Using High-Efficiency (HE) detergent in a regular washing machine can lead to several consequences, some of which may impact the washing machine's performance, the cleanliness of the clothes, and potentially cause excessive sudsing. Here are some potential consequences:
Excessive sudsing: HE detergents are designed to produce fewer suds compared to regular detergents. In a regular washing machine, which is not designed to handle low-sudsing detergents, using HE detergent can lead to excessive suds. Excessive suds can interfere with the washing machine's normal operation, potentially causing the machine to overflow, leak, or malfunction.
Poor rinsing: HE detergents are formulated to rinse out more effectively in high-efficiency machines with lower water usage. In a regular washing machine, which typically uses more water for each cycle, HE detergent might not rinse out completely, leading to detergent residues on clothes.
Reduced cleaning performance: While using HE detergent in a regular washing machine may not cause any immediate harm, it may not clean clothes as effectively as using the correct detergent. Regular washing machines might require detergents with higher sudsing properties to agitate and clean clothes optimally.
Longer wash cycles: HE detergents are designed to work efficiently with shorter wash cycles in high-efficiency machines. In a regular washing machine, the detergent's low-sudsing formula might result in longer wash cycles, as the machine tries to compensate for the lack of suds to clean effectively.
Residue buildup: As HE detergent is specifically designed to rinse out thoroughly in HE machines, using it in a regular washing machine may lead to detergent residues accumulating in the machine over time. This can potentially cause foul odors and impact the machine's longevity.
Warranty concerns: Some washing machine manufacturers may specify the type of detergent to use in their machines. Using HE detergent in a regular washing machine could void the warranty if any issues arise due to detergent-related problems.
To avoid these consequences, it's essential to use the detergent recommended by the washing machine manufacturer. If you have an HE detergent but a regular washing machine, it's best to use the HE detergent for its intended purpose (e.g., in a high-efficiency machine) and use a regular detergent formulated for use in traditional washing machines. Following the manufacturer's guidelines for detergent usage helps ensure optimal cleaning performance and extends the lifespan of the washing machine.