If you have a small number of dishes and want to save water and electricity, it is possible to prewash them in the dishwasher and then rinse them manually under tap water. However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of the prewash phase may vary depending on the dishwasher model and the level of soiling on your dishes.
Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Efficiency: Running a full dishwasher cycle, including the prewash phase, may use more water and electricity compared to simply rinsing the dishes under tap water manually. Preparing a full dishwasher load is generally more efficient, as modern dishwashers are designed to optimize water and energy usage for larger loads.
Water conservation: If you're concerned about water usage, manually rinsing the prewashed dishes under tap water can help you save water. However, make sure to use a basin or fill the sink partially with water rather than rinsing each dish individually under running water. This way, you can minimize water waste.
Energy consumption: The prewash phase of the dishwasher may still consume some electricity, even if you cancel the program before the main wash and drying cycles. While the energy used during this phase is typically lower than the full cycle, it's worth considering if you're looking to save energy as well.
Convenience and time: Prewashing dishes in the dishwasher and then manually rinsing them can be more time-consuming and less convenient than running a full dishwasher cycle. However, if you have only a few dishes and prefer this approach to save resources, it can be a viable option.
Remember to check your dishwasher's user manual for specific instructions and recommendations regarding the prewash phase. Some dishwashers may have different settings or options that allow you to customize the cycle based on your needs.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities and the specific circumstances. If saving water and electricity is your main concern and you're willing to invest the extra effort, manually rinsing prewashed dishes can be a reasonable approach for a small load.