Are you hesitant about buying a used washing machine because you’re not sure if it will be as energy-efficient as a brand-new model? An appliance that’s more than 30 years old will probably not be as energy-friendly as you’d like, but the good news is that any washer manufactured within the last 15 years can still offer significant energy savings – as long as you are willing to make some small changes to your laundry habits.
Here are some ways to increase the energy efficiency of your washing machine without spending a load of money on a new appliance:
Use cooler water
Wash your clothes in cold or warm water instead of hot. About 85 to 90 percent of the energy used while washing your clothes goes toward heating the water. Most of the time you will be able to get your clothes just as clean if you use cold water and an appropriate detergent. For really dirty loads, pre-soak for better results. Always use a cold water rinse, as the rinsing temperature does not affect how clean your clothes get.
Load the washing machine properly
Try to wash full loads instead of small ones. You use less energy and water when doing larger loads because you’ll run the washer fewer times. At the same time, avoid overloading your washing machine, or your clothes may not come out clean and you will need to run the washing machine again. If you do need to wash smaller loads, adjust water levels according to the load size.
Use the right detergent and the right amount
Opt for cold-water detergent, which has a different chemical composition that helps get your clothes cleaner when washing them in cold water. Also cut down on the amount of detergent you use; too much detergent can make the washing machine’s motor work harder, which uses more energy.
The friendly staff at The Appliance Doctor can help you select the right reconditioned washing machine or other appliance for your needs and give you more tips for increasing energy efficiency. For more information, call them at 905-574-2474.
Here are some ways to increase the energy efficiency of your washing machine without spending a load of money on a new appliance:
Use cooler water
Wash your clothes in cold or warm water instead of hot. About 85 to 90 percent of the energy used while washing your clothes goes toward heating the water. Most of the time you will be able to get your clothes just as clean if you use cold water and an appropriate detergent. For really dirty loads, pre-soak for better results. Always use a cold water rinse, as the rinsing temperature does not affect how clean your clothes get.
Load the washing machine properly
Try to wash full loads instead of small ones. You use less energy and water when doing larger loads because you’ll run the washer fewer times. At the same time, avoid overloading your washing machine, or your clothes may not come out clean and you will need to run the washing machine again. If you do need to wash smaller loads, adjust water levels according to the load size.
Use the right detergent and the right amount
Opt for cold-water detergent, which has a different chemical composition that helps get your clothes cleaner when washing them in cold water. Also cut down on the amount of detergent you use; too much detergent can make the washing machine’s motor work harder, which uses more energy.
The friendly staff at The Appliance Doctor can help you select the right reconditioned washing machine or other appliance for your needs and give you more tips for increasing energy efficiency. For more information, call them at 905-574-2474.