US proposes to loosen water efficiency rules for washing machines

The US Energy Department wants to roll back water efficiency standards for residential clothes washers. If this happens, new washing machines will be allowed to use more water than they currently do.

For years, appliance manufacturers have had to design washing machines to use less and less water. This proposal reverses that trend, making it easier and cheaper to produce less efficient machines. It also means consumers will likely see higher water bills over time, even if the upfront cost of the appliance is lower.