What makes a washing machine energy efficient?
Washers use a lot of electricity mainly to heat water. Turning the drum doesn’t take half as much energy. When we talk about an “energy efficient washing machine”, most of the energy saved is in heating the water.
You might think that you would also save a lot of electricity by having a shorter wash cycle, and that is true to some extent. But often, short programs don’t get your laundry clean. If you want to wash using less water and less energy, you should choose a long program at 40 to 60 degrees.
The energy efficiency of a washing machine is measured by its energy class – formerly known as the energy label. New washing machines range from energy label A to energy label F. A washing machine with energy label A uses the least energy. Most washing machines on the market today are rated A or C. An energy-efficient washing machine is one that is rated A, B or C.
Energy-efficient washing machines are usually a bit more expensive to buy, but can actually save you money in use. This is because they keep your energy bills considerably lower. The specifications of a washing machine can often tell you how much energy (and money) you will save over its lifetime.
Best energy-efficient washing machines of 2023
If you’re looking for a new washing machine that conserves water and energy, here’s what you need. Below is a list of the best energy-efficient washing machines on the market today. In making this selection we have compared many washing machines with each other. Of course based on energy consumption per wash, but we also looked at the fill weight, spin speed, noise level, different wash programs, and any additional features for convenience. Is the best energy-efficient washing machine for your household among them?
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Best energy efficient washing machine
The GE GFW650SSNWW front load washer has a large 4.8 cu. ft. maximum capacity that is perfect to wash more clothes at once, saving you lots of time. Weighing just 246 lbs., with measurements of 32 inches deep, 39.75 inches high and 28 inches wide, this beautiful machine will fit in many laundry spaces and closets. Place it wherever you please because the glass door is reversible, giving you a lot of flexibility in placement. Stack it with your favorite
GE dryer and save even more space.
This machine is energy efficient, with an EER of Tier I, consuming only 158kWh per year. Dry your clothes faster because it comes with a maximum spin speed of 1300 RPM. A variety of choices is available to you with 12 wash cycles, from your delicates to heavy, bulky bedding. When you’re in a hurry, the 20-minute Quick Wash cycle will be there to save you. Finish a full load within 37 minutes with the Time Saver function. Sanitize + Allergen is a dedicated cycle designed to protect you and your family by removing 99% of common bacteria and allergens such as dust mites. For clothes that need the extra cleaning power, there is the Power Clean cycle.
This machine comes with the PowerSteam function that safely penetrates fabric fibers to loosen stains. The UltraFresh vent system with OdorBlock function eliminates excess moisture in your machine to help prevent odors and bacterial growth, so your washer stays fresh and clean. Moreover, the Microban antibacterial technology is built into the parts like the gasket, dispenser and draining system, further protecting you and your family from harmful germs. Dynamic Balancing Technology (dBT™) is GE’s patented, time saving technology that senses and rebalances uneven loads during a spin cycle, providing a quieter wash. The SmartDispense technology allows your washer to hold up to 32 loads of detergent that automatically dispenses when you start a wash cycle. The GE GFW650SSNWW is perfect for a modern, smart-home and can be controlled with an app in your phone because it is Wi-Fi ready.
The GE GFW650SSNWW comes with a power cord.
The Samsung WF45R6100AC is perfect for your home. This high-efficiency front load washer has a substantial maximum capacity of 4.5 cu. ft., helps you fit more in every load and cut down on laundry time. Measuring 31.4 inches deep, 38.75 inches high and 27 inches wide and weighing just 201 lbs., the standard size will allow you to fit it in small laundry spaces and closets. Stack it on a matching Samsung
dryer, either model DVE45R6100C or model DVG45R6100C or prop it on the matching Samsung WE402NC pedestal to customize your laundry space. The left swing metal door allows you to look inside your washer.
Impressively economical with an Energy Efficiency Rating of Tier I, consuming a measly 80 kWh/year. It comes with a powerful maximum spin speed of 1200 RPM allowing your washing machine to remove most of the water from your clothes at the end of a wash cycle. 10 wash cycles provide you with the most important presets you need: Bedding, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Normal, Permanent Press, Rinse & Spin, Sanitize, Speed Wash, and Whites. It also comes with 7 additional washing options so you can choose the optimal way to clean a specific load.
Features include a steam function that provides powerful stain removal without pretreatment while still being gentle on your clothing. Self Clean+ gives your washer the ability to remove 99% of common household bacteria and remind you to clean the drum every 40 wash cycles. Enjoy a quiet wash with the VRT Plus Technology which reduces vibration and noise when your machine is running. The Swirl+Drum interior is designed so the water will flow more easily to help remove extra moisture in your clothes. Choose between 5 temperature levels, as some stains and dirt wash more easily with hot or cold water. This washer is Accessibility Certified with ADA Compliant4, AUI, Braille so more people are free to use it. With Smart Care, any problem you encounter with your washing machine can be easily solved with a smartphone app, saving you the trouble of calling customer service. Discover more of its impressive features when you bring this machine home.
The Samsung WF45R6100AC comes with a power cord. Stacking kit model SKK-8K sold separately.
Look no further than the LG WM3900HWA front load washer for your next washing machine. With a particularly large capacity of 4.5 cu. ft., it’s big enough to take on the large loads you throw at it. Prop it on a LG SideKick pedestal washer, sold separately, to wash additional smaller loads, or stack it with your favorite LG dryer. Weighing only 187.4 lbs. at measurements of 30.25 inches deep, 39 inches high and 27 inches wide, this machine will fit in most laundry spaces and closets. The LG WM3900HWA has a left swing, first-in-the-industry tempered glass door for that sleek, stylish look that resists scratches and shock.
Enjoy a powerful machine with a spin speed of 1300 RPM to greatly reduce the time clothes need to be in the washing machine. Energy Efficiency Rating is certified at Tier II, and it only consumes 105kWH of energy per year, saving you money in the long run. You have an abundance of choice with how to wash your laundry with 10 wash cycle options including the Allergiene cycle that uses the gentle power of steam, to not only clean and sanitize your clothes, but also remove allergens and germs.
This washer is not only designed with a premium, timeless look, but also impressive functionality. Built-in with AI technology, the LG WM3900HWA takes out the guesswork by selecting the optimal wash or dry settings. Deep clean with the power of steam with this AAFA certified washer with the Allergiene cycle that removes over 95% of pet dander and dust. With the LG ThinQ app, control your washer from virtually anywhere, anytime. Proactive Customer Care sends recommended maintenance tips and usage reports to help keep your appliance running at their best. The ColdWash technology penetrates deep into fabrics for cold water savings with warm water performance. With the LG TubClean system, you don't have to worry about mold, mildew or musty odors. Simply select the TubClean cycle, add liquid bleach or other cleaner and let the washer do the work to thoroughly clean and dry the tub, door and gaskets. LG 's TrueBalance Anti-Vibration and LoDecibel systems are designed for quiet operation that keeps even big loads in balance to reduce washer noise and vibration. Enjoy all these along with standard features such as Add Garment (pause), Adjustable Legs, Built-in Drawer, Control Lock, Delay Start, End-Of-Cycle Signal, and Front Control.
Installation hardware included.
The Whirlpool WFW5620HW is the front load washer that you have been looking for. This machine can take up to 4.5 cu. ft. of laundry at one time, a large capacity that will allow you to spend less time on washing clothes, and more with your family. This left swing, stackable washing machine will fit in most laundry closets with closet-depth measurements of 31.56 inches deep, 38.63 inches high and 27 inches wide. Save even more space with the Built-in drawer, where you can store your laundry supplies.
This machine is Energy Star Certified with an Energy Efficiency Rating of Tier I, consuming a measly 105kWh/year. With a maximum spin speed of 1160 RPM, your clothes come out dryer, so it spends less time in the tumble dryer or the clothesline. Save and customize up to an unbelievable 35 wash cycle settings to get the right type of fabric care for any of your laundry.
Let’s talk about features. Whirlpool’s Load & Go dispenser allows you to add up to 20 loads of detergent at once, automatically dispensing the right amount of detergent in each cycle. If you need to use a different detergent, don’t worry because the single load dispenser is always ready. Get clothes ready quickly with Quick Wash which finishes a 3 lb. load within 20 minutes. Remove tough dirt with Steam Clean. Give your most vibrant colors the care they need with the Cold Wash cycle that adjusts wash actions and time, combined with gentle temperatures, to provide optimal fabric care. The Presoak option lets you skip soaking outside of the washer. Run the Clean Washer with AFFRESH cycle to clean your washer every 30 washes with an AFFRESH Washer Cleaner tablet or simply a liquid chlorine bleach to fight bacterial growth. Enjoy these special features along with standard Whirlpool features like Control Lock, Cycle Status Indicator, End-Of-Cycle Signal, Spin Speed Option and more.
The Whirlpool WFW5620HW comes with hoses and a power cord.
The Electrolux EFLS627UTT front load washer has a capacity of 4.4 cubic feet, large enough for a growing family like yours. With compact measurements of 32 in (depth) by 38 in (height) and 27 in (width) at 237 lb., plus a reversible washer door, it fits perfectly in many places. It’s also stackable so you can save even more space. With a stainless-steel drum, you can be assured that it’s durable and low maintenance.
This amazing washing machine features Electronic LED controls that also displays the Cycle Status for easy operation. Delay Start allows you to start your wash cycle at your most convenient time while the End-Of-Cycle Signal alerts you when your load is done. Because Luxury-Design Lighting illuminates the inside of your washer, it’s easier to find any article of clothing.
Additionally, it’s economical with an Energy Efficiency rating of Tier II, and an energy consumption of 85kWH/year. With a Spin Speed of 1300 RPM, minimize the amount of time your clothes spend drying on the line. With 10 wash cycles including Delicates, Hand washable, Heavy Duty, Rinse & Spin, Speed Wash, and Whites, you have the option to choose the perfect setting for your laundry.
This Electrolux EFLS627UTT Front Load washer is not only chic with its gorgeous color options of titanium or white, but also packed with many incredible features. The Special Steam technology releases heat from the bottom up, so dirt is gently lifted from fabric. The SmartBoost feature premixes your preferred detergent and water before a wash cycle, maximizing the cleaning power and allowing it to clean your clothes more effectively. To remove tougher dirt, StainSoak combines the detergent, water and stain remover solution. What’s more is it’s also eco-friendly with Automatic Water Level Adjustment, ensuring there is as little water waster as possible.
The Electrolux EFLS627UTT pairs with the optional pedestal storage drawer (Model #EPWD257UTT) to create additional height and extra laundry storage space. Power cord included.
Buying an energy-efficient washing machine; what to look out for?
It is obviously very important that a washing machine is water and energy efficient. This is good for the environment, and it keeps your energy bills low. But of course, there are other things to consider when buying a new washing machine. These are our tips:
Fill weight
If you really want to save water and energy while washing, it is important that you choose a new washing machine with a fill weight that matches the size of your household. The load weight of a washing machine indicates how many kilos of washing you can fit into the drum.
If you buy an energy-efficient washing machine with too much load weight, it may take longer to get a full drum. It is important for the life of your washing machine that you wash with a full load – failure to do so can cause the washing machine to become unbalanced and components to become damaged. You’ll also unnecessarily use energy and water if you don’t have a full drum.
But you also don’t want a washing machine with too little fill weight. This means you’ll have to wash more often, which also uses up a lot of water and energy. Most washing machines last longer if you only use them a few times a week.
To wash as efficiently as possible, we recommend the following household size: If you are a 1 or 2 person household, it is best to choose an energy-efficient washing machine with 6 kg or 7 kg fill weight. If you have a family of 3 or 4, an 8kg washer would be better. If you have a household of 5 or more, you may want to consider 9kg or 10kg washing machines.
RPM
The spin speed of a washing machine indicates how many rounds it spins per minute while spinning. The faster it spins, the drier your laundry will be from the drum. More revolutions cost more energy. But it also means that you don’t have to put your laundry in the dryer, which saves you electricity. Most energy-efficient washing machines are rated at 1400 rpm, but 1600 rpm will get your laundry as dry as possible.
Sound level
The sound level of a washing machine indicates, in decibels (dB), how much noise it makes while spinning. If you are looking for an economical, quiet washing machine, you should look for ones that produce a maximum of 73 dB during the spin cycle.
Wash programs
Each washing machine offers different wash programs. The composition of your household may mean that you need a specific wash cycle. That way, you can wash as efficiently as possible. There are special programmes for delicate fabrics, stains, sportswear, baby clothes, shirts and more. Which wash cycle should your new washing machine feature?
Energy label washing machines explained
If you don’t know what an energy class is, you’ve probably heard of an energy label before. These are basically the same thing. Since March 1, 2022, there is a new energy label system, which runs from energy label A to G instead of A+++ to D. The energy label indicates how energy efficient a washing machine is. Washing machines with energy label A, B and C are considered energy efficient washing machines.
The energy label on washing machines is based on the most economical wash cycle that the machine runs. Often this is an eco wash cycle at 40 or 60 degrees. The energy label does not cover all other wash cycles.
