Do you ever look at your utility bills, shake your head, and wonder what you’re doing wrong? Or, perhaps, what else could you do to help save a few dollars here and there?
One great way to cut back on energy and water is to change your laundry-day habits. Not necessarily once and for all, but if you mix in some of the following suggestions into your routine, you’re bound to reap the savings.
String a clothes line. Take advantage of the nice weather and hang your clothes out to dry. They’ll smell better and you’ll conserve a handsome amount of electricity. You can also use an indoor drying rack when the weather outdoors isn’t cooperating.
Wear clothes more than once. Not everything needs to be washed after just one wearing, so don’t be so quick to toss all your garments in the laundry basket. Tweens and teens can be especially guilty of the “one and done” syndrome.
Rinse your clothes in cold water. Nearly 90% of the energy it takes to run a load of clothes is used to heat the water.
Only wash full loads. Why waste all that water and energy for a partial load, unless you really have no choice.
Clean the dryer lint filter after every load. A lint-free filter improves air circulation and quickens drying time.
Check your dryer exhaust. If your exhaust vent isn’t closed tightly, outside air will infiltrate and force your dryer to work harder, thus consuming more energy.
Upgrade your washer and dryer. An Energy Star washing machine can reduce water usage by up to 14 gallons per load. So, when it’s time for a replacement unit, be sure to ask questions and read the labels before making your purchase.
For some loads, you can’t help but use hot water. So how can you save energy in those instances? A good place to start would be with a water heater performance and safety inspection, especially if your water heater is at least 8 years old. The older the unit gets, the less efficiently it heats your water, and that ends up costing you more money than it should. So, if you want the most from your water heater, contact Burton today to schedule service. And let us help you run the greenest household in your neighborhood.
