Top 10 Most Efficient Clothes Washing Machines
A efficent washing machine can save a lot of money, time, energy, and water. Finding the correct machine can be difficult, but the new energy standards has made it easier. An Energy Star washing machine saves on average 40% the energy and 55% the water of an non qualified model.
There are many different ways to measure the performance of a washing machine, but the two most complete ways are Modified Energy Factor (MEF) and the Water Factor.
The Modifed Energy Factor measures the amount of energy to wash AND dry a load of clothes. The higher spin speeds on todays machines reduces the water and thus reduces the drying time.
The Water Factor measures the amount of water used per cubic foot of the wash tub. Clothes Washing Machines must have a minimum of a Modifed Energy Factor (MEF) of 1.72 and a Water Factor of 8.0 to be listed as Energy Star.
Brand Model Modified Energy Factor (MEF) Water Factor
Whirlpool LHW0050 2.79 6
LG Electronics WM3001H 2.71 3.4
Samsung WF428AA 2.7 3.4
Samsung WF438AA 2.7 3.4
Samsung WF448AA 2.7 3.4
Eurotech EWF272EL 2.66 7.3
LG Electronics WM0001H 2.65 3.4
LG Electronics WM248 2.65 3.6
LG Electronics WM268 2.65 3.3
Kenmore 4770 2.64 3.4
Kenmore 4771 2.64 3.4
Kenmore 4775 2.64 3.4
Kenmore 4776 2.64 3.4
Kenmore 4778 2.64 3.4
Kenmore 4779 2.64 3.4
Energy Star appliances are rated by the EPA. The ratings can provide a good guide to overall efficiencies of the machines. The newer steam washing machines have made the rating system more difficult, but are still very efficient. The most important thing about buying a new machine is features, cycles, and usability.