U.S. Department of Energy Finalizes Washer and Dryer Efficiency Standards

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced finalized energy efficiency standards for washing machines and dryers.

According to the DOE, the new standards could save U.S. households a total of $2.2 billion annually on utility costs, with savings of up to $39 billion on energy and water bills over 30 years. Additionally, the measures are expected to cut carbon dioxide emissions by about 71 million metric tons.

“With these rules in place, Americans can be confident that they are saving money, water, and energy with every cycle. The broad support for these rules shows that efficiency standards are a winner all around,” Joe Vukovich, staff attorney at Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), said in a statement. “These standards will make sure our washers and dryers are not needlessly wasting energy, while also cutting carbon pollution by a combined 71 million metric tons over 30 years.”  

The new standards for residential washing machines will save about 0.7 quadrillion British thermal units (BTUs) over 30 years, or 3% of energy use compared to many washing machines currently on the market. Residential dryers will save about 11% of energy use (about 2.7 quadrillion BTUs over 30 years) compared to those currently on the market, according to the DOE. 

NRDC reported that for a household that upgrades to both a washing machine and dryer complying with the new standards, there will be about $67 in utility savings per year. Dryer models could have up to 40% energy savings compared to models that don’t meet the new standards. Because drying machines use up a lot of energy, about 3.2% of total household energy consumption per year, the monetary savings could really add up.

Those who want to upgrade to models that meet the new standards could save money on the upfront costs by taking advantage of the Department of Energy’s tax rebates.

“For decades, DOE’s appliance standards actions for clothes washers and dryers have provided loads of savings for American families while also decreasing harmful carbon emissions,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said in a statement. “With strong support from industry leaders and consumer advocates, DOE will continue to roll out innovative appliance solutions throughout 2024 to lower costs for the American people — continuing the cycle of household savings that are the backbone of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda.” 

The new standards for both washers and dryers are to be met by March 1, 2028. NRDC reported that many appliances currently on the market are already meeting the new standards.