The Difference Between Agitators vs. Impellers:
It’s How They Move
Both agitators and impellers are found in top-loading washing machines (learn more about top-load vs. front-load washers) and all ENERGY STAR® certified impellers and agitators are efficient, but they move — and clean clothes — in two completely different ways.
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.
How do washing machines with impellers stack up against the washing machines with agitators that you’re probably used to? Find the answers here about agitators vs. impellers so you can decide what’s right for you.
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 clean, including.
Spraying Action
Soaks clothes with water recirculated from the wash/rinse cycle.
Wash Basket Action
Rotates for 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 hard-hitting clean.
impeller action
Uses low-profile cones, wheels, fins or discs that rotate to gently rub clothes against each other.
THE BENEFITS IN A NUTSHELL
WASHER WITH AN AGITATOR
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Agitator rubs against clothes to |
Familiar functionality |
MAYTAG TIP
Agitators take up room in the wash basket, often compromising on space. But we offer agitators with capacities large enough to rival their impeller model counterparts.
WASHER WITH AN IMPELLER
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Rubs clothes against each other to |
More room in the basket for bulky articles |
MAYTAG TIP
Impellers (and some HE agitators) employ a low-water wash to save on energy and provide a concentrated clean (more water can dilute the detergent and render it less effective). But if low water’s got you down, you can add more water when you want it with our Deep Fill option.
WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU?
Is a washer with or without an agitator better? With cleaning performance, energy efficiency, capacity, innovation and convenience being roughly equal, it all boils down to your personal preference. The choice is yours. Which style appliance will nab the coveted spot in your laundry room and reign supreme on laundry day?
