• Washing a load of dishes in the dishwasher uses about 10 gallons of water. Washing the same amount of dishes by hand uses an average of 16 gallons. By using the dishwasher, you’re not only saving water, you’re also saving the money it costs to heat those extra six gallons.

• Rinsing dirty dishes before you load your dishwasher means you’re basically washing your dishes twice. Scraping food instead of rinsing should be sufficient for most dishwashers.

• Your dishwasher uses the same amount of water and electricity regardless of how many dishes are loaded. Always run a full load and the shortest cycle necessary to get them clean. 

Watch that Hot Dishwasher

• If you’re doing a remodel, you can save energy by thinking about energy efficient kitchen design.  For example, install your dishwasher away from your refrigerator. The heat from the dishwasher makes the fridge work harder. If you have to put them side-by-side, make sure to install foam insulation between them.

• Running your dishwasher generates heat, so running it at night during the summer and day during the winter can help save electricity while heating and cooling your home.

Dry Naturally

Cancel the drying cycle and allow the dishes to air dry. Depending on your model, this can save between 15-50 percent of the total energy your dishwasher uses.

*Source: Consumer Energy Center