Energy-efficient washing machines can save you hundreds of dollars on utility bills over their lifetime while reducing your carbon footprint at the same time. With ever-rising electricity and water rates, upgrading to an efficient Energy Star-certified washer is one of the smartest purchases you can make this year.
The best washing machines from brands such as LG, Samsung, and Maytag feature clever sensors and variable speed motors that perfectly calibrate every wash and rinse cycle to match your laundry load, minimizing energy and water usage without compromising cleaning. Many energy-efficient washers even include advanced features you won’t find on standard machines. While upfront costs can seem high for premium efficiency, rest assured you earn that investment back within just a few years of owning the machine.
We’ll explore six key reasons savvy homeowners are trading up to the best energy-efficient washing machines on the market. Beyond the cost and energy savings, we’ll look at surprising benefits like potential lifespan extension, smart home integration, custom fabric care options, and how upgrading can boost your home's value when it comes time to sell. Read on to learn which washer features matter most and why efficiency makes sense for any household doing regular laundry.
1. You’ll save money on your utility bills now… and in the future
This is probably the most compelling reason for most households to swap from an older washing machine to a new energy-saving appliance. Energy-efficient washing machines use less electricity and water in their washing cycles, helping to reduce your overall energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.
Energy Star, a joint program of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE), estimates that the average US household gets through around 300 loads of laundry each year, requiring a significant amount of energy and water. Switching to an energy-efficient model uses 20% less energy and 30% less water per year, saving around $550 in energy costs over the appliance's lifetime.
You’re set to save even more in the future. The Department of Energy has proposed new energy efficiency standards, which will take effect in 2027. They estimate that the new standards could save US consumers around $3.5 billion annually on energy and water bills.
Currently, there are no tax breaks, rebates, or subsidies in the US to help offset the upfront costs of energy efficiency upgrades for consumers, but this could change in the future.
2. They reduce your environmental impact
Energy-efficient models' reduced water and energy consumption contribute to overall water conservation efforts and help to reduce CO2 emissions. While you might think that swapping to an energy-saving washing machine is just a drop in the ocean, the US Environmental Protection Agency says energy efficiency measures in the home can help reduce the country’s overall CO2 emissions if enough people make the switch. Home energy use results in greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, which cause climate change. Using less energy cuts these emissions and lowers your carbon footprint.
3. They may have a longer lifespan
While there’s no direct evidence that energy-efficient washing machines last longer than standard washers, it’s possible that they could. Energy-efficient washing machines often use advanced technologies that can reduce wear and tear on the machine’s working components.
They also feature better components, such as improved seals and motors. And since the machine operates more efficiently to improve performance rather than lower cost, you’re less likely to have repairs over its lifetime.
4. You’ll enjoy advanced features and technology
Many energy-efficient washers come with advanced features, such as:
- Load sensors: these detect load size and adjust water levels automatically. Some may even detect soiling levels or fabric types and adjust the cleaning cycle to suit.
- Variable speeds: These help to optimize water levels and adjust the tumbling cycle, protecting clothes and saving energy.
- Direct drive motors: Instead of belts and pulleys, energy-efficient washers use direct drive motors, which reduce mechanical wear and tear and lower sound levels.
- Automatic balancing: Sensors and intelligent software reduce vibration by detecting off-balance loads during spin cycles, also reducing noise and wear.
- Smart, connected home: Premium energy-efficient washing machines will connect with your home network, allowing you to monitor and control your laundry remotely through mobile apps. They can even be set to run automatically at off-peak times when electricity is cheaper, saving you even more money on your utility bills.
5. They offer a more personalised washing routine for your household
Energy-efficient washers often have additional cycle options and settings for different fabric types and soil levels so that you can enjoy a customized cleaning routine. For example, if you have lots of delicates or baby clothes or a sporty household with plenty of muddy track and athletic gear, you’ll know you can effectively clean your clothes while ensuring they’re protected.
6. They increase your home’s resale value
Energy-efficient homes are increasing in popularity and demand with buyers. In fact, around 80% of home buyers surveyed in the US say that energy-efficient appliances are in their top 10 most-wanted features when looking for their new home, alongside Energy Star-rated windows, a laundry room, and a walk-in pantry!
So, if you want to increase your home’s appeal to potential buyers, investing in energy-efficient appliances could make it more attractive and even boost your asking price.
Upgrading from an older washing machine to a new energy-efficient model is one of the best investments your household can make, and it could save you hundreds of dollars over the appliance's lifetime in energy and water bill savings. With new efficiency standards on the horizon plus environmentally-conscious home buyers ready to pay a premium, purchasing an Energy Star washer makes sense financially and sustainably. While they may cost a little more upfront, you’ll have more cash in your pocket for years while you shrink your carbon footprint.
