Last updated on April 26th, 2024 at 01:06 pm
Energy Star washing machines allow families to reduce their energy and water costs by using about 20% less energy and 35% less water than regular models, which is equivalent to around 270kWh of electricity and around 8 gallons of water lesser.
They also possess a greater drum capacity to accommodate larger loads at one time thus decreasing the frequency of wash cycles for the same amount of laundry. They are available as both front-load and top-load models.
For a washing machine to be awarded the Energy Star label, three factors like the Energy Factor (EF) (used previously), Modified Energy Factor (MEF) and the Water Factor (WF) are considered.
The EF takes into account the drum capacity of the washing machine, and the amount of energy utilised for the machine cycle and the amount of energy required to heat the water. The higher the value of EF, means a higher efficiency for the washing machine.
The MEF measures the efficiency of the energy usage by the washing machine in relation to the size of the drum. The higher the MEF value means the more efficient the washing machine in the usage of energy for its function.
The WF measures the water efficiency of the washing machine, the smaller the number, the more efficient the washing machine is a utilising water for washing laundry.
So to sum it up, for a washing machine to be awarded Energy Star label it has to meet the below criteria.
Performance
Dimensions Height = 38 11/16 in.
Width = 27’ in.
Depth = 29 ¾ in. (door closed)
= 51 in. (door at 90˚)
Weight = 213.9 pounds
Colour Graphite Steel
Capacity 4.0 Cu.Ft
Efficiency High Efficiency
Estimated Yearly Electricity Use 100kWh
Number of Cycles 12 (Cotton/Normal, Bulky/Large, Perm. Press, Delicates, Hand Wash/Wool, Speed Wash, Sanitary, Heavy Duty, BrightWhites™, Towels, Allergiene™, Tub Clean)
Number of Temperatures 5 (Extra Hot/Cold, Hot/Cold,Warm/Warm, Warm/Cold, Cold/Cold)
Energy Star Certified Yes
Max Spin Speed 1200 RPM
Installation Type Free-Standing
Form Factor Stand Alone
Controls / Location Electronic controls with Dual LED Display and Dial-A-Cycle
Voltage 120, 10 Amps
Fuel Type Electricity
Connector Type Water Line and Drain
This is the inevitable question when it comes to the final choice though it will really depends on your preference. Though some points to take note of is that top loaders wash your laundry via the pulling action of the agitator through water therefore their drum has to be filled with water for it to work, so top loaders will use up more water.
The presence of the agitator also means that lesser laundry can be fitted in for a top loader as compared to a front loader. The shearing action as a result of the working mechanism might also be a bit harsh for your delicates. Therefore top loaders generally use more water and since lesser laundry is able to be washed at one go, they tend to use up more energy and water.
At this point, studies conducted on front loaders have also shown that they use less water per wash cycle due to their working mechanism, and can also fit in more laundry at one go that will equate to using lesser energy and water to wash your laundry. In line with Green Energy Helps's aim, I have compiled some unbiased reviews for some washing machine models that are both front loaders and Energy Star certified for interested consumers.
