Laundry is a household task that can drive up your electricity and gas bills, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. By making small adjustments, Frankston residents can reduce the energy consumption associated with washing and drying clothes. Here are some practical tips to lower laundry-related energy costs.
1. Wash with Cold Water
Using cold water for laundry can reduce your washing machine’s energy consumption significantly. Most of the energy used in laundry comes from heating the water. By choosing cold water, you can lower electricity usage while still effectively cleaning your clothes. Cold water detergents are designed to work just as well as their hot water counterparts.
2. Run Full Loads
Maximise the efficiency of your washing machine by only running it with full loads. Washing smaller loads wastes both water and energy. If you need to do a smaller load, adjust the water level to prevent unnecessary water use.
3. Air-Dry Your Laundry
Frankston’s climate often allows for air-drying clothes, which is a great alternative to using a dryer. Hanging clothes outside on a sunny day eliminates the need for energy-consuming dryers and is gentler on fabrics. If outdoor drying isn’t possible, using an indoor drying rack can still save energy.
4. Maintain Your Dryer
If you do need to use a dryer, make sure it is running efficiently. Clean the lint filter after every load to improve airflow and reduce drying time. Blocked filters make the dryer work harder, increasing energy consumption. Regularly checking and cleaning dryer vents also ensures the machine runs efficiently.
5. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Older washing machines and dryers tend to use more energy. Upgrading to energy-efficient models with a high energy star rating can significantly reduce your household energy consumption. These appliances use less water and power, which will lower your utility bills over time.
6. Use Dryer Balls
Adding dryer balls to your load can help improve airflow, reducing the time it takes to dry your clothes. This simple addition can cut energy usage by reducing drying time, which translates into lower gas or electricity costs.
To find more ways to Reduce laundry electricity and gas costs in Frankston, check out this detailed guide.
By following these tips, you can lower your laundry energy costs, making your household more efficient and eco-friendly. These small changes can lead to noticeable savings on your bills and reduce your overall energy consumption.