Washers/Dryers

Clothes washers and dryers use a great deal of energy, but today's models are far more efficient than those from just 15 years ago. If you currently use an older washer and/or dryer, upgrading to a new model may save you more than you realize. In fact, you may even be able to pay back the purchase cost through energy savings in a handful of years - and keep saving after that. The EnergyGuide label on new appliances can help you predict the operating costs. Visit Energy Star® to learn more.

The big energy user in washers is water heating, which typically accounts for more than 90 percent of operating costs. The average household uses about 15,000 gallons of water each year just to wash clothes. By using lower temperatures and less water, you can see significant energy cost savings. That's why front-loading machines are becoming so popular. They operate with a fraction of the water (and detergent) of top-loading machines, and their spinning tub eliminates the need for a bulky agitator. They generally clean more efficiently, too.

Today's dryers use better technology to reduce energy use. One of the most common (and handy) dryer features is a sensor that continually monitors the amount of moisture in the clothes as they dry. The sensor stops the dryer before the clothes become too dry or overheated, compared to old systems that used a timer and guesswork. One of the best ways to ensure that your dryer is operating at peak efficiency is to keep the dryer vent clear of lint. If you want to save even more, consider an old-fashioned solution that provides great-smelling clothes: hang them outside on a clothesline!