Panasonic 8kg (NA-W80B5ARB) Semi-Automatic Washing Machine Initial Thoughts: Is it suitable for Indian Homes?

Long gone are the days when manually washing your family’s clothes was a thing. Washing Machines have become an integral part of almost every Indian home nowadays. Recently, while exploring what’s new in the functional yet affordable washing machine segment, I came across a Panasonic 8 kg Top-Loading Washing Machine at a friend’s place, and later, I checked it out while helping another friend buy a washing machine for their bachelor pad.

While we are yet to discuss the features of the washing machine, in terms of design, it did look different from regular white and grey washers. While buying a washing machine solely depends on one’s budget, family members, and laundry habits, traditionally, this 8 kg washing machine is apt for 3-5 member families. To name a few, it comes with an Active Foam System, an Aqua Spin Shower, an Air Dry, and more features.

JUMP TO

• Price
• Specs
• Real-World Usage
• Special Features
• Pros & Cons
• Is it Value for Money?
• Alternatives
• Conclusion

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Panasonic 8 kg Top-Loading Washing Machine: Price

The MRP of this washing machine is Rs. 15,200, but the discounted price on the Reliance store was Rs. 14,490. However, when I checked online, the washing machine is available for Rs. 13,390 on Amazon, and there are other offers too for different bank card holders.

Panasonic 8KG Washing Machine: Key Features & Specs

• Capacity- 8KG
• Suitable for- 3 to 5-member families
• Access Location- Top Load
• Finish Type-Stainless Steel Body
• Weight of the Machine- 23 Kg
• Item Depth- 35 Inches
• Type- Semi-Automatic
• Voltage- 230 Volts
• Number of Programs- 3
• Color- Blue & White
• Maximum rotational speed- 1350 RPM
• Dimensions- 90D x 54W x 99H
• Energy efficiency- 5-star rated
• Warranty- 2-year product warranty + 5-year motor warranty

Panasonic 8Kg Washing Machine: Performance & Real-World Usage

Although it is not feasible to assess a washing machine’s performance in-store, the store representative made an effort to address my concerns regarding its powerful motor and efficiency. While he couldn’t wash clothes on the spot, he demonstrated the RPM speed and motor strength by filling the washer tub with water and adding a small amount of detergent, without any clothes initially. Once the machine was activated, foam began to form within the first few rotations, and the vigorous motion was evident in the rippling water. The manufacturer’s assertions about the motor’s power and high RPM speed appear to be accurate, suggesting that its performance may meet expectations.

Installation & Maintenance

The installation process of the Panasonic 8 kg semi-automatic washing machine was explained to be a simple one. Reliance Store rep claimed that it can be set up by the buyer himself/herself without any professional assistance. The store would deliver it to the home for free as part of promotional offers, and the buyer could then unbox it, place it where they want to use it, connect the pipes, and start using it. But in case there was any issue, Panasonic would send their person to resolve any query or give a demo. Panasonic does have a responsive customer support team to help 24×7.

As for the maintenance, it has a plastic body outside, keeping which clean isn’t very tough. All one needs to do is swipe the external body with a moist, clean cloth once in 2-3 days, and it will look as good as new. As for the internal body’s maintenance, make sure that you don’t leave any water inside after the wash cycle ends, leave the washer tub and dryer tub open so that any residual moisture dries off on its own, then cover both tubs with lids, and you are good to go. Also, make sure there aren’t any rats or mice as these rodents can damage the electrical cord or plastic pipes.

Energy Efficiency

The sticker on the Panasonic washing machine shows it is 5-star rated for energy saving. The machine is designed to be energy efficient and consumes only 0.52kWh kWh per wash cycle (as claimed by the store rep). If it does live up to its claim, the usage of this semi-automatic washing machine will reduce electricity bills substantially and contribute more to a sustainable Indian household.

Noise Level

The machine had very little noise when the washer tub was in operation. The dryer tub operation, too, would be much quieter than other washing machines in the segment. This is a big plus, as many washing machines produce so much noise that one can’t rest or concentrate while they are running in their backyard or laundry area.

Durability & Build Quality

The Panasonic 8 kg 5-star semi-automatic washing machine (NA-W80B5ARB) has been built from high-grade plastic and feels durable and lightweight. The plastic drum is rust-proof, ensuring longevity even in humid Indian environments. It does lack the premium feel of metal-bodied machines, but the plastic design seems practical, especially for use in Indian homes. In our homes, sometimes laundry is done by maids who handle washing machines roughly, so a plastic build seems better. In terms of weight, it stands at 23 kg and was not easy to push around as it doesn’t have wheels at the bottom. In terms of build features, Panasonic has equipped the washing machine with rat protection and rust-proof features as well.

Special Features

Panasonic 8 kg Semi-Automatic Washing Machine is equipped with various special features that are intended to make the washing experience better.

Three Operation Modes- The washing machine comes with Gentle Mode, Normal Mode and Strong Mode. Gentle Mode is perfect for delicate and less soiled clothes, while Normal Mode is apt for everyday laundry including soiled, dirty and sweaty clothes. The Strong Mode has been made for heavily soiled clothes like jeans and workwear.

Active Foam System- The active foam system creates fine, high-density foam that lifts and removes dirt from deep within fabric fibres. It is used to clean clothes thoroughly, leaving them fresh and free from stains.

Air Dry- The Air Dry function comes with strategically placed air vents that help remove moisture from clothes more efficiently, reducing drying time and preventing mildew.

Aqua Spin Shower- The feature ensures thorough rinsing by effectively washing away foam and detergent residue. It saves water during the rinse cycle, thus adding to a sustainable way of life.

Detergent Box- The washing machine comes with a detergent box inside that ensures an even distribution of detergent throughout the wash, leading to optimal cleaning results after every cycle.

Lint Filter- The Lint Filter inside the washing machine catches lint and paper pieces, preventing them from sticking to clothes, especially black and dark colored clothes.

Soaking Feature- The machine can tackle the stubbornest of stains as it allows clothes to be pre-soaked, loosening dirt before the actual wash cycle begins. It offers a more effective cleaning process, especially for heavily dirty clothes.

Multi Pulsator- This creates a gentle flow in the water, helping in washing and rinsing clothes without damaging your delicate fabrics.

Panasonic 8kg Semi-Automatic Washing Machine: Pros & Cons

Pros

• Ideal for nuclear Indian families
• Rustproof body
• Effective washing performance
• 5-star rated
• 3-wash modes

Cons

• pricier than its competitors
• Slight noise while the wash cycle
• Bulky to push around (sans wheels)
• Requires external body cleaning regularly

Panasonic 8 kg Washing Machine: Value for Money

Priced at above 12,000 (with discounts), the washing machine feels slightly pricier than its competitors. However, with the kind of smart features it has, like Active Foam System, Air Dryer, Detergent Box, etc., it does offer a smart solution for nuclear Indian families. Also, it is 5-star energy efficient, which means whatever extra you spend on buying it will be recovered with reduced electricity bills. For a price of 12-13k, I find this one worth considering.

Panasonic 8kg Washing Machine: Alternatives

Panasonic 8kg Semi-Automatic Washing Machine: Verdict

The Panasonic 8kg 5-star Semi-Automatic Washing Machine can prove to be a versatile and valuable appliance for nuclear Indian families. Its 8kg capacity is well-suited to 3-5 member families, and it is super simple to install, use, and maintain. The washing machine has a reliable and sturdy design and comes with 3-wash modes for every kind of clothes. Smart features like Air Dryer, Active Foam, and Detergent tub make it a smart buy. It is 5-star rated as well for reducing electricity bills, and a 5-year motor warranty makes buying it even more peaceful.

“Regarding the washing performance, I haven’t personally used this machine. However, a friend who owns one shared her experience with me. According to her, the results have been somewhat inconsistent. While the machine handles everyday laundry adequately, she finds it struggles to remove tough stains from clothes. The dryer performance is reported to be satisfactory.

How have your experiences been with your current washing machine? Do they come with smart features like this one, and apart from features listed above, what else do your washers entail? Do let us know in the comments section below. Also, if you have any questions about this one, drop them in the comments section below.

The Panasonic 8kg Semi-Automatic Washing Machine is available online via various platforms-

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