• Manufacturers have developed methods of washing clothes which use water much more efficiently. Together with improvements in detergents it is now possible to wash at lower temperatures and obtain cleaner clothes.
• Modern machines are also able to dry more efficiently so it is now possible to buy models with excellent washing and drying performance and low energy consumption (all A class).
• Drying clothes depends primarily upon the spin speed; one can avoid purchasing a drier if you select a washing machine with a high spin speed (higher than 800 rpm) so that clothes can be easily dried even inside your house.
• Combined washer/driers can be considered if space is limited.

Cost

This is related primarily to the performance class you select and the maximum spin speed.

Good practice

• avoid high temperature cycles (more than 60C);
• use a full rather than part load whenever possible;
• select a spin speed which is appropriate for the clothes you are drying;
• connect your appliance to both hot and cold water supplies where possible;
• clean filters, if installed, regularly.

For hints on saving energy with other appliances please click here.