Replacing Your Dish Washer with One That's More Energy Efficient


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Energy Efficient Dish Washers

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You can reduce your electric bill and help the environment by replacing your dish washer with a more efficient one.

One of the most efficient models is made by Asko in Sweden. Their D3450 uses only 181 kWh/year, according to the EPA. Some dishwashers use as much as 531 kWh/year. All Asko models are ENERGY STAR rated. It sells for about $1,100. Asko is available through Bray and Scarff.

If you don't want to spend that much, you can still get an ENERGY STAR rated dishwasher at a reasonable price. Many of the larger name brands have ENERGY STAR rated dishwashers models that use between 350 to 375 kWh/year. This is still a pretty good rating.

The GE Spacemaker® 18" Built-In Dishwasher (Model#: GSM1800JWW) is a little more efficient than the majority of the big name ENERGY STAR rated machines. It's rated at 293 kWh/year. It sells for about $559.00.

Be sure to look for the EPA's ENERGY STAR logo on machines.

In addition the EPA offers this advice to save energy even if you don't have a newer, energy efficient model:

Avoid using the heat-dry, rinse-hold and pre-rinse features. Instead use your dishwasher's air-dry option. If your dishwasher does not have an air-dry option, prop the door open after the final rinse to dry the dishes.

Since most newer dishwashers can heat the water, your may be able to lower the temperature on your water heater. Usually, 120 degrees is recommended.