Upgrade Clothes Washer
Upgrading your clothes washer to an Energy Star model can save significantly on water, energy, and money. If your clothes washer was built in 2002 or earlier, you can save up to $180 and 6,000 gallons of water a year!
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
How are they so efficient? The secret is new technology that allows the washing machines to clean without filling the tub up all the way with water. Instead, they flip or spin the clothes through a stream of water and rinse with high-pressure spraying rather than soaking. These models also have a greater tub capacity, which means you can wash fewer loads to clean the same amount of laundry.
Energy Star washing machines also save money. If your clothes washer was built in 2002 or prior, you can save up to $180/year on heating costs and 20 gallons/wash which can add up to 6,000 gallons of water saved per year (adding another $40 in savings)! If your washer is newer, upgrading to an Energy Star can still save $40 or more on utility bills and over 3,000 gallons of water per year for a family of four.
Find out more about when to consider upgrading and what features to look for.
1When to upgrade
Purchasing a new clothes washer is an investment since most models are priced from $500-$1,000 or more. If your current clothes washer is pre-2003, the annual savings will be significant—$180/year or more. This savings can pay for the cost of the upgrade in 3-5 years depending on which model you choose. Since the average lifetime of a clothes washer is 10-14 years, you will come out ahead!
If your current clothes washer was built in 2003 or later but is not Energy Star rated, then you will still get savings—just not as much. In this case, it probably makes sense to wait until you get at least 8-10 years of use out of your current washing machine to reap the benefits of your investment. If you're not ready to upgrade, schedule the purchase of an Energy Star model out on your timeline when this investment makes sense for you. If you have a newer Energy Star model now, you are set! Mark this action already completed.
2Choose an energy efficient model
Energy Star. The most important feature to look for when you upgrade is an Energy Star rated model. In addition, check the label for energy efficiency information, since there is a range of efficiencies within the Energy Star rating. The higher the rating, the more you will save!
Top or front loading. It is often thought that only front loading machines can be efficient, but this is actually not the case. There are a number of high-efficiency top loading models. These machines spin faster than regular top loaders, which removes more water from your clothes and saves on drying time. Of course, front loading machines are always a great option. They are often a bit more expensive and can take a bit longer to complete a load, but generally clean better, are gentler on clothes and use less water than top loaders. Front loaders generally have a bigger capacity for their size and spin faster, removing even more water than top loaders to minimize drying energy and time. This can save money on clothes drying and help offset the extra investment.
Size and features. Other factors to consider are capacity, noise, and features. On capacity, make sure if you opt for a bigger machine that your new washer will fit in your space. Some good features to look for include automatic dispensers and temperature control, extra rinse cycle, stainless steel tub, and end of cycle signal. At the end of the day, look for a model that meets your family's needs and your budget. For more information on features and models, check out this Consumer Reports buying guide.
3Install & start saving!
Purchase and install your new washer. Clothes washers are generally very easy to install. However, many retailers will include the installation for free with delivery. Check when you purchase your washer to learn your options.
Recycle your old washer. Your washing machine is made from steel and aluminum which can be recycled. Most retailers will offer a recycling service and take away your washing machine when they install your new one. There may be a fee for this additional service. Be sure to confirm that the appliances are recycled or refurbished and reused and not disposed of at a landfill. If you are not sure it is being recycled, check the website of your city or county’s municipal waste service. Many have recycling programs that accept large appliances and may even offer a curbside pickup option. Or visit the Recyclenation.com website for a list of local recycling centers that accept appliances.
Use it wisely! Once you have your new clothes washer, use it wisely! Learn tips and tricks on how to use your clothes washer efficiently on the Wash Wisely action.