Agitators vs. Impellers: Which Washing Machine is Best for You?

January 28, 2025
By May Khin

This blog post compares the features of an agitator and an impeller for the washing machine.

When buying a washing machine, you have to consider the load size, detergent choices, high efficiency, and other numerous factors to make sure you are buying the most suitable product for your home. You want your laundry to smell great and save energy for the bills, and here is something you should consider when buying a new washing machine: agitator or impeller.

What Is an Agitator?

An agitator is a spindle in the center of the washing machine that rotates back and forth to agitate the water and turn the clothes over for deep cleaning. The clothes rub against each other and break up the stains. An agitator creates motion to loosen dirt and soil particles from the fabric. It does a lifting action to distribute the detergent and water evenly to the clothes. It provides a deep clean and aggressive wash action for your laundry.

What Is an Impeller?

An impeller is a disc located at the bottom of the washer, and it rotates to create a current in the center of the drum. An impeller uses centrifugal force and gravity to push the water outwards which creates a current. The current moves water and detergent around the clothes and creates friction to remove dirt and soil particles. This method is gentler on clothes compared to an agitator.

What are the Differences between Agitators and Impellers?

A traditional agitator is a pole-like device that spins and moves clothes, while an impeller uses a small cone or disc that rotates and generates currents to move the clothes. Washers with agitators are cheaper than non-agitator washers, but they are more expensive to run. Generally, washers with agitators provide more heavy-duty cleanliness and clean large loads well.

The washers with agitators take less time to clean, and it is much faster than washers with impellers. It can be difficult to clean pillows and comforters due to the agitator taking up too much space in the drum. The agitator can sometimes be hard on clothes, causing tears and stretching. The washers with agitators use up a lot of water so it might not be the best option for those who want to save energy for the environment and money on water bills.

If the washer lacks an agitator, it frees up a lot of space in the drum which creates extra room for large loads and big comforters. Impellers offer a larger capacity and a gentler wash action. If you are someone who works outdoors or gets your clothes really dirty, impellers might not be the best option for you. Impeller machines cannot give you the heavy-duty clean that you are looking for compared to washers with agitators. Washers with impellers have less water usage which is energy efficient, and you can save money on your bills. If you are someone who cares about the environment and sustainability, the impeller option is for you. This is the step towards “greener” laundry.

What are the Benefits of Agitators?

- Cheaper price point
- Heavy-duty cleaning action
- Powerful tough stains removal
- Handles large loads well
- A variety of fabric care options
- Durable and low maintenance