How to Pick an Energy-Efficient Washer and Dryer

• What is ENERGY STAR©?
• How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Use?
• What Qualifies as an Energy-Efficient Dryer?
• What Qualifies as an Energy-Efficient Washing Machine?
• How Can I Make My Laundry Appliances Even More Efficient?

When it's time to buy a new appliance, lots of shoppers place "Energy Efficiency" at the top of their priority list. Washers and dryers offer a variety of options for sizes and styles, and it can be a challenge to balance energy efficiency without sacrificing the capacity or power you need to get your clothes clean. Here are some tips on getting the most energy-efficient laundry appliances for your home!

What is ENERGY STAR©?

ENERGY STAR© is a certification given to appliances evaluated by the EPA to meet strict energy efficiency criteria. These appliances exceed the national standards for appliance efficiency by at least 20%. Seeking out a washer and dryer with the ENERGY STAR© label is a great way to ensure you'll be getting the most efficient machine possible, without foregoing capacity size.

How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Use?

A standard machine uses 23 gallons of water per load, but an ENERGY STAR© washing machine uses an average of 13 gallons per load. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR© machine means you'll be saving hundreds of gallons of water every year!

What Qualifies as an Energy-Efficient Dryer?

A dryer's energy efficiency is expressed by its Combined Energy Factor, or CEF. This is a number calculated by dividing a test laundry load's weight in pounds by the machine electric energy use during the dryer's standby and operational cycles. The higher a dryer's CEF number, the more efficient its operation. Clothes dryers consume more energy than any other appliance in your home, and finding one with an ENERGY STAR© label is a great way to ensure an efficient model that can also meet your laundry needs. ENERGY STAR© dryers are available in Electric Dryers as well as Gas Dryer models.

What Qualifies as an Energy-Efficient Washing Machine?

A washer's energy efficiency is determined by calculating its Modified Energy Factor. The higher the number, the more energy-efficient the washer. Washers with ENERGY STAR© certification are about 25% more efficient than non-certified models, and they are available in Top Load Washers as well as Front Load Washers .

How Can I Make My Laundry Appliances Even More Efficient?

Even with an ENERGY STAR© washer and dryer, there are many extra steps you can take to ensure your laundry appliances are running at maximum efficiency. For starters, don't be afraid to load it up! Your washer uses the same amount of water regardless of load size, so get the most out of each wash by adding more clothes. Set the dials for cold water wash whenever possible, and be sure to use the highest possible spin speed to shorten time in the dryer. As far as drying, most people don't realize that it's more energy-efficient to dry clothes for a longer time on a lower heat setting than for a shorter time on a hotter setting. Also, cleaning out the lint filter after every usage isn't just an important safety precaution - it'll also ensure better circulation of heat in your dryer. These additional precautions can save a great deal of energy and water in the long run!

Now that you know what to look for in an energy-efficient washer and dryer, let P.C. Richard & Son help you find one! Our inventory of washers and dryers includes a huge selection of certified by ENERGY STAR© includes today's most trusted brand names at the guaranteed lowest prices. For the best energy-efficient washer and dryer at the guaranteed lowest prices, shop P.C. Richard & Son now!