WITH energy prices continuing to rise, many households are looking to slash their electricity bills without cutting back on everyday comforts.
One major culprit behind high energy costs is the washing machine, used almost daily in most homes.
But experts at Grant Store say you could significantly reduce your laundry-related bills by adopting a few straightforward habits.
Here are four tips that they insist will help you save energy and money the next time you do a wash – including a ‘hand’ rule when loading your machine.
1. Choose warm or cold washes instead of hot
Washing clothes on a hot cycle uses substantially more energy, increasing your bills.
“Many modern detergents work effectively even at cold or warm temperatures,” explains the Grant Store spokesperson.
“For everyday laundry, cold washes can remove stains and bacteria just as well as hot water, while saving a considerable amount of energy.
“However, it’s advisable to use warmer settings when washing items like bedding and towels to ensure they are properly cleaned.”
Switching to cooler washes where possible is an easy way to reduce your washing machine’s energy consumption.
2. Load your washing machine correctly
“Overloading your washing machine can make it less effective, because clothes won’t move enough to be properly cleaned”, warns the Grant Store spokesperson.
“This means the machine works harder and longer, using more electricity.
“On the other hand, washing very small loads is inefficient, as it uses almost the same amount of water and energy as a full load.
“As a ‘golden rule,’ leave at least the width of one hand’s space at the top of the drum. This allows enough room for clothes to move and spin freely, resulting in a better wash and lower energy use.”
3. Use the right amount of detergent
It might seem logical that more detergent means cleaner clothes, but that’s not the case.
“Using too much detergent causes extra rinse cycles to remove residue, which increases water and energy usage,” says the spokesperson.
“Sticking to the recommended detergent dosage saves money on detergent and reduces your utility bills.
“Detergent pods are a good option for convenience and accuracy, as they contain the perfect amount for each load.”
4. Use eco settings and wash during off-peak hours
Modern washing machines come with eco modes designed to reduce power and water consumption, although these cycles may take longer.
“Eco settings are ideal if you have the time, as they adjust the amount of water and heat used based on the size and weight of your load, often using lower temperatures and gentler washing motions,” the Grant Store spokesperson explains.
“While these cycles take longer, they use significantly less electricity overall.”
Another smart move is to run your washing machine during off-peak hours, usually between 10pm and 6am, when electricity rates are lower.
“Taking advantage of cheaper night-time tariffs can deliver noticeable savings on your energy bills,” the spokesperson adds.
“Just be sure to check with your supplier to confirm your off-peak times.”
Bonus tip: Always run full loads and avoid peak times
“Waiting until you have a full load before washing maximises efficiency,” the spokesperson advises.
“Running machines half-empty or during peak hours unnecessarily increases your bills.”
