How to choose an energy-efficient washing machine

Whether you’re upgrading an old appliance or choosing one for a brand new home, finding an energy-efficient washing machine is one of the easiest ways to reduce your utility bills and environmental impact. But, with so many models and features to compare, it’s not always clear what to prioritise.

In this guide, we break down what makes a washing machine energy efficient, how to read energy labels, and the key technologies to look out for – including inverter motors, smart features and clever sensors.

We’ll also take a look at the latest range of energy-efficient washing machines from our collection, to help you find the right fit for your home.

What makes a washing machine energy efficient?

Multiple factors affect how energy-efficient a washing machine is. The best energy-efficient washing machines combine a good energy label with features and modern technologies that help reduce electricity consumption and water use, while keeping cleaning performance a top priority.

Here are some things that help improve the energy efficiency of washing machines:

1.     Lower temperatures

One of the biggest energy drains in washing cycles is heating water. To combat this, most energy-efficient washing machines are designed to clean well at 30°C or 40°C. Eco cycles can also run longer at lower temperatures to reduce energy use. Some even offer cold wash settings that are ideal for lightly soiled garments, as they can drastically cut down electricity use.

2.     Saving water

Energy-efficient washing machines usually have precise water sensors to cut back on excessive water use. While older washing machines will fill the drum with water regardless, these water sensors will measure the specific load size, only using the amount of water needed. This not only helps save water, but means less energy is needed to heat it – win-win!

3.     Inverter motors

Traditional washing machines tend to use universal motors with brushes, which spin at fixed speeds without adapting to the load size or fabric type. This means they’re essentially on or off, running at full power even for smaller loads.

Inverter motors are becoming much more commonplace in energy-efficient washing machine models. These motors are brushless, using magnetic induction instead of friction, and are controlled digitally. Inverter motors can dynamically adjust the speed and power during the washing cycle based on the load weight and fabric type, using only the energy they need. In addition to energy efficiency, these motors help improve cleaning performance through optimised speed control.

4.     Smart features

Modern energy-efficient washing machines often come with Wi-Fi connectivity and app control. As a user, this allows you to schedule your washes for off-peak energy hours, download custom wash programs, and monitor usage remotely. Some models will even recommend the most efficient cycle for your load or fabric type, saving water, time, and energy.

5.     Longevity

Of course, all these features count for nothing if your washing machine doesn’t stand the test of time. The best energy-efficient washing machines don’t just provide energy efficiency per cycle, but sustainability over time. Look for well-built machines with longer lifespans – they’ll contribute to long-term efficiency while reducing waste and replacement frequency. 

What type of washing machine is most energy efficient? 

The simplest way to gauge the efficiency of a washing machine is by checking its energy label. These labels have been updated since 2021 to make ratings easier to understand.

The scale now runs from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

How to understand washing machine energy labels

The energy ratings are

• A – the best available rating, and the most energy-efficient product.
• C-E – average energy efficiency – still decent for most households
• F-G – lowest ratings and less energy efficiency, generally found in older or cheaper models.

Each label also includes:

• Energy use, measured in kWh per 100 wash cycles
• Water consumption, shown in litres per cycle
• Spin-drying efficiency, rated A to G
• Noise level, rated A to D

Lower energy and water figures are key if you're looking to reduce your running costs and environmental impact.

Are new washing machines more energy efficient? 

In most cases, yes. Modern washing machines are designed to meet stricter energy regulations, often including newer technologies like inverter motors, eco settings, and improved insulation.

Since the energy label update in 2021, achieving an A rating has become much more difficult. That means any appliance with an A on the label has met a high benchmark and is likely to outperform older models, even those that previously claimed A+++ ratings under the old system.

Newer models also tend to have eco cycles, lower temperature wash options, improved insulation, and better drum designs, which all contribute to better efficiency.  

Are larger drums more energy efficient?

Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to washing machine drums. Choosing the right capacity for your household helps ensure you’re using the appliance efficiently.

As a rough guide:

• 6–8kg is usually enough for singles or couples
• 9–10kg+ is ideal for families or regular large loads

Going too small means more frequent washes, while going too big can result in half-empty loads – both of which waste energy.

Tips for improving the energy efficiency of your washing machine

Even the most efficient washing machines can waste energy if they’re not used properly. Here are a few quick tips to help you get the most from your appliance:

• Avoid overloading or underloading – Stick to the recommended load size. Overloading can strain the motor and reduce wash quality, while underloading wastes water and energy.
• Run full loads – Wait until you have a full drum to reduce the number of washes you need to do.
• Keep on top of maintenance – Clean the filter regularly and check for blockages or build-up that might affect performance.
• Level the machine – Make sure your washing machine is sitting on a flat, stable surface. This helps it spin efficiently and reduces wear and tear.

These simple habits can make a noticeable difference to your energy use over time. 

Energy-efficient washing machines: The Hoover collection

If you’re in the market for a new energy-efficient washing machine, at Hoover, we offer a wide range of options that combine A-rated performance with smart design.

The H-Wash 500 series includes models that are fully A-rated, delivering up to 55% savings in energy use compared to older appliances. These machines use our Eco-Power Inverter Motor, which is brushless and digitally controlled to consume less power during each cycle.

Key features include:

• KG Mode Plus, which automatically adjusts water, energy and time based on the load size
• High spin speeds to reduce drying time and overall energy use
• Smart connectivity via the hOn App, with features like remote scheduling, downloadable cycles, and “Scan to Care” settings based on your clothing labels
• Quiet performance, thanks to efficient motor design

Whether you need a compact washer for a smaller home or a high-capacity model for family life, we have a selection of energy-efficient washing machines to suit your needs and budget. 

Looking to upgrade your washing machine?

Explore the full Hoover range online and find an energy-efficient model that suits your lifestyle. From smart features to powerful eco cycles, these appliances are built to save energy without sacrificing performance.