Washing Machines Vs. Energy-Efficient Washing Machines
- Perhaps the biggest difference between a traditional washer and a high-efficiency washer is the washers' water consumption. Traditional washing machines utilize 50 or more gallons of water per load of laundry, while a high-efficiency washer only uses 18 to 25 gallons of water. If you pay for your water usage, a high-efficiency washer will reduce your monthly water bill, especially if you are constantly using your washing machine.
- Traditionally, a high-efficiency washer comes in a front-loading design. This design features the washer door on the front of the machine. While high-efficiency front-load washers are more commonplace in the appliance industry, if you enjoy the traditional top-load washing machine design, some manufacturers are creating high-efficiency top-loaders. If you're searching for a high-efficiency washer, you will have the choice of a front- or top-load design without having to sacrifice water or energy consumption.
- One of the features to consider when choosing between a high-efficiency and a traditional washing machine is the required detergent. While a traditional washer is able to use a wide variety of laundry detergent, most high-efficiency washers require high-efficiency detergent. Because high-efficiency washers use much less water than their traditional counterparts, ordinary detergent does not receive ample water to fully dissolve and clean your clothing. While most detergent manufacturers do make high-efficiency detergent, if you do not wish to change your detergent, this can be a major drawback.
- Typically, a high-efficiency washing machine costs more than a traditional washer. Also, the design of the washer determines the final price. For example, as of April 2011 the Whirlpool WTW4800XQ top-load washer is priced at $500, while the Whirlpool WTW5600XW high-efficiency top-load washer is priced at $750. The price continues to rise for front-load washers, as the Whirlpool WFT9470WW front-load high-efficiency washer is priced at $1,000.
Water Consumption
Design
Detergent
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