What Is an Infusion Washing Machine?

Top-Loading Machines

• A traditional top-loading washing machine fills the tub with water to the level you choose, then an agitator swirls the laundry around to clean it. A washer that has an infusor instead of an agitator uses a low level of water and circulates clothes through the water. These machines are also called high-efficiency top-loading washing machines.

Energy Savings

• General Electric provides an example of energy and water savings associated with infusor washing machines for its GE Hydrowave with Infusor top-load washer. This appliance saves 54 percent in energy consumption and 46 percent in water usage compared to GE top-load washers not qualified as Energy Star appliances. The GE Profile Hydrowave with Infusor washer saves 60 percent in energy consumption and 51 percent in water usage.

Usage

• Like an agitator, the infusor sits at the bottom of the washtub; however, unlike an agitator, it reaches less than halfway up the tub. You can choose the level of water but the maximum level will only reach the top of the infusor. You may load the laundry higher, although you need to place the items around the side of the tub, not over the infusor. Use a high-efficiency low-foaming detergent for best results.

Considerations

• Numerous customer reviews of infusion washers at ConsumerReports.org and other websites express dissatisfaction with the cleaning capabilities of these appliances. The low water levels and lack of agitation or tumbling may make it difficult to thoroughly clean soiled laundry. The spin cycle in these machines can tangle and wrinkle clothing. Also, infusion washing machines also cost significantly more than regular top-loading machines. The cost is sometimes nearly as much as the best front loaders, but the best front-loading machines clean better and more efficiently, according to ConsumerReports.org.