how does the downy ball know when to open up in the washer?

Answer 1

It doesn't 'know,' it's purely mechanical.

Look at the ball, the top is connected to a strap of rubber, which is connected to the bottom of the ball through the middle of the ball. In the middle of the strap, there is a bulge, containing a chunk of metal, also covered by rubber, that acts as a weight and pulls on the strap which opens the lid when the basket spins, after the wash cycle is done and the water has drained.

If any part of the ball has gotten worn or old, it can fail to open, or can open when it's not supposed to. If you've used it in the 'heavy duty' cycle, there is a chance that it's rough enough to open up the ball too early, even if it's in great shape. Also, it cannot be used in a front-loading machine.

Answer 2

I didn't know until I just read the answers here. I'm glad you asked. I love the downy ball because there is no cup on my machine for adding softener at the right time. I used dryer sheets until read that they have been known to cause build up and can cause a fire.

Answer 3

Centrifugal force after the wash cycle on the 1st spin

Answer 4

I don't know I wonder that every time...I think the spin cycle before the final rinse makes it open and then when the water rises it comes out .
Very good idea

Answer 5

Centrifugal force when it spins and goes into the rinse cycle.

Answer 6

The spin cycle~

Answer 7

Yes. there are no rules for non agitator machines.

Answer 8

it DOESN'T--------- it opens whenever it wants to

it is SUPPOSED to open during the spin/rinse cycle

Answer 9

centrifugal force?