How to pick an energy efficient dishwasher

It's fair to say most of us are looking for ways to use less energy these days. No one likes waste and everybody wants lower bills. But did you know you can make this happen with an energy efficient dishwasher?

The more energy we use, the more carbon emissions we create in order to generate that energy. Also, getting the clean water we get in our pipes takes energy and time too. So wasting water can take its toll. Not good.

Of course, dishwashers use energy and water. That's unavoidable! But by picking the right dishwasher, you can do it more efficiently.

And there's another bonus too. An energy efficient dishwasher could save you money. Less water and energy mean less on your utility bill. So, here are a few questions to ask before you pick out a dishwasher.

Should I use a dishwasher or handwash?

This might surprise you, but using a dishwasher actually saves water. In fact. a newer energy certified dishwasher can as use as little as 3 gallons per load compared to a whopping 27 gallons for handwashing.

So put down the sponge and marigolds. It's time to stick those dishes in the machine, set. forget and come back to sparkling clean plates. All while feeling virtuous.

Does my dishwasher have an eco setting?

An eco mode or setting is a quick way to slash your energy and water use - often by 20- 40%!

Normally, a dishwasher will heat your water up to a high temperature to tackle grease and dirt- using up quite a bit of energy. But you don't always need such an intense wash. Most of the time our plates are only a bit dirty. Or we can soak and rinse them before adding them to the dishwasher. The eco setting lowers your wash and rinse temperatures while still tackling most grungy dishes. And it cuts down the amount of water used too.

Is my dishwasher the right size?

You might think a bigger machine would rack up the energy you use. Actually, investing in a bigger machine might be more sustainable.

Why? Because if you're running your dishwasher several times to keep up with all those dirty pots and pans, you're using way more energy than if you just ran a bigger dishwasher once.

On the flipside, don't get a machine that's bigger than your needs. A dishwasher is at its most energy efficient when it's at full capacity. So have a think about your family's size and lifestyle before you buy.

And now for some inspiration...

At Currys, we've put together a whole range of products than can help you save money. Why not check out some of the super efficient dishwashers we've picked?

Bosch Series 4 SMS4EM106G Full-size WiFi-enabled Dishwasher

• Home Connect opp lets you control this dishwasher from your phone.
• Energy rating: B helps you do much more cleaning with much less energy.
• Its eco-cycle helps you save even more.
• VarioFleH baskets means you can make the most of each cycle.

Hoover Hl6C4S1PTA-80 Full-size Fully Integrated WiFi-enabled Dishwasher

• The hOn opp lets you keep an eye on energy consumption from your phone.
• Natural drying system opens door at end of cycle to save energy on drying.
• Smart sensors and auto programs use just the right wash time and temperature for your load.
• Eco cycle helps you cut down energy use.

Hotpoint HFC 3C26 WC UK Full-size Dishwasher

Smart dishwashers for maximum efficiency

The problem with older dishwashers is that they involve a lot of guesswork. You were stuck with a few programs and not much choice. Smart dishwashers are equipped with advanced features like Ai sensors, automatic load detection and opp controls. These features can help you use just the right amount of water and energy, by adjusting the cycle based on how many dishes you're washing and even how dirty they are.

Some dishwashers can even detect when dishes are clean and automatically stop the cycle - so you save both water and energy. And time come to think of it!

Sustainable dishwasher habits to save even more

Even the most energy-efficient dishwasher can be made even more efficient with the right habits:

• Run full loads: Only run your dishwasher when it's fully loaded to maKimize water and energy use.
• Use the rieht detereent: Choose a detergent that works well at lower temperatures.
• Skip the pre-rinse: Most modern dishwashers are designed to handle lightly soiled dishes without pre-rinsing, which can save a significant amount of water.
• Air dry: Instead of using the heat-dry setting, open the dishwasher door after the cycle to let the dishes air dry.