High Efficiency Washers and Dryers-- Are They Worth It?

It is part of our mission to promote and use the most efficient home products as possible. Today we’re going to discuss High Efficiency or HE washers and dryers and the pros and cons to upgrading
Keep in mind, these are general statements about the technology and are not brand specific.

The pros to a HE washer and dryer is that they are better for the environment than typical washer and dryers. They use less water, less energy, and less detergent and the reason is because the drum spins slower than a typical washer. All these things add up to cleaner clothing and less dirty water to process.

There aren't really cons to the argument but there are things that must be noted. Due to the spin being slower, it takes a bit longer to wash and dry. Due to the slower spin, you actually need to purchase a specialized laundry detergent but these pods are better for the environment and use less soap. Beyond that, they typically cost a bit more than a run of the mill washer but the long term investment of helping out the planet while washing clothes we think is worth every penny.

After looking at different sites listed below, our opinion is that they are worth the hype. Personally we use HE washers and dryers and love them! 

Pros
Uses Less Water
Less energy (by spinning slower)
Less suds = better cleanliness
Same cost per load

Cons
Takes longer to dry items
Cannot dry certain things like water proof items
Must use special detergent 
Initially more money than traditional washers but better investment in the long term

The details:
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2014/09/the-pros-and-cons-of-high-efficiency-washers/index.htm

http://www.the-eco-market.com/eco-friendly-washing-machines/

https://www.hgtv.com/design/rooms/other-rooms/beautiful-and-efficient-laundry-room-designs-pictures