Impeller vs. Agitator Washer: What's the Difference?
Both get your clothes clean, but there’s more to know
Highlights
Impeller and agitator washers are both top-loading washing machines.
Impeller washers clean more gently and use less water.
Agitator washers deep clean clothing and cost less.
Your washing machine works hard to keep your clothing clean, but certain types of washing machines work a little harder than others. For instance, impeller washing machines use less water and offer a gentler clean than an agitator washer. But their differences don't end there. Compare the features of impeller and agitator washers to decide which one is right for your home.
Agitator vs. Impeller Washer: Key Differences
The main difference between agitator and impeller washers is how they clean clothing. Agitator washers have a long spindle in the center of the washing basket. When the machine runs, the spindle twists, rubbing clothes against each other. Impeller washers have a wheel, short cone, or disc that spins during a wash cycle, moving the clothing.
What Is an Impeller Washer?
An impeller washer is a top-loading machine with a cone or wheel at its base, which helps it move clothing around during a wash cycle. It uses a spinning action to wash clothes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Saves water | Longer wash time |
| Cleans gently | Less effective |
| Shorter dry time | Higher cost |
| Larger load size | Harder to find |
Best for:
Eco-conscious consumers
Washing delicate clothing
Larger loads
Pros of an Impeller Washer
The design of an impeller washer means that it uses less water to clean a load of laundry than an agitator washer. This means lower utility bills and better water conservation.
The cleaning action of an impeller washer is also much gentler on your clothing, leading to less wear and tear over time. Since there isn't a spindle in the middle of the washing basket, many impeller washers can hold a larger load compared to an agitator washer. The spinning action of the machine also means that more water is extracted from your clothes, shortening drying time.
Cons of an Impeller Washer
An impeller washer may be too gentle for some cleaning jobs. If you regularly deal with tough stains, you may not find an impeller washing machine up to the job. It also takes longer for an impeller machine to complete a load, which isn't ideal when you need to do laundry in a hurry.
Price is also a drawback. Impeller washers often start at $600 and run upward of $1,400, which is more than agitator washers.
What Is an Agitator Washer?
An agitator washer is also a type of top-loading machine. It's an older style with a tall spindle in the center of the washing basket. During a wash cycle, the spindle twists, rubbing against the clothing to clean it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Shorter wash time | Harder on clothing |
| Deep cleaning | Clothes can get stuck |
| Lower cost | Smaller load size |
Best for:
Households that need a heavy-duty cleaning machine
Households that produce a lot of dirty laundry
Washing durable and sturdy clothing
Pros of an Agitator Washer
Agitator washing machines work a lot more quickly than impellers, meaning your laundry can be in and out of the machine in way less time. The machines are also more readily available and cost less than impeller washers, at between $550 and $700.
Another benefit of agitator washers is their ability to deep clean clothing. Since the agitator itself moves and rubs against fabric, it does a more effective job of lifting stains compared to an impeller.
Cons of an Agitator Washer
You can get too much of a good thing with an agitator washer. The friction between the clothing and the spindle may be too much for delicate garments. This type of washing machine can also cause your clothing to wear out faster.
Clothing, particularly strappy items, can also get stuck around the agitator. Being extra careful when loading the machine can help prevent this.
Finally, the spindle itself takes up a fair amount of space in the washing basket, meaning there is less room for clothing or bulky items.
Impeller vs. Agitator Washers
Compare the following categories to determine whether an agitator or impeller washer is the right choice for your home.
Appearance: Tie
With both an impeller and agitator washing machine, it's what's on the inside that counts. Although both types of machines have a similar external appearance, it's only when you look inside that you see how they differ.
Options and Customizations: Tie
Some washing machines have more bells and whistles than others. That largely depends on the model type you choose, rather than whether the machine has an impeller or agitator inside.
Price: Agitator Washer
Agitator washers are more common than impeller washers, and for that reason, they typically have a lower price tag than impeller machines. The appliance installation cost for each type of washing machine may be similar, though.
Ease of Installation/DIYability: Tie
Who installs washer-dryer hookups? You can do it yourself or hire a local installer. If you already have a water line installed, you can set up either an agitator or impeller washer on your own. The cost to install either type of washer/dryer hookups will be similar, as well.
Ease of Repair/DIYability: Agitator Washer
If you need to hire a local washing machine repair company, it’ll be easier to find a company that specializes in agitator washers versus impeller washers. Agitators are simply more common, so repair companies are more likely to be familiar with how they work and how to fix them.
If you decide to DIY, you may find it easier to find parts for an agitator machine rather than an impeller washer.
Maintenance: Agitator Washer
Similarly, agitator washers can be easier to maintain than impeller washers. Impeller washers have more moving parts, which can require more attention and care. Dirt and debris can build up more easily in an impeller washer, requiring more frequent cleaning.
Eco-Friendliness/Sustainability: Impeller Washer
One of the main advantages of impeller washers is that they use considerably less water to clean a load of laundry than agitator machines. This makes them a more eco-friendly and sustainable choice.