Energy Star-qualified washing machines use about thirty percent less energy and over fifty percent less water than regular washers. Many qualified clothes washers also have a greater capacity than conventional models, meaning you’ll do fewer loads of laundry. These washers save money and reduce the considerable negative environmental impact of doing laundry.
A typical high-efficiency clothes washer will be a front-loading machine with multiple wash and water-temperature settings. Be aware that for state rebate purposes, it may not be enough to have a machine with an Energy Star label. California, for example, will only provide a rebate for Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE) Tier 3 models.
If you’re in the market for a new washing machines, high efficiency versions are available from most major retailers including Home Depot, Sears, and Best Buy. You can also find them at local home appliance stores. Like refrigerators, clothes washers come with a YellowGuide label showing overall water and energy use. Read these.
Do some research and read customer reviews before you purchase. Washer performance, noise, and overall customer satisfaction vary across different brands. And keep an eye out for any class action lawsuits; there’s currently one against several manufacturers due to a design defect that leads to mold building up in the washer.
