subject: Buying An Energy Efficient Washing Machine [print this page] When you are buying a new washer, look for these two labels. Look for the Energy Saving Recommended logo, as this shows you that the washing machine energy efficient and approved by the Energy Saving Trust. The other one to look out for is the European Union Energy Label, which is an alphabetical scale that measures efficiency, with A being the highest rating.
One thing that can really save you money on your energy bills is a washer that provides economy or half load features. This means that you will be able to wash half loads and your machine will use less water and energy to do so.
Choose a washing machine that allows you to adjust the temperature of the water you wash your clothes at. The water heater is responsible for about ninety percent of the energy that your washer uses, so it follows that this is an area where you can make the biggest savings. A 40 degrees Celsius wash uses a third less energy than a 60 Celsius cycle.
Look out for washing machines that give a wash at 30 degrees Celsius option. New detergents are available that will function at this lower temperature.
In the United States, top loading machines are much more popular than side loading machines, due to the lower cost of the units. However, the larger capacity of front loading machines makes them a lot more energy efficient. The fewer washes you have to do, the more energy you will save. Front loading machines have the additional benefit of using less water than top loading machines and have a higher speed spin cycle that means you dont have to use your tumble dryer as much.
Another feature to look out for is the auto load sensor. These can tell how much washing you have in the machine. The machine will then set the amount of water accordingly, which saves water and energy.
Buying a new washing machine means getting rid of your old washing machine too. When you do, make sure that you do no simply throw your old machine into the landfill. Find out if there are washing machine recycling facilities in your area. If your machine is in working order, give it a new home by donating it to a local charity or by listing it on recycling sites like Freecycle. Even damaged machines can find a good home when repairs are cheap and simple to make, as long as you mention the fault when you list it online or donate it to charity.
