At a Glance:
Benefits of Buying an Impeller-Style Washer
Best 3 Impeller Washing Machines Under $1000
Many homeowners choose top load washing machines to get more laundry done and less time. If you are shopping for a new washer, you may have noticed the option for an agitator versus an impeller.
So what is an impeller washer?
Impellers use friction to wash clothing gently. Unlike agitator machines that have bulky posts in the center, impeller washers are easy to access, have a larger wash capacity, and are more energy efficient. Learn more about why impeller washers are the top choice for every busy home and browse the most affordable appliances on the market.
What is an Impeller?
Impellers are disks or cones used in the wash basket of a top loading washing machine. As the wash basket spins, the impeller helps create friction from the clothes rubbing against each other. This action helps with stain removal and requires less water to clean a full load of laundry.
Impeller-style washing machines are popular because they use less motion and water than an agitator. Clothing is moved from the outer rim of the wash basket into the center, optimizing for friction while providing a gentle and thorough clean. Impellers are especially effective at getting stains out of clothing.
Impeller vs. Agitator Washer
Top-loading washing machines have either an impeller or an agitator. Agitators are most familiar to homeowners. They are a central post that twists back and forth to rub close against each other during cleaning.
In comparison, impellers are low-profile desk that encourages friction between clothing with the help of water and high spin speed. The main differences between an impeller and an agitator are:
- Impellers use less water and motion to clean clothes
- Impellers are gentler on fabrics
- Agitators require more water but less time to clean a load of laundry
- Impellers remove more moisture from materials, making dry times shorter
- Washing machines with impellers have more room in the wash basket and are more efficient at cleaning bulky items, like comforters, towels, and sweaters
- Laundry that is cleaned in a machine with an agitator has a marginally faster wash cycle time
- It is easier to load and unload laundry with an impeller rather than an agitator
Overall, washing machines with impellers are more energy and resource efficient and have a larger capacity than washers with agitators. So if your goal is to cut down time in the laundry room and save on energy costs, this style washer is the best choice for your home.
Benefits of Buying an Impeller-Style Washer
- Gentle on clothing - the impeller rubs close against each other during the wash cycle. This process uses friction and a small amount of water. As a result, it is very gentle on delicate fabrics.
- Shorter dry time - impeller washers have extra high spin speeds. Water is wicked away from laundry more effectively than in agitator machines. As a result, clothing will take less time to dry.
- Saves water - impeller washing machines clean clothes through friction. They use a minimal amount of water during each wash cycle. As a result, these appliances conserve valuable resources and save money and utilities.
- Larger capacity - top load washing machines are known for their large capacity. Investing in an impeller top load washer will gain you even more room in the wash tub. Agitator posts take up a large amount of space, whereas the low-profile impeller allows for more room for bulky laundry items.
- Fewer tangles - towels, sheets, and shirt sleeves are easily tangled around agitators. In comparison, impellers reduce tangles and bunching, making clothes cleaner and dryer.
Disadvantages of an Impeller
The cons of buying an impeller washer are short. The biggest complaint is the length of a wash load. However, the super-fast spin cycles pull more water out of clothes than any other style of a washing machine. As a result, wash cycles are a little longer, but dry cycles are significantly shorter.
In addition, while impeller washers include powerful stain-removing cycles, agitators have a slight edge. However, the use of pre-treat cycles and the proper detergent can make up for any stain-fighting shortfalls.
Best 3 Impeller Washing Machines Under $1000
Impeller Washer Recommendation #1: LG 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
This LG top-loading washing machine is built for busy families. Its extra large capacity can fit full bedding sets with ease. Convenient dials and intuitive controls further propel this unit as a top choice for homeowners. LG's impeller washer also includes this list of convenient features:
- Add extra water to any cycle with the touch of a button
- ColdWash technology
- Reduced washer noise and vibration
- Smart connectivity
- Variety of preset wash cycles
This LG washer includes so many innovative advancements it's no wonder that hundreds of customers have given it five out of five stars. For example, check out this glowing comment from a satisfied homeowner: Customer Reviews
"Even better than I expected! This washer is awesome! Love the fact that it's a top-loader, with NO AGITATOR to get in the way, so I can wash big comforters and king-size mattress pads; gets your wash super clean, spreads your laundry evenly with a sensor, glass slow-closing/opening top, and the washing is extremely quiet."
Impeller Washer Recommendation #2: GE® 4.6 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
This GE impeller washing machine is designed to get clothes clean and stain-free. Choose from 5 different soil levels to ensure even the dirtiest laundry comes out looking brand new. In addition, this washing machine with an impeller comes with stain pre-treatment options and deep clean cycles to power through the toughest grime.
The most notable features of this GE top load washer include:
- A full library of preset wash cycles
- Fast wash option for last-minute loads of laundry
- Optimized energy efficiency systems
- Oversized wash tub capacity
- Energy Star rating
When it comes to high-performance washers, this model from GE is hard to beat. Over 1,000 homeowners have given this impeller washing machine a perfect rating. Its efficient cycles, large load capacity, and flexible cycles leave a lasting impression. Check out comments from this happy shopper: Customer Reviews
"Great low water level features. I love that I can use way less water without compromising the cleanliness. If the clothes are ver dirty, you can choose that option but my kids usually through in the laundry barely used clothes and saving water is really good options for those. I live the option of additional spin makes the clothes very dry and saves electricity in the dryer. Overall I am glad I have upgraded."
Impeller Washer Recommendation #3: Whirlpool® 3.9 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Whirlpool White Top Load Washer
This Whirlpool impeller washing machine is a workhorse. This appliance is designed to make laundry day a little easier thanks to a long list of innovative features, including:
- Combination wash and soak cycles
- Smooth stainless steel wash basket that prevents snags
- Last-minute load lock that allows you to add clothes even after you hit 'start.'
- Specific wash cycles for whites and colors
- Extra rinse function that gives clothes an extra wringing, perfect for those with sensitivities to detergent
Whirlpool is a dependable washing machine manufacturer. The addition of an impeller in this washer only makes it that much more reliable. Not only is the machine gentle on clothes, but its customizable cycles also ensure every wash cycle is just right.
This impeller washing machine makes it exciting to wash clothes. With over 500 five-star reviews, this Whirlpool appliance is a top choice for homeowners looking for impeller washers. For example, check out this glowing recommendation: Customer Reviews
"Works great! The impeller model makes it really easy to load and unload the machine. Holds ample amount of clothes, etc., per load. He seems to use water wisely. Runs fairly quietly compared to other machines. Available at a reasonable price. It doesn't have so many "bells and whistles that you would never use."
In Conclusion
Impeller washing machines do a better job of getting stains out of clothing. This is because they are gentler on fabrics and have a larger washtub capacity to accommodate even the bulkiest items. In addition, heat appliances are energy efficient, using as little water as possible to get your clothes clean and sanitized. So if you are in the market for a new washing machine, give models with an impeller a second look. Top brands like LG and GE offer innovative and affordable impeller washing machines that make laundry day less of a chore.
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Shop Impeller Washers at Texas Appliance
Stop by Texas Appliance’s Fort Worth Store and Outlet locations to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced staff can make. Or shop Impeller Washers online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you discover your next washer — whether you call us at 817-299-2800, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
Learn More: 5 Surprising Benefits of a Smart Washer and Dryer