How can I use my dryer more efficiently?

Posted On April 10, 2015
In Energy | Energy Conservation

Dryers use a lot of residential electricity so Mr. Green of the Sierra Club addressed this question.

The most energy efficient way to dry your clothes is to use the energy from the sun and hang your clothes to dry.  For those that want to use a dryer, there are now Energy Star-certified models that use 20 percent less energy than the older models.  Mr. Green also includes tips for using any dryer more efficiently including:

1. Do full loads but don’t overload.

2. Dry 2 or more loads in a row to take advantage of the dryer’s retained heat

3. Use lower heat for a longer time, instead of higher heat for a shorter time.

4. Separate clothes and dry similar kinds together. (Lightweight synthetics dry much faster than bath towels and natural-fiber clothes.)

For a complete list of Mr. Green’s tips as well as a list of the Energy Star-certified dryers, click here

 

Related Posts

Clean-Burning Fireplaces

Clean-Burning Fireplaces

Dec 18, 2022 | , ,

You’re right to worry about the air pollution and energy waste caused by conventional indoor fireplaces. (An open fireplace can draw as much as 300 cubic feet of heated room air up the chimney every minute.) But good options exist!
Wood burning fireplace inserts are energy-efficient, cause far less air pollution and reduce the amount of wood needed. These attractive inserts also let you enjoy your fireplace more knowing you are doing less harm to the environment. (Hint: an insert would make a great family holiday gift!)
Learn more about wood burning fireplace inserts from a local business that installs them here. Popular brands include Lopi, Regency and Vermont Castings. Other fireplace options are explained here.
Start planning now as there is high demand and some supply chain related delays.
Wilmette Adds Community Solar Program

Wilmette Adds Community Solar Program

Feb 23, 2022 | , ,

Registration for the Community Solar Clearinghouse Solution Program (CS² Program) Now Available for Residents!

Following the Village Board’s endorsement of the Community Solar Clearinghouse Solution Program (CS² Program) at their December 14, 2021 meeting, residents can now start to enroll their residential and small commercial energy accounts into the Community Solar program! Click here to view applicable agenda materials from the 12/14/21 Village Board packet.

Most residents have received a direct mailer postcard from MC Squared Energy Services with program information, Click here to view the postcard.

For a program overview and more information on program benefits and registration, visit our Community Solar webpage!

Note: If you are already a Clearway Community Solar subscriber, there is no need to switch programs. The environmental benefits and 20% energy cost discount is the same for both programs.

I’d like to reduce my home’s energy use but I’m not sure how to start. Any advice?

I’d like to reduce my home’s energy use but I’m not sure how to start. Any advice?

Feb 4, 2022 | ,

Every month when you pay your electric bill, you pay for a ComEd energy-efficiency program that is free for all but that few take advantage of. Find out how you can have a (fully-masked) ComEd energy-efficiency advisor tour your house and advise you. (If you prefer, you can arrange for a virtual tour.) ComEd will also leave you with, or send you, free energy-saving products like LED bulbs. They will also advise you on natural gas efficiency issues.
Find out more about this energy and money saving program here and let us know how it goes!