A comparably inexpensive way to take advantage of new laundry technologies, the General Electric WBVH5200JWW washer offers many of the energy-efficient features that are fueling a big interest in front-loading models.

Energy Star Qualified, this model is anticipated to use 142 kWh of electricity per year with average use. That's a far cry from the huge power usage of the traditional top-loaders that grace many homes. Water, as well as electricity, is used conservatively in this washer. With its usage controlled by the machine, human error is avoided and only the minimum amount of water is needed to clean your clothing. Wash temperatures are yet another setting handled automatically by the washer. Based on your indication of load type, the GE WBVH5200JWW sets the optimal temperature combination.

Why is the price of this washer considerably lower than many other options in the front-loading category? Simply because this GE unit lacks its own water heater. If you don't mind your washer using water at the temperature provided by your building's water heater, this efficient unit can save you a fair amount of money. The only possible disadvantage we see to this system is when a user has a frequent need to run a super-hot, sanitary cycle and the water coming from the home's water heater is not set to be particularly hot.

Like many pricier front-loading washers, the WBVH5200JWW offers a high spin speed (1000 rpm) that removes lots of moisture from clothing. A Delay Start of up to 10 hours is provided, as well as an Express Wash, an Extra Rinse and a freestanding Rinse/Spin Only setting. Features you won't find here are a Pre-Wash or Soak setting and very specialized settings for delicate fabrics such as silk and wool. Instead of using a Silk or Wool setting, you'll simply need to wash your delicate fabrics on the Hand Washables setting.

Certainly it's missing a few very specialized features, but the GE WBVH5200JWW goes a long way towards conserving energy and washing all the household basics. Top that off with the fact we found it on sale at Sears for an impressive $594 and it's a tough Budget Buy to beat.


Pros: Budget friendly, cost effective way to get into an energy efficient, eco-friendly front-loader
Cons: Lacks its own heater

Warranty
1 year