There isn’t a person in the country who wants to spend more time doing laundry, a chore that consumes up to 10 per cent of the energy consumption in residential households. That’s before you deal with the clutter of drying racks, garments on radiators and the endless pairing of socks.
Tom Daly is Currys Ireland laundry expert and category manager for home appliances. While he can’t help with finding the comrades of missing socks he can steer you towards the smartest appliances to buy for your household’s needs and to help dial down energy consumption. He says that older washing machines and tumble dryers are more energy draining and cost more to run in the long term when compared to newer models and believes that a few judicious upgrades will save you money on electricity bills.
“Technology in washing machines and dryers has really evolved over the last decade; optimising your wash, cutting down on energy consumption, saving on money and water usage and making your machine and clothes last longer. The introduction of smart features and eco-friendly settings has really helped enhance energy-efficiency in laundry appliances.”
Currys innovative Go Greener campaign helps customers make greener choices. Daly heads up the team that can talk you through the merits of newer appliances from washing at lower temperatures, to using less water while still delivering brilliant results. Less energy used also means lower electricity bills.
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People do want greener appliances now, he says. Increased coverage about how we are going to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint and the rising costs of electricity bills has all combined for us to range more eco-friendly appliances and give consumers greater choice in this space.
The introduction of a new energy label rating system in 2021 has simplified shopping too. Most domestic appliances are now rated from A to G with A-rated machines being the most energy efficient. When in store or online Currys customers can make use of an independent tool called Youreko to determine which appliances will give the most savings for the budget that you have.
Where to start?
Start by reviewing the models that you have, Daly says. He suggests asking questions such as; ‘is it a brand that you like?’ and ‘What are the benefits that appeal?’
“If you do really like a brand, there might be smart features in newer models to help you save in the long run,” he says.
Have a budget in mind, he counsels, but advises not to chase a deal on price point alone.
“You also need to research all its energy aspects so that long-term this appliance is going to give you the best experience ,” he says.
One of Currys many eco-friendly supports is that it will not only deliver your new appliance and install it, the delivery team will also take away your old appliance and recycle it for you.
Capacity for busy families
When it comes to saving money Daly says the increase in capacity in washing machine design has been a real game changer for families.
“The top brands are striving to get A-ratings for their appliances with options like quick wash programmes; full load options and larger capacity drum size now all widely available. It means less washes and, in the long run, the benefits and savings are massive.”
What are some new eco features worth noting in washing machines?
Samsung’s ecobubble technology is notable, Daly says. Using a mix of air, water and detergent it lifts dirt and cleans your clothes at lower temperatures.
The south Korean brand also has an auto dose feature that uses the exact amount of detergent required for each load reducing wastage.
German brand Bosch’s active water plus facility uses the precise amount of water needed for each wash. “This can actually save up to 50 per cent of water on smaller loads,” Daly explains.
Another south Korean brand LG’s turbo wash technology cuts wash time to just 39 minutes per half load while retaining the same quality and care – ideal for busy and sporty households.
The fibercatcher feature in German brand Grundig models is a clever technology that catches up to 90 per cent of plastic microfibers during the wash cycle. This capture prevents the fibres entering the water system and protect marine ecosystems from pollution, he explains.
Tumble dryers that won’t cost the earth
In Samsung models there is an optimal-dry technology that uses moisture and temperature sensors to stop the cycle and prevent over-drying. The auto dry feature on Bosch models offers similar benefits.
For long-term savings consider heat pump technology models, Daly counsels. These models might seem more expensive than condenser-based dryers but can use up to 40 per cent less energy and don’t require a vent to install.
“Essentially, they recycle hot air that normally gets lost during the drying process, using it to keep drying your clothes. This approach is kinder to the environment and helps to reduce energy bills as well,” he explains.
Washer dryers – perfect for those living in small spaces – also form part of Curry’s Go Green campaign. While in general these use more energy, there are energy efficient models available such as Haier, he says.
How can we optimise our appliance usage?
Keep it short and sweet, Daly says. “It’s not always necessary to select a long cycle. Choose a short programme for a slightly soiled load. By opting for a 30-degree cycle you will use up to 40 per cent less energy. Use high temperatures above 40 degrees only for things like towels, bed linen and underwear. And wait for a full load, otherwise you’re wasting water and literally throwing money down the drain.”
Overfilling a washing machine can also cause complications, he explains. “You will have uneven distribution so water detergent may not be evenly distributed across the wash]. It can cause drum damage as well.”
Pre-soaking particularly tough stains or very dirty clothing in water remains a great way to save energy instead of repeat washing the garments.
Don’t put soaking wet clothing into the tumble dryer, keep the filters clean, and dry similar fabrics together, he says.
By talking to Currys’ highly-informed team you will get the right advice for the way you want to wash and dry clothes. “That’s exactly what we’re here for,” Daly says.
Click here to find out more about the laundry appliances on offer under Currys Go Greener campaign