The washing machine is one of the appliances you use most often. You may not be able to reduce the number of loads, but you can improve the way you use it with a few habits that do not require buying a new machine.
1. Wash at lower temperatures when it is suitable
Heating the water takes energy. For lightly soiled laundry, low temperature programs can be enough as long as they are suitable for the fabric and for the detergent.
For laundry that needs a specific level of hygiene, follow the care label instructions and the corresponding health recommendations.
2. Avoid loads that are too small
Make the most of the drum capacity without overloading it. Leave the space the manufacturer recommends so that the clothes can move and get cleaned properly.
3. Choose the right program
ECO programs are usually designed to reduce water and energy use, although they can take longer. The result depends on the model and on the conditions of the wash.
4. Use the right amount of detergent
Using more detergent than needed does not guarantee cleaner clothes and can leave residues behind. Follow the instructions on the product and adjust the amount to the load, the level of soiling and the hardness of the water.
5. Make the most of your rate schedule
If your plan has different prices depending on the hour, check when it is cheapest to use electricity. Schedule the wash only if the appliance allows it safely and does not create noise problems.
The criteria for picking the cheapest slot, and the rest of the steps that need no investment, are set out in our guide to 10 tips to save money on electricity at home.
6. Spin the right way
A suitable spin speed can reduce the moisture left in the clothes and make them easier to dry. Adjust the program to the type of fabric to avoid damaging it.
7. Keep the washing machine clean
Clean the filter, the door seals and the detergent drawer following the manufacturer’s instructions. Let the rubber dry and air the drum out when you can, to avoid unpleasant smells. The detail of each step is in our guide to how to clean your washing machine and stop bad smells.
8. Compare the consumption before replacing the appliance
If you need a new washing machine, check its energy label, its capacity and its water consumption per cycle. Look at the total cost of using it and not only at the purchase price.
Water is the other half of the cost of a wash: the changes to the taps and to the shower described in how to save water at home also show up in the washing machine and in the dishwasher.
Conclusion
To save money with the washing machine, start by choosing the right program, using a suitable load and avoiding wasted detergent. If you want to check the effect of your changes, keep a note of how many cycles you run and compare the consumption over time.
