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Residential Clothes Washers
Last Updated: October 2007
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Clothes washer efficiency standards were established by Congress in 1987, building upon standards set by a few states. In January 2001 DOE published new standards for clothes washers, which took effect in two stages. The first stage, effective 2004, requires a 1.04 MEF (Modified Energy Factor). In 2007, this rose to 1.26 MEF (the higher the MEF, the higher the efficiency).
Update
In December 2007, the Congress enacted H.R. 6, setting first-ever minimum water efficiency requirements for clothes washers. (Minimum energy efficiency requirements were left unchanged from existing levels set by DOE which became effective in January 2007.) Effective January 1st, 2011, residential clothes washers must be manufactured with a modified efficiency factor (MEF) of at least 1.26 and a water factor of 9.5 or less. DOE complete a rulemaking to consider stronger standards by December 31st, 2011, and revised standards would become effective January 1st, 2015. (February 2008)
Press Release
Efficiency Advocates Announce Landmark
Agreement on Higher Energy and Water Efficiency Standards May 1, 2007
Press Release
U.S. Department of Energy Moves
to Roll Back New Appliance Efficiency Standards
April 4, 2001
Press Release
Breakthrough agreement boosts washer
efficiency
May 23, 2000
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