Save money while doing your laundry - top washing machine tips from Domestic & General
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that if everyone in the UK replaced their old washing machine with an Energy Saving Recommended model, over £12 million a year could be saved from our energy bills!
But aside from investing in a new model, what else can householders do to make their washing machines run more efficiently?
- Reducing your wash temperature to 30 degrees could mean you use up to 40% less energy, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Modern washing powders and detergents work just as effectively at lower temperatures for all but the dirtiest of loads.
- Always do a full load. Sounds simple, but by being organised with your washing you could cut down on the number of weekly cycles you do and immediately save energy and money.
- A water softener will help reduce limescale build-up if you live in a hard water area. Laundry detergents don’t work as effectively in hard water, meaning you’ll need to use more to get your clothes as clean! Limescale can also damage the working parts of your washing machine, making it more likely to break down.
- A breakdown could cost you money! You can help prevent one by not overloading the drum. Check the manufacturer's instructions to find out the weight your machine is designed to take.
- Finally, don't forget to check the pockets of your washing for loose change. Coins can easily fall into the drum of the machine and jam the spinning motion. Underwired bras should always be washed in special laundry bags to avoid the wires coming loose and jamming the machine – a very common cause of breakdown.
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