About
ASAP

Last Updated: October 2007
See the federal standards main page to view current status

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).

• Federal Documentation (DOE Web site)

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