The Difference Between Agitator Vs. Impeller Washers
Agitators and impellers are both found in top loading washing machines, but they clean in two different ways. So what’s the main difference between agitators vs. impellers?
Washing machines with agitators use a central post that twists back and forth, rubbing against clothes to help break apart stains. In contrast, washing machines with impellers use a low-profile cone or disc that spins/rotates to rub clothes against each other to get them clean.
View this side-by-side comparison to learn how washing machines with impellers stack up against washing machines with agitators.
WHAT IS A TOP LOADING WASHING MACHINE WITH AN AGITATOR?
Agitators are tall vertical spindles, vaned or finned, in the center of the washer. Washers with agitators are all about the motion in the wash basket; and, despite what you may have heard, advances in agitator technology ensure they’re not hard on clothes.
They typically move in multiple ways for optimal cleaning, including.
Spraying Action
Soaks clothes with water recirculated from the wash/rinse cycle.
Wash Basket Action
Rotates for a hard-hitting clean.
Agitator Action
Rubs against clothes to help break apart stains and loosen soils.
WHAT IS A TOP LOADING WASHING MACHINE WITH AN IMPELLER?
Don't let low water levels fool you: Washers with impellers use a small amount of water in order to optimize the friction of the clothes rubbing against each other. This is what helps deliver gentle, efficient and thorough cleaning.
They also typically clean with multiple wash motions, including:
SPRAYING ACTION
Soaks clothes with water recirculated from the wash/rinse cycle.
Wash Basket Action
Rotates for a hard-hitting clean.
impeller action
Uses low-profile cones, wheels, fins or discs that rotate to gently rub clothes against each other.
THE BENEFITS
Washer with an Agitator |
Washer with an Impeller
|
|---|---|
| Agitator rubs against clothes to remove and rinse away loose soils |
Rubs clothes against each other to deliver a thorough, gentle clean |
| Familiar functionality |
More room in the basket for bulky articles and easy loading/unloading |
Efficient models are available on both agitator and impeller washers — just look to see if it’s ENERGY STAR® certified |
|
FIND WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU
You’ve got options when it comes to the wash action and cleaning power of these two top load designs. Whether you want an agitator or an impeller washer, Maytag brings hardworking models to tackle any load.
Recommended Agitator Washer
Get powerful washing performance from the #1 rated top load agitator washer by a leading consumer magazine.1
Recommended Impeller Washer
This extra-large capacity washer features the Deep Water Wash cycle that adds more water for heavily soiled loads and works with the Power™ impeller to attack everday tough stains.
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