Washing Machine and Steam Washing Method Thereof

Abstract

A washing machine and steam washing method thereof are disclosed. The method includes performing primary steam washing by supplying steam to laundry, performing a washing cycle by supplying wash water to the laundry, performing a rinsing cycle, performing a spin-dry cycle to remove the wash water from the laundry, and performing secondary steam washing by supplying steam to the laundry. The washing machine has improved sterilizing effects by sterilizing bacteria and fungi with hot steam.

1 . A washing machine comprising:
 a water supply tube supplying wash water to a tub;   a heater compartment to contain the wash water;   a wash heater heating the wash water contained in the heater compartment to generate steam; and   a level detection sensor detecting a level of the wash water contained in the heater compartment.   
     
     
         2 . The washing machine according to claim  6 , further comprising:
 a gasket disposed at one side of the tub;   a drum disposed inside the tub to receive laundry; and   an assistant water supply tube passing through the gasket to prevent wash water for steam from being supplied to the laundry.   
     
     
         3 . The washing machine according to  claim 2 , wherein the assistant water supply tube communicates with the water supply tube. 
     
     
         4 . The washing machine according to  claim 3 , further comprising:
 a water supply valve between the assistant water supply tube and the water supply tube.   
     
     
         5 . The washing machine according to  claim 1 , wherein the heater compartment extends outwardly from the tub.