Who wants to do the washing up?  No one!  That’s why many of us have a dishwasher. The only drawback is that your dishwasher can chew through your power bill. Stop doing the washing up and turn on your dishwasher whenever you want with our know-how energy usage dishwasher guide so you’re not left at the sink!  

Reduce your dishwashers energy use

Washing by hand although ‘free’ uses far more water than a dishwasher does.  Your sink takes 20-25 litres of water whereas a standard dishwasher only uses 13 litres. Not to mention the hard work of hand washing! So you’re better off using the dishwasher - the only drawback is that your dishwasher can chew through your power bill. 

What does a dishwasher cost to run?

*At an electricity usage rate of 28.7c/kWh and cold water, fast cycle (above figures are electricity only, add 3 cents per load for water)

Who washes the washer?

Did you know a dishwasher needs cleaning, regular servicing and maintenance to perform properly every time? Your dishwasher will work much harder and use more energy if it’s not maintained - further increasing your electricity bills.  It also means dirty dishes and a shorter lifespan for your dishwasher.

Follow these handy tips to maintain your dishwasher:

• Clean your filter or cavity  - When was the last time you cleaned your filter or cavity or used a dishwasher cleaner?  German dishwasher giant Miele recommends you use a dishwasher cleaner up to three times a year based on regular cycles once a day (seven days a week).
• Scrape away scraps - Don’t waste water pre rinsing your dishes but make sure you scrape off all food – scraps can clog your filter.
• Don’t over stack your dishwasher, two loads are better than one. Your dishwasher won’t clean your dishes properly if they are overflowing. Dishwashers are programmed to clean a number of place settings and more than recommended means dirty plates and cups.

Buying a new dishwasher?  Here’s what to look for:

• Energy efficiency rating – the more stars the better!  The energy rating label will arm you with all the information you need to help you choose a more energy efficient dishwasher which is cost effective to run and will result in a lower electricity bill
• Varied wash cycles - means you can do a half-load or an eco-load, allowing you more choice and control
• Delayed start – lets you set and forget!  Much like a timer function, you can set it to start at a specific time.  (Like in the middle of the night when electricity rates are cheaper)
• Capacity – how much your dishwasher will hold.  A dishwasher's capacity is measured by place settings.  A typical place setting is two plates (one side and one main), a cup, a bowl and cutlery set per person.  Look at how many people there are in your household and maybe add two for when you have guests

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