Summer is almost here, so it’s time to crank up the AC, fill up the pool, and shower more frequently. Unfortunately, keeping your house cool comes at a cost, which you’ll eventually see in your energy and water bills. Your air conditioner isn’t the only culprit behind your household’s energy usage. Certain appliances require more energy to run no matter the time of year, including your dishwasher. If you want to stay cool this summer without harming the environment or your wallet, here are some ways you can adjust your dishwashing routine to conserve water and energy.

1. Wait Until the Dishwasher Is Full

To account for the energy expenditure of using your dishwasher, you should only turn it on when it’s fully loaded. Additionally, load dishes strategically to ensure proper water circulation. Each cycle consumes roughly the same amount of energy and water, regardless of the number of dishes inside. By waiting until the dishwasher is packed to the brim before hitting start, you’ll make the most out of every wash cycle and minimize wasted energy during the busy summer season.

2. Reduce Water Temperature

Did you know that the temperature of your dishwasher’s water can significantly impact its energy consumption? Many dishwashers default to high-temperature wash cycles, but the water in your pipes will be warmer than usual during the summer. By keeping it on the default, high-heat setting, your dishwasher could potentially be wasting energy heating water that’s already hot. To cut back on energy consumption, try lowering the temperature by 5-10 degrees.

3. Scrape Without Rinsing

Contrary to popular belief, modern dishwashers are more than capable of handling lightly soiled dishes without the need for a thorough pre-rinse. Instead, simply scrape off excess food scraps before loading your dishes into the dishwasher. Not only does this save water, but it also reduces the energy required to heat up unnecessary water for rinsing.

4. Air-Dry Dishes

Instead of using the dishwasher’s heated drying cycle, you can air-dry them for free. It may take a little longer for your dishes to dry using this route, but the energy savings will allow you to run your dishwasher without any guilt. Simply open the dishwasher door after the final rinse cycle, and then let the warm summer air do the rest. Not only will you save energy, but you’ll also avoid the potential risk of melting plastic items during the heated drying process.

Call in the Experts

As summer approaches, it’s essential to be mindful of your home’s energy usage and find ways to reduce your environmental footprint. For more information about how you can maximize your dishwasher’s efficiency, reach out to a trusted expert. Contact CAM Appliance Repair in Palm Bay, FL for service for your dishwashers.