We've identified the top energy-efficient washing machines by analyzing user reviews and test results. Our criteria for energy efficiency are defined by washing machines rated in energy class A. After comparing 22 power-saving washing machines, we've ranked each from the best to the worst.
All washing machines in the EU have an energy label, where you can find the most essential information about the machine, such as its energy efficiency class and energy consumption.
The energy label makes it easier to compare key specifications between washing machines. On the energy label, you can find the following information:
Energy efficiency class
Energy consumption per 100 cycles
Water consumption per cycle
Duration per cycle
Drying performance
Noise level
Noise level class
Pick a model in energy class A if you want an energy-efficient washing machine.
Energy consumption comparison
The average energy consumption for a washing machine is 54 kWh per 100 washing cycles. Among the energy-efficient models, the average energy consumption is 50 kWh.
Generally, a washing machine with a small capacity (6 or 7 kg) uses less energy than a larger one (9 or 10 kg).
This chart shows the distribution of energy consumption among washing machines.
Updated October 15, 2024
Comparison of electricity cost
What is the difference in the electricity costs of having an energy-efficient washing machine compared to an energy-inefficient washing machine?
£
per kWh
The energy consumption per 100 cycles across the most energy-efficient washing machines is around 45 kWh. The energy consumption is around 75 kWh for the least.
At an energy price of £0.3 per kWh, the energy cost for the energy-saving washing machines amounts to £13.5 per 100 cycles, while for the energy-inefficient washing machines, it totals £22.5.
So, based on these assumptions, you save £9.0 per 100 cycles by choosing an energy-efficient washing machine.
Overview
Type
Energy consumption
Electricity cost (100 cycles)
Electricity cost per cycle
Energy-efficient washing machine
45 kWh
£13.5
£0.14
Not energy-efficient washing machine
75 kWh
£22.5
£0.23
Washing machines with the lowest energy consumption
The washing machine with the lowest energy consumption is AEG LFR71864B, which has an energy consumption of just 42 kWh per 100 cycles. Baumatic BWI148D4E is the washing machine with the highest energy consumption at 73 kWh per 100 cycles.
This is a list of the five washing machines with the lowest energy consumption.
Are energy-efficient washing machines more expensive?
The average price among the efficient washing machines is £873. The distribution in price compared to all washing machines is shown in the diagram below.
Updated October 15, 2024
Which energy-efficient washing machine is the cheapest?
The least expensive energy-efficient washing machine, the Beko B3W5841IW model, is priced at £349.
These are the five cheapest washing machines, which are also in energy class A:
Our comparison of washing machines represents 36 models. 63% of these are in energy class A. The distribution in energy class is shown in the diagram below.
A (63%)
B (20%)
D (11%)
C (6%)
Updated October 15, 2024
Types of washing machines
We distinguish between 3 types of washing machines:
Top-load washing machines
Front-load washing machines
Washer-dryers
A front-load washing machine is generally the best choice for an energy-efficient model. The average energy consumption among the various types is as follows:
Front-load washing machine: 54 kWh
Washer-dryer: 62 kWh (only washing)
How to save energy with your washing machine
You might see a rise in your monthly electricity bill depending on how regularly you use your washing machine.
If you’re looking for ways to save energy where your washing machine is concerned, check out the following tips:
Use colder water: If you pick a colder temperature when washing (e.g., 30 degrees instead of 40 degrees), you will lower the energy consumption.
Lower spin speed: Reducing the spin speed and air-drying clothes afterward can help minimize energy consumption.
Only run full: By only washing when your washing machine is filled up, you might save some money in the long run.
Use the Eco wash cycle: The Eco wash cycle is specifically designed to decrease the washing machine’s energy usage. Although this cycle takes longer to finish, it operates at a lower energy consumption rate than a standard washing cycle.
Comparison of the energy consumption
What is the energy consumption of a washing machine compared to other household appliances? In the following chart, we have compared the average energy consumption for various household appliances:
Updated October 15, 2024
The energy consumption for the various refrigerators is based on annual consumption. For dishwashers, washer-dryers, and washing machines, it is based on 100 eco cycles.
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