Winter is the season for warm sweaters, cozy blankets, and… piles of laundry. With shorter days and colder weather, your washer and dryer might be getting more use than usual. But here’s the good news: with a few tweaks to your laundry routine, you can keep your clothes fresh and reduce your energy use, all while saving money.
Here are some easy, effective ways to make your washer and dryer more energy-efficient during the winter:
1. Wash with Cold Water: Most of the energy used by your washing machine goes toward heating the water. Switching to cold water washes can cut energy use significantly—and modern detergents are designed to clean just as effectively at lower temperatures. Bonus: cold water is gentler on your clothes, helping them last longer.
2. Run Full Loads: Fewer, larger loads use less energy than multiple smaller loads. Wait until you have a full load before starting your washer or dryer. Just make sure not to overstuff them—your clothes need room to move around for an effective wash and dry.
3. Spin Cycle for the Win: Before tossing clothes in the dryer, run an extra spin cycle in the washer. This removes more water from your clothes, meaning less drying time (and less energy) is needed.
4: Clean the Lint Trap: A clean lint trap improves your dryer’s efficiency and reduces the risk of a fire. Make it a habit to clean the trap after every load to ensure optimal airflow.
5. Take Advantage of Heat Retention: Place your dryer in a warmer part of your home if possible. Cold spaces can make your dryer work harder. Also, if you have a vented dryer, ensure the vent isn’t blocked by snow or debris to keep air flowing smoothly.
6. Air Dry When Possible: Even in winter, there are opportunities to air dry! Hang lightweight items indoors on a drying rack or use a rod near a heat source. Not only does this save energy, but it can also add a little moisture to dry winter air.
7. Choose the Right Settings: Use your dryer’s sensor settings if available. These automatically stop the machine once clothes are dry, saving energy compared to timed cycles. Also, use lower heat settings whenever possible—they’re gentler on fabrics and use less energy.
8. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Models: If you’re in the market for new appliances, look for ENERGY STAR-rated washers and dryers. These models use less water and energy, helping you save in the long run.
