The washing machine with a higher water level is typically the top-loading model. This is due to the design and loading mechanism of top-loaders, which often require more water to achieve the same cleaning efficiency as front-loaders. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Energy, top-loading washers use an average of 41 gallons of water per cycle, while front-loading washers use an average of 27 gallons per cycle. This significant difference in water usage is primarily because top-loaders need to immerse the clothes in water to agitate and clean them effectively, whereas front-loaders use a more efficient spin cycle and less water.