High-efficiency washers sound like a smart upgrade—but with so many options and confusing labels, how do you know which one’s right for your home? If you’re tired of guessing and just want answers, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about choosing high-efficiency washers, including how they work, what makes them different, and how to pick the one that matches your laundry habits.
High-efficiency (HE) washers use less water, energy, and detergent than traditional machines.
HE models come in both top-load and front-load versions, each with unique benefits.
Features like spin speed, load capacity, and smart tech can make a big difference.
Appliance GrandMasters helps customers in Greenville SC and Asheville NC choose and maintain HE washers.
Picking the right HE washer starts with knowing how you do laundry.
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Greenville SC and Asheville NC make the switch to HE washers. Why? Because traditional washers are water hogs, harder on clothes, and more expensive to run over time.
High-efficiency washers:
Use up to 80% less water
Spin clothes faster (less drying time)
Handle larger loads with less wear on fabrics
Save money on energy bills
They’re better for your wallet—and the environment.
To be considered high-efficiency, a washer must:
Use less water per load (usually 15–20 gallons vs. 40+ for traditional models)
Sense load size automatically
Use tumbling or a low-water wash system
Require HE detergent (low suds)
HE washers are usually labeled clearly, but the real test is in how they perform over time.
You can get an HE washer in both front-load and top-load formats. Here’s how they stack up:
Pros:
Best water/energy efficiency
Gentle on clothes
Stackable for tight spaces
Cons:
More expensive
Needs regular gasket cleaning
Bending required for loading
Pros:
Easier to load without bending
Larger capacity options
Shorter wash cycles
Cons:
Not as efficient as front-loaders
Can be rougher on delicates
Not stackable
Also Read: The Difference Between Front-Load & Top Load Washing Machines
Here’s what our team at Appliance GrandMasters recommends focusing on:
HE washers range from 3.5 to over 5.5 cubic feet.
Big families? Go large to save time on laundry day.
Smaller households can stick with 4.0–4.5 cu. ft.
Look for models with at least 1,000 RPM or higher for better moisture removal.
Less moisture = less dryer time = energy saved.
Wi-Fi connected models can alert you when a load is done.
Some even auto-dispense detergent based on load weight.
HE washers can spin fast—so quiet motors and anti-vibration design matter if your laundry is near living spaces.
Choose trusted brands known for reliability.
Bonus points if the washer has a 10-year motor warranty or longer.
Yes. HE washers use less water, and regular detergent creates too many suds, which can cause buildup, odors, or errors. Always look for the “HE” label on the bottle.
With good maintenance, 10–15 years is typical. Clean them regularly and don’t overload.
They cost more upfront—but pay off long term in lower water, energy, and detergent bills.
Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency washer if:
Your current washer is 10+ years old
You’re seeing higher water or energy bills
Your clothes aren’t getting fully clean
You want to do fewer loads with better results
Greenville SC tip: One customer told us their HE washer paid for itself in utility savings in just over a year.
Choosing high-efficiency washers shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Our team at Appliance GM Superstore can help you decide based on your home setup, laundry habits, and budget. We also offer washer repairs, installations, and guidance on maximizing performance.
If you’re in Greenville SC, or surrounding areas, call Appliance GM Superstore today.
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Q: What’s the biggest benefit of a high-efficiency washer?
A: Lower utility bills, better cleaning, and less wear on your clothes.
Q: Can HE washers handle large loads?
A: Yes. Many models have extra-large capacity—perfect for comforters and family-sized laundry.
Q: Why does my HE washer take so long?
A: It uses less water and cleans more gently, which can mean longer—but more effective—cycles.
Q: How often should I clean an HE washer?
A: Once a month using a washer cleaner or vinegar cycle.
Q: Are HE top-loaders worth it?
A: If you prefer a top-loader but want better efficiency, absolutely.
Now you know the essentials of choosing high-efficiency washers—from energy savings to features that actually matter.
If you’re ready to upgrade or need help figuring out what model works for you, Appliance GM Superstore is here to help. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is just a call away.
Visit Appliance GM Superstore or click the button below to browse our selection of top-rated washers and schedule an in-store consultation.
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Formerly known as Mr. Rogers Appliances, we rebranded our appliance repair company to Appliance GrandMasters in June 2020. Since then, we have focused on developing our brand to be customer-oriented.
Fixing appliances has become a passion for us. We enjoy challenges, and we are always preparing and updating ourselves to become the very best.
We accomplish swift and top-notch service by employing efficient and friendly customer service procedures that guarantee accurate answers and solutions.
Our approach involves the careful selection and comprehensive training for the necessary skills to fulfill our customers’ needs. Through these strategies, we strive to consistently provide exceptional service.