Laundry Tips from TrueNorth
?
About 90 percent of the energy used for washing clothes is for heating the water. To reduce the amount of energy needed for washing clothes, use less water and cooler water. Unless you're dealing with oily stains, the warm or cold water setting will generally do a good job on your clothes, and can cut a load's energy use in half.
Washing Tips
- Assign a bath towel to each member of the family and have him or her use it a minimum of two to three times a week, rather than using a new towel after every shower or bath.
- Divide heavy fabrics from lightweight ones, and wash them in separate cycles.
- Pre-soak heavily soiled clothing in the sink.
- Wash clothes in cold water using cold water detergents whenever possible, but if you must use hot or warm water, set the hot water heater at a temperature of no more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Wash full loads. If you must wash a small load, use the appropriate water-level setting.
Drying Tips
- Don't over-dry clothes. If the machine has a moisture-sensor, use it.
- Dry towels and heavier cottons in a separate load from lighter-weight clothes.
- Clean the lint filter after every load to improve air circulation and avoid a fire hazard.
- Dry full loads only.
- Use the cool-down cycle to allow the clothes to finish drying with the residual heat in the dryer.
- Periodically inspect your dryer vent to ensure it's not blocked. It is recommended that rigid venting material be used, not plastic vents that could collapse and cause blockages.
- Consider air-drying on clothes lines or drying racks. In fact, this method is recommended by clothing manufacturers for certain fabrics. Remember to read labels for proper washing and drying instructions.
For Long-Term Savings
- Look for the Energy Star® logo when purchasing a new washer. Energy Star is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. An Energy Star-qualified washing machine can save you up to $550 in lifetime energy costs compared to one that does not carry that label. These appliances use 50 percent less energy than standard washing machines (Energy Star does not label clothes dryers because most of them use similar amounts of energy.)
- When shopping for a new dryer, look for one with a moisture sensor that automatically shuts off the machine when clothes are dry.
Protection for your home and family.
We do much more than make sure your laundry day goes smoothly - although, you've very welcome.You can count on TrueNorth for all your home matters. Get your coverage through TrueNorth so you can rest assured that the things and people you love are protected and accounted for. Call us at 319-364-5193, and a personal insurance agent will gladly look over your plan. Find out more about our personal solutions and obtain a quote for home and auto insurance at www.iTrueNorth.com.