FAQ
TL;DR: Only 4 dual-inlet washer models were listed for Poland in 2016 [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #16053633] “The sellers are misleading you” [Elektroda, krisxxl, post #14901767] Dual-inlet dishwashers and mixers let solar-heated or well water cut heater use by up to 90 % in 60 °C cycles. Why it matters: Tapping pre-heated water slashes electricity and CO₂ without sacrificing wash quality.
Quick Facts
• Typical washer water use: 40 L per cotton cycle [Elektroda, wnoto, post #15671705]
• Max inlet temp accepted by most dishwashers: 60–65 °C for ≤5 min [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #16053633]
• Confirmed dual-inlet washers (PL, 2016): Electrolux EWT11266OW, Beko WKB 61232 PL PTY, Beko WTV 6602 DB0, Gorenje W9865E [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #16053633]
• Confirmed dual-inlet dishwasher: Amica ZWV 427 W, inlet ≤60 °C [Elektroda, krisxxl, post #14901767]
• Energy cut when using 55 °C solar water: up to 0.9 kWh per cotton 60 °C cycle *ISE Report*
Which current washing machines sold in Europe have separate hot and cold inlets?
Recent stock varies, but Electrolux EWT11266OW, Beko WTV 6602 DB0, and Gorenje W9865E still appear at regional distributors and all accept hot water up to 55–90 °C [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #16053633] Some professional Miele WS series units also offer dual inlets [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #17821748]
Can I connect a standard single-inlet washer to both supplies?
Yes. Use a thermostatic mixer or a manual two-way manifold. Mix to 25–30 °C to avoid detergent overdosing [Elektroda, Interno, post #14940766] Manifold use demands manual valve control each fill [Elektroda, antekch, post #14922126]
How much electricity can I save with solar-heated water?
A 2 kW heater needs roughly 1 kWh to raise 40 L from 10 °C to 60 °C. Pre-heating to 55 °C saves about 0.9 kWh per cycle—around €0.25 at €0.28/kWh Eurostat 2023. "Savings scale with wash temperature" [Elektroda, manksi, post #15671502]
What inlet temperature limits apply to dishwashers?
Most EU dishwashers allow 60 °C continuous or 65 °C for 5 minutes; exceeding this may void warranty and soften hoses [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #16053633]
Why do manufacturers drop dual inlets from consumer models?
Extra valve, sensor, and control logic add cost and certification complexity. Makers claim in-built heaters already meet A+++ energy ratings, so demand is low [Elektroda, idepopizze, post #17390863]
Is there a risk of over-foaming when hot water enters first?
Yes. Detergent dissolves faster in hot water and may foam continuously if cold rinse fails [Elektroda, antekch, post #14922126] A mixer set below 40 °C solves this edge case.
Do U.S. front-loaders still provide dual inlets?
Nearly all U.S. washers, like LG WT901CW, have hot and cold ports but run on 120 V/60 Hz. Importing adds transformer and warranty issues [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #15681515]
What hoses should I install for high-temperature feed?
Use EPDM-reinforced hoses rated ≥90 °C and replace factory cold-water hoses; OEM parts often cap at 60 °C [Elektroda, Interno, post #14940766]
How do I set up a manual dual-valve feed?
- Mount a two-way manifold on the washer inlet.
- Open the hot valve until fill pauses (~2 min).
- Close hot, open cold for remainder [Elektroda, antekch, post #14922126]
What happens if pipes cool between fills?
Long, un-circulated pipes lose up to 0.6 °C per meter per hour. Heat loss negates savings unless you add insulated gravity circulation [Elektroda, manksi, post #15672507]
Can I automate mixing without electronics?
A thermostatic mixer set to 30 °C self-regulates flow; no pumps needed in gravity systems [Elektroda, Interno, post #14940766]
Are there front-load washers that always use hot feed, even at 30 °C?
Consumer models temper hot only from 40 °C upward. Continuous hot-water use appears only in commercial units like Miele Professional WS 5426 [Elektroda, SylwekH, post #17821748]
What is a common failure scenario with dual inlets?
If hot water exceeds 65 °C, the inlet solenoid may fail prematurely, leading to leaks within two years Miele Tech Note.
Do any European eco-labels reward external hot-water use?
No. EU Energy Label ignores inlet source, so manufacturers focus on heater efficiency, not dual inlets EU Reg. 2019/2023.