What Are High-Efficiency Washing Machines?

When you go shopping for a washing machine you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, many big-name brands build washing machines but while each model will have its own benefits there’s a certain symbol you should keep an eye out for. Washing machines marked as HE machines will have higher efficiency levels than other models, but what exactly does that mean?

A high-efficiency washing machine will use less water than a standard one, this will, in turn, save you money when it comes to washing your clothes. High-efficiency washing machines are used all around the world especially in major markets, however, this wasn’t always the case.

This might be hard to believe but high-efficiency washing machines are a reasonably new introduction on the market. They were only introduced in the mid 1990’s, following the Department of Energies improved standards for energy consumption, when compared to the standard washing machines they are still a relatively new model.

Washing machines use more water than any other electrical appliances (in the majority of cases anyway) so as you can imagine a HE washing machine is an incredibly useful appliance to have. But should you go out and buy one?

There are some potential downsides that come with having a high-efficiency washing machine, for one you can only guarantee good results if you use a high-efficiency detergent. Washing cycles will also take much longer because HE washing machines by design don’t use as much water.

High-Efficiency Washing Machines – How Do They Work?

Because of their energy-saving capabilities, high-efficiency washing machines are very popular but while you might see the high efficiency symbol on a number of different models, there’s really two basic types of washing machine you need to know about. They’re easy to tell apart one has the door on the top and the other is on the front of the machine.

The latter model is more common but you’ll still see the other design around particularly in the United States where it’s more popular. The efficiency levels will differ from model to model, your washing machine could end up using 66% less water per wash on the most efficient models.

When you consider that heating the water for a washing cycle is where the majority of the operating costs comes from even a small energy efficient rating could save you money. Less water means less water to heat after all so if you want to be eco-friendly and cut costs over time a high-efficiency washing machine is just what you need.

HE washing machines don’t feature a centre agitator so they are gentler on clothes, thus there’s less pulling, they also use a tumbling system to clean clothes and don’t refill during the rinse cycle. Instead, they use a high-pressure stream of water that’s been re-circulated during the wash cycle.

HE washing machines also spin faster than standard washing machines so clothes will be less damp once the cycle is over. One other benefit of a high-efficiency washing machine is that they can take in more clothes per load as well, so your laundry will take fewer loads to do.

Infographic: Pros and Cons of High-Efficiency Washers

High-Efficiency Washing Machines – What To Consider

With everything you know so far getting a high-efficiency washing machine might sound like a “no-brainer” after all they cut costs, save energy and still do the job of a standard washing machine without affecting the quality. There are a few downsides like loads taking longer to go through a cycle but overall, they’re the best option, aren’t they?

Well maybe but not always, a high-efficiency washing machine certainly as plenty of benefits but they do come with a higher purchase cost. Now, of course, you will make savings in the long run but it’s still something you need to consider. Some high-end models of high-efficiency washing machines can be very expensive.

They also need high-efficiency detergents to work properly, these are formulated differently to work with the lower amount of water a high-efficiency washing machine provides. Regular detergents can’t be used without potentially causing an overflow, and this could cause long-lasting damage to your washing machine. If you are facing problems with your HE washer, please do not hesitate to contact our washing machine repair technicians.

HE washing machines also require more care, in general, to ensure the washing machine works at optimal levels. Complaints of mildew growth and musty smells are very common amongst high-efficiency washing machine owners so you need to be willing to clean them and carry out regular checks.

In general, you should carry out a cleaning cycle at least once a month to ensure there’s no build up mildew and ensure clothes always come out clean and fresh. A high-efficiency washing machine can be a great choice for your home, but be warned you will need to take a more proactive approach when it comes to care and maintenance and the upfront costs will be higher.

We hope you find this article informative and helpful. However if your HE washing machine breaks down, please give us a call – our Repair Aid experts are here to help with any appliance problems.