Having low water pressure can make washing clothes a frustrating experience. Many washing machines struggle when the water pressure is too low, resulting in long cycle times, improperly rinsed laundry, and dissatisfying wash performance. However, there are washing machines designed specifically to work well in low water pressure conditions. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right washing machine if you have low water pressure in your home.
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How Does Water Pressure Affect Washing Machines?
Water pressure measures the force of the water supply flowing into your home. Most homes have water pressure between 45-80 PSI (pounds per square inch). However, anything below 40 PSI is considered low. With low water pressure, the water flows into the washing machine very slowly. This causes problems in several ways:
- Longer fill times – It takes longer for enough water to flow into the tub to start the wash cycle.
- Weak agitation – The motor struggles to create enough turbulence and motion with less water.
- Reduced rinsing – Low pressure rinse cycles leave behind more detergent residue and dirt in clothes.
- Repeated drain/fill cycles – The washer may go through multiple rinse cycles trying to flush out suds and dirt.
All these factors lead to longer cycle times and subpar washing performance. Delicate clothes may not get properly cleaned. Whites may end up dingy with gray residue. Detergent clumps and dirt specks may get left behind in the fabric. Overall, low water pressure hampers the washing machine’s ability to properly wash, rinse and spin clothes.
Key Features for Low Water Pressure
Certain washing machine features are better equipped to handle low flow rates. When shopping for a washer with low water pressure, look for these capabilities:
Powerful Circulation Pump
A strong circulation pump ensures good water flow even with low PSI. It rapidly fills the tub and provides robust agitation. Look for circulation pumps rated at least 800 RPM (revolutions per minute). Higher RPMs like 1000+ create even better wash action with less water.
Adaptive Water Levels
Advanced machines today can automatically adjust the water level used based on the load size and soil level. This prevents overfilling with too much water. For low pressure, look for at least 3-4 adjustable water levels.
Internal Water Heater
Some washers have built-in internal heaters to boost the hot water temperature. This ensures optimal detergent activation and dirt removal even in cold water. Look for models rated at 1300+ watts for adequate heating capabilities.
Spray Rinse
Rinse performance is critical with low pressure. A washer with spray rinses can target detergent suds and soils using concentrated spray jets. This prevents redepositing of dirt during weak flow rinsing. Models with multi-axis sprays provide the best coverage.
Auto-Adjusting Cycles
Smart sensors in the machine can automatically adjust cycle times and water levels based on the load and flow rate. This prevents wasted water and ensures optimal timing despite low pressure. Look for models advertised to work well in weak water pressure conditions.
Deep Water Wash Option
Some washers include a special cycle for low pressure areas that fills the tub halfway or more before starting the wash action. This provides a deep water bath for better dirt removal with weak flow rates.
Slow Flow Warning
Advanced diagnostic systems can detect when the water pressure is too low and display a warning. This allows you to check your home plumbing before starting a cycle that may perform poorly.
Top Washing Machine Picks for Low Water Pressure
Based on the above criteria, these washing machines are recommended for low water pressure homes:
1. LG Signature LUWM101HWA
This smart LG washer has AI technology to adjust wash motions and cycles based on load size and soil level. The 10-jet TurboWash system provides concentrated cleaning power. An internal heater boosts water temperature. Users say it performs well even with pressure under 30 PSI.
2. Whirlpool WTW4955HW
With a 1200 RPM circulation pump motor, this Whirlpool model creates robust wash action even with low flow. The Deep Water Wash option pre-fills the tub for optimal cleaning. Dual temperature sensors adjust heat and adapt cycles to save water.
3. Speed Queen TR7
This commercial-style washer is designed for low pressure operation in laundry facilities. It has industrial-grade components and a stainless steel wash drum. Owners report excellent performance down to 20 PSI pressure levels.
4. GE GTW720BSNWS
For a budget-friendly option, the GE GTW720 provides solid low pressure performance. It features dual action agitation for robust cleaning with low fill levels. The HydroHeater boosts cold water temperature for additional cleaning power.
5. Maytag MVWC565FW
This popular Maytag washer includes a PowerWash cycle that pre-mixes detergent and water before activating the pump. This provides extra cleaning strength in low flow conditions. The stainless steel wash basket also resists residue buildup.
Tips for Improving Performance with Low Water Pressure
Beyond choosing the right washer, here are some additional tips to optimize washing with low water pressure:
- Use less detergent – With less water, too much detergent causes oversudsing which hampers rinsing.
- Load properly – Evenly fill the tub but don’t overload. Too many clothes reduces water circulation.
- Pre-treat stains – This removes more dirt before the weak wash cycle begins.
- Run multiple rinse cycles – Repeat rinses help flush more detergent residue.
- Install a booster pump – Adding a booster pump increases household water pressure.
- Avoid too-hot water – Very hot water actually reduces flow pressure from the pipes.
The Bottom Line
Don’t settle for poor wash performance due to low water pressure. Today’s washing machine advancements provide workarounds for low flow challenges. When shopping for your next washer, look for key features like adjustable water levels, internal heating, concentrated spray rinses and auto-adjusting smart sensors. With the right machine, you can enjoy sparkling laundry even with pressure under 40 PSI.