Laundry Energy Guide

Laundry is a regular energy user in most households. The washing machine uses energy to run and heat water; the dryer uses significantly more energy to generate heat. Understanding where the energy goes helps you reduce use without compromising clean clothes.

Washing Machine

Water Temperature

Heating water accounts for most washing machine energy use:

• Cold water: Uses almost no energy for heating
• Warm water: Moderate energy use
• Hot water: Maximum energy use

Modern detergents work well in cold water for most loads. Reserve warm or hot water for heavily soiled items or specific needs.

Load Size

• Run full loads when possible—the machine uses similar energy regardless of load size
• Don't overfill—clothes need room to move for proper cleaning
• Adjust water level settings if available for smaller loads

Cycle Selection

• Use shorter cycles for lightly soiled items
• Reserve heavy-duty cycles for when truly needed
• High-efficiency cycles (if available) use less water and energy

Dryer

Dryer Energy Use

Dryers typically use more energy than washing machines:

• They generate heat, which requires significant energy
• Gas dryers use less electricity but consume natural gas
• Electric dryers can be major energy users

Efficient Drying

• Clean the lint trap before every load—blocked airflow wastes energy
• Don't over-dry—use moisture sensors if available
• Dry similar items together (lightweight with lightweight)
• Remove items promptly to reduce wrinkles and avoid re-drying

Reduce Dryer Use

• Use high spin speed in the washer to extract more water
• Air dry when possible—even partial air drying reduces dryer time
• Dry consecutive loads to use retained heat
• Consider line drying or drying racks for some items

Air Drying

Benefits

• Uses no energy
• Gentler on clothes—extends garment life
• No risk of shrinkage from heat
• Clothes often smell fresher

Indoor Drying

In apartments, outdoor drying may not be possible:

• Collapsible drying racks work in small spaces
• Over-door or wall-mounted racks save floor space
• Bathroom or near windows provides airflow
• In winter, drying clothes adds humidity (which can be beneficial)

What Works for Air Drying

• Lightweight items dry quickly
• Items that benefit from gentle treatment (delicates, knits)
• Items prone to shrinkage
• Items you'd rather not subject to high heat

Shared Laundry Facilities

Many apartment dwellers use shared laundry rooms:

Efficiency in Shared Facilities

• Run full loads to make each use worthwhile
• Choose appropriate cycles—you're paying per load
• Remove items promptly so machines stay available
• Consider air drying some items at home to reduce dryer use

When Replacing Appliances

If you're choosing a washer or dryer (or landlord is replacing):

• Front-loading washers typically use less water and energy
• Look for high-efficiency ratings
• Consider heat pump dryers for significant energy reduction
• Right-size the machine—bigger isn't always better