Run Full Loads

Quick Facts Affordability Cost Savings CO2 Reduction		Your dishwasher and laundry appliances use a lot of energy and water and contribute significantly to your utility bills. Doing fewer loads will greatly reduce your energy costs. For maximum savings and optimal performance, only run these appliances when they are fully loaded. Affordability Using your dishwasher or washing machine when fully loaded will save water and energy. Cost savings Running your appliances full reduces the number of loads, which saves water, energy, detergent and money. Health & comfort Using your dishwasher and laundry appliances less frequently can also decrease the noise and steam emitted when running these appliances. Environmental considerations Using your dishwasher and laundry appliances less frequently not only saves energy, time and money but also saves water and protects our regional water supply.

What you need to know

• Load dishes according to manufacturer’s instructions, but allow proper water circulation for adequate cleaning.
• Scrape dishes instead of rinsing before loading.
• The dishwasher uses the same amount of water whether it’s half-full or completely full. Storing dirty dishes in the dishwasher during the day and running it once in the evening will use less water and energy than washing small batches by hand throughout the day.
• Use energy-saving wash cycles. Most dishwashers have various wash cycles you can select. The energy-saving feature helps you use less water and save energy.
• Load the clothes washer to capacity when possible. Most people tend to under-load their washing machines. One large load of laundry will use less energy than two small or medium loads.
• Don’t use the heat-dry feature on your dishwasher. Most dishwashers have a built-in electric heating element that bakes dishes dry. The "no-heat" dry feature circulates room air through the dishwasher and uses less energy. If your dishwasher does not have a "no-heat dry" option, turn the dishwasher off after the final rinse and open the door to air dry.

FAQ

Should I rinse the dishes before loading?
No. Simply scrape off any food, empty liquids and let the dishwasher do the rest. 

What if I don’t have enough clothes for a full load?
If you must wash clothes with a less than full load, adjust the water level setting accordingly.