Clothes Washers
The average American family washes almost 400 loads of laundry a year. But you can reduce the energy and water costs of your clothes washer just by purchasing one with an ENERGY STAR label.
Tips for Buying Clothes Washers
- Look for the ENERGY STAR mark. ENERGY STAR qualified clothes washers use about a third less energy and reduce water costs by more than half. Over the life the clothes washer, you will save enough money in operating costs to pay for a matching dryer.
- Check the EnergyGuide label. Compare estimated annual energy consumption, including hot water costs.
- Consider a front loading model. Clothes washed in front-loading washers last longer because they are tumbled gently rather than twisted rigorously.
- Select a model that features various water levels and temperature controls. A water level control allows you to use just the amount of water need for the size of the wash load. A temperature control allows you to select the proper temperature for the load.
Tips for Using Clothes Washers
- Use a cold water wash whenever possible. Most clothes may be washed in cooler water. Warm or hot water may only be needed for diapers or heavily soiled clothes. Since water heating accounts for 90% of the energy used by your clothes washer, using cool water is the best energy conservation strategy.
- Always use cold water to rinse.
- Set the water level to match the size of the load.
- Install your clothes washer as close as possible to your water heater and insulate pipes to the machine. This will reduce the amount of heat that escapes before it gets to the clothes washer.
- Turn down the temperature of your water heater. By reducing your hot water temperature, you save energy whenever you wash. A temperature of 120°F is sufficient for most household hot water needs.
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