How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Actually Use?

While any washing machine requires a great deal of water to clean your laundry efficiently, some models like high-efficiency, front-load washers use less water than others. According to ENERGY STAR®, the average American family washes roughly 300 loads of laundry every year, so the model you own or purchase can make a significant impact on your electricity and water bills each year.

To help you save money, the guide below explains roughly how much water different types of washing machine use as well as tips to limit water usage in your washer.

Washing Machine Water Usage by Type

The average washing machine uses 31 gallons of water per load, but depending on the model you own, your washing machine may require as much as 41 gallons to wash one load of laundry. Listed below are some of the most common types of washing machines, along with how much water each uses.

• Energy Star® certified washers are the most efficient when it comes to water usage, using 30% less water on average compared to regular washing machines. These high-efficiency washers meet a rigorous set of energy efficiency standards determined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy, without compromising on performance. ENERGY STAR® certified washers consume approximately 13 gallons per load.
• Standard top-load washers use the most water when compared to alternatives like front-loading machines and especially high-efficiency washers, ranging from 37 to 41 gallons per load. While top-load washers are certainly lacking when in comes to energy efficiency, they are often less expensive to repair and easier to maintain than their competitors.
• Front-loading washers can use as little as 13 gallons per load if they are high-efficiency models, but conventional models may use closer to 19 gallons.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest hacks, expert advice, and more!

Other Factors That Impact Washing Machine Water Usage

While the type of washing machine you purchase largely determines your water usage, there are additional factors that can affect how much or how little water your machine consumes.

• Age: Newer washing machines typically have more efficient systems which require less water, no matter the type of washer.
• Wash cycle: Certain wash cycles typically use more water than others. For instance, if you often select a wash setting designed for white items or large loads like bedding and towels, expect to see a higher water bill.
• Impeller vs. Agitator: Although top-load washing machines use more water compared to standard front-load washers, the type of cleaning mechanism in your machine may help you save water. Most classic washing machines feature a tall post in the center of the wash basket called an agitator, but newer top-load washing machines use a low-profile cone or disk called an impeller to spin, rub, and clean your clothes. Impeller washers use less water than agitators.

4 Tips for Conserving Water With Your Washing Machine

The amount of water your washing machine uses per load is dependent on multiple factors, including the type of washer, the cycle you’ve selected, and more. However, there are a few ways you can conserve water with your washer, no matter the model.

• Avoid overfilling your washer: If you stuff your washing machine full of laundry, it will need more water to get the job done. Be sure to avoid putting too many items in a single load to save on both water and energy consumption.
• Skip extra rinse settings: While it might seem beneficial to give your laundry a second rinse, the cost for that added step will appear on your water bill. Save some water by skipping the extra rinse setting.
• Pre-treat stained items: Pre-treating stains can help you make the most of your wash cycle and avoid the potential of needing a second wash.
• Choose the eco wash setting: While the eco wash setting does require a longer wash time, it typically “soaks” clothes to ensure they’re clean, thereby using less water and energy.