Washing machines are categorised by three main types – top load agitator, front load, and high efficiency. Depending on the position of loading the clothes the different models are classed as top loading or front loading. The main difference is a front-load machine has no agitator and uses paddles on the side of the drum.
Modern appliances use much less water than older machines. Energy-efficient models and those with a low water feature are also more efficient. Many high-efficiency appliances are energy star certified – with an energy star representing around 63 litres of water usage –saving up to 27 litres of water per wash when compared to a standard washing machine.
So, how many litres of water does a washing machine use? Read on…
Washing Machine Water Usage Comparisons
Agitator Top LoaderConventional top-loading water machine water usage is around 181 litres, but modern machines use significantly less with an average load using about 113 to 118 litres of water. However, water-efficiency testing has suggested that agitator appliances with automatic load-sensing features use approximately 86 litres to wash a load as just the right amount of water is added based on the weight of the wash.
High-efficiency Top LoaderSome top-loading washing machines are specifically designed to be high-efficiency washers. A typical wash load will have washing machine water consumption of between 54 litres to 77 litres, but tests have shown that some models can use as little as 59 litres and still perform an excellent clean.
Front LoaderFront loading washing machines have a door for opening at the front and tumble clothes through the water, using a similar action to a tumble dryer. They are also considered to be high efficiency as they don’t need as much water to operate.
How much water does a washing machine use? Front-loaders score an excellent result with test loads ultimately cleaned with just 32 litres of water.
What Affects Washing Machine Water Usage?
Wash cycles are designed to wash specific types of clothing and fabric. If you use a programme not recommended this could result in a wash performance that’s compromised. Several factors that can affect water usage include:
- Size of the wash load – larger loads require more water
- Wash cycles – heavy-duty cycles often use more water than normal cycles
- Bulky items – bedding and outerwear need more water for proper cleaning
- Rinse settings – extra-rinse and fabric softener settings will add water to your wash
Using Less Water
High-efficiency washing machines clean better with less water due to the wash action. Top-load washers with impellers and front loaders rub clothes against each other – with lower water levels the detergent is of a higher concentration which improves cleaning.
Clothes need to be loaded evenly and loosely to avoid blocking the impeller – once the clothes are dampened the level will lower and settle.
Adding Water to a Wash
There are sensible ways to add water to your wash by:
- Using the washing machine settings to increase the amount of water for a load
- Boost water with a heavy-soil setting, heavy-duty cycle, or bulky item setting
- Utilise the extra rinse option, fabric softener option, or deep-fill option
- Reset high-efficiency machines to water levels set at the factory
Does a washing machine use hot water? Modern washing machines actually take cold water and heat it themselves so there’s no need to be heating your water all of the time to provide a supply of hot water in the tank.
Arrange Stress-free Repairs
When you need a washing machine repair in London, look no further than experienced appliance repairers. Get a quote upfront, make a short-notice booking, and get a highly trained and fully qualified washing machine specialist to fix any fault or issue you may be having concerning water consumption. Your washing machine will soon be functioning as new.
