Washing machine uses plastic beads instead of water, reduces electricity by 47%

Today’s washing machines are considerably more economical than in years past, especially when it comes to the amount of electricity and water it takes for them to run. But for all the advancements made thus far, none have offered the efficiency of the new Xeros washing machine. 

Developed by Stephen Burkinshaw at the University of Leeds, this particular machine uses specially formulated nylon polymer beads in place of gallons of water. 

The beads are tasked with sucking away dirt and grease from the user’s clothing, and can be used up to 100 times (estimated to be six months of use) before needing to be replaced. That’s a small expense when considering that by reducing the amount of water used, the machine needs much less power in order to run — 47% less electricity to be exact. 

The new Xeros washing machine looks like a standard front-load machine. It requires a small cup of water, along with a tiny amount of detergent, per load, thereby reducing total water usage by 72% (when compared to water required for today’s washing machines).

The beads are released once the washing cycle has started, whereupon their unique polarization helps loosen stains without hot water; the stains are then removed by the machine’s dual drum system.

One question about this technology is what does one do with the beads once they need to be replaced? Xeros insists they’ll be recycled, but it’s up to the customer to contact the company and make sure they’re disposed of properly.

Despite this minor hurdle, Xeros has already earned accolades for this technology, including a spot on the WWF’s list of Green Game-Changers. The washing machines are available for purchase by businesses in the U.K. and North America, and Xeros plans on expanding into the residential market in approximately two years.

Story via xeroscleaning.com