6 tips to save energy with the dishwasher

With the following tips, you can clean your dishes as energy-efficiently as possible:

• Tip 1. use the Eco mode
• Tip 2. start a full dishwasher
• Tip 3. don't pre-rinse the dishes
• Tip 4. turn off your dishwasher after use
• Tip 5. use the off-peak times
• Tip 6. clean your dishwasher regularly

The Eco mode uses a longer dishwasher cycle. During this cycle, the dishwasher uses less warm water and less energy. Your dishes also stay covered in soap for longer. In comparison to a regular cycle, you use 30% less energy and 25% of the water on average. For pans with caked-on rests, it's better to use the automatic cycle. The sensors measure how filthy the dishes are and adjust the cycle accordingly.

You can save many dishwasher cycles if you wait till the dishwasher is completely full. Loading it properly also contributes to this. For example, use the flaps in the upper tray for small coffee cups or small bowls. Or wash a large pan by hand, so you can save room. Don't stack cups or bowls, because the dishwasher won't be able to reach the dishes properly.

Pre-rinsing dishes causes you to use warm water, so more energy. You can save almost 20% energy by not pre-rinsing your dishes. Just wipe the food rests into the trash can. Do you have dishes with stubborn and caked-on food rests? Let them soak in cold water before putting them in the dishwasher.

Newer models automatically turn off after a cycle. Do you have an old dishwasher that goes into standby mode? Turn it off afterwards. It won't save you tons of energy costs, but every little bit helps.

Another small tip that helps for your energy bill, is to turn on the dishwasher during off-peak times. You can benefit from a lower electricity rate. So wait some time before you turn on the dishwasher, for example until you go to bed. Often, dishwasher have a start delay function. You can use this to delay the start of the cycle up to 24 hours with a number of buttons.

You can keep your dishwasher as energy-efficient as possible by maintaining it properly. If your Eco mode doesn't clean properly anymore, it means your dishwasher is dirty. Clean the tub and the door seal with a cloth on a regular basis. Empty the filter and carefully clean it under the faucet. You can find the filter in the bottom of the dishwasher. Switch between Eco mode and a hot cycle, so caked-on dirt washes away.

Do you want to save more energy? You can easily save energy with multiple household appliances with our tips. For example, lower your heating with 1°C. This way, you save a lot on gas prices and your energy costs stay below the price cap. We're happy to help you with more tips.