Did you know that the laundry room is one of the highest water-using areas in the home, second only to the bathroom? Every load of laundry you wash presents an opportunity to make smart, water-saving choices. With just a few simple changes, you can help conserve thousands of gallons of water each year, saving money and protecting this vital resource for future generations.
Upgrade to High-Efficiency Appliances
If your washer is more than 10 years old, upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® certified washing machine can dramatically reduce your water use. New high-efficiency (HE) washers use about 25% less energy and 33% less water than standard models, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Use the Right Load Size Setting
If you can’t replace your washer just yet, you can still save water by adjusting how you do laundry.
- Always wash full loads when possible. Running your machine only when it’s full makes the most efficient use of water and energy.
- Select the proper load size if your washer allows. Choosing a smaller load setting uses less water for smaller batches of laundry.
Use High-Efficiency Detergent
High-efficiency machines are designed to work with low-sudsing, HE-labeled detergent. Regular detergent creates more suds, which causes HE washers to use extra rinse cycles, wasting water and energy.
- Always look for the HE symbol on detergent labels.
- Follow the dosing instructions carefully; more soap doesn’t mean cleaner clothes!
Fix Leaks and Maintain Your Appliances
Small leaks in hoses or connections waste hundreds of gallons each year.
- Inspect washing machine hoses regularly for signs of wear or leaks.
- Replace hoses every five years, or sooner if you notice cracks or bulging.
- Check faucet connections and tighten or replace as needed.
Little Habits for Big Water Savings
Looking for no-cost ways to start saving water right now? Try these easy adjustments:
- Skip the extra rinse cycle unless absolutely necessary.
- Pre-treat stains instead of washing clothes multiple times.
- Reuse lightly worn clothing when possible to reduce wash loads.
For more water-saving tips, visit EPA WaterSense.
By upgrading to water-efficient appliances, practicing mindful laundry habits, and maintaining your equipment, you can significantly cut down your water use in the laundry room. Start today, because every drop counts!
