable for drying items like down jackets. As a result, the incident was deemed due to improper use, and it fell outside the scope of the product’s warranty.
Experts from the association explained that there are several reasons why a washing machine might explode during the drying of a down jacket. First, the waterproof coating on the outer layer of the down jacket can prevent proper air circulation, causing the jacket to float and trap air inside. When the machine spins at high speed, the trapped air can expand, leading to pressure buildup. Second, static electricity generated during the drying process may lead to sudden heat buildup and even explosions. Third, if the down jacket is unbalanced during the spin cycle, it can cause violent movement and damage the machine. Lastly, internal issues with the washing machine or biogas accumulation could also contribute to such incidents.
Most washing machines can wash down jackets, but drying them requires caution. Non-sealed two-cylinder and pulsator washing machines are generally not recommended for this purpose. Drum-type washing machines are more suitable for drying down jackets. If you must use a pulsator or two-cylinder model, it's advisable to place the down jacket in a loose net bag before drying. This helps prevent expansion and reduces the risk of an explosion.
In addition to down jackets, other delicate fabrics such as silk and pure wool should also be handled carefully. These materials may not be suitable for pulsator washing machines due to their poor breathability and tendency to retain water.
The Maanshan City Consumers Association advises consumers to pay close attention to the user manual and warning labels on their appliances. Key tips include: reading the washing machine instructions thoroughly, checking care labels on clothing, removing all items from pockets before washing, securing zippers and buttons, avoiding washing clothes worn by painters or mechanics (due to potential volatile substances), turning off the power after use, cleaning the filter regularly, and keeping the washing machine’s door open to allow ventilation. It is also recommended to clean the inner drum every six months using a specialized cleaning agent.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following manufacturer guidelines and understanding the limitations of household appliances. Always prioritize safety when handling potentially hazardous tasks like drying heavy or coated garments.