Reducing Home Energy Costs

Laundry: OEP Quick Tips

• Most of the energy used in washing laundry is used to heat the water. Use warm or cold water when possible, and always rinse with cold water.
• Don’t use more detergent than you need. Excess suds may require extra rinsing.
• Don’t overwash. A 10-minute cycle is usually enough for even very soiled clothes.
• Set the washing machine water level for the size of the load. If the machine doesn’t have variable levels, wait until you have a full load.
• Use the soak cycle. It can save energy and money.
• Put full loads in the dryer, but don’t overload. Overloading makes the machine less efficient and more costly to operate.
• Use warm or cold settings to dry, especially for permanent press clothes.
• Always keep the lint filter clean.
• Don’t overdry clothes.
• The dryer will run most efficiently when drying clothes of the same thickness.
• Do two or more loads in a row.
• When possible, use an outdoor clothesline rather than a dryer.