Breaking Down the Costs, Benefits, and Real Savings in 2025
Smart home appliances are no longer a luxury—they’re quickly becoming the standard in modern households. Among them, smart washing machines have gained attention for their energy efficiency, Wi-Fi connectivity, and advanced automation. But the big question remains:
Do smart washers actually save you money—or are they just an expensive gimmick?
At Xigent Appliance Repair, we’ve worked on countless traditional and smart washers across Salem and the Willamette Valley. Here’s a deep dive into how smart washers work, what makes them different, and whether they can truly help you cut costs in 2025.
What Makes a Washer “Smart”?
Smart washers go beyond basic settings. These appliances typically offer:
- Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
- App-based controls for remote starts, cycle tracking, and maintenance alerts
- Load-sensing and water-saving technology
- Energy usage monitoring
- Integration with smart home ecosystems like Alexa or Google Home
In other words, they’re designed to use fewer resources while offering more control and automation.
1. Energy & Water Efficiency = Lower Utility Bills
Smart washers are built with energy and water efficiency in mind. Most are ENERGY STAR® certified and include load-sensing technology that adjusts water and cycle time based on the size and type of load.
How This Saves You:
- Lower electric bills: Smart washers use high-efficiency motors and optimized spin cycles to cut energy usage by 20–30% compared to older models.
- Lower water bills: Load-sensing features prevent water waste by using only what’s needed—especially helpful in Oregon where water conservation is key.
Estimated Savings:
According to ENERGY STAR, the average family can save about $35 a year in electricity and up to 3,000 gallons of water annually by switching to a smart, high-efficiency model.
2. App Alerts Help You Avoid Costly Mistakes
One overlooked benefit of smart washers is preventing damage through real-time alerts.
For Example:
- Get notified if a load finishes (reducing forgotten loads = less re-washing).
- Receive alerts if a hose is leaking or the drum is unbalanced.
- App updates warn you when it’s time to clean your machine or check your filter.
Why This Matters:
Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major repair bills. A $10 alert can save you from a $300 floor repair due to a slow leak.
3. Fewer Repeat Loads = Time & Detergent Savings
Smart washers often allow cycle customization and use sensors to detect soil levels. This improves wash performance and reduces the need to rewash clothes.
Real-World Benefit:
- Less detergent and water used over time
- Clothes last longer with properly matched cycles
- Quicker wash times for lightly soiled loads
Over the course of a year, reducing rewashing could save 5–10 gallons of water per load and a few hours of your time each week—especially for families.
4. Predictive Maintenance = Fewer Surprise Breakdowns
Smart washers track usage and notify you when routine maintenance is needed—like cleaning the filter, running a drum cleaning cycle, or checking the inlet hoses.
Why It’s Smart:
- Avoids clogged pumps, mildew buildup, or drainage issues
- Reduces the chances of emergency repairs
- Extends the life of the machine by years
At Xigent, we’ve seen smart washers that last longer simply because they’re better maintained through automation.
But There Are Some Costs to Consider…
While the long-term savings are real, there are a few upfront and hidden costs:
Higher Initial Price
Smart washers typically cost $200–$500 more than standard models. Basic models start around $900–$1,200, while high-end models can exceed $1,800.
More Complex Repairs
If something does go wrong, repairs can be more complicated. Failed touchscreens or Wi-Fi modules require specialized parts, and costs can be higher than traditional appliance repairs.
Tech Obsolescence
Like any smart device, your washer’s software might not be supported forever. A washer bought in 2025 might have limited app support in 2030.
Are Smart Washers Worth It for You?
Smart Washers Make Sense If:
- You want better control and insights into your energy use
- You have a busy household and need reminders or remote controls
- You value long-term efficiency over short-term cost
- You want to reduce wear-and-tear on clothing through optimized wash cycles
Stick With a Traditional Washer If:
- You’re budget-conscious and don’t care about app features
- You rarely change wash settings or have basic laundry needs
- You’re uncomfortable with smart tech or frequent software updates
What We Recommend at Xigent
We’ve serviced washers of every kind, and here’s our honest take:
“Smart washers do save money over time, but their value really depends on how much of their functionality you actually use. If you’re only using the basic settings, the investment may not pay off. But for busy families or energy-conscious households, they’re a solid choice.”
And if something goes wrong with your smart washer—or you want advice before buying—Xigent Appliance Repair is here to help.
Need Washer Repair or Advice on Smart Upgrades?
Whether your current washer is acting up or you’re exploring a new smart model, we offer honest, fast, and expert service throughout Salem and the Willamette Valley.
Schedule an appointment today!
We’ll help you save time, money, and frustration—smart washer or not: 971-342-9001