• Larger capacity because of no bulky agitator. The average load increase is 30%. The extra space improves washing of bulky items like sleeping bags, bedspreads and throw rugs.

• High-speed extraction. Front-load washers spin at over 1000 rpm in American-made machines, and higher on European models. This is considerably faster than the 600-700 rpm spin cycle on top-load washers. Clothes come out drier and thereby reduce drying time. This saves energy, and helps the dryer keep pace with the washer during multiple-load washing.
• Gentler on laundry items. Gentler wash action, with no agitator.
• Quieter. No clunky sounds, just the whir of the spin cycle.
• Cleans better. Front-load washers clean many stains better than conventional top-load washers.
• Stackable. The dryer can be stacked on top of the washer for space savings. ( Not all models have this feature.) Models with controls mounted on the front can also be installed under counters.
• Energy conservation. Front-load washers can easily save over $100 per year in energy costs, and they use 1/2 as much water. Because they use less water, they also require up to 68% less electricity to heat the water, resulting in more energy savings.
• Save Water. Save 15 gallons per load, or 6,390 gallons per year for a typical family

 

Always use HE (High Efficiency) detergent.

Front-loading clothes washers are designed to use High Efficiency detergent. Using regular detergent creates too much suds, which will affect the machine’s washing and rinsing performance. Over time, it can lead to odors and mechanical problems.

 

Fill it up.

Clothes washers use about the same amount of energy regardless of the size of the load, so run full loads whenever possible.

 

Wash in cold water.

Water heating consumes about 90% of the energy it takes to operate a clothes washer. Unless you’re dealing with oily stains, washing in cold water will generally do a good job of cleaning. Switching your temperature setting from hot to warm can cut energy use in half. Using the cold cycle reduces energy use even more.

 

Use a drying rack or hang clothes outside.

Where and when possible, air-drying clothes instead of using a dryer not only saves energy, but also helps them last longer.

 

Avoid the sanitary cycle.

This super hot cycle, available on some models, increases energy use significantly. Only use it when absolutely necessary.

 

Activate the high spin speed option.

If your clothes washer has spin options, choose a high spin speed or the extended spin option to reduce the amount of remaining moisture in your clothes after washing. This decreases the amount of time it takes to dry your clothes.

 

Leave the door open after use.

Front-loading washers use airtight seals to prevent water from leaking while the machine is in use. When the machine is not in use, this seal can trap moisture in the machine and lead to mold. Leave the door ajar for an hour or two after use to allow moisture to evaporate. Make sure children do not climb into the machine while the door is open.

 

Rinse the washer every month.

Some manufacturers recommend rinsing the washer each month by running a normal cycle with 1 cup of bleach to help reduce the risk of mold or mildew buildup. Consult the product owner’s manual before attempting.

 

When Purchasing a New Washing Machine