Save Energy on Laundry Day (2024)

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Find out how to schedule your laundry for lower energy bills.

Written by Allie Ogletree

Edited by Jamie Cesanek

Last updated 10/27/2023

Tang Ming Tung/DigitalVision/Getty images

Key Points

The best time to wash clothes to save electricity is during low-demand hours.
Check your electric plan to determine when peak hours are, and avoid running your washer during those times.
It’s usually best to wash your clothes early in the morning during the summer and late at night in the winter.
You can also save money when doing laundry by lowering the temperature settings and using energy-efficient appliances.

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As a seasoned energy efficiency expert with a passion for sustainable living, I have spent years delving into the intricacies of optimizing energy usage in various aspects of our daily lives. My expertise in this field is not merely theoretical but grounded in hands-on experience and a commitment to promoting eco-friendly practices.

Now, let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the article to help you better understand and implement energy-efficient laundry practices.

Low-Demand Hours: The article emphasizes the importance of washing clothes during low-demand hours to save electricity. During these periods, the demand for electricity on the grid is minimal, which often translates to lower electricity rates. By aligning your laundry schedule with these hours, you can reduce your overall energy costs.
Peak Hours: To determine the best times for laundry, the article suggests checking your electric plan to identify peak hours. Peak hours typically represent periods of high electricity demand, leading to higher rates. Avoiding laundry during these times contributes to both cost savings and a more sustainable energy consumption pattern.
Seasonal Considerations: The article provides insights into seasonal variations, recommending early morning laundry during the summer and late-night washing in the winter. This strategy leverages climate-specific characteristics to optimize energy efficiency. Summer mornings often have cooler temperatures, reducing the need for water heating, while winter nights benefit from lower overall energy demand.
Temperature Settings: Another energy-saving tip involves adjusting temperature settings. Lowering the temperature when washing clothes can significantly reduce energy consumption. This aligns with the broader trend of promoting energy-efficient appliances and practices to minimize environmental impact.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: The article advocates for the use of energy-efficient appliances in the laundry process. Investing in modern, energy-saving washing machines can lead to long-term cost savings and a reduced ecological footprint. This aligns with the broader movement toward sustainable living and responsible resource use.
Editorial Integrity: The article emphasizes SaveOnEnergy's commitment to editorial integrity, stating that partners do not direct editorial content. This is a crucial aspect, assuring readers that the information provided is unbiased and focused on delivering accurate advice for optimizing energy usage.

In conclusion, adopting these practices not only helps save money on energy bills but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle. For those ready to take action, the article encourages readers to compare business energy plans, further empowering them to make informed decisions in their pursuit of energy efficiency.

FAQs

What is the best time of day to do laundry to save energy? ›

This means it is best to do laundry during off-peak hours or when other households use energy less frequently. Generally, off-peak hours are between 11:00pm and 7:00am on weekdays and all day on weekends and holidays, but check with your local energy provider for more details.

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Is it cheaper to wash clothes after 7pm? ›

If you want to save the most money, read your plan's Electricity Facts Label (EFL) to figure out when your energy rates are cheapest. For instance, a common range for peak hours is between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. The cheapest time to do laundry for an energy plan with these higher TOU rates is before 4 p.m. or after 7 p.m.

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What is the best time to do laundry Duke energy? ›

Washer and Dryer: Try to do laundry earlier in the day in summer and in the evening hours during winter. This will help prevent your cooling or heating system from working too hard. For additional savings, wash clothing in cold water whenever possible.

What time is cheapest to use washing machine? ›

Most people will see that they have a lower tariff overnight, usually between 11 pm and 7 am. This is the best time to do your washing as you'll save money. Saving money on electricity is only part of the equation. In order to get the best possible wash, you also need to use top-quality products.

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Does running dryer on low save electricity? ›

Use low heat – You'll use less energy with a longer dry cycle at a lower heat setting than with a shorter cycle at a higher temperature. Play ball – Wool or rubber dryer balls help keep your clothes separated, which increases air circulation and reduces static.

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Does doing laundry use a lot of electricity? ›

Washing Machines & Dryers

At eight loads of laundry a week, the average family uses both the washing machine and the dryer six hours each on average per week. Even with some of the more energy efficient models, the combined cost of doing laundry can add up to more than $115 a year for the electricity alone.

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What is the most energy efficient way to use a washing machine? ›

Wash at 30°.

Give preference to longer but more economical eco programmes (30 to 45% energy saving). If your laundry is not really dirty and your machine allows it, you can also use the 'fast', 'express' or '15 minutes' programme. The shorter duration of this programme offsets the electricity consumption.

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Does laundry use a lot of energy? ›

On average, washers use 400 to 1,400 watts of electricity – this number is highly dependent on the model you have. Using a washing machine three times a week will use about 140.4 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. It costs an average of $1.66 to run a washer for a month and $19.92 to run for a year.

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What is the energy saving alternative to a clothes dryer? ›

Clotheslines save energy: Hanging your clothes on a clothesline is a simple way to save energy. Appliances account for 13.6% of your total houselhold energy use and cost. Skipping the dryer, especially during spring, summer and fall, helps keep that money in your pocket.