Appliances: Wash partner

Reviewed by:
Rosemary Thornton

The GE Profile Harmony washer uses 40% less water than conventional top loaders because it has no agitator. The stainless steel basket rotates, pushing wash water and detergent through clothes, and using centrifugal force instead of agitation to clean. At 4.0 cubic feet, it can wash 24 towels, making it one of the largest capacity washers on the market.

The stylish console features electronic controls and LCD touch screens. Linked via cable to the matching dryer, the washer sends a little electronic memo to its partner, pre-adjusting dryer settings for optimal fabric care and maximum energy savings. Price is about $1,100 (December 2004).