All of our appliances in our homes, kitchens and laundries cost money to run. They use electricity and some, like the washing machine, use water as well. There are effective ways to save money while using your washing machine, without sacrificing the result.

1. Lighten the load

Teenagers have a bad reputation for throwing things into the washing pile when they are not dirty, in the hope that it will be an easier way of getting their clothing into the cupboard, as opposed to folding it up and putting it away themselves.

If everyone in a household made a concerted effort only to throw items that need washing in to the wash pile, you could find that you are doing significantly less loads of washing per week. And less loads of washing translates directly into savings for the household. Trying on a pair of jeans and then taking them off, does not constitute dirty.

2. Choose the Cold wash

You must think that this is a ridiculous option; I mean we were brought up to believe that you can’t clean anything without hot water. When you choose a heat cycle on your washing machine, is when it is costing you money. Yes the electricity is already being used, but your electricity bill climbs when the machine has to heat the water as well.

Most detergents on the market today, are able to clean your clothes effectively without the use of hot water. If you have really stubborn stains, use a pre wash. You will see an immediate difference after a few weeks in the electricity bill, by just selecting the cold wash and rinse cycle.

3. Buy an energy efficient washing machine

These days, our appliances don’t last as long as they did in previous generations. In the first instance when a machine fails, it is always best to contact a washing machine engineer to see if a repair is viable. There are plenty of cost effective repair services out there, have a look here for a washing machine repair specialist. If indeed a repair costs more than a new machine, or it will not considerably add to the life of the machine, the only option is replacement. With replacement, the best way to save long term is to buy an energy efficient appliance. There are so many energy efficient washing machines on the market today, and in various price ranges so there are plenty to choose from.

The machines with the most efficient energy ratings are going to be more expensive, but in the long run you will use less water, less electricity and less detergent, which will save you lots of money down the line on a day to day basis.

4. Choose the right setting on your machine

Washing machines have different selections for a reason, so it will pay you to use them. The washing needs of a few delicate items and a couple of pairs of jeans are decidedly different. Select the size of the load correctly, if your machine doesn’t do it for you. Select the type of material you are washing, delicates, blankets, cotton, wool etc. and the machine will adjust, and use only the amount of detergent and water that it needs to effectively complete the cycle.

If you use the proper settings on the machine each time, as well as integrate the other money saving tips, you will be able to save a substantial amount of money when using your washing machine.