Homeowners who are concerned about conserving resources and promoting sustainability often worry about the environmental effects of washing machines and dishwashers. It is possible, with a little forethought and care, to use these appliances in ways that not only help to conserve energy and resources but also help to avoid the appliance failures that can lead to floods in the laundry room or kitchen and claims on your California home insurance policy.
When replacing a dishwasher or washing machine, look for machines with high EnergyStar ratings; they are more energy efficient (and easier on the pocket) than machines with lower ratings. Regularly inspect the hoses and connections of these appliances, and replace hoses if you see signs of damage or wear.
There are many ways of using your appliances responsibly so that their environmental impact is minimized.
- Completely fill the dishwasher or washing machine before starting a cycle.
- Scrape food off dishes, but don’t rinse them before loading them into the dishwasher.
- Keep filters, water dispensers and detergent dispensers and clean.
- Make use of the quick washing machine or dishwasher cycle.
- Let dishes air dry with the dishwasher door open rather than using the heated dry option.
- Use environmentally friendly detergents.
Shop around when you are replacing dishwashers and washing machines and consider choosing energy efficient models. Take care of your appliances to prolong their lives and help avoid appliance failures that could lead to water damage claims on your California homeowners insurance. By choosing and using appliances with sustainability and conservation in mind you can reduce the environmental impact of your household, and you might save on the cost of utilities too.
Image Courtesy of GreenStrides.com
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