Washing Machine Hacks to Save Energy & Cut Costs

With energy pricesgoing up, it’s crucial to find ways to cut down on washing machine costs while still keeping laundry clean. A lot of homes in the UK use their washer several times each week. However, making small changes to how we wash can lead to big energy savings.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, washing clothes at 30°C saves more energy. It can cut energy use by 40% compared to washing at 40°C. Also, when you fill the washing machine with a full load instead of doing several small loads, you will use less water and save on electricity costs.

1. Wash Clothes at Lower Temperatures to Use Less Energy

Many people think that washing clothes in hotter temperatures makes them cleaner. However, this isn’t always true. Washing at lower temperatures can be just as effective. Plus, it uses less energy.

Why Washing at 30°C or Below is a Good Idea

• A wash at 30°C instead of 40°C or higher can cut energy use by up to 40% each time you do laundry.
• Modern detergents work well at low temperatures. They can even tackle stubborn stains effectively.
• Washing wool, acrylics, and delicate garments at low temperatures helps stop shrinkage and colour fading.
• It is okay to wash bed sheets and towels at 40°C for most households. However, you only need higher temperatures, like 60°C, for cleaning germs and heavily soiled laundry.

Reducing the temperature on your washing machine to 30°C can help you save as much as £40 each year on energy bills.

2. Always Wash a Full Load for Maximum Energy Efficiency

Running the washing machine with only half loads wastes water and electricity. This raises energy costs for no good reason.

How a Full Load Saves Energy

• A washing machine uses the same amount of electricity and water, no matter if it’s half full or full.
• Washing less often each week helps the appliance last longer by reducing wear and tear.
• A washing machine with energy ratings A or B works best when it is fully loaded. This helps to improve the effectiveness of the wash.

Best practice: Leave a little gap at the top of the drum. This gap should be about the width of a hand. It helps garments move freely and uses space well.

• Potential Savings: Running fewer but fuller loads could save £20-£30 per year on water and electricity bills.

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3. Avoid the Quick Wash Cycle for Heavy Loads

Many people think that a quick cycle saves the most energy. However, it really depends on the type of load.

When to Use a Quick Wash

• Great for clothes that are not very dirty, like work shirts, gym clothes, or items that have been worn a little.
• It uses less water and energy, but it might not get rid of stubborn stains or remove germs completely.

When NOT to Use a Quick Wash

• When washing bedding, household linen, or very dirty garments, use a longer wash at a lower temperature instead of a quick cycle.
• A short wash at low temperatures might not kill bacteria or get rid of extra detergent.

Using shorter spin cycles for light loads can help you save about £10 to £15 each year. However, it’s important to not use them in place of longer washes for bed linen and towels.

4. Reduce Detergent Use to Prevent Excess Energy Consumption

Using too much detergent can waste your money. It can also harm the washing machine over time.

Why Less Detergent is a Better Choice

• Using too much detergent makes too many bubbles. This causes the washing machine’s drain pump to work extra hard.
• Too much detergent can leave soap on clothes. This means you need more rinse cycles, which wastes water and energy.
• Many new washing machines are made to use less detergent but still keep your laundry clean.

Best Practice:

• Look at the washing machine temperature guide. It will help you find the correct amount of detergent to use for different temperature settings.
• Use a washing machine cleaner every month. This will help stop mould from building up and keep the washing machine running well.

You can save money by using less detergent. Cutting your detergent use by 25% may help you save up to £15 each year on washing costs.

5. Use a Drying Rack Instead of a Tumble Dryer

Tumble dryers use more energy than washing machines. They can increase energy bills by £100 to £150 each year.

How to Air Dry Clothes Efficiently

• Place a drying rack in a room that has good air flow or close to sunlight.
• When you use a tumble dryer, add a dry towel. This will soak up extra moisture and help clothes dry faster.
• Before using the dryer, spin clothes at high speeds (1200-1400 rpm) in the washer. This will help get rid of more water and make the drying go quicker.

Potential Savings: By switching from a tumble dryer to a drying rack, you could save as much as £150 every year on your electricity bills.

6. Clean Your Washing Machine Regularly for Maximum Efficiency

A dirty washing machine can use more energy as time goes by. This makes it wash clothes less effectively.

Monthly Maintenance Wash Routine

• Every month, run an empty hot wash at 60°C using a washing machine cleaner or white vinegar.
• Clear out lint, hair, and detergent from the drain pump and detergent drawer.
• Clean the rubber door seal to stop mould and bacteria from growing.

A good washing machine that is kept in shape lasts several years. This helps you save money on fixing it or buying a new one.

Washing Machine Energy Savings Breakdown

These tips will help UK households save energy. They can reduce electricity use and lower energy bills. Using these tips will also help washing machines last longer.

FAQs About Energy-Efficient Washing Machine Use

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