Saving Money on Laundry

On laundry day, making a few changes can save money. Since dryers are the fifth largest energy consumer in a home, it makes sense to do things different, as I have, to save on energy bills.

Using a Clothing Rod to Save Money

Drying clothes for a short period to remove wrinkles, then hanging to finish drying will save a lot of money. If a clothing rod is not available, purchase a stand-alone rod that will store out-of-sight while not in use. Lightweight items like T-shirts dry quickly while blue jeans take a little longer. The laundry can be finished in a day at great savings to utility bills.

Having a six-foot rod and storage shelf installed in my utility room makes this operation a simple task.

Dry Only Full Loads (according to manufacturing recommendations)

Drying a partial load uses the same amount of time and energy as a full load. Dry only full loads. Do not overload a washer or dryer. Overloading causes eventual equipment failure resulting in a service call charge.

Save Money by Cleaning Lint Filters and Vents

Manufacturers recommend keeping lint filters clean. Outside vents should be free of lint also. Airflow is important to any dryer for the most economical operating efficiency. Use of dryer sheets, such as Bounce, will create a film on any lint filter. Take the filter to the sink and run water into it. If the water puddles on the filter, scrub with a cleaning agent, like Clorox Clean-Up and remove the film until the water runs through the filter.

Outside vents should be checked periodically to make sure there is adequate airflow. Clogged outside vents prevent sufficient airflow and allow outside air to enter the home, penalizing heating and cooling.

Newer Dryers Save Money

When in the market for a new dryer, look for the feature of a dryness sensor that automatically turn off the dryer then the desired level of dryness is reached. Sensors are located in the drum of the dryer and in the exhaust vents. A sensor located in the drum is more costly, but are more efficient. A sensor eliminates over-drying and prolongs the life of the clothing. Cutting the drying time will also save money on the utility bills.

Solar Drying

Hanging clothing outdoors and using free wind and solar energy saves the most money on laundry day. Be sure to check the weather and local restriction permits. Nothing smells or feels better than sheets that have been 'line-dried'. Line-dried clothing retains fresh air smell for several days.

Whether using gas or electric, clothes dryers are a major drain on household expenses. These slight changes on laundry day can greatly reduce the cost of doing the family laundry. Public Service Company of Oklahoma has useful energy calculator that gives an estimate of how much money different appliances cost to use within the home.

Sources:

Public Service Company of Oklahoma

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