Now I’ve always assumed that modern luxury appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and massage chairs were as a rule bad for the environment and labor-saving rather than energy-saving.
Apparently not so, according to this article at treehugger.com. It states that a University of Bonn study found electric dishwashers use “half the energy, one-sixth of the water, and less soap” than doing the dishes by hand.
So unless you’re Speedy Gonzales with a sponge and dishtowel and don’t mind dishpan hands, it’s better to use the machine.
Here are some money, hand, and energy-saving tips pilfered and condensed from the Discovery Channel’s Planet Green website. I suggest you click on the link and check out the entire, very helpful article.
- Make sure your dishwasher is full before turning it on.
- Choose an efficient Energy Star dishwasher.
- Use an eco-friendly washing powder or liquid.
- Don’t use the pre-rinse cycle.
- Use the low heat setting.
- Don’t use the drying cycle: after your dishes are washed, just open the door to let them air dry.
- Buy the right size model for your household: small for singles, larger for families.
- Use fewer dishes: fewer glasses and fewer dishes = fewer washes.
- Wash during off-peak electricity times (if they exist in your area).
