Buying An Energy Efficient Washing Machine

By Author: Kieran Duffy
Total Articles: 3
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When purchasing a new washing machine, look out for two labels. The Energy Saving Recommended logo shows you that the means that the Energy Saving Trust approves this model of washing machine. Also look for the European Union Energy Label, which rates appliances based on their energy efficiency from A, greatest efficiency, to G, lowest efficiency.

You should look out for washing machines that offer economy wash or half load functions. This means that you can set your machine to use less water and energy on smaller loads.

Having a number of temperature options can be a big plus when it comes to saving energy. 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. For example, a sixty degree wash uses a third more energy than a forty degree wash.

Look out for washing machines that give a wash at 30 degrees Celsius option. This innovation has been made possible by the introduction of new detergents which will function at temperatures as low as 30 degrees Celsius.

Top loading machines are ...
... more popular in the US as they are often cheaper to purchase then front loading machines. This can prove a false economy however, as front loaders tend to have a higher capacity, which makes them 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 can get away with much shorter spin cycles in the energy intensive tumble dryer.

Some newer washers have an auto load sensor on board. These can tell how much washing you have in the machine. Your washing machine then automatically adjusts the amount of water used to the most energy efficient amount, saving on water and energy used for the water pump too.

When getting rid of your old washer, it is important to make sure that you dispose of it responsibly. The worst thing you can do is simply to chuck it in landfill. Find out if your local council has recycling facilities for washing machines. 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 if it is damaged, someone could still get the use out if it with a cheap repair job, as long as you mention the fault when you list it online or donate it to charity.

This article about energy efficient washing machines was written by David Davidson. For a great deal on your next washing machine visit Dixons.co.uk. For more details go to http://www.dixons.co.uk