How many watts does a washer use?

According to the DonRowe website, depending on the brand and size of the washing machine, the wattage usage is between 500 to 1000 watts. Washing machines with induction motors often require three to seven times the wattage during start up.

There are a variety of ways to reduce the energy usage while doing laundry, no matter what brand or size the machine. In order to get the most energy efficiency from a washing machine, look for ENERGY STAR and EnergyGuide labels. According to Energy.gov, ENERGY STAR washing machines use 35 percent less water and 20 percent less energy than standard washing machines.

1. Choose the right temperature
In order to save the most energy, wash clothes in cold water. Use cold water detergents for the best clean. When dealing with oily stains or tough dirt, pre-treat the clothing first and if heat is needed, use warm instead of hot.
2. Use full loads
Instead of doing several small loads, wash one large load instead. The wattage used to start up the machine is much higher than what is used during the cleaning cycle, so the fewer loads washed, the fewer watts are needed.
3. Use the right water setting
Using less water when washing clothes uses less watts during the cleaning cycle. Make sure when starting the washing machine that the water level is selected properly for the load.