Energy Efficient Washer and Dryer
The average household can significantly reduce the costs of doing laundry by replacing conventional washers and dryers with new, more efficient models. New tumble-action washers can cut energy use by up to 70% over that of conventional washers made before 1994. Water usage can also be reduced by 30-60%, an average savings of 3,500 to 6,000 gallons a year. Independent studies show that tumble-action washers may actually get clothes cleaner with a gentler tumbling action.
To increase your laundry savings:
- Use hot-water setting only for very dirty loads or when sanitizing is required.
- Pretreat stains and soak heavily soiled items before washing.
- Clean the lint filter after each load.
Gas Dryers
A new gas dryer is over 50% less expensive to operate than an electric dryer. Gas dryers made after May 1994 cannot have a constant-burning pilot light, but are equipped with an instant electronic ignition.
To increase your dryer savings:
- Sort loads to dry light and heavy articles separately.
- Dry full loads, but don't overload.
- Make sure to vent your dryer properly and keep the exhaust clean and obstruction free.
- Clean the lint filter after each load.
For more information about laundry energy savings visit the Department of Energy's ENERGY STAR(R) web site.
