Choosing an Energy Efficient Washing Machine
If you’re shopping for a new washing machine, energy efficiency is probably high on your list - and for good reason. A well-designed, efficient model can lower your bills and lighten your environmental impact. Today’s machines use less power and water without skimping on performance. They adjust to your load size, clean just as well in cold water, and can save you a lot over time, especially as energy costs rise.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for, highlight the features that matter, and clear up a few common misconceptions along the way.
What Makes a Washing Machine Energy-Efficient?
Washing machines often use more power and water than other appliances, especially when heating water. Check the Energy Rating Label (annual electricity use) and Water Rating Label (water per cycle); over 4 stars is efficient. Front loaders usual perform better when it comes to efficiency, they use less water, clean well with less detergent, and are gentler on clothes.
For more on washing machine types, see our Top vs Front Load Washing Machine Guide.
Key Features to Look For in an Energy-Efficient Washing Machine
Energy efficiency can be achieved in a few different ways, from cycle types to water temperature and machine design.
The most eco-friendly washing machines have a range of different features to keep them running as efficiently and sustainably as possible.
Load Sensing Technology
Many modern washing machines use internal sensors to determine the right water level for each load you are washing, to prevent adding excess water to each cycle. Some newer models, like some Samsung washing machines, even use AI to more precisely monitor your laundry loads mid-cycle, and even help calculate the energy costs of your laundry based on your load averages.
Eco-Friendly Modes
Many washing machines include special cycles that can reduce energy waste.
- Delayed start timers, for example, can allow you to set your laundry to wash during off-peak energy hours, like early in the morning, to help reduce costs.
- Cold water cycles can also reduce your electricity use, as heating water is one of the most energy intensive functions of your washing machine. Washing in cold water might seem like an ineffective mode, but many machines can wash as well in cold water as hot.
- Some Samsung machines, for example, feature BubbleWash™, which creates a foam from water and detergent to gently but thoroughly clean clothes, even in cold water.
Spin Speed Options
Items in your wash are typically spun at the end of a wash cycle to remove excess water and prevent dripping as you hang your clothes out to dry or toss them in the dryer. Different spin speeds, like high spin options, can actually help you get your washing done faster. If you use a dryer, for instance, it’s better to spin your clothes more rigorously after a wash to remove as much moisture as possible. This means your dryer won’t be working as hard, which helps avoid energy waste.
Benefits of Energy-Efficient Washing Machines
Lower Utility Bills
Running a washing machine several times a week consumes plenty of water and power, which can add up on your power bill. Any decrease in the amount of water and power your household consumes helps to bring your costs down, and energy efficient washing machines can reduce energy waste without compromising on cleaning power.
Better Environmental Impact
White goods and other appliances can have a negative impact on the planet, through unsustainable designs and materials, and wasteful operation modes. Energy efficient appliances have a better impact on the environment, which is especially important for washing machines, as these appliances can easily function for a decade or more.
Long-Term Savings
Reducing your energy costs is great for short term savings, but an efficient machine can also end up saving you a lot in bills over the lifetime of your machine. Using calculators like the Energy Rating Calculator can show you much you can save over years of use, with efficient models able to save hundreds of dollars a year1 in running costs compared to similar models. Even though they can have higher upfront costs, energy efficient machines often pay for themselves in the long-run.
Better Fabric Care
Energy efficient machines have many features that make them softer on your clothing. Many are front loaders, which tumble items less rigorously during a cycle, plus eco-friendly features like Samsung’s BubbleWash™ can mix and distribute detergent more evenly during a wash, preventing wear-and-tear.
Common Myths About Energy-Efficient Machines
Myth 1
Doesn’t Clean as Well
It’s easy to think that using more water and electricity means a better clean — but that’s not really the case. Most modern energy-efficient machines clean just as well as older models, and they’re often easier on your clothes, too.
Myth 2
Requires Complicated Maintenance
Some energy-efficient machines suggest using low-sudsing detergent made for modern washers, but that doesn’t mean they’re high-maintenance. In fact, most work perfectly fine with standard detergents and don’t need any more upkeep than regular machines.
Myth 3
Are More Expensive
Buying a cheaper washer upfront can be tempting, especially when you’re looking for a deal. But less efficient models can end up costing more in water and energy bills. That lower price tag might look good at first, but the ongoing costs can add up fast and cancel out any savings.
Tips for Choosing the Right Machine
When choosing a washing machine, make sure it fits your space and has the right capacity for your household — the wrong size can waste water and energy. Think about the features you’ll actually use, like sensors that adjust water and detergent or cycles designed for allergies. It’s also worth choosing a reliable brand with good support and warranty options, just in case. Take the time to compare models, check energy and water ratings, and find one that suits your needs and budget — it’s a purchase that’ll pay off in the long run. For more tips on choosing the right washing machine you can check out our washing machine buying guide.
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1Energy saving calculated based on using the Energy Rating Calculator to compare the Samsung 9kg Front Load Smart Washer with Steam Wash Cycle - WW90T504DAW and the Samsung 8.5kg Front Load Washer - WW85T3040WW.
