Consumer Reports Green Ratings on Washers and Dryers
Posted By: Jamie  on 05/09/2008
Consumer Reports has listed washing machines in the order of energy efficiency. Overall score for washers is based on washing ability, efficiency, capacity and noise. Front-load washers, on average, have the highest energy efficiency ratings. They operate without an agitator, require less water, hold larger loads and save energy in reduce water heating.

Dryers are listed in order of overall score, which is based on drying performance, drum volume and noise. Energy efficiency among dryers is not significantly different, however, gas dryers are generally less expensive to run and have less impact on the environment. Dryers with moisture sensors can use less time to dry when an automatic dry cycle is used and therefore be more efficient with energy usage.

Top 3 Front-Loading Washers

Miele Touchtronic $1900
LG Tromm SteamWasher $1500
LG WM0642H $900

Top 3 Top-Loading Washers

Fisher & Paykel Intuitive IWL16 $800
Maytag Bravos $950
Whirlpool Cabrio $1000

Top 3 Dryers

GE Profile Harmony $800
Kenmore Elite $570
LG DLE5977 $850

View the Consumer Reports Washer / Dryers: Green Buying Guide 2/08 here

View News/Articles List