The Benefits of High Efficiency Washing Machines

Being green is all the rage these days and with good cause. Conserving energy and water is a great way to help the environment. Best of all, these energy efficient washers have the added benefit of saving you money over time. There are lots of front load washers on the market today, and for those looking for a more traditional top loader, there are still options available.

High efficiency (HE) washing machines are available from trusted manufacturers such as Maytag, Kenmore, Whirlpool, GE and Fisher Paykel. Many models are available in a rainbow of colors to suit the décor of any household, particularly if the machine will be in a high visibility area such as the kitchen. Whether you are looking for a front load washer or a more traditional top load configuration, there are many options to choose from with a variety of capacities to suit your laundry needs.

There are several physical feature benefits of high efficiency washers. In front load models, there is a compartment for adding HE detergent, fabric softener and bleach. Top loaders generally have more traditional receptacles for these liquids. High efficiency top load washers will generally not have an agitator in the tub. The tub movement and the water, which jets to tumble the laundry, agitate the clothes. No agitator means less wear on your clothing, saving you the cost of replacing worn or torn items.

High efficiency washers must use high efficiency laundry detergent. HE detergent is available in both liquid and powder form. The difference between regular laundry detergent and HE detergent is that you use less high efficiency laundry soap and it suds less and rinses better. Because laundry soap tends not to dissolve properly in very cold water, many machines are calibrated to ensure that the water on the cold cycle is at least 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Look for the HE symbol on detergent packages.

HE washers are designed to use a minimal amount of water with each cycle. This, combined with the fact that they spin clothes much better than regular washers, means less drying time and greater energy savings. In the U.S., high efficiency washers are Energy Star compliant and your electric and water bills will noticeably drop, offsetting the slightly higher price of your washer over time. Some power companies also offer rebates when you upgrade to a high efficiency model, making HE washers even more affordable. In late 2009 or early 2010, states will also be offering consumers rebates on Energy Star compliant washers purchased once the program is in effect.

As you can see, high efficiency washers are a must when it comes to being environmentally conscious and saving money. An HE washer, over its lifetime, will pay for itself in energy and water savings. These washers also are much gentler on your clothing and decrease your dry cycle, reducing your costs even further. If you are in the market for a new washing machine, a high efficiency washer should be your first choice.