When electricity bills climb, most Australians tend to blame air conditioning, heating, or lighting. But two of the biggest energy users often sit quietly in the laundry: the washing machine and the dryer. They’re essential for daily life, yet their energy consumption can add up quickly—especially in busy households. Here’s why these appliances are among the home’s hidden power guzzlers, and how you can cut their energy use without compromising on clean clothes.

Why Laundry Uses So Much Power

A modern washing machine typically uses between 0.5 and 1 kWh per load, depending on the program, temperature, and efficiency rating. That might not sound like much, but for a family doing several loads a week, it adds up to hundreds of kilowatt-hours a year.

The dryer, however, is the real culprit. It can use two to three times more electricity than the wash itself. That’s because drying requires heat, and generating heat is energy-intensive. Even energy-efficient heat pump dryers consume significantly more power than a washing cycle.

Small Changes That Make a Big Difference

You don’t need to overhaul your routine to save energy. A few simple habits can make a noticeable difference:

• Wash in cold water. In most Australian climates, cold water is perfectly adequate for cleaning everyday clothes. Heating water is one of the biggest energy drains in a wash cycle.
• Run full loads. A half-full machine uses nearly as much energy as a full one. Wait until you have enough laundry to fill the drum.
• Use eco or quick programs. These settings use less water and energy, even if they take a bit longer.
• Spin efficiently. A higher spin speed removes more water, reducing drying time.
• Line-dry whenever possible. Australia’s sunny weather is perfect for air drying. A clothesline or drying rack costs nothing to run and is gentler on fabrics.

Choose Energy-Efficient Models

When it’s time to replace your appliances, check the Energy Rating Label. Machines with more stars use less electricity and water. A modern heat pump dryer can use up to 50% less energy than a conventional vented model. While the upfront cost may be higher, the savings on your power bill can pay off within a few years—especially for large households.

Maintenance Matters

Even the most efficient machine will waste energy if it’s not properly maintained.

• Clean the lint filter in your dryer after every use. A clogged filter restricts airflow and lengthens drying time.
• Descale and clean your washing machine regularly to remove detergent and mineral build-up.
• Ensure good ventilation around your appliances to prevent overheating and improve performance.

These small maintenance steps can extend the life of your machines and keep them running efficiently.

Time Your Laundry

If you’re on a time-of-use electricity plan, running your washer and dryer during off-peak hours—often late at night or midday—can reduce your costs. Many modern machines have delay-start functions, allowing you to schedule cycles when electricity is cheaper and demand on the grid is lower.

A Greener Laundry Room

Saving energy isn’t just about lowering bills—it’s also about reducing your environmental footprint. Laundry can account for a significant share of a household’s carbon emissions. By washing in cold water, line-drying when possible, and choosing efficient appliances, you can make a real difference for both the planet and your wallet. In a country blessed with sunshine and fresh air, there’s no better place than Australia to make your laundry routine cleaner, greener, and more energy-smart.