One of the longest-lasting appliances in the house is your washing machine. It can also make the most difference in your energy bills as well. Carefully choose your new washer, taking into account how often you wash, what types of laundry you do and the space you have for the unit.

Front Load Vs. Top Load

For buying a clothes washer, keep in mind each type has specific features:

Front Load:
Can be stacked with a dryer on top to conserve space.
Spins clothes faster than a top-load, extracting more water and leading to a savings in energy and money because you will dry a load in a shorter amount of time.
Uses a wash process that is more gentle on clothing.
Requires a special type of detergent made for front-load machines.
Costs more than a top-load. Prices do vary but expect to pay 30 to 40 percent more for a front load machine.
Uses less water which lowers utility bills. This savings can offset the initial additional cost of the machine.

Top Load:

Costs less initially, but is less energy-efficient.
Offers easier access to the wash tub.
Uses regular detergent.
Cannot be stacked to save space.

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Features to Compare

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Capacity
Manufacturers define capacity differently so a “Super Plus” capacity washer might not be the same as another. When selecting your washer, compare capacity using the cubic foot measurement. If you have a limited space, stackable washer-dryer units are available. These are available in full-sized or in smaller, apartment-sized sets. Match the capacity of your washer to your dryer and think about your future family plans as a new washer will last you for years.

Water Levels
The most energy efficient wash uses just enough water to cover the clothes. Look for a washer with several water level settings. Some washers have sensors that will shut off the water automatically once it has covered the clothes.

Cycles
Different wash/spin speed combinations allow you to wash more types of clothing in ways that are safest for the fabric. Look for a model with options that will give your clothes the care they need.

Water Temperature
Detergents, bleaches and fabric softeners work best at specific temperatures and using the right water temperature will make your clothes look better and last longer. Today’s washers include lots of wash/rinse temperature options and a temperature regulator. Temperature regulators make sure the wash water stays at a constant, correct temperature. If you are washing items that need sanitizing, look for a model that has a temperature boost function. Even an all-hot wash from a home hot-water heater might not reach a temperature high enough to kill germs.

Noise level
If you washer will be in or near a living area, the noise the unit makes will be a consideration. Some newer models have additional insulation and reinforced frames to reduce operating noise.

Safety
Front-load machines use an automatic lock function that stops the door from opening while the drum is spinning. Certain top-load models have this same feature.

Controls
Washing machine controls have become more sophisticated and generally easier to use. Digital displays and one-touch selection can be programmed and preset to meet your washing needs. For a simpler wash process, choose a machine with dial and/or push-button controls.

Detergent, bleach and fabric softener dispensers
The chemicals you use are a key part of caring for your clothes. Dispensers will automatically disperse them at the right time.

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Energy Efficiency

Washing machines with the ENERGY STAR® label use 35 to 50 percent less water and 50 percent less energy than a non-labeled machine. This makes the machine better for the environment and your wallet.



Measuring to fit

Measure the space that you have available for your new washer. Make sure you know the height, width and depth of the area you want the new model to fit into. If you are also purchasing a dryer, factor that space into your measurements. 


Find Your New Clothes Washer