The most energy-efficient mode on a dishwasher is the eco or energy saver mode, which uses less water and electricity than the normal or heavy modes. This mode is designed to clean lightly soiled dishes with minimal environmental impact. However, it may not be suitable for heavily soiled dishes or for sanitizing purposes. In this article, we will explain how the eco mode works, how much energy and water it saves, and what are the pros and cons of using it.
The eco mode on a dishwasher works by reducing the temperature, duration, and pressure of the wash cycle. It also skips or shortens the drying cycle, which consumes a lot of energy. By doing so, it reduces the amount of water and electricity needed to clean the dishes. However, this also means that the dishes may not be as clean or dry as they would be in other modes.
The eco mode is usually indicated by a symbol of a leaf, a globe, or the word “eco” on the dishwasher’s control panel. Some dishwashers may have different names for this mode, such as “energy saver”, “light”, or “quick”. The exact settings and performance of the eco mode may vary depending on the brand and model of the dishwasher.
How much energy and water does the eco mode save?
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average dishwasher uses about 270 kWh of electricity and 1,600 gallons of water per year. The eco mode can reduce these numbers by up to 25%, depending on the dishwasher and the load. This means that using the eco mode can save about 67 kWh of electricity and 400 gallons of water per year, which translates to about $8 and $5 in annual savings, respectively. These savings may not seem significant, but they can add up over time and help reduce the environmental impact of dishwashing.
The eco mode has some advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before using it. Here are some of them:
Pros
It saves energy and water, which lowers the utility bills and the carbon footprint of the household.
It reduces the noise and heat generated by the dishwasher, which can improve the comfort and safety of the kitchen.
It preserves the quality and durability of the dishes, as high temperatures and pressures can cause damage or fading to some materials.
Cons
It may not clean or dry the dishes as well as other modes, especially if they are heavily soiled or greasy. This can lead to food residue, stains, or odors on the dishes, which can affect their hygiene and appearance.
It may not sanitize the dishes as effectively as other modes, as high temperatures are needed to kill bacteria and germs. This can be a concern for people with allergies, immune system problems, or infants.
It may take longer to complete the cycle than other modes, as lower temperatures and pressures require more time to achieve the same results. This can be inconvenient for people who need to use the dishwasher frequently or quickly.
Conclusion
The eco mode on a dishwasher is the most energy-efficient mode, as it uses less water and electricity than the normal or heavy modes. However, it may not be the best option for every situation, as it may compromise the cleanliness, dryness, and sanitation of the dishes. Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of using the eco mode and choose the mode that suits the needs and preferences of the user.
