How can I find a "green" washer?

Looking for the best washer on the market? CNET editors help you choose between pressure washers, washer dryer combos, and other washing machines to meet your needs.

Older top-loading washers with agitators use a lot more energy and water and are less efficient than today's front-loading machines. Front-load washer makers claim anywhere from 25 percent to 60 percent in energy savings over top-loading models.

Look for the Energy Star label. The Energy Star certification program is a joint effort the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. The Energy Star label means that an appliance is certified as energy efficient--using 15 percent less energy than required by federal standards and 40 percent less energy than the conventional models sold in 2001. According to Energy Star, qualified washing machines can save you $550 in operating costs over the appliance's lifetime compared with a regular clothes washer. There could also be some tax credits in the wash for you. Learn more at the Energy Star Web site.

Look for Modified Energy Factor and a low Water Factor (WF). According to Energy Star, "the MEF is a comprehensive measure of energy efficiency that considers the energy used by the washer and the energy used to heat the water." A higher MEF means it is a more efficient clothes washer. The WF measures the water efficiency and the gallons of water consumed per cubic foot.

Read the EnergyGuide label. Washer manufacturers must use standard DOE test procedures to prove the energy use and efficiency of their products--and the results are printed on yellow EnergyGuide labels that must be displayed on appliances. According to the Energy Star Web site, "The label estimates how much energy the appliance uses, compares energy use of similar products, and lists approximate annual operating costs. Your exact costs will depend on local utility rates and the type and source of your energy." So read this label as you comparison shop.