Washing Machines – Get the Stains Off Your Carbon Footprint
The first and most obvious thing regarding washing machines that will cut your carbon footprint is to make sure that you are always putting in full loads of washing. Running two shorter cycles with less in them will use up more energy than one bigger and longer cycle. Need to clean something urgently but don’t have a full load? Ask the rest of your house – you’ll be amazed that someone will always have something to contribute to your load, especially since you are doing their laundry!
Also, if you still have the user manual for your washer (if not, you can probably find it online) have a read through the different wash cycle options. Be sure that you are always using the most appropriate cycle for what you are washing. It is amazing how many people will use the same cycle for everything – a habit that ends up using more water and energy than necessary thus increasing your carbon emissions.
If you are ready to buy a new machine, here are a few things that you should look for to make sure you get the most energy efficient model for your needs and cut your carbon foot print as much as possible. This is extremely important, as good models will use up to 7000 gallons less water each year than older, less efficient models will.
When looking at different models, remember that front loading washing machines are far better than traditional top-loaders. They use much less energy to clean your clothes - an instant benefit on your monthly bills and your carbon footprint, they are actually better for your clothes, and they allow to you to run bigger loads compared to a top-loading machine of a similar size. This helps to further reduce your carbon emissions as you will have to run fewer loads and each of those loads will use less energy.
Click here for a list of Energy Star qualified washers.
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