Tips for Efficient Washing Machine Use  

Washing machines are one of the most used appliances in our homes, essential for keeping clothes clean and fresh. However, they can also be expensive to run, as significant amounts of energy and water are used during each cycle, which may lead to costly utility bills.

The good news is there are plenty of ways to save money when doing your laundry. Read on and discover money-saving tips and learn what to look for when shopping for a new, energy-efficient washing machine.

Shopping for an energy-efficient machine

Energy-efficient washing machines have many advantages. They can save you money in the long run, as they consume less energy and water. They’re often built with higher-quality components that are more durable, which can help reduce repair costs and prolong their lifespan.

Additionally, energy-efficient machines are better for the environment. By using less water and energy, they help to lower your carbon footprint – helping you do your bit for the planet.

  • What makes a washing machine energy efficient?

    Several factors make up a washing machine’s energy efficiency, including:

    • Water usage: The less water a machine uses per cycle, the more energy efficient it is.
    • Inverter motors: Washing machines with inverter motors are more energy-efficient than those with traditional motors. Inverter motors use magnets to spin the drum, ensuring there’s less friction and reducing the amount of energy used.
    • ProSense: Modern AEG machines include load-sensing technology (ProSense) that makes adjustments to water level and cycle duration based on the size of the load, ensuring only the necessary amount of water and energy is used.
    • Programme settings: Many machines now come with energy-efficient programme settings designed to optimise water and energy use. Programmes include Eco Wash, which uses lower temperatures, and Quick Wash, where you can wash small loads for a shorter time.

    The easiest way to check a washing machine’s energy efficiency is by looking at its Energy Label.

  • Energy Labels explained

    You’ll find an Energy Label attached to every washing machine and tumble dryer. They tell you how energy efficient the appliance is, with ratings displayed on an energy efficiency class scale ranging from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).

     

    You’ll also find plenty of other information on an Energy Label, including:

    • Energy consumption in kWh (per 100 cycles)
    • Maximum load capacity
    • Eco 40-60 program duration
    • Water usage in litres (per cycle)
    • Spin efficiency
    • Noise level (during a spin cycle)

     

Opt for shorter cycles  

If your clothes contain no major stains, you should always choose a shorter cycle. Short cycles typically use less water and energy, which may help to save money on your utility bills.

Opting for a lower temperature

Opting for a lower temperature cycle for most of your laundry can effectively clean your clothes without using as much energy.

Garments that haven’t been worn for long or have been pre-treated for stains can be washed in cold water. You should also always select a cold-water cycle when washing your jeans or other denim clothing to avoid colour fading and shrinking.

When you wash your clothes at a lower temperature, the washing machine doesn’t need to use energy to heat the water, which can save money on your energy bills.

What temperatures should you use for different clothes

Selecting the right temperature for washing various clothing items is essential for effective cleaning. Here are some of the specific temperature cycles you may need to know about:

  1. Whites: Maintain the brightness of white garments and effectively remove stains and discolouration by choosing a hot water cycle (up to 60°C).
  2. Bed linen: Given the quick build-up of bacteria and germs on your bed sheets, a 60°C cycle is recommended to ensure they’re thoroughly cleaned. However, a 40°C cycle will suffice.
  3. Towels: Eliminate germs and maintain the quality of your towels by washing them on a 40°C cycle.
  4. Underwear: Washing underwear in hot water is essential as it accumulates bacteria. Temperatures between 40°C and 60°C ensure your underwear is fully cleaned and sanitised.

You’ll also need to wash clothes at a higher temperature if they’re heavily stained.

Only wash with full loads

It’s much cheaper to wait until you can wash a full load. Your washing machine uses the same amount of energy, whatever the load size, so half a load will cost just as much to run as a full load  

  • Does washing your clothes at night save costs and energy?

    Whether using your washing machine overnight is cheaper depends on your electricity tariff. Some utility companies offer lower rates during off-peak hours, like overnight, which can make it more economical for you to wash your clothes during those times. It’s worth checking with your utility provider to see if they offer any off-peak prices.

    You should also consider whether running the machine overnight will disturb household members’ sleep or cause inconvenience, such as needing to stay awake to operate the machine.

    Many AEG washing machines include a delay start option, enabling you to schedule wash cycles for off-peak times without needing to be present. This handy feature lets you take advantage of lower electricity rates while avoiding overnight disturbances.

  • Keeping up with washing machine maintenance

    Keeping on top of your washing machine maintenance is a great way of saving money in the long run. Here’s how:

    • Enhanced efficiency: Cleaning parts like the lint filter, detergent drawer and drum will increase your washing machine’s efficiency and help the machine run smoothly and use less energy. This means less spending on utility bills.
    • Identifying issues early: If you can identify minor problems and fix them before they become more significant, you won’t have to fork out for costly repairs.
    • Prolong lifespan: By keeping key components well-maintained and minimising wear and tear, you can delay the need for a replacement and avoid shelling out for a new machine prematurely.
    • Protecting clothes: Your washing machine is less likely to damage your clothes when well-maintained. Keeping an eye on factors like the machine’s balance and mechanics helps protect your clothes from damage, ultimately saving you money on replacements.

    You can read more about how to maintain your washing machine’s longevity in our comprehensive guide, while our washing machine troubleshooting will help you with DIY fixes.

  • Use a high-speed spin

    Another wallet-friendly way of using your washing machine is regularly selecting high-speed spins. This approach ensures clothes leave the machine drier, as it extracts more water during the cycle. As a result, you reduce reliance on tumble dryers or energy consumption for air drying (such as putting the heating on or using dehumidifiers), ultimately trimming your energy bills.

    However, you should only choose higher spin cycles when necessary. Don’t put your delicates on a high-speed spin cycle, as it can damage them and lead to you spending money on replacements.

  • Tackle stains before washing

    It’s always worth tackling tough stains before tossing clothes into your washing machine. Pre-treating stains makes your washing machine’s job easier, reducing the likelihood of needing extra washes to remove the stain fully. By taking this approach, you streamline your laundry process and prevent the need for repeat washes, which can cost you more money.

Investing in your washing machine

If you’re looking to invest in a new washing machine, look no further than AEG, where you’ll find a range of energy-efficient machines.

All our washing machines include the ProSense feature, which automatically adjusts the time, water and energy consumption to match the load size, ensuring there’s no waste.

Explore our 8000 series, which includes the PowerCare feature. PowerCare premixes detergent and fabric conditioner before distributing it evenly on your clothes to ensure every fibre is cleaned. These machines also include the ÖKOPower programme, offering superior, energy-efficient cleaning at 30°C in less than an hour.

Meanwhile, our 9000 AbsoluteCare includes all of the above plus SoftWater Technology, which makes your clothes naturally softer and allows detergents to work at their best.