- Do not use too much detergent because this requires your machine to work harder thus expending more energy.
- Be sure to clean the dryer lint after every use. Lint build up means the heat will be blocked and your machine will not dry as thoroughly, thus meaning you may need to put your load through another turn to dry completely. Lint build up is also a major fire hazard.
- Do not overload your washing machine. Make sure the amount of water is proportionate to your load. Also watch the temperature settings. Don’t use hot water unless you are working on very tough stains. Keep in mind here that there isn’t much difference between warm water and hot, except that using warm water will save you money. Use cold water for as much as you can. Many cold water detergents nowadays clean clothing just as efficiently as hot water.
- Do not overload your dryer. Your load will most likely not dry well, and you will need to put it in for a longer period of time. An average load size takes about 45 minutes to dry thoroughly.
- Many dryers have a cool air option. Select this instead of hot air for light loads that will dry quickly either way. For heavy loads, dry with hot air for the first 30 minutes and then switch to cool air for the remaining time.
- Be sure that your outside dryer vent is keep clean at all times. Bird nests and lint collections cause the air to circulate poorly, thus preventing the hot air from reaching your load.
- Use an indoor clothes drying rack as often as possible. When weather permits, hang your clothing outside to dry.
- Consider purchasing a front loading washing machine. They hold larger loads, and use much less water.
Tips A More Energy Efficient Washer & Dryer
