When replacing your old washing machine, look for a new water-wise and high-efficiency machine that uses 35 to 50 percent less water and 50 percent less energy than traditional top-loading washers.
Often, finding a high-efficiency clothes washer is as simple as looking for a front-loading machine instead of the more typical top-loading one. Front-loading washers use about 24 gallons of water to wash a full load of laundry, while traditional top-loaders use about 40 gallons.
Tests have shown that high-efficiency clothes washers get clothes cleaner than more water-intensive models with less detergent, and less wear and tear so clothes last longer.
High-efficiency clothes washers use a front-loading basket that lifts and drops clothes in and out of the water. This action flexes the weave of the fabric and forces water and detergent through the entire load. Compare this to the typical top-loading washer that uses a full tub of water to push the clothes back and forth.
High-efficiency clothes washers typically cost from $600 to $1,500. Up front, that is about $200 to $600 more than a conventional model. However, high-efficiency washers can save homeowners significantly in monthly electricity, water and sewer charges. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for significant rebates from your local water agency as well as your power provider.
Residents of Southern California can log on to www.bewaterwise.com to learn more about rebates as well as eligible models.
