Upgrade Your Laundry Room for Optimum Energy Efficiency

If you are warming up to the idea of going green and don't know where to begin, you may want to consider the laundry room for big results and savings. The laundry room is one of the biggest consumers of household energy. Taking the time to give your laundry room an environmental makeover now will help save water, energy and put money in your pocket later.

Following is a list of ways to insure energy efficiency doesn't get lost in the washroom.

1. GET WIRED FOR SUCCESS
Although they work just fine, your old washer and dryer may actually be costing you more money in energy bills. However, don't rush and buy appliances unless your home is properly wired. Older homes often have outdated or partially upgraded electrical systems that are not wired for energy efficient appliances. Make sure your plugs and electrical sockets are up to date by scheduling an Electrical Outlet Efficiency Test (EOET) with a licensed electrician. This is especially important for homes built between 1965 and 1995. EOET testing will prevent over heating, short-circuiting and fires.

2. UPDATE APPLIANCES
The laundry room needs three appliances, a washer, a dryer and an iron. Look for the Energy Star label on product models signifying they have the government's stamp of excellent energy efficiency. Remember, you don't need to spend a lot. Often the least expensive appliances get the job done just as well and are more efficient. Edison has teamed up with many stores like Sears, Home Depot and Lowe's offering rebates for purchasing energy efficient appliances. Check with your tax preparer, some purchases may be eligible for a tax credit.

3. USE COLD WATER
Always wash clothes in cold or warm water. Switching to cold water can save the average household at least $30-$40 a year and your clothes will be just as clean.

4. INVEST IN A TANKLESS HEATER
Replace your hot water heater with a tank less hot water heater. You get instant hot water without waste. It saves money and space.

5. LAY IT ALL ON THE LINE
Take advantage of the sun and heat by drying your laundry on a clothesline to keep the washroom cooler and save energy.

6. OPERATE AFTER DARK
Reserve using your washing machines and dryer until late evening, when temperatures are lower and there is less electricity demand.

7. LIGHT UP YOUR WORLD.
Perhaps the simplest thing to improve laundry room efficiency is to switch your light bulbs. Compact florescent bulbs (cfls) use a quarter of energy as a regular bulb and it will last 10 times longer than a regular bulb.

8. USE ECO FRIENDLY SUDS
Get green cleaners. They are available in most grocery stores or check out http://www.powerfulclean.com/