Think carefully about the size. ENERGY STAR certified models are also available in stackable and under-the-counter designs, which fit in smaller spaces.
Save the most by choosing a model with a high Integrated Modified Energy Factor (IMEF) and a low Integrated Water Factor (IWF). Integrated Modified Energy Factor (IMEF) is a measure of energy efficiency that considers the energy used by the washer during the cycle and while on standby, the energy used to heat the water, and the energy used to run the dryer. The higher the IMEF, the more energy efficient the clothes washer. Integrated Water Factor (IWF) measures water efficiency in gallons of water consumed per cubic foot of capacity. The lower the IWF, the more water efficient the clothes washer. Both IMEF and IWF are provided for each model listed in the ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
Advanced Technology
Most ENERGY STAR certified clothes washers do not have a central agitator.
Clothes washers that have earned the ENERGY STAR use next generation technology to cut energy consumption by 25% and water consumption by 33% compared to conventional washers.
ENERGY STAR certified clothes washers come in either front-load or redesigned top-load designs. Both configurations include technical innovations that help save substantial amounts of energy and water.
For both models, check to see if you need to use special detergent. Low-water washers use special low-suds detergent for best results. Ask your sales representative for recommendations on detergent use.
Save in So Many Ways! Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified washer saves you enough money to pay for the dryer.
If you're not using an ENERGY STAR certified clothes washer, you're wasting 6 gallons of water every time you wash.
Washers with agitators pull and rub clothes to get them clean. Clothing damage can be seen in the amount of lint in your dryer.
In recent years, clothes washer technology has seen dramatic improvements in efficiency and functionality. Selecting an ENERGY STAR certified washer gets you all these premium features and functionality, with the following additional benefits:
Electric vs. Gas
Many of the latest dryer models are available in both electric and gas versions, so you can choose which option is right for you.
Heat Pump Dryers
For even more savings, consider ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryers - they can save 20-60 percent more than conventional clothes dryers. Consumers with high clothes dryer usage and high electricity rates have the potential for large energy and cost savings.
Heat pump dryers take in ambient air, heat it, and then recirculate it in the dryer to maintain the temperature without using much energy. Rather than releasing moist air through a dryer vent to the exterior of the home as a conventional dryer does, a heat pump dryer passes humid air in the dryer drum through a condenser to remove the moisture without losing too much heat. The condensed moisture (water) from the drum is drained or emptied out of a holding tank in the dryer.
When considering a heat pump model, keep in mind:
Choose the right size for your capacity needs:
Choose a model with a high Combined Energy Factor (CEF)
Combined Energy Factor (CEF) is a measure of energy efficiency that reflects the energy use of the clothes dryer - the higher the CEF, the more energy efficient the clothes dryers. You can find and compare the CEF for all certified dryer models using the ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
Increasing Functionality and Performance