The decision to go for cheaper models is understandable – why pay hundreds more for a washing machine when you could buy a cheaper one and also have a holiday? But purchasing cheaper models is likely to be a false economy for two reasons: 1) they are more expensive to run, and 2) they will likely need replacing sooner. Cheaper models account for a large proportion of the market, with 80% of all washing machines sold costing under £500 and over 40% costing under £300. If possible, picking up a high-quality machine second-hand is a great way to reduce climate impact and (hopefully) find a good bargain.Īccording to the White Goods Trade Association, the average lifespan of a washing machine has dropped from ten years to under seven, and it isn’t unusual for cheaper models to only last for a few years. Buying second-handĪs a washing machine’s embodied carbon emissions account for so much of its total climate impact, buying second-hand is a good option – unless you buy a particularly energy-inefficient model. So, the most environmentally friendly washing machine is probably the one you already own – unless it is a particularly inefficient model. The first question you should ask yourself when beginning your quest for an eco-friendly washing machine is 'Do I really need a new one?'.Īlthough newer models are generally more efficient, most of a washing machine’s environmental impact comes from its manufacture and delivery.Īccording to the climate scientist Mike Berners-Lee, “f or a machine you keep for 10 years and use efficiently the manufacture and delivery of the appliances account for nearly 80 per cent of the total carbon footprint of each wash.”Ī new A-rated model might gain you about 10% in efficiency, but Berners-Lee claims that “you will struggle to ever pay back the embodied emissions.” Subscribe to see which companies we recommend as Best Buys and whyĮnvironmental impacts of a new washing machine Go for brands that are designed to last – Miele claims its machines are designed to last 20 years. Is it long lasting? The average lifespan of washing machines has gone down in recent years, with cheaper models only lasting a few years. Buying second-hand therefore reduces environmental impact and will likely save you money too! Is it second hand? For a washing machine kept for 10 years, approximately 80% of its carbon emissions are from its manufacture and delivery. Also, climate change is leading to a hotter and drier UK, which is putting increasing pressure on our water supplies, so look for lower water usage on the label too. If possible, go for models that are A-rated and with a lower kWh figure. All washing machines for sale in the EU and UK must have an energy label which displays its energy usage. Is it energy and water efficient? The energy usage of different models varies greatly. What to look for when buying a washing machine:
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