How to Save On Your Laundry Energy Bills

5th November 2024

Lowering your laundry energy bill is one of the easiest ways to save on energy at home. In this article, we’ll explore over a dozen useful tips to reduce your energy bills almost immediately. But first, let’s start by understanding energy ratings.

Understanding energy ratings

As you may already know, washing machines feature labels indicating their energy rating. This rating quantifies the amount of energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh) the machine consumes per year.

Typically, machines with more stars are more energy-efficient, and each additional star could save you 25% of your washing machine’s energy use on a warm cycle. However, it’s important to note that a five-star energy rating doesn’t guarantee five-star performance. Factors such as program settings—often optimised for warm washes—and load size can influence actual energy consumption.

To estimate your machine’s annual running costs, multiply your electricity rate by the washer’s kWh rating. So, as an example, if your electricity rate is 30 cents per kWh and the washer consumes 580 kWh annually, your running cost would be approximately $174.00 per year.

Understanding and making the most of energy ratings is key to making smart choices that save on your laundry energy bills in the long run.

What you need to know about energy-efficient dryers

Dryers can be one of the most expensive appliances to run. Thankfully, there are a few simple tips you can follow to help reduce their energy consumption and save on your energy bill:

• Choose high energy star ratings: As always, keep an eye out for the energy star rating. Usually, though not always, more stars equal more savings.
• Use sensor technology: Opt for dryers equipped with sensors that automatically stop the machine when clothes are dry, preventing unnecessary energy use and reducing wear.
• Keep the lint filter clean: Improve energy efficiency by emptying the lint filter after each load.
• Consider heat pump dryers: If you do a lot of drying, it may be worth investing in a heat pump dryer which uses approximately half the energy of standard electric dryers.
• Sort loads by fabric type: Different fabrics dry at different rates, so sorting loads can help optimise drying efficiency.
• Use natural drying methods: Use Mother Nature when you can. Of course, the biggest energy saver of all is a clothes line. It’s also the most eco-friendly.

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What you need to know about energy efficient washing machines

A washing machine is a long-term investment, often used daily for 10 years or more. So it’s important you choose an efficient machine that suits your household.

When it comes to cutting down on energy bills, front loaders are tough to beat. Here’s why they’re usually the most energy-efficient washing machines:

• Energy and water efficiency: Front-loading washers typically use less water and up to 50% less energy compared to traditional top-loaders.
• Gentler on clothes: They gently tumble clothes instead of agitating them vigorously, which can help prolong the life of your garments.
• Reduced drying costs: Front loaders spin clothes faster and extract more water, reducing the time and energy needed for drying.
• Look for Eco Mode: Many models offer an Eco Mode2 feature that further reduces energy and water consumption.

The bottom line: While front-loading washers usually have a higher upfront cost, their lower operational costs over time often lead to significant savings. Choosing an energy-efficient washing machine like a front loader can pay off in the long run.

Useful tips to make your laundry more energy efficient

Saving energy in your laundry routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some practical tips to help you cut down on energy use while keeping your clothes clean and dry:

• Unplug when not in use: Even when turned off, washing machines can draw energy in standby mode. Unplugging them when not in use can prevent unnecessary energy consumption.
• Wash full loads: Maximise efficiency by washing full loads. It takes the same amount of energy to run a half-empty machine, so wait until you have a full load.
• Pre-treat heavily soiled clothes: Save energy and water by pre-treating heavily soiled clothes before washing. This reduces the need for extra cycles.
• Use cold water: Around 80-90% of the energy used for washing clothes goes into heating water. Use cold water when possible and choose detergents made for cold washes.
• Clean your machine: If you wash mostly in cold water, run a hot cycle occasionally to keep your machine clean and efficient.
• Air dry whenever possible: Skip the dryer altogether and use a clothesline or drying rack. It’s the most energy-efficient way to dry your clothes.
• Schedule laundry during off-peak hours: If your energy provider offers off-peak rates, schedule your laundry for these times to save on energy costs.
• Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances: Consider investing in appliances with high energy star ratings, which are designed to use less energy and water.

The final word

By choosing an energy efficient dryer and washing machine, there’s lots of opportunity to save on your yearly energy bill. But remember, it’s not only about the appliances themselves. Simple decisions like using cold water and using a clothesline on sunny days can deliver big savings, too.

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