Save Energy and Cut Your Annual Electricity Bill by Using Your Washing Machine Smarter

Washing machines consume a significant amount of energy and can noticeably increase your yearly electricity bill. Fortunately, there are several simple yet effective ways to reduce this cost without sacrificing cleaning performance.

Most households use their washing machine multiple times a week, making it one of the most energy-hungry appliances at home. One lesser-known trick, however, can help reduce energy usage dramatically—a setting many people overlook: the temperature control button. Although its location varies by model, this button is extremely easy to find and can make a big difference in your electricity consumption.

Recently, Beth, a mother of two living in the UK, shared a money-saving laundry tip on social media that quickly gained attention. She revealed that most washing machines are pre-programmed to wash at 40°C, a temperature that requires much more energy than a cold-wash cycle. Many people simply toss their clothes in and hit “Start” without adjusting it.

Beth recommends lowering the temperature setting to 20°C. According to her, switching from 40°C to 20°C can reduce the machine’s operating cost by up to 62%. This is because the machine uses far less electricity when it doesn’t need to heat the water.

Manufacturers also confirm this: “Lowering the temperature reduces energy consumption since the machine does not have to heat the water as much.” Modern detergents are designed to clean effectively at low temperatures, making cold washes just as efficient for everyday laundry.

Cleaning specialists agree that 20°C is sufficient for most types of clothing. They emphasize that normal wash cycles consume more energy than necessary, and choosing cold water can drastically cut electricity usage. Shifting from a 40°C cycle to a 20°C cycle can save around 62%, depending on your washing habits.

Additionally, cold-water washing is more environmentally friendly and helps prevent shrinkage, fading, and fabric damage. If your machine allows it, you can even disable the water-heating function entirely to maximize savings.

However, some items still require hot water for hygiene reasons—such as children’s clothing, bedding, towels, and garments used by people with sensitive skin or allergies. In these cases, a hot wash ensures bacteria are fully eliminated.

Other Ways to Save Water and Electricity When Using a Washing Machine

1. Choose the Right Water Level

Most washing machines offer at least three water-level settings.

• Use a low water level for small loads.

• Use just enough water—not too much—for medium or large loads.

Selecting the appropriate level saves water and shortens washing time, which also reduces electricity usage.

2. Select the Proper Wash Cycle

For small loads, choose a light or quick cycle with minimal water.
For larger or heavier items, select a standard cycle that matches the load size.

Avoid overly long cycles unless necessary. However, for bulky items such as blankets, duvets, and mattress covers, a stronger, longer cycle is essential to ensure proper cleaning.

3. Use Detergent Designed for Washing Machines

Specialized machine detergents not only protect the machine but also clean clothes more effectively. They dissolve better, create less residue, and enhance cleaning performance even at low temperatures.

Use the recommended amount—both under- and over-using detergent can reduce washing efficiency and waste energy.

4. Adjust the Spin Speed Wisely

Many machines automatically select a spin speed based on the chosen program, but you can customize it:

• For bedding, blankets, and thick fabrics → choose extra-dry/high spin to reduce dryer time.

• For delicate or thin fabrics → use a low spin speed to protect the material.

5. Avoid Washing Too Little or Too Much at Once

Every machine has a recommended load capacity.

• Washing too little wastes water and electricity.

• Overloading strains the motor, reduces cleaning efficiency, and shortens the machine’s lifespan.

If you have too few clothes, wait another day or two. If you have too many, divide them into 2–3 loads for optimal performance.

6. Choose an Energy-Efficient Washing Machine

Modern washing machines feature advanced technologies such as:

• Inverter motors for stable, low-energy operation

• Soil detection sensors that adjust water and energy use automatically

• Eco-wash programs designed to reduce electricity consumption

Investing in an energy-saving model can significantly reduce long-term utility costs.

7. Unplug the Machine When Not in Use

Many households leave the washing machine plugged in all the time. This habit can:

• Waste electricity through standby power

• Reduce the machine’s lifespan

• Increase the risk of electrical faults or fire hazards

Unplug the machine after every use to ensure safety and energy efficiency.