How Much Water Does a Maytag Performa Use?

Average Water Usage

• The California Energy Commission states that the average washing machine uses 40 gallons of water per load. The Maytag Performa series – as a large-capacity washer – has the potential to use up to 54 gallons of water per load, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These traditional top-loading machines are considered water guzzlers compared to front-loading models, and to newer, high-efficiency top-loading washers.

Performa Water Levels

• How much water a Maytag Peforma uses is based on the machine’s water level. Depending on which setting is selected, the water capacity will increase or decrease accordingly. According to the Maytag Performa User Guide, for a wash load that takes up 25 percent of the machine’s capacity, the “mini” water level should be selected. For loads using 25 to 50 percent of the washing machine’s capacity, Maytag recommends selecting the “medium” water level. Users are directed to choose the "large" water setting for laundry loads that will use 50 to 75 percent of the machine’s capacity. If the laundry will consume 75 percent or more of the washer’s capacity, the “oversize” water setting should be selected.

Comparison to Front-Load Washers

• Front-load washing machines only consume 20 to 25 gallons of water per laundry load. The typical family washes an average of 400 loads of laundry a year, according to data from the California Energy Commission. The commission estimates that switching to a front-load washing machine can save up to 7,000 gallons of water over a Maytag Performa and other traditional top-loading washing machines.

Other Considerations

• In the state of Kansas, 204 older, top-loading washing machines like the Maytag Performa were replaced with front-loading washing machines. The U.S. Department of Energy found that these homeowners experienced a 38 percent reduction in water use. In addition, they saved 56 percent in electricity costs. However, newer top-loading energy-efficient washing machines can also deliver the same results. While the Performa line of washers is neither water- nor energy-efficient, Maytag makes several top- and front-loading models that are.