By Deirdre Mundorf | Published Jun 7, 2022 10:00 AM
A: You’re wise to consider water usage when shopping for a new washing machine. After all, a standard washing machine can account for approximately 17 percent of the home’s water usage, according to the EPA. Finding ways to decrease this amount can not only have a positive impact on your bank account, but it can also reduce waste and help protect our Earth. So, how much water does a washing machine use? Read on to learn how the type of washing machine you use, along with other factors, can impact the average amount of water needed for each load of laundry.
How much water does a washing machine use per load? The answer varies depending on the type of washing machine you use. Standard top-load washing machines, particularly older models, are the least efficient when it comes to water usage. Most use between 30 and 45 gallons for each load of laundry.
In addition to the high water costs for operating these models, you’ll also have to factor in the cost of heating the water. Since 30 or 45 gallons of water is significantly more than more efficient models require, washing a load of laundry in hot or warm water will also consume a lot more electricity.
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The answer to “How many gallons of water does a washing machine use?” is quite different for those who have an energy-efficient washer. Some Energy Star washing machines use as little as 7 gallons of water per load, with the average amount being around 14 gallons.
In addition to consuming less water than standard washing machines, Energy Star models are also more energy efficient. They use an average of about 25 percent less energy than standard machines. It is estimated that purchasing a product with an Energy Star label can save you approximately $370 in energy costs over the time you own the washer.
One of the biggest differences between front-load washers and top-load washers comes down to water usage. Front-load washing machines use significantly less than top-load models.
As mentioned above, standard top-load washing machines can use up to 45 gallons of water per load. While Energy Star front-load machines can cut this figure quite substantially, to about 15 to 20 gallons of water, it will still be higher than a high-efficiency front-loading washing machine. These models will be the most efficient, with some using as few as 7 gallons of water per load. Again, keep in mind that lower water usage will also equate to lower energy use to warm up that water.
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The answer to “How much water does a washer use?” varies based on a number of other factors, including:
Cut back on washing machine water usage with these tips:
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