Importance

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Abstract

The invention provides a method of operating a laundry appliance (10) comprising an outer casing (12) and a drum (50) rotatably mounted within the outer casing (12), the drum (50) having at least two rotatable portions (60, 70) which are capable of being rotated in either a synchronized mode or a non-synchronized mode, the method comprising the steps of: (a) introducing water to the interior of the drum (50); (b) heating the water to a desired temperature; (c) rotating the drum (50) to effect a washing action; and (d) spinning the drum (50) at a relatively high speed so as to remove water therefrom. In one aspect, the drum (50) is rotated in the non-synchronized mode either during or immediately after the step of introducing water to the interior of the drum (50). This helps to distribute the washing liquid throughout the wash load. In a second aspect, the drum (50) is rotated in the synchronized mode during a first part of step (c) and in the non-synchronized mode during a second part of step (c), the average temperature of the water being no less during the second part of step (c) than the average temperature of the water during the first part of step (c). This improves the efficacy of the period of non-synchronized rotation. In a third aspect, the drum (50) is rotated in the non-synchronized mode after the end of stop (d). This releases the wash load from the drum walls after spinning and minimises creasing.

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First Claim