Agitator vs. Impeller: Best Top Load Washer Comparison & Buying Guide
Are you planning to buy a new top-load washing machine? One of the important features you should consider is choosing between an agitator or impeller washer. Both these styles are widely available, including models from Midea, each with its unique benefits depending on your household’s laundry needs.
But which one is right for you? In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between agitator and impeller washers, how they work, their pros and cons, and what factors you should consider before making your purchase. Plus, if you’re looking for a quality top-load washer, Appliance World has both agitator and impeller models. So, no matter which you prefer, we’ve got you covered!
How Does an Agitator in a Washing Machine Work?
This is the classic washing machine that we are all familiar with. In fact, these are cheap top-load washing machines compared to machines with impellers. An agitator washer has a central spindle (also known as the agitator) with fins or vanes. The agitator moves back and forth during a wash cycle, rubbing clothes against itself to help remove dirt and stains. This direct mechanical action helps break up tough stains, making it great for heavily soiled loads.
Benefits of a Washer with an Agitator
Deep Cleaning Power:
The strong scrubbing action makes it ideal for removing tough stains from clothes. If you often wash work uniforms, kids’ clothes, or sports gear, an agitator washer may be the most practical choice for you.
Faster Wash Cycles:
Agitator washers usually have shorter cycle times compared to impeller models. If you want to get laundry done quickly, this is a great option.
Familiar and Reliable:
Many people are used to agitator washers and trust their performance in NZ and worldwide. If you’ve been using one for years, you might feel comfortable sticking with this style.
Factors to Keep in Mind Before Getting a Washer with an Agitator
Before you finalise on an agitator washing machine, go through the following characteristics that might make you reconsider this option:
Can Be Rough on Clothes:
The aggressive scrubbing action may lead to more wear and tear on delicate fabrics over time. If you wash a lot of lightweight or delicate clothing, this may not be the one for you.
Uses More Water:
Since agitator models require more room for movement, they tend to consume more water per wash cycle compared to impeller models.
Less Space for Large Loads:
The central spindle takes up space, meaning you can’t fit as many clothes in one load. This can be an issue for households that do large loads of laundry frequently.
How Does an Impeller Washer Work?
An impeller washer is a modern alternative designed for gentler yet efficient cleaning. Instead of a central agitator, it uses water currents to move clothes around the drum. Here’s how they do it:
An impeller washer comes with a low-profile disc (or cone) at the bottom of the drum. This disc rotates at high speeds, creating strong water currents that move clothes in a tumbling motion. Instead of scrubbing against a central spindle, fabrics rub against each other to get rid of dirt. Now that we understand how it works, let’s weigh up its features in detail.
Benefits of a Washer with an Impeller
Gentler on Fabrics:
Since there’s no central agitator, clothes rub against each other rather than being forcefully scrubbed. This reduces wear and tear on delicate materials.
More Room for Large Loads:
Instead of an agitator post, the impeller washer has larger wash drums. This makes it ideal for washing bulkier items like blankets, bedding, and towels.
Water & Energy Efficient:
Impeller washers use less water because they rely on efficient water currents rather than soaking clothes completely. This also means they consume less electricity, saving you money in the long run.
Factors to Keep in Mind Before Getting a Washer with an Impeller
Longer Wash Cycles:
Since impeller washers work on a gentle tumbling action, they may take more time to remove tough stains compared to agitator models.
More Expensive Upfront:
Impeller washers often come with a higher price tag, but they make up for it with lower water and electricity bills over time.
Can Cause Clothes to Tangle:
Since the wash drum is more spacious, clothes can sometimes get tangled together, especially when washing lightweight fabrics.
Agitator vs. Impeller: Which One Should You Choose?
Now that you know the differences, how do you decide which washer is right for you?
Choose an Agitator Washer if:
- You frequently wash heavily soiled clothes (like sports uniforms or workwear).
- You want a faster wash cycle.
- You prefer a machine with a traditional, familiar design.
Choose an Impeller Washer if:
- You wash a lot of delicate fabrics and want gentler cleaning.
- You need a larger drum size for big loads.
- You want to save money on water and energy bills over time.
Ready to upgrade your laundry game? Get Yours at Appliance World!
Both agitator and impeller top-load washers have their own strengths. Yet, the choice comes down to your laundry needs. Do you prioritise deep cleaning or prefer gentler fabric care?
At Appliance World, we offer a wide range of agitator and impeller washers from one of the leading brands, Midea. Whether you’re after a powerful top-load washer with an agitator or the best impeller washer for large families with bigger loads, Appliance World has you covered. We offer a wide selection of Midea washing machines, each designed to suit different laundry needs. Visit our store or browse online to find premium home appliances.
Need help in choosing? Our team is here to assist you with expert advice. Reach out to us today!
