Finding small ways to save energy is vital to conservation — in the process of changing a few habits, you will not only benefit the environment but also save money on your energy bills. Want proof? Consider the laundry room. For most homeowners, the laundry is a perfect place to start in terms of energy savings. Because you’re washing clothes and linens on a regular basis, you’re using a great deal of water and power in the process. So taking a few small steps to lower your energy use can make a big difference. With that in mind, here are five examples of how you can move toward better energy usage in the laundry room now:
Swap Cold for Hot Water in Cycles: It’s probably no surprise that the bulk of energy costs in the laundry room relate to heating water. And yet, believe it or not, most loads of laundry don’t require hot water for true sanitation and cleanliness. Thanks to modern detergents and items only being worn a few times before being washed, cold water can usually do the job — with less energy. So try to save the hot water for your heaviest, dirtiest loads, and you’ll effectively lower your overall energy needs.
Wash Full Loads: Save your laundry until you’ve got a legitimately full load, and you can make the most of each cycle. The fact is it takes about the same about of energy to run a small load or a large one, so you’ll get more out of a full load, energy-wise, every time. However, don’t overload your machine — that actually wastes energy because items likely will take much longer to dry.
Empty the Lint Trap: It’s easy to forget about the lint that collects in your dryer every time it runs, but leaving lint in the trap for multiple loads is more than annoying. It also wastes energy. Your dryer will run most efficiently when you regularly clean the trap.
Consider Hanging Clothes to Dry: When the weather allows, try hanging your clothes outside to dry rather than utilizing the dryer. Not only will this save you the energy cost of running another dry cycle, it will give your clothes that wonderful fresh feeling that comes from air and sunshine.
Use Efficient Machines: When the time comes to buy a new washer and/or dryer, look for a model recommended by Energy Guide. Front-loading washers tend to be more efficient, and today’s dryers offer many energy-saving features, such as a moisture sensor that turns off the machine when it senses the clothes are dry. An efficient machine will help you avoid wasting energy and will lower overall costs. What’s more, efficient models tend to last longer than others on the market.
Making better use of energy in the laundry room is more possible than you might think, simply by following a few simple habits like the ones outlined. Take a few steps towards better energy usage, and you’ll help both the planet and your pocketbook!
Corey Tournet is the owner of The Laundry Alternative, a company that specializes in energy efficient washing machines and dryers that help consumers conserve energy and save money.
