Washers and Dryers
Laundry
Laundering clothes is unique in that the energy required is used in three appliances – the hot water heater, the clothes washer and the dryer.
Clothes Washers
Today’s new clothes washers use approximately 57 per cent less energy than the average of those models in homes today. Energy Star® models use about 50 per cent less energy and up-to-40 per cent less water than traditional clothes washers; they also use less detergent. Approximately 90 per cent of the total energy used for clothes washing is for hot water heating. However, key improvements in washer efficiencies save energy in the dryer and water heater. There is up-to-a 50 per cent reduction in water use and spin cycle improvements causing drying time reductions. Drying time is reduced because a higher drum spin speed extracts more water from the fabric mechanically by centrifugal force leaving less to be removed thermally by evaporation in the dryer.
Energy Star®, an international program adopted by Natural Resources Canada, is a simple way for consumers to identify products that are among the most energy efficient on the market. Energy Star® qualified clothes washers are available in all sizes.
Energy Star® models have features such as
- a water level control and small load basket
- temperature controls that allow you to use the desired amount of hot water
- high speed motors that reduce spin cycle times and remove more water from clothes, which in turn reduces drying time
There are two labels to look for when purchasing any new appliance. First, look for the Energy Star® label to ensure the appliance meets or exceeds the energy performance standard. Second, look for an EnerGuide label, which indicates the annual electricity that particular model would use under normal operating conditions. The EnerGuide label allows you to compare electricity use for different models.
Approximately 77 per cent of Alberta’s electricity is generated by non-renewable fossil fuels, a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, so energy efficient units can contribute to the province’s overall efficiency and GHG reductions.
Alberta Government Clothes Washer Rebate
All Albertans who purchase and install an Energy Star® qualified clothes washer on or after January 1, 2009 are eligible for a $100 rebate. For more information please visit Climate Change Central.
Energy Savings Tips
- When buying a new clothes washing machine, look for Energy Star® front-loading washing machines, which use about half the water, electricity and detergent of a top-loading washer.
- Use warm or cold water for washing when possible and always rinse in cold water.
- Wash only when you have full loads. One large load of laundry will use less energy than two small or medium loads.
Clothes Dryers
Today’s new clothes dryers use approximately four per cent less energy than the average of those models in homes today. The main improvements in the energy efficiency of clothes dryers are due to automatic controls that end the cycle by using moisture sensors, therefore eliminating over-drying. Currently, clothes dryers do not have Energy Star® qualifications because energy consumption does not vary significantly between models, and Energy Star® clothes washers remove more water allowing dryers to do their job faster. However, the EnerGuide rating should be considered to ensure the highest efficiency.
Approximately 77 per cent of Alberta’s electricity is generated by non-renewable fossil fuels, a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, so energy efficient units can contribute to the province’s overall efficiency and GHG reductions.
Energy Savings Tips
- If there is a sensor cycle on your dryer be sure to use it instead of timed dry. This will help you avoid over-drying and energy waste. If you have manual timing controls, experiment until you've determined how long it takes to dry a typical load.
- Clean the lint trap in your dryer after every load. A clogged trap can damage your dryer and lower its efficiency.
- Consider using a clothesline to dry some of your clothing. It is the most energy efficient dryer of all. Check local bylaws first.
- Separate clothes for drying purposes. Lightweight synthetics dry much faster than bath towels or natural fibre materials such as denim.
- Don't over-dry clothes. Consider removing clothes while they are still warm and just slightly damp and put them on hangers. This will reduce the need for ironing.
- Don't add wet items to a load that is partially dry. This will cause the dryer to run longer.
- Don’t overload the dryer, but do dry full loads when possible. Drying small loads wastes energy.
- Check the vent to the outside. Proper ventilation is important for efficient operation of your dryer. Keep it clean and free from obstruction.
