| Washing Clothes |
|
|
Advances in technology over the past 20 years, however, have succeeded in reducing the average water consumption to about 50 litres per wash - still quite a bit of water! Clothes washing now accounts for about 15 percent (2) of the water that we use on our homes, so by reducing wastage in this area we can make significant water savings. Washing machines vary tremendously in how much water they use per wash: when adjusted for capacity, some use as much as 20 litres per kilogram while others as little as 6 litres per kilogram! Therefore, when buying a new washing machine it is important to make sure that the model is water efficient. So if you are thinking about buying a new washing machine, you might want to refer to our rankings for some tips on identifying water efficient models. With any model, total water consumption will depend on how you use the machine. In order to minimise water and energy waste, follow these quick tips: Quick tips to reduce water wastage from clothes washing • When replacing your old washing machine, make sure to buy a water efficient model. See our rankings for guidance, and ask your local retailer for more info. • When using your washing machine, make sure to use a full load every time. Surveys have shown that a typical load of laundry is usually much less than the maximum capacity of the model, so make sure to stuff in a couple of shirts with your next load. If you need to do a wash but don't have a full load, use the half load feature on your machine. Remember, though, that some half loads will use almost as much water as a full load, and that two half loads will use more water and energy than one full load. If you're purchasing a new machine, choose a model with a capacity that is appropriate for your situation. If you live alone, you're most likely to not need a model that can wash 10kgs of clothing. • Familiarise yourself with your washing machine’s cycle options. Some settings provide the same cleaning power as a normal cycle, but with less water and energy. Check your user manual for water consumption information about the various cycles on your model, or contact the manufacturer. • Avoid pre-washing. Most modern washing machines and washing powders are so effective that you don’t have to pre-rinse! For more information Check out our At Home - Indoors section View our washing machine rankings References 1 – According to manufacturers’ historical information. 2 – The percentage attributed to clothes washing varies by source. Based on an amalgamation of information from water companies, WRc and UKWIR, Waterwise estimate that clothes washing accounts for about 14 percent of household water use. The Market Transformation Programme attributes 9 percent of domestic water use to washing machines.
|
