Better than washing by hand?

19 Jul

ENERGY STAR dishwashers: better than washing by hand?

Do you have an ENERGY STAR® dishwasher? If so, you’re on the right track to saving energy and water in your kitchen. If not, upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®dishwasher could save you $53* in water and energy costs over the lifetime of the appliance, when compared to standard models. All Eco Options dishwashers are ENERGY STAR® qualified.

Not only are the savings from an ENERGY STAR® dishwasher apparent when compared to standard dishwashers, believe it or not, they’re also significant when compared to washing dishes by hand! This has been shown to be true regardless of the type of dishwashing technique used (for example filling the sink vs. letting the water run).

Several studies have been conducted at Bonn University in Germany that examine dishwashing behaviour in European households. This research has found that washing dishes with an efficient dishwasher uses less water, less energy, less time and less detergent than washing dishes by hand – all while achieving a higher level of cleaning performance!

Due to advancements in technology, ENERGY STAR® qualified dishwashers achieve energy efficiency levels that are at least 25 per cent higher than the minimum regulated standards in Canada.

Some of the features that can lead to their superior efficiency include:

  • Technology that saves energy by using less hot water
  • Sensors that calculate the required length of washing cycles and the appropriate water temperatures needed to clean dishes effectively
  • Built-in heating elements that save water-heating costs

For example, this week’s Eco Options featured product, Maytag’s Jetclean Plus Built-In Tall Tub Dishwasher, has an Auto Clean Plus cycle, which uses sensors to automatically adjust water temperature, wash time and number of fills to match the degree to which the load is soiled and achieve optimal cleaning.

If you’re not ready to buy a new dishwasher, you can still try these dishwashing tips to be as efficient as possible:

  • Run your dishwasher only when the load is full; partial loads clean fewer dishes without the same benefit in energy and water savings
  • Use natural soap products that are biodegradable, non-toxic, non carcinogenic, non-irritating and safer than traditional cleaners for people and the environment
  • Run your dishwasher at night, during off-peak times when some utilities charge less for energy
  • Let your dishes air dry by opening the door after your rinse cycle
  • If washing dishes by hand, be aware of the amount of water and detergent you use and try to use as little as possible to achieve the desired level of cleanliness

Contact your REALTOR at Coldwell Banker Vantage Realty for more tips and advice on your home renovations.

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