At a Glance:
Top Load vs Front Load Washers
How Much Water Does a Top Load Washing Machine Use?
Should I Get a Top Load Washing Machine?
5 ENERGY STAR Certified Top Load Washers
How to Save Water While Doing Laundry
How much water does a top load washing machine use? Are front load washers really that much more efficient? Front loaders are more expensive to purchase, repair, and maintain, so you might feel hesitant to make the switch based on energy efficiency alone. There are many pros to choosing a top loader, such as affordability, lifespan, and the time it takes to run a wash cycle. The key to finding the right top loader is to choose an HE or ENERGY STAR certified model.
Here, we’ll answer the question, “How much water does a top load washing machine use?” so you can truly understand how much more energy a top loader uses. We’ll compare the pros and cons of top and front load washers and recommend our 6 best ENERGY STAR certified top loaders from Idler’s so that you can save money without sacrificing efficiency.
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Shop All LaundryTop Load vs Front Load Washers
Perhaps the most heated debate in the world of washing machines is whether to opt for a top load or front load washing machine. The two options have plenty of distinctions, including differing answers to the question, “How many gallons of water does a washer use?”
Top loaders typically cost less and last a bit longer (14 years compared to 11 years), and they’re easier to repair and maintain. While some models are impeller washers, most models feature a top load washer with agitator. You can also find HE washer models when looking for a top loader. HE washers are named for their high efficiency when it comes to water and energy usage. Another benefit of top loaders is the ability to add items once you’ve started the wash cycle.
On the other hand, front load washers are a more energy efficient option that can handle larger loads, which means cutting down the number of loads you need to do each week and the time you spend on chores. The glass doors remain locked during the cycle, and the washer gently tumbles the clothes. The effect is similar to hand-washing, whereas the agitator in a top washer might be harsher on your clothes.
Wondering how much water does a washing machine use? Well, front load washers use approximately 13 gallons of water per load while HE top loaders use approximately 19 gallons and standard top loaders use up to 41 gallons of water. Overall, even with an HE top load washer, front loaders outperform top loaders in terms of water and energy use.
Explore Top Load Washers
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How Much Water Does a Top Load Washing Machine Use?
Looking for concrete numbers to answer the question, “How much water does a top load washing machine use?” Here are some estimates to help clear up any confusion. According to Maytag, a top load washing machine with agitator uses 19 gallons per load while an HE top loader uses 13 gallons and an HE front loader only uses an impressive 7 gallons. Non-HE top loaders typically use about 40 gallons or between 30 and 35 gallons per load.
This chart rounds up the most common water usage averages for a few different washer types.
| Washing Machine Type | Average Water Usage per Load (Gallons) |
|---|---|
| Non-HE Top Loader | 40 |
| HE Top Loader | 13 |
| HE Front Loader | 7 |
When it comes to minimizing water usage, front loaders are the clear winner, but does that mean you should avoid a top loader at all costs? Keep reading to find out.
Should I Get a Top Load Washing Machine?
There are a few reasons why you might want to avoid a top load washing machine—for example, if you live in an area often affected by drought or you’re concerned about water usage. Water usage concerns may be due to high utility bills or a desire to care for the environment.
However, as we’ve already discussed, top loaders offer plenty of benefits. They’re less expensive, easier to maintain, and allow you to add in forgotten items once a load has already started.
The key, then, is to choose an ENERGY STAR certified top load washer. These washers must meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the US Environmental Protection Agency or the US Department of Energy. An ENERGY STAR certified washer uses an average of 14 gallons of water per load and as few as 7 gallons. With the average American family washing about 300 loads per year, that means you can save more than 2,000 gallons of water per year with an ENERGY STAR washer. Furthermore, ENERGY STAR models use an average of 25% less energy than standard washers and can save you approximately $370 in energy costs over the time you own your washer.
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5 ENERGY STAR Certified Top Load Washers
If your heart is set on a top load washing machine, here are our top 5 ENERGY STAR certified top load washers from Idler’s.
Maytag 5.2 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Shop this Maytag Top Load Washer
This washer isn’t just ENERGY STAR certified—it’s also a smart washer with remote start and cycle notifications so that you can manage chores on the go. If you have a large family that creates a lot of dirty laundry, this powerful washing machine is the way to go. With 5.2 cubic feet of capacity, it can fit extra large loads, and the extra power button can handle the toughest stains. You can pretreat stains with the built-in water faucet or save water on small, lightly soiled loads with the 30-minute Quick Wash cycle.
Whirlpool 5.2 - 5.3 Cu. Ft. 2 in 1 Removable Agitator White Top Load Washer
Shop this Whirlpool Top Load Washer
This ENERGY STAR certified Whirlpool washer stands out with its innovative 2 in 1 removable agitator design. This means that you can easily switch from agitator to impeller washing, depending on the load type. The large capacity allows you to wash larger loads—and fewer loads, saving time and water. It’s also available in a stylish and sleek Volcano Black finish.
LG 5.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
This extra large capacity washer is energy efficient and stylish—available in White and Black Steel. You can fit more in each load, which conserves water. If you’re looking for ways to save time as well, the LG TurboWash3D can wash a load in just 20 minutes. To fight dirt, odors, and wrinkles, steam cleaning makes laundry day easier.
Whirlpool 5.2 - 5.3 Cu. Ft. 2 in 1 Removable Agitator White Top Load Washer
Shop this Whirlpool Top Load Washer
Another 2 in 1 removable agitator, this ENERGY STAR certified washer also features smart features that you can access through the Whirlpool app. Not only that, but the Load & Go dispenser allows you to add detergent once and not think about it again for 20 more loads. You can save water by using the Pretreat Station Plus, which includes a faucet and pretreat brush. The Automatic Presoak option also targets stains while the Adaptive Wash Technology with Active Bloom Wash Action uses sensor technology to choose the correct water level for each load, thus avoiding using excess water.
Crosley Professional 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Shop this Crosley Top Load Washer
For pro style cleaning at home, this ENERGY STAR washer is for the avid cleaner. You can choose the right cycle for each load—which helps save water—with 14 cycles, 6 temperatures, and 5 wash/spin speeds. A pre-programmed stain removal guide helps you get stains out the first time so you don’t have to waste water and time rewashing clothes. Whether you need a deep rinse or a speed wash for lightly soiled loads, you can find the right setting to care for your clothes and cut down on water usage.
How to Save Water While Doing Laundry
Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified washing machine isn’t the only way to cut down your water usage. Here are 8 more tips to save water while doing laundry.
- Run full loads. If you haven’t compiled a large load, just wait a few more days and wash it when you have more items to add.
- Choose the correct load size. The cycles on your washer are there for a reason, so pay special attention to choosing the appropriate settings for each load.
- Pretreat stains. That way, you’ll only have to wash them one time.
- Wear your clothes more than once. Just because you’ve worn something doesn’t necessarily mean it’s dirty.
- Reuse towels. After drying off, hang up your towel and use it again the next time you shower.
- Use less hot water. Turning cold water to hot water is actually the most energy-intensive element in the laundry process, so opting for cold or warm water can make a huge difference.
- Don’t use the extra rinse cycle. This option is rarely necessary, and it’s a major culprit for water waste.
- Upgrade to an energy efficient hot water heater. In addition to upgrading to an ENERGY STAR certified washer, choosing an energy efficient hot water heater is another great way to save energy while also saving money on utility bills.
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With this guide to understanding how much water does a top load washing machine use, you’re better equipped to find the right washer for your household. Top and front load washers both have their pros and cons, but if you choose to go with a top loader, it’s crucial to opt for an ENERGY STAR certified model. These energy efficient washers can cut down 19-40 gallons of water usage to just 14 gallons of water per load. At Idler’s, you can find a wide selection of ENERGY STAR certified washers from top brands like Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool. Stop by one of our California locations to compare washers in person today.
FAQ
How to clean a top loading washing machine?
To clean a top loading washing machine, start by running a hot water cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to remove residue and odors. Then, wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces with a mixture of water and vinegar or a mild detergent, and leave the lid or door open to air out and prevent mildew.
How much water does a washing machine use?
Typically, a standard top loader uses 40 gallons of water while an ENERGY STAR certified washing machine uses between 7 to 14 gallons of water per load.
What is the best top load washer?
The best top load washer will vary based on your household size and personal preferences, but a great way to narrow down your search is to choose a top brand like Maytag, Samsung, Whirlpool, or LG.
Where to buy a top load washing machine near me?
California shoppers can find ENERGY STAR certified top load washing machines at Idler’s Home. Visit one of our locations or shop online, today!
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Top Load Washing Machines at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop top load washers online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find answers to, “How much water does a top load washing machine use?” — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
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