Buying Guide: Washing Machines

Washers are a critical part of a functioning household. They are also one of the longest-lasting appliances in your home. The right washer can help you save money, reduce energy consumption and extend the life of your clothing.

The Right Capacity for Your Lifestyle

Washers are most energy-efficient when fully loaded. Choose a unit that isn’t too large for your household.

• For a 1-2 person household, capacity isn’t too much of a factor
• A 3+ family running multiple loads of laundry per week should consider a larger capacity. The price may be more, but you save time by running fewer loads of laundry each week.
• Measurement matters! 
  Some manufacturers measure in I.E.C, which is a European method of rating capacity; while others use Department of Energy ratings (D.O.E ). For example, a washer with a 5.0 cu. ft. I.E.C capacity, would be equivalent to approximately 4.3 cu. ft. D.O.E.

Assess Your Space

It's important to consider the area your laundry will live in to ensure the washer and dryer you choose will fit:

• Measure your current space to ensure your new laundry pair will fit. Allow 4-6” behind the machines for venting and connections
• Confirm the drain hose is in proximity to the washer
• Ensure you can provide a clear path to the laundry space for delivery

To simplify this process, Trail has created a laundry checklist that outlines all the steps to take before you receive delivery of your new laundry pair. Ask a Trail Representative for a copy of the checklist to ensure seamless delivery and installation.

Types of Washers

Top Load Washers:

• Uses an agitator that extends up through the middle of the wash basket.
• The agitator’s job is to move your clothes around, while the wash basket spins to clean and extract water.
• View our selection of Top-Load Washers

High Efficiency Top Load Washers:

• Similar to Top Load Washers, but are more energy efficient and use less water.
• An impeller (rather than an agitator) is used to create turbulent currents to move the clothes through the water.
• The lack of an agitator also means your clothes are cleaned with minimal force, preserving them longer.
• View our selection of High Efficiency Top Load Washers

Front Load Washers:

• Are known for their energy efficiency and convenient features.
• The basket never has to fill completely with water so you use only one third of the water a Top Loader uses, but your clothes get just as clean.
• Front Load Washers don’t have an agitator so they are roomier, allowing for larger loads.
• View our selection of Front Load Washers

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