Learn how to improve the energy-efficiency of your washer and dryer
If you do a lot of laundry using an old washer and dryer, you could be spending a lot on electricity and water. Here are some strategies that could help improve the energy-efficiency of your machines and reduce these costs.
Tips for Immediate Savings
If you want to start saving right away, there are several small changes you can make to your laundry routine right now that will make a difference.
Reduce hot water use: Switching your washing machine from the hot to the warm setting can cut your energy use in half. You’ll save even more if you switch to cold water. To continue to enjoy maximum cleaning power with cold water, try using a detergent made specifically for cold water.
Sort fabrics by weight: In addition to sorting clothes by color for the washer, sort by weight for the dryer. A load of light items will dry faster together than when paired with towels or heavy cottons and you’ll end up using your dryer less.
Regularly inspect lint screens and vents: Clearing blockages can improve air circulation, which will help your dryer work better and cut down on drying times. Keeping lint under control will also reduce the risk of a fire.
Use the cool-down cycle: If your dryer has a cool-down cycle, use it. This will let the clothes finish drying using residual heat and reduce energy consumption.
Get professional repairs & maintenance: A professional tune up for your washer and dryer can help improve performance and efficiency by bringing the appliance back to like-new condition. For example, you can call American Appliance Repair to ensure temperature sensors and timers are working correctly to avoid wasting energy on over-drying your clothes. You could also have issues with your washer’s balance or motor addressed to ensure that as much water as possible is removed during the spin cycle so your dryer doesn’t have to work as hard.
Tips for Long Term Savings
If you are willing to spend a little money now to save money—and the environment—later, consider upgrading to a new, high-efficiency washing machine and/or dryer. Look for machines with the ENERGY STAR label, which contain features to help conserve energy. The average ENERGY STAR washer will reduce your energy consumption by 37 percent and your water consumption by 50 percent.
