Wiser Use: Household Appliance Money- and Energy-Savings Tips

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Dishwasher

It uses less water overall than hand-washing, yet the manufacturing of a dishwasher is energy intensive, and electricity runs it. Don’t sweat the distinction—just be energy- and water-wise.

• Skip the pre-rinse and scrape off sticky foods like cheese or oatmeal before they have time to adhere to utensils or dishware.
• Turn off the heater and allow dishes to air dry.
• Run a full load. Half as many dishes equals twice as many loads.

Laundry
Many homes have their water heaters set to 140 degrees (F), but the ACEEE suggests most households set them to 120 degrees. Raising it even 10 degrees can add 3 to 5 percent in energy costs. High heat in the washer or dryer is also tougher on textiles.

• Get down. Use the lowest temperature settings in the washer and dryer. Washing and rinsing with cold water only could save you about $100 every year.
• Fill ’er up—but not too full. Both appliances run most efficiently with full loads. (Washer-dryer sets usually take the same load size.)
• Clean it up. Clogged dryer lint traps impede airflow and hold moisture in.
• Watch your weights. Dry clothes with items of similar weight—don’t waste energy getting denims dry while your lace unmentionables shrink.
• Be sensor-ible. Use the moisture-sensor rather than the timer, and pull clothes out when barely damp instead of bone dry.
• Let it all hang out. Clotheslines make ecological sense—and limit wrinkles. If you dry half your loads, you could save $50 a year.

The bottom line, according to Ackerly, is to use the appliances you have to their maximum efficiency. And all those kilowatts saved add up to some bucks that you can put toward your next energy-saver appliance purchase. Your dad would be proud.

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