The cost savings of using cold or hot water for laundry and then using the dryer to finish drying the clothes depend on several factors, including your utility rates, the efficiency of your appliances, and the frequency of doing laundry. Here's a general overview of the potential cost savings:
Cold Water vs. Hot Water for Washing: Washing clothes with cold water is generally more energy-efficient than using hot water. Heating water accounts for a significant portion of the energy used in laundry. By using cold water, you can save on the electricity needed to heat the water.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, washing with cold water can save you around $0.50 to $1 per load compared to using hot water. Over time, this can add up to a noticeable reduction in your electric bill.
Using the Dryer: The cost of using a dryer to finish drying clothes varies based on the energy efficiency of the dryer and the duration of the drying cycle. Modern dryers are typically more energy-efficient than older models, so investing in an energy-efficient dryer can save you money in the long run.
To save on your electric bill when using the dryer, consider the following tips:
- Always clean the lint filter before each load. A clogged lint filter makes the dryer work harder and use more electricity.
- Avoid overloading the dryer, as it can lead to longer drying times and higher energy consumption.
- If possible, dry multiple loads in succession to take advantage of the retained heat in the dryer.
It's essential to consider both the washing and drying steps together to maximize your energy savings. Here are some additional tips to save on your electric bill when doing laundry:
Hang-drying Clothes: When weather permits, consider air-drying your clothes on a clothesline or a drying rack. This is the most energy-efficient way to dry clothes and can lead to significant savings on your electric bill.
Washing Full Loads: Try to wash full loads of laundry rather than small loads. Running fewer, larger loads is more energy-efficient than running several small loads.
Investing in Energy-Efficient Appliances: When purchasing new appliances, look for those with high energy efficiency ratings, as they are designed to consume less electricity and can save you money in the long term.
Using Dryer Balls or Towels: Adding dryer balls or clean, dry towels to the dryer can help reduce drying time and save energy.
Keep in mind that individual savings can vary based on local electricity rates and your laundry habits. To get a more accurate estimate of your potential savings, you can monitor your electricity usage with different laundry practices and check your utility bills for changes.