How Much Does a Washing Machine Weigh?

Washing machines are a time-saving wonder. Just add some detergent, throw in your clothes, and it will clean everything quickly and efficiently. They even have different settings that you can choose from such as Quick Wash, Delicate, and Heavy Duty.

But have you ever wondered how much these machines weigh? Why they’re so big and bulky in the first place?

Because that’s what we’ll be discussing in this post.

How Much Does a Washing Machine Weigh?

The average weight of a washing machine depends on various factors such as its size, type, and capacity.

For example, mid-sized top loaders typically weigh around 150 pounds. Front load washers, on the other hand, can weigh up to 250 pounds. This helps them stay balanced, which is crucial, as they tend to have larger wash drums compared to top-loading machines.

Take LG’s 4.5 cubic feet high-efficiency top-loader, for example, it weighs 147 pounds, according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The Whirlpool 4.5 cubic feet front-loader, on the other hand, weighs 244 pounds.

Washer dryer combos will be even heavier as the machines are stacked on top of each other.

Keep in mind, however, that this does not include the weight of the wash water. Once the washer is filled with water, it will be much heavier.

Why Are Washers So Heavy?

Washing machines must have a certain amount of weight to them, otherwise, they’d dance across the floor whenever you run a wash cycle – and that’s simply not practical.

Not only are the machines heavy by themselves but manufacturers also add concrete counterweights (pieces of concrete that are secured to the wash tub with fasteners or bolts) for balance and to prevent movement while it’s in operation. This goes for both top-loading and front-loading machines.

More specifically, they help limit the amount of vibration produced while the washing machine spins. This not only protects the washer but also prevents damage to its vicinity.

Comparing Different Washing Machines

Standard washing machines can range anywhere from 3.5 to 5.1 cu. ft., which is enough space to run large laundry loads.

Commercial-grade washers, on the other hand, are typically much bigger (e.g. over 6 cu. ft.) and can easily hold several baskets of laundry. They are also much heavier at over 1,000 pounds.

How Much Does the Water Weigh?

Standard washing machines use 27 gallons of water. Given how one gallon weighs approximately 8.3 pounds, that works out to be 225 pounds of water.

Energy efficient machines, however, use much less water – just 14 gallons, which, if you do the math, works out to be around 117 pounds.

Keep in mind, however, that the washer will only hold onto the water for certain periods during the wash cycle as it will fill and drain more than once during the washing process.

Tips For Moving a Washing Machine

• Make sure the washer is completely padded and carefully lift it onto a dolly and secure it with ropes
• Stay on the dolly’s high side when moving the washer up or down the ramp of your truck
• Take your time moving the washing machine through doorways
• If you’re moving the washing machine up or down stairs, have one person at the top and another at the bottom to help support the weight
• Position the washing machine at the back of the truck and make sure it stays upright (putting it on its side can cause damage during transit)

How Heavy Is a Washing Machine – FAQs

Are front-loading machines heavier than top-loading machines?

Yes, front-load washers are generally heavier than their top-loading counterparts.

Why are these appliances so heavy?

The weight prevents them from moving while they’re in operation and helps keep them stable.

What is a counterweight?

A counterweight is a lump of concrete that’s bolted to the inner tub. Its purpose is to balance the washing machine while it’s running.

Without it, the washing machine would not only shake excessively but would also move across the floor while it runs.