Suds & Savings
Posted on May 28th, 2021
Your clothes washer and dryer account for a significant portion of energy consumption from major appliances, and let’s face it — laundry is no one’s favorite chore. Make the most of your laundry energy use! There are several easy ways you can save energy (and money) in the laundry room.
The Department of Energy recommends the following tips for saving on suds:
- Wash with cold water. Switching from warm water to cold water can cut one load’s energy use by more than half, and by using a cold-water detergent, you can still achieve that brilliant clean you’d normally get from washing in warm water.
- Wash full loads when possible. Your washing machine will use the same amount of energy no matter the size of the clothes load, so fill it up if you can.
- Use the high-speed or extended spin cycle in the washer. This setting will remove more moisture before drying, reducing your drying time and the extra wear on clothing.
- Use lower heat settings to dry clothing. Regardless of drying time, you’ll still use less energy.
- Clean the lint filter after each drying cycle. If you use dryer sheets, remember to scrub the filter once a month with a toothbrush to remove excess buildup.
- Purchase ENERGY STAR® rated washers and dryers. When it’s time to purchase a new washer or dryer, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. New washers and dryers that receive the ENERGY STAR® rating use about 20% less energy than conventional models.
Find more energy savings tips at www.firstelectric.coop/energy-saving-tips.