How to Save Money While Doing Laundry

Author Gary Fairhead
Nova West Solar Inc.
07/15/2011

The washer and dryer are two most commonly forgotten appliances in the house, but their energy consumption is considerable. You may have no idea about it, but you can reduce your energy bills simply by changing a way of doing your laundry.

First of all, remember that nine tenths of the energy used by a washer comes for heating the water. Try to reduce the temperature of water and use cold water whenever possible. This will get rid of most of your washer energy consumption while not reducing the quality of laundry and your comfort level.

As for the dryer: first of all, keep its vents clean. If they get clogged, they will reduce the dryer's efficiency. Always clean the lint trap before loading the dryer and check the vent if you think drying goes slower or less efficient than usual. However, the best solution is usually just to skip the dryer. First, it saves a lot of power. Then, it adds a fresh smell to your clothing if you dry them on a clothesline instead of inside your dryer.

Do not hesitate when it comes to replacing your old washer and dryer. New models are much more energy-efficient and even though they certainly cost quite a bit, the energy, water and soap savings will make this investment pay off in a few years' time maximum.
If your current dryer is electric, consider changing to a gas dryer. Additional costs may occur by needing a gas line run to the new dryer, however, gas normally costs 5 times less than electricity!

A tip: try to avoid cleaning towels after you use it only once. A towel, if you hang it up and let it dry, can be safely re-used a few times before it gets dirty. This change may seem very simple, but it may reduce the time and energy you use for laundering your stuff by 20% a month.