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operating
cost of dishwashers
It
is likely that dishwashers use less water to wash dishes
than doing the same number by hand. Dishwashers do a
better job of killing germs because they use hotter water
than you can use by hand. The energy rating of a
dishwasher is based on use of hot water because about 80%
of the energy is for heating the water rather than
running the dishwasher itself. Therefore, look for
features that reduce water usage. Consider purchasing a
dishwasher that uses fewer gallons during the different
cycles since they will cost the least to
operate.
Compare
both the Energy Guide labels & the Energy Star
information. Today's Energy Star dishwasher can save 20%
compared to standard models. Select a model w/ a heating
element. It can boost the heat of the water used in the
machine to 140°F, the temperature required to clean
effectively. Then you can lower your water-heater
thermostat to 125°F & save energy. Each
10-degree reduction in the water heater temperature
setting will save you up to 13% of your water-heating
bill. A lower setting will also reduce the danger of
scalding. Also check to see if the dishwasher has an
energy efficient no-heat drying cycle. It costs less to
air dry dishes.
consumer
tips
- Dishwashers
have two classifications: compact & standard.
Compact models use less energy but hold fewer dishes.
A compact model may actually result in greater energy
use if you have to operate it more frequently.
- Choose
a dishwasher that has several wash cycle selections.
You can then choose a "light or energy-saving" wash
cycle & save energy by using less water &
operating for a shorter period of time.
- Choose
a dishwasher that has an air-drying cycle as well as a
heat-drying cycle. Heat-drying elements use a
considerable amount of energy; circulation fans for
air-drying use very little.
- If
your dishwasher has a booster heater, turn your
water-heater thermostat setting to 125°F.
- Scrape
instead of rinsing off large food pieces from the
dishes. Soaking or pre washing is usually not
necessary unless food is burned or dried on the
dishes.
- Operate
the dishwasher w/ a full load & select the
energy-saving cycle when possible.
- Do
not use the "rinse/hold" for just a few soiled dishes.
It uses 3 to 7 gallons of hot water.
- An
often overlooked convenience is a delayed-start
control. It allows you to run the washer when you are
asleep or at off-peak hours when utility rates may be
lower.
- Be
sure drains & filters are clear of food
particles.
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