Washing Machine Manuals & Owner Guides

Washer types explained

Front load

Tumbles clothes through a small amount of water; typically the most water- and energy-efficient and the fastest spinning. Stackable with a matching dryer.

Top load (high-efficiency)

Loads from above without bending. Modern HE top-loaders use an impeller or low-water agitator and sensing fills.

Compact (24 in.)

Narrow front-loaders for closets and apartments, usually around 2–2.5 cu. ft., often stacked with a compact dryer.

Laundry center

Washer and dryer built into one stacked cabinet.

All-in-one washer-dryer

Washes and dries in the same drum; many use ventless heat-pump drying and need no exhaust duct.

Understanding IMEF and IWF

The integrated modified energy factor (IMEF) is the cubic feet of capacity washed per kWh per cycle, including water heating, the energy to dry the load and standby power — higher is better. The integrated water factor (IWF) is gallons per cycle per cubic foot — lower is better. Compare each against the federal standard for the same loading type.

Cutting laundry costs

• Wash in cold water; heating water is the biggest part of a washer's energy use.
• Run full loads and use the highest safe spin speed to shorten drying time.
• Use HE detergent at the recommended dose — excess suds force extra rinses.

Washing Machine FAQ