Appliances


Washing Machines and Dryers

Energy efficient washing machines

When Buying:

Tips for Use:

  • Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible.
  • Wash and dry full loads.
  • Consider air-drying your clothes.
  • Avoid running the dryer longer than needed.
  • Use the cool-down cycle to allow the clothes to finish drying with the heat remaining in the dryer.
  • Clean the lint screen in your dryer after every load to improve air circulation and prevent fire hazards.

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Dishwashers

When Buying:Loaded energy efficient dishwasher

  • Energy efficient dishwashers use less than half as much energy as washing dishes by hand and save 8,000 gallons of water each year! Look for the ENERGY STAR label.
  • Choose the right size model for your home and usage.
  • Choose a dishwasher with several wash-cycle options.

Tips for Use:

  • Scrape off large food pieces instead of rinsing with water.
  • Be sure your dishwasher is full (but not overloaded) when you run it.
  • Let your dishes air dry if possible.

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Refrigerators

When Buying:energy efficient fridge with top mounted freezer

  • With improved insulation and compressors, modern energy efficient refrigerators use about 9% less energy than conventional fridges. Look for the ENERGY STAR label.
  • Purchase the appropriate sized fridge to reduce energy consumption.
  • Make sure to recycle your old fridge. Many appliance retailers will pick up and recycle your old refrigerator when you purchase a new one.

Tips for Use:

  • Keep your internal fridge temperature between 35-38°F and the freezer temp at 0°F.
  • Keep your fridge full to consume less energy. Air has a low thermal mass, so it easily heats up when the fridge door is open. If you cannot keep your fridge full using groceries, use gallon jugs of water inside to fill the empty space.
  • Always minimize the time your fridge/freezer doors are open.
  • Place your fridge in a cool place away from heat sources like the oven. 
  • Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight.
  • Regularly defrost your manual-defrost freezers and refrigerators to prevent frost buildup that decreases the energy efficiency of the unit.

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Office of Sustainability
312-314 Corbett Hall
Orono, Maine 04469-5774
Tel: 207.581.1571
sustainability@maine.edu