Did you know that a few small changes in your home can help save energy and lower your utility bills?
Here are some things to think about when doing your laundry:
Adjust the water level according to laundry load size on your washer. You save energy by using less hot water for small loads.
Since running a partial load uses the same amount of energy as a full load, always run a full load in your washer and dryer. Running full loads also allows you to run your washer and dryer less often.
Washing laundry with warm or cold water (instead of hot) works your water heater less. Use hot water only when deep cleaning is needed.
Because the “rinse cycle” water temperature has no effect on cleaning, rinse your clothes in cold water. Rinsing with cold water saves money by heating less water.
Water loses heat as it flows through pipes, so try and place your washer close to the water heater. When the washer is located near the water heater, hot water doesn’t have to travel as far to reach the washer, and less heat is lost. Insulating the pipes between the water heater and washer can also help retain heat.
Avoid excessive clothes drying. It is hard on fabrics and it uses more energy than is needed. When purchasing a dryer, get one with an electronic sensor that shuts off the dryer when clothes are dry.
Cleaning the lint filter after each load of laundry helps keep the dryer running efficiently. Every once in a while, check the air vent and hose for clogging. Keeping the air vent and hose free of lint prevents a fire hazard.
Do you have any energy saving tips that you would like to share? We would love to hear them!
