Clean the lint filter in the clothes dryer after every load to improve air circulation. Remember to regularly clean the lint from vent hoods, too.
Lint Removal
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Appliances
Dishwasher Efficiency
Remember that dishwashers use less water than washing dishes by hand, about 6 gallons less per load; dishwashers also use hotter water than you would use if you were washing the dishes by hand, so they can do a better job of killing germs.
Heat vs. Air-Drying
Look for a dishwasher that allows you to choose between heat-drying and air-drying. Heath-drying elements draw considerable electricity; circulation fans for air-drying use very little.
Clean Burners
Keep range-top burners and reflectors clean; they will reflect the heat better, and you will save energy.
Freezing Efficiently
To avoid rasing the temperature of a freezer, freeze no more than one-tenth of the appliance’s capacity of food at one time. Also, be sure to cool foods brefore storing in the freezer. To cool hot food quickly, sit the base of the container in a sink half-filled with cold water.
Pro-Rated Warranties
A pro-rated warranty reduces the amount of reimbursement according to the length of time the item has been in service.
Dryer Exhaust
Check the outside clothes dryer exhaust vent periodically. If it doesn’t close tightly, replace it with one that does to keep the outside air from leaking in. This will reduce heating and cooling bills.
Refrigerator Choices
Refrigerators with the freezer on top are more efficient than those with freezers on the side.
Home Warranties
Home warranties offer you protection for a specific period of time (e.g., one year) against potentially costly problems, like unexpected repairs on appliances or home systems, which are not covered by homeowner’s insurance. Warranties are becoming more popular because they offer protection during the time immediately following the purchase of a home, a time when many people find themselves cash-strapped.
Small Appliance Savings
Use small electric pans or toaster ovens for small meals rather than your large stove or oven. A toaster oven uses a third to half as much energy as a full-sized oven.
