Saving Energy when using a dishwashers

There are some simple things you can do to save energy when using a dishwashers:

Run the dishwasher only when it's full.
Don't rinse dishes in hot running water before you put them in the dishwasher - most dishwashers can cope with scaped dishes that are not rinsed at all. If you have to rinse (ie to remove milk that will be left for some time prior to washing), use cold water.
Load according to the manufacturer's instructions; clean and maintain the dishwasher as recommended (clean the filter regularly for instance).
Use the most economical program that gives you a satisfactory wash result - with the lowest temperature or shortest running time.
Use economy drying options if available, or try eliminating power drying altogether (many machines have this setting). If your machine allows it, open the door after the final rinse cycle is completed to assist with air drying while the load is still hot.

Using your dishwasher overnight will only save money if you have a residential time-of-use tariff. See your local electricity supplier for details. If you have a hot water connection to your dishwasher and off peak electric hot water, there may be some cost advantage to running the dishwasher overnight.

This page last modified 27 June 2007