Thrifty Thursday Tip for Cleaning and Energy Efficiency

Cleaning and Energy Efficiency:

Make sure you use a dishwasher cleaner like Dishwasher Magic or other dishwasher cleaner.  These clean all the hard water out of the inside the pipes.  This helps the machine work more energy efficiently which saves water and electricity.  According to the Dishwasher Magic website, "A common myth is that your dishwasher cleans itself during the wash cycle. This simply isn't the case. Over time, hard water deposits, rust and food can build up inside your dishwasher, reducing its performance."  They have some helpful hints on their website on how to use your dishwasher more efficiently like running the hot water before starting the machine and use the garbage disposal to clean the lines.  The recommendation on cleaning the dishwasher is every 6 months (unless you read the package and it says every few months) but it really depends on the water in your area.

Cleaning your washing machine is also important.  The first reason is to make sure to keep the appliance clean that cleans all your clothes but it also saves water and electricity.  The idea that is cleans out inside of the machine the same way that the dishwasher cleaner works by removing all the hard water.  There are some helpful hints on the Washer Magic site.  There are many products out to clean and they all have different claims.  I tried the Affresh cleaner but it was a solid tablet so next time I am going to try a liquid like Washer Magic.  I highly recommend finding something that works best for you and your washer.  The washer should be cleaned every 6 months or more if you have hard water.  Helpful hint:  If you have a front loading HE washer, leave the door open between washes so that it doesn't mold in the seal.

Don't forget to clean out your clothes dryer!  Use a vacuum to clean out the area around the lint trap and clean the dryer hose (out the back of the dryer).  Blocked vents cause the dryer to use more energy and take longer to dry clothes.  This also shortens the life of the equipment and may be a fire hazard.  In order to keep your house and equipment safe, make sure you clean out everything once a year.

Who ever thought that just cleaning a few appliances could save money?!  We now do all of the above cleaning because who doesn't want a cleaner appliance meant to clean our dishes and clothes!!!  The added bonus of being green too :)  Hope that this helps and you clean your appliances.