The environmental impact of washing machines

Since they were invented, washing machines have been taking the grunt work out of laundry day. This hard labour is energy consuming, though. In this blog post, we consider the environmental impact of these indispensable machines.

Washing machines, like most appliances, have a lifecycle environmental impact that spans from the manufacturing process to usage and finally, disposal. The energy consumption during the use phase, water usage, and the waste generated at the end of the machine's life are the primary environmental concerns.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, washing machines account for approximately 3% of the total energy consumption in an average Australian household. While modern washing machines contribute to greenhouse gas emissions through their energy consumption, a lot of models are significantly more energy efficient than older models.

Water usage is another significant environmental impact of washing machines. Traditional top-loading models can use up to 170 litres of water per wash. Newer, front-loading machines are more water-efficient than many older models, using approximately 70 litres per wash.

Finally, the disposal of old washing machines contributes to the increasing problem of electronic waste (e-waste). As these machines are made up of a complex mix of materials and components, recycling them is a challenging task.

At Appliances Online Australia, we believe in the power of informed choices. Opting for energy-efficient models, using eco-friendly detergents, running full loads, and recycling old machines can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your washing machine.

Choosing an energy-efficient washing machine can drastically cut down on energy consumption. Look for machines with a high Energy Star rating. These models use advanced technology to reduce energy use without compromising performance.

Eco-friendly detergents are less harmful to the environment as they break down more easily and do not contain phosphates, which can cause water pollution.

Running your washing machine with a full load can save both water and energy. It's also essential to use the correct settings for each load to avoid wasting resources.

When it's time to replace your washing machine, consider recycling the old one. Many components of a washing machine can be recycled or repurposed, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

While washing machines do have an environmental impact, conscious choices can help mitigate these effects. As part of our commitment to sustainability, Appliances Online Australia provides a range of energy-efficient washing machines and offers advice on how to use and dispose of these appliances responsibly. Together, we can make a significant difference to our environment.

Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery reaches 95% of Australia's population, and if it’s in stock you’ll usually receive it the day after ordering (Mon-Fri). We also offer paid Same Day Delivery in metro NSW, Qld and Vic on weekday orders placed by 12pm. We’ll even take your old washer away to be recycled, at no charge. For more pointers on choosing a new washer, read our Laundry Buying Guide, call us 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.