Dishwashers have made life easier for countless families across the U.S. and around the world. New technologies are making these appliances even more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. Upgrading to a newer dishwasher can potentially help you conserve water and save money on your utility bills each month. Consulting with a Houston residential plumber can often provide you with added guidance on the right dishwasher for your needs. Here are five of the most important ways to get the most from a new eco-friendly dishwashing unit for your Texas home.
ENERGY STAR Certification
The ENERGY STAR program is administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and has been helping consumers and businesses make energy-smart choices for more than two decades. Selecting a dishwasher that has been certified by ENERGY STAR can help you determine with greater accuracy the energy consumption expected from your new appliance and the likely cost of operation over the course of a typical year. ENERGY STAR dishwashers use less energy and include water conserving features that can provide real savings for homeowners and can reduce the environmental impact of this necessary daily activity.
Upgrading to Texas-Sized Efficiency
Larger dishwashers can actually be more efficient. By allowing more dishes to be cleaned at the same time, these appliances can provide greater flexibility and efficiency. Opting for a dishwashing unit that allows top or bottom only washing can provide many of the same advantages as a compact model while ensuring that larger loads can also be cleaned efficiently. Consulting your local Houston plumber can help you choose the right green friendly dishwasher for your family’s unique set of needs.
Heat Management in the Kitchen
Your dishwasher can produce a significant amount of heat when in use. By keeping it well away from ovens and refrigerators, you can prevent heat buildup in specific areas of your kitchen. This can also reduce the risk of overheating for refrigerators and dishwashers, extending their useful lives and saving you money on repair and replacement costs. Waiting until the evening hours to run your dishwasher can also reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system while cutting down on the cost of cooling your home during hot Houston summers. Delayed start features can allow your dishwasher to operate at the hours most convenient for you and your family.
Green-Friendly Dishwashing Detergents
Decreasing the amount of water needed to clean your dishes is just the first step in practicing conservation in your home. Choosing biodegradable dishwashing detergents can reduce the impact of these chemicals on sensitive environmental systems. Green-friendly detergents are safer for local wildlife and can break down naturally as water is returned to the environment. By reading labels and choosing proven biodegradable and nontoxic products, you can ensure that your dishwashing routine is as green-friendly as possible.
Air Drying
You can also reduce the workload of your home air conditioning system by allowing dishes to air dry naturally rather than using the high-heat drying features available on some dishwashing units. This process may take a little longer, but it is well worth it in terms of reduced energy consumption and improved comfort inside your kitchen. Green-friendly residue removers can provide added protection against unsightly water spots on glasses to provide you with the best possible results each and every time.
Companies that provide Houston water heater repair and other plumbing services can be a valuable source of information on energy-efficient dishwashers and other appliances. By working with these trained professionals, you can enjoy the advantages of green-friendly living while ensuring that your utility bills stay low even in the worst heat waves of Texas summers. Your local Houston plumbing company can provide you with recommendations for ENERGY STAR dishwashers and water heaters to save you money during every month of the year.