Is it worth getting a high-efficiency washer and dryer?

Quick Answers

Doing laundry is an unavoidable chore for most households. With the high costs of water, electricity, and detergent, many consumers wonder if investing in more efficient washers and dryers can lead to long-term savings. Here are some quick answers on the value of high-efficiency (HE) laundry appliances:

– HE washers use less water and energy per load compared to conventional top-loading washers. Front-loading HE washers are generally more efficient than top-loading HE models.

– HE dryers are more energy efficient, using 20-60% less energy than conventional dryers. However, drying time is often longer with HE dryers.

– HE washers and dryers typically cost $300-$1,000 more upfront compared to standard models. The higher initial investment often pays back over time through utility bill savings.

– It can take 2-7 years to recoup the higher upfront costs of HE washers and dryers through energy and water savings. This payback period depends on utility costs, machine usage, and other factors.

– HE washers use less water, allowing for significant water bill savings for households with high-priced water. Energy savings from HE dryers are greatest for homes with electric dryers rather than gas.

– HE washers generally clean as well or better than conventional washers due to improvements in technology. However, HE detergents are formulated differently and should be used.

– While more efficient, HE models tend to have longer cycle times, smaller capacities, and ventless drying systems that take longer. These factors should be considered regarding convenience and lifestyle fit.

How Do High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers Save Money?

HE washers and dryers can lead to significant cost savings compared to conventional laundry appliances, but the benefits differ between the two machines.

High-Efficiency Washers

The primary savings from an HE washer come from reduced water usage. HE washers use advanced sensors and spray technology to evenly distribute water and detergent over clothes. This allows them to clean clothes using roughly half the amount of water compared to conventional top-loading washers.

For example, a standard washer may use 40 gallons of water per load, while an efficient front-loading washer will use just 15-30 gallons. This reduced water usage directly translates into lower water bills for households that pay water by the gallon. Homes in drought-stricken areas can also conserve substantial amounts of water over time by using an HE washer.

In addition, HE washers are designed for optimal efficiency with regards to energy use, water heating, and spin cycles. Their high-speed spinning extracts more water from clothes, reducing drying time. Overall, HE washers consume about 25-60% less energy per load compared to conventional top-loading machines. So they can also lead to moderate electricity bill savings, especially for households that do multiple loads per week.

High-Efficiency Dryers

HE dryers offer big efficiency improvements in their heat source and drum design:

– Better insulation – HE dryer drums are better insulated compared to old-style dryers. This keeps heat in the drum rather than escaping into the air.

– Moisture sensors – HE dryers have advanced moisture sensor technology that automatically shuts the machine off when clothes are dry. This prevents over-drying.

– Heat pump technology – Some HE dryers use a heat pump instead of heating elements. Heat pumps recycle hot air and use less energy.

Together, these design features allow HE dryers to use 20-60% less energy to dry the same load of laundry compared to conventional dryers. For households that rely on electric dryers and do multiple loads per week, an HE dryer can provide substantial electricity bill savings over its lifetime. Homes that use gas dryers see smaller energy savings from an HE model.

How Much More Do High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers Cost?

The main tradeoff with HE laundry appliances is their higher initial costs. HE washers and dryers typically cost $300-$1,000 more compared to basic models with similar size and features.

Here are some examples of average price differences:

Appliance	Standard Model Cost	HE Model Cost
Top-loading washer	$500	$800
Front-loading washer	$800	$1,100
Electric dryer	$600	$900
Gas dryer	$700	$1,000

Of course, prices can vary widely based on size, features, and promotions. But in general, you can expect to pay $300-$500 more for an HE washer and $200-$300 more for an HE dryer.

The price gap has narrowed over the years, but HE models remain pricier due to their advanced inner mechanics and technology. However, one upside is that local utility rebates and tax credits are often available to help offset the higher cost of HE laundry appliances.

How Quickly Do High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers Pay for Themselves?

The big question for consumers is how quickly the long-term savings from HE washers and dryers can pay back that higher initial investment. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

The payback period depends heavily on:

– Your current water and energy costs

– The efficiency of your existing washer/dryer

– How often you do laundry

– Availability of rebates in your area

As a general guideline, expect a payback period of:

– **2-4 years** for an HE washer in areas with expensive water

– **4-6 years** for an HE washer in average-cost water markets

– **6-7 years** for an HE dryer in homes with electric heat/dryers

– **May never pay back** for an HE dryer in homes with gas dryers

To calculate the payback period for your specific situation, follow these steps:

1. Estimate your annual cost savings:

– For an HE washer, look up your water rate and calculate savings based on reduced gallons per load. Also estimate energy savings.

– For an HE dryer, estimate annual energy savings based on your electric or gas dryer usage.

2. Calculate total savings over the 10-15 year lifespan of the appliances.

3. Subtract the higher purchase price of HE models.

4. The payback period is the number of years for lifetime savings to exceed the price difference.

This payback period method helps give a clearer picture of long-term costs and savings. Speak to a salesperson or check online resources to estimate utility savings for the specific HE models you are considering.

While the payback period is longest for HE dryers, they still provide long-term energy savings and environmental benefits that make the upgrade worthwhile for many homeowners.

Pros and Cons of High-Efficiency Washers

Below is a detailed overview of the main pros and cons of purchasing a high-efficiency washer compared to a conventional washer:

Pros of HE Washers

– Use 50% less water per load – Significant savings on water bills

– Use 25-60% less energy per load – Moderate electricity savings

– Extract more water during spin cycle – Decreases dryer runtime

– Models with fast spin speeds – Further reduce drying time

– Gentler on clothes – Preserve fabrics and reduce wear

– Models with steam cycles – Naturally freshen and reduce wrinkles in clothes

– Child lock features – Improve safety

– Large capacity models available – Allow bigger loads

– Availability of stackable units – Provide layout flexibility

– Quieter operation – Reduce noise pollution from laundry area

– Eligibility for rebates – Help counterbalance higher upfront costs

Cons of HE Washers

– Higher purchase price – Adds $300-$500 to machine cost

– Longer wash cycles – Typical cycles are 60-80 minutes

– Mold issues in front-loaders – Require leaving door open between washes

– Odor problems in front-loaders – Regular cleaning is required

– Smaller capacities than standard top-loaders – Range from 2.2 to 4.5 cubic feet

– HE detergent is a must – Special low-suds detergent prevents oversudsing

– Stain removal not as effective – Agitation helps lift stains in conventional washers

– Can require more laundry pretreating – To compensate for less mechanical cleaning

– Cannot pause cycle once started – For adding forgotten garments

– Noisiest during spin cycles – High-speed extraction can be loud

Overall, HE washers provide compelling water and energy savings along with added features and fabric care advantages. However, the cons like higher costs and smaller capacities should be weighed regarding your householdâ€TMs laundry needs.

Pros and Cons of High-Efficiency Dryers

Below are the main benefits and drawbacks of purchasing a high-efficiency dryer rather than a conventional dryer:

Pros of HE Dryers

– Use 20-60% less energy per load – Provides electricity bill savings

– Advanced moisture sensors – Prevent over-drying and shrinkage

– Heat pump models recycle hot air – Further improve energy efficiency

– Quieter operation – Reduce noise levels in laundry room

– Faster drying cycles available – Cut dry times with quick-dry settings

– Wrinkle prevention cycles – Reduce need for ironing

– Reverse tumble option – Prevents tangles in delicate fabrics

– Drum light in some models – Helps see clothes inside

– Stackable units available – Provide more layout options

– Availability of rebates – Help offset higher upfront costs

Cons of HE Dryers

– Higher purchase price – Adds $200-$300 to machine cost

– Longer average drying times – Due to lower wattages and heat settings

– Moisture sensors can shut off early – Leaving clothes slightly damp

– Smaller capacities than conventional models – Average around 6-8 cubic feet

– No exposed flame in gas models – Limits ability to burn off lint

– Ventless condensing models take hours to dry – Require emptying internal water tank

– Stainless steel drum models show water spots – Require more frequent cleaning

– Few high-heat, high-speed cycles – Limiting for heavy industrial fabrics

Overall, the enhanced energy savings and fabric care of HE dryers make them a wise long-term investment for many households. Keep in mind that drying times may require adjustment from what you are used to with a conventional dryer.

Smart Features to Look for in High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers

In addition to efficiency improvements, new HE laundry appliances come with a variety of smart features and technology:

**Smart washer features:**

– Wifi enabled models – Allow monitoring and control from smartphones

– Automatic detergent dispensing – Provides the right amount each load

– Steam cycles – Help reduce bacteria and wrinkles in fabrics

– Specialized stain removal cycles – Enhance cleaning results

– Built-in water heating – Faster wash cycles with no external water heater needed

– Flood protection – Waterproof pan catches leaks and overflows

**Smart dryer features:**

– Moisture sensor technology – Shuts off when clothes are dry

– Wrinkle prevention cycles – Tumble clothes without heat to reduce wrinkles

– Steam refresh cycles – Quickly freshen clothes between washes

– Wifi enabled models – Enable remote monitoring and control

– Automatic drying cycles – Provide optimal times based on load size

– Reverse tumble option – Helps prevent tangling of delicate fabrics

– Visual lint filter indicators – Alert you when the filter needs cleaning

These types of smart features enhance the user experience. They provide more cycle options, added convenience through automation and app control, and benefits like reduced wrinkling. Smart connectivity also allows for troubleshooting problems remotely and receiving alerts or maintenance reminders.

Top Brands of High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers

While nearly every major appliance brand now offers HE washer and dryer models, some brands stand out for their reputation in energy efficiency, performance, and reliability:

**Top brands for high-efficiency washers:**

– LG – Leading efficiency innovations, large capacities, sleek styling

– Samsung – Advanced vibration reduction technology for quiet washing

– Whirlpool – Affordable models with built-in water heating

– GE – Top-rated cleaning and stain removal capabilities

– Electrolux – Made in America with fast cycles

– Speed Queen – Powerful, durable motors with 10-year warranty

– Miele – Luxury tier brand with high-end finishes and cycles

**Top brands for high-efficiency dryers:**

– LG – Leading supplier of energy efficient dryers with large capacities

– Samsung – Moisture sensor technology prevents over-drying

– Whirlpool – Affordable models with AccuDry moisture sensing

– GE – Quiet, efficient models with steam cycles and sanitization

– Kenmore – Budget-friendly dryers with advanced humidity sensors

– Bosch – Condensing dryer technology removes need for venting

– Miele – High-end models with extra silence insulation and speed drying

While features and technologies vary across brands, any major brand HE washer or dryer will provide significant efficiency improvements over conventional models. Prioritize finding the right capacity, settings, and smart features for your household needs.

Common Myths and Questions About High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers

Despite the demonstrated benefits, some consumers still have misconceptions about HE laundry appliances. Here are the facts behind some common myths and questions:

**Myth: HE detergents are a scam – regular detergent works just fine.**

FALSE – HE washers require low-sudsing detergents to maximize efficiency and avoid leak issues. The right HE detergent prevents oversudsing and provides the proper concentration of cleaning agents.

**Myth: HE washers don’t actually save water – you just have to run more cycles.**

FALSE – While cycle times are longer, the total water usage per load is still significantly less than a conventional washer. The sensors, spray jets, and tumbling provide efficient water usage within each cycle.

**Question: Do HE washers really get clothes cleaner than regular washers?**

ANSWER – HE washers provide competitive or better cleaning capabilities for most types of laundry. The combination of high-speed tumbling, spray jets, and sensors allows efficient soil and stain removal. Pre-treating is still recommended for tough stains.

**Myth: HE dryers take forever to dry clothes – they are too weak.**

FALSE – HE dryers may have longer cycles due to lower heat settings, but they effectively dry regular loads of laundry. The moisture sensors prevent over-drying. Quick cycles can be used small loads when needed.

**Question: Is mold a big issue with front-loading HE washers?**

ANSWER – Mold can occur if the door is left shut between washes, trapping moisture. Leave the door open when not in use. Regularly run a sanitize or tub clean cycle. Wipe door gaskets periodically.

**Myth: HE dryers will shrink or damage your clothes.**

FALSE – HE dryers are actually gentler on clothes than conventional dryers. The advanced moisture sensors prevent over-drying, which is the biggest cause of shrinking and damage. Plus, many models have a low heat setting.

**Question: Do ventless HE dryers take longer to dry clothes?**

ANSWER – Yes, ventless condensing dryers require 2-3 times longer to dry a load, and must be emptied halfway through cycles. They recirculate hot air rather than venting it outside. These are best for apartments or where venting is difficult.

The Bottom Line: Are High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers Worth the Investment?

For most buyers, the more eco-friendly cleaning, energy and water bill savings, and advanced features of new high-efficiency laundry appliances make them a sound investment despite their higher upfront costs.

To maximize the benefits, be sure to compare brands and models carefully regarding their capacity, cycles, smart features, and controls. Taking the time to purchase the right HE washer and dryer for your householdâ€TMs needs will provide lasting performance and long-term savings benefits.