3.5 Vs. 4.0 Washing Machines

Types

• Both 3.5 and 4.0 cubic foot washing machines are available in two types: front or top loader. A front loader washing machine has a door in the front to put clothes in. Front loader machines generally use less water and are more efficient. Top load washing machines have a lid on the top to load clothes into. Both types have capacities ranging from 2.6 to 5.0 cubic feet for commercial use. Industrial washers and dryers have the ability to do more wash. Industrial washing machines come in sizes such as double or triple loaders, which refers to the number of loads that can be washed in one machine.

Comparison

• Although a 3.5 washing machine can handle large loads, a 4.0 washing machine can handle several more items in each load and has the ability to wash large items such as comforters and long curtains. Both types of washing machines have settings to wash smaller loads, which fills the washing machine with less water than large loads.

Spin Cycle

• Along with the ability to handle small or large loads, washing machine rotations per minute during spin cycles can also clean clothes more effectively. Spin cycles generally range from 750 to 1,400 rotations per minute. Although the rate of the spin cycle can clean clothes better, delicate clothes that require gentler care should be washed at a lower spin cycle. Almost all washing machines allow selecting how fast it spins.

Selection

• Choosing the size of a washing machine depends on the amount of clothes and other fabrics washed frequently. Other functionality of the washing machine should be considered. The U.S. Department of Energy rates products including washing machines for energy efficiency and rates them with an Energy Star. Washing machines that receive an Energy Star use 37 percent less energy and 50 percent less water.