do front load washers use less water than top loaders

When it comes to washing machines, most people are familiar with the two main types - front load and top load washers. For years, top load washers have been the standard for many households in North America, but over the past decade, front load washers have been gaining popularity due to their energy and water savings. In this article, we'll be exploring whether front load washers use less water than top loaders.

Differences in Design

One of the key differences between front load and top load washers is the way in which they're designed. Top load washers are known for using a large amount of water to fill the drum to the top, often using up to 40 gallons for one load. Front load washers, on the other hand, use much less water by design. They typically use only 20-25 gallons of water per load, thanks to their horizontal drum design that rotates on a horizontal axis. This allows the clothes to tumble through the water, using less water overall.

Efficiency Ratings

Another way to compare the water usage of front load and top load washers is to look at their efficiency ratings. Both types of washers are rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) based on how much water and energy they use. According to the EPA, front load washers are generally more efficient than top load washers because they use less water and energy. In fact, some of the most efficient models on the market today are front load washers, boasting water usage as low as 12 gallons per load.

Benefits Beyond Water Savings

While the water savings of front load washers may be the most significant benefit for some households, it's not the only one. Front load washers are also known for being gentler on clothes, thanks to their horizontal drum design, which allows clothes to be lifted and dropped in and out of the water. This gentle tumbling motion can help prolong the life of clothes, prevent snags, and reduce wear and tear. Additionally, front load washers tend to be more spacious than top loaders and can handle larger loads, which can be a major benefit for families with a lot of laundry.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, front load washers do use less water than top load washers. Thanks to their design and efficiency ratings, front load washers can use as little as half the water of top loaders, saving households a significant amount of money on their water bills. Beyond water savings, front load washers also offer other benefits, including being gentler on clothes and having larger capacity options. If you're in the market for a new washer, it's worth considering a front load model for its water and energy savings, as well as the other benefits it offers.