If you’ve been shopping for a new washing machine, chances are you’ve seen the term “impeller washer” thrown around a lot. But what is it, and how does it compare to the old agitator models you know? Whether you’re tackling big family loads, washing bulky bedding, or just want a gentler clean, knowing the difference between agitator vs impeller washers can save you time, energy, and frustration. We're breaking down how impeller washers work, how they compare to other options, and which models are actually worth buying.
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Shop Impeller WashersWhat is an Impeller Washer?
When someone asks, “What is an impeller washer?” the simple answer is: it’s a type of washer with impeller instead of a central post. Instead of an agitator bar jutting out of the drum, impeller washers use a low-profile disc (or cone) at the bottom that spins, pushing clothes together with water flow to clean.
How does it compare to an agitator washer? Unlike an agitator that forces clothes up and down, an agitator vs. impeller washer comparison shows the impeller offers gentler, more efficient cleaning. What about washers with removable agitators? They’re kind of a hybrid—if you like options, they give you the ability to switch between gentle impeller-only cycles and agitator-driven ones.
So, if you're thinking to yourself, What is an impeller washer?, think gentle power, less fabric stress—like a quiet, efficient dance over brute force.
→ Learn more: 6 Best Top Load Washers with Agitators
How Do Impeller Washers Work?
Let’s break down how impeller washing machines clean your clothes:
- The impeller creates strong currents in the tub.
- These currents swirl clothes around, letting them rub against each other with water, detergent, and motion.
- Some models tweak the direction or speed mid-cycle for stubborn stains or bulky loads.
Are there different kinds? Yep. Some impeller washers are basic and manual; others are smart, with sensors tuning the cycle to soil level, fabric type, or even load size.
→ Learn more: 8 Best Top Load Washers with Agitators
Pros & Cons of Impeller Washers
Pros
Gentle on clothes
No central post tugging at fabrics.
Larger capacity
No agitator taking up space inside the drum.
Energy & water efficient
Often consumes less energy and water per load.
Good for bulky items
Easier to wash comforters, blankets, and large loads.
Quieter operation
Runs more quietly than agitator-based washers.
Cons
Slower stain removal
Tough, stuck-on stains may take longer to clean.
Clothes tangle more
Free movement in the drum can cause tangling.
Longer heavy-duty cycles
Impeller washers may feel slower for big loads.
Less scrub action
Lacks the aggressive scrubbing some users prefer.
Fewer smart features
Basic models don’t include advanced wash motions or connectivity.
5 Best Impeller Washers Right Now
Ready to find the perfect impeller washer? We’ve rounded up some of our best impeller washers for you to explore.
LG 5.5 Cu. Ft. Alpine White Impeller Top Load Washer with EasyUnload™ & AI Sensing
If you're serious about laundry efficiency, capacity, and smart features, the LG #WT8400CW is the total package. This 5.5 cu. ft. washer with impeller is built for large households, busy families, and anyone who regularly tackles bulky items like comforters, sports gear, or heavy-duty linens. The EasyUnload™ lid is a standout—flat glass, soft-closing, and ergonomically designed so you can load and unload without awkward reaching or bending. Inside, LG’s AI DD™ sensing technology takes the guesswork out of laundry by automatically detecting the type of load and adjusting the wash motion, water levels, and cycle intensity for optimal results. It's like having a built-in laundry assistant.
Performance-wise, the impeller mechanism provides a deep clean while being gentler on clothes than traditional agitators. LG’s inverter direct drive motor is quiet and durable, and the washer is ENERGY STAR® certified—meaning it saves water and energy without sacrificing cleaning power. Add in Wi-Fi connectivity for smart remote control and notifications, and you’ve got a top-tier appliance that’s forward-thinking but not overcomplicated. If you're upgrading from an older machine or switching from agitator to impeller for the first time, this LG makes the transition seamless.
→ Learn more: How Does LG TurboWash Work?
GE Profile™ 5.4 Cu. Ft. White Impeller Top Load Washer with Smarter Wash Technology
Shop this GE Profile™ Impeller Washer
The GE Profile #PTW700BSTWS is a smart, modern impeller washer designed for people who want ultimate control without having to micromanage every load. This washer blends high-tech intelligence with practical ease. The Smarter Wash Technology inside this unit monitors soil levels, water temperature, detergent quantity, and even fabric types during the wash cycle. It automatically adjusts cycle parameters to give your clothes the most thorough clean with the least effort. It's perfect for households that handle a wide variety of clothing types—from delicate silks to muddy jeans—all in one day.
Another bonus? The integrated Smart FlexDispense™ system allows you to use pods, liquid detergent, powder, or softener—no restrictions here. The washer knows what it’s using and when to dispense it. You also get Wi-Fi connectivity with SmartHQ™, meaning you can control your washer remotely, get cycle status updates, or even troubleshoot minor issues from your phone. Combine all that with a 5.4 cu. ft. capacity, soft-close lid, and quiet operation thanks to GE’s Quiet Wash tech, and this model is a dream for anyone who values customization, quiet, and efficiency in one sleek machine.
Samsung 5.4 Cu. Ft. White Impeller Top Load Washer
Shop this Samsung Impeller Washer
Samsung’s #WA54CG7150AW impeller washer offers the perfect combination of high-capacity performance, stylish design, and smart features. This 5.4 cu. ft. impeller washing machine is made for active households, frequent washers, or anyone dealing with large loads of clothes, towels, and bedding on a regular basis. What makes it shine is Samsung’s Active WaterJet feature, a built-in faucet inside the tub that lets you pretreat stains and messes on the spot. No need to move to a sink or laundry tub. Just open the lid, press a button, and spot-treat right where you are.
It also features Smart Care diagnostic tools, which work with your smartphone to identify and troubleshoot minor issues quickly. The VRT Plus™ technology drastically reduces vibration and noise, even during high-speed spins—making it a good fit for upstairs laundry rooms or smaller homes. You also get Samsung’s deep fill feature for larger or more absorbent loads, ensuring even water coverage when it’s needed most. Its impeller mechanism is gentle but effective, using dynamic water movement to lift soils and refresh clothes without damage. Style-wise, the machine has Samsung’s clean, minimal look with intuitive touch controls. If you want something reliable, modern, and adaptable without being too tech-heavy, this is it.
Maytag® 5.3 Cu. Ft. White Impeller Top Load Washer with Extra Power
Shop this Maytag® Impeller Washer
If your laundry loads tend to lean heavy—think dirty sports uniforms, greasy work clothes, or muddy outdoor gear—then the Maytag #MVW7230HW was built for you. Known for toughness and no-nonsense cleaning, Maytag delivers with this impeller washer that brings commercial-grade features to your home laundry room. The Extra Power button is the headline—it kicks stain-fighting into high gear by boosting wash temperature and agitation time, which is a lifesaver for deep stains and mixed-fabric loads. You don’t have to choose between cleaning delicates or denim—the washer adjusts accordingly.
Another great feature is the built-in faucet for soaking, scrubbing, or pre-treating garments right in the drum, as well as a deep fill option when you need extra water saturation. It also supports Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring through the Maytag app. Structurally, it’s solid. You get a direct-drive motor, a stainless steel wash basket, and a 10-year limited parts warranty for peace of mind. If you’re someone who values performance over gimmicks, and you're comparing impeller vs agitator washing machines, this Maytag machine tips the scales toward impeller strength and reliability, especially for households that demand a serious clean.
Whirlpool® 5.3 Cu. Ft. White Impeller Top Load Washer
Shop this Whirlpool® Impeller Washer
This Whirlpool washer is for the indecisive, or rather, the practical, laundry-doer who wants the freedom to switch between impeller and agitator as needed. The #WTW6157PW is a smart and flexible machine with a removable agitator at its core, giving you the choice between two washing technologies in one washer. For your normal, everyday loads or delicates, remove the agitator and let the impeller work its magic with gentle, efficient movement. For more abrasive cycles, like heavily soiled jeans or workwear, snap the agitator back in and let it scrub.
The Smooth Spiral stainless steel drum helps reduce fabric wear and tear, while the 5.3 cu. ft. capacity handles large and bulky items with ease. Whirlpool’s built-in Deep Water Wash option gives you that traditional soak-and-saturate clean that older washers were known for, without wasting water unnecessarily. Plus, with Vibration Control technology, it keeps loads balanced and spins quietly—even at full capacity. If you've been debating agitator vs impeller washer, Whirlpool’s removable agitator gives you both options in one simple, no-nonsense appliance.
Impeller Washer FAQs
The answer to this question depends on your style. Impeller washers treat fabrics gently, use less water, and fit bulky loads easily. If you're after efficiency and gentleness, splash on an impeller washer.
Impeller washing machines tend to struggle with heavy, clingy stains compared to agitators, and because clothes swirl freely, they may tangle more easily. Basic models also lack the tech bells and whistles you might want.
They can; any top-loader can. But many impeller models (like GE's Smart Wash or Whirlpool’s vibration controls) include tech to reduce wobble and noise.
Changing the impeller is not exactly user-friendly—most models are sealed or need specific tools. It’s better left to a qualified repair tech.
If you live in Bellevue, WA, Come visit us at Arnold’s Appliance; we have a large inventory of impeller washers and highly trained staff who would love to help you find the perfect washing machine for your home.
Why Trust Arnold’s Appliance?
Arnold's Appliance started in the summer of 1956 when it opened its doors as Lakeshore Appliance in Redmond, Washington. John Arnold and his family have since grown the store from just a few brands to the large appliance store it is today and moved to Bellevue in 1999 in search of a larger building. Arnold’s Appliance now offers high-end innovative products from over 45 manufacturers.
In addition to extensive product knowledge, Arnold’s has been providing fine appliances to Northwest builders, remodelers, designers, architects, and developers for over 47 years. Arnold's supplies products and installation to many of the finest custom and spec home builders in the Pacific Northwest. Along with single-family housing, Arnold's has also supplied products for some of the largest multi-unit projects in the area. Arnold’s, now the third generation of the Arnold Family, is dedicated to bringing the best quality products, delivery services, and installation to customers for years to come.
Shop Washers at Arnold’s Appliance
Stop by Arnold’s Appliance Bellevue, WA location to see what a difference buying locally with an experienced staff can make. Or shop impeller washers online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you answer what is an impeller washer — whether you call us at 425-454-7929, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
→ Learn more: 5 Reasons to Consider the Bosch 500 Series Washer