Use this label to determine the model's energy use, compare the energy use of similar models, and estimate annual operating costs. Learn How to Use the Federal Trade Commission’s EnergyGuide Label and the Difference Between the Energy Guide and ENERGY STAR.
ENERGY STAR certified models are available in various product widths and drum capacities. Think about where you want to place your clothes washer and whether you typically run small or large loads. ENERGY STAR certified models are also available in stackable, under-the-counter designs, and combination washer-dryer designs which fit in smaller spaces.
Integrated Modified Energy Factor (IMEF) is a measure of energy efficiency that considers the energy used by the washer during the cycle and while on standby, the energy used to heat the water, and the energy used to run the dryer. The higher the IMEF, the more energy efficient the clothes washer.
Integrated Water Factor (IWF) is a measure of water efficiency in gallons of water consumed per cubic foot of capacity. The lower the IWF, the more water efficient the clothes washer. Both IMEF and IWF are provided for each model listed in the ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
ENERGY STAR certified front load washers use about 45% less energy and 50% less water than a top load agitator washer. In the past decade or so, top load impeller washers, which have a low-profile cone or disc instead of an agitator, have become popular as a more energy- and water-efficient option compared to traditional top load washers. However, compared to a top load impeller washer, front load washers are still about 25% more energy and water efficient.
In recent years, clothes washer technology has seen dramatic improvements in efficiency and functionality. Selecting an ENERGY STAR certified washer gets you all these premium features and functionality, with the following additional benefits:
Products that are recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient deliver cutting edge energy efficiency along with the latest in technological innovation. They represent the very best for energy savings and environmental protection. Click the Most Efficient filter to find recognized models.
Combined Energy Factor (CEF) is a measure of energy efficiency that reflects the energy use of the clothes dryer - the higher the CEF, the more energy efficient the clothes dryers. You can find and compare the CEF for all certified dryer models using the ENERGY STAR Product Finder.
ENERGY STAR certified clothes dryers incorporate the following advanced features:
For even more savings, consider ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryers - they use almost 30% less energy than a conventional clothes dryers. Consumers with high clothes dryer usage and high electricity rates have the potential for large energy and cost savings.
A heat pump dryer works as a closed loop system by heating the air and using it to remove moisture from the clothes, then reusing that air it once the moisture is removed. Rather than releasing moist air through a dryer vent to the exterior of the home as a conventional dryer does, a heat pump dryer passes humid air in the dryer drum through a condenser to remove the moisture without losing too much heat. The condensed moisture (water) from the drum is drained or emptied out of a holding tank in the dryer. Watch this video to see a heat pump dryer in action (link is external).
Products that are recognized as ENERGY STAR Most Efficient deliver cutting edge energy efficiency along with the latest in technological innovation. They represent the very best for energy savings and environmental protection. Click the Most Efficient filter to find recognized models. Typically, Most Efficient models employ Heat Pump technology.