Inefficiency

• One reason to buy a new washing machine is if your current unit is not energy efficient. The federal government offers tax credit incentives for those who purchase washing machines that use 50 percent less water and 37 percent less energy than their traditional counterparts (see Resources). A more energy-efficient washing machine will save you money on both your utility and water bills in the long run. Note that front-loading machines usually are the most energy efficient.
  
  

Size

• When determining whether to get a new washing machine, see if your current washing machine really fits your space well. For example, if you are trying to squeeze a machine into too tight of an area, purchase a compact model that is no more than 24 inches wide compared with the regularly sized 27-inch machine types, which will make for a more comfortable fit in any room or closet.
  
  

Capacity

• Another reason to purchase a new washing machine is if your current unit is too small to accommodate the amount of clothes your family washes each week. Look for a larger unit that will fit more clothes only if you actually plan to use this extra space as a larger-capacity washing machine usually requires more energy and water. However, if you currently have a small-capacity machine and find yourself having to wash multiple loads because of the small size -- which also wastes energy and water -- upgrade to a slightly larger unit.
  
  

Convenience

• Yet another purpose for getting a new washer is to have more features that make doing laundry more convenient. For example, buy a washing machine that lets you program it so that your load begins washing at a chosen time, which can be helpful if you have an extremely busy schedule.
  
  In addition, many machines have containers that automatically release bleach, water softener and detergent during the appropriate washing cycle so that you do not have to do this manually. Also, if detergents tend to irritate your skin, select a machine that offers an additional rinse cycle to ensure the machine removes nearly all soap from your garments.