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 Dishwashing
in the U.S. accounts for as much as 5% of total domestic water
consumption. This does not mean that dishwashers are water-wasters.
If you only run your dishwasher when it has a full load, you
won't use any more water than hand-washing, and will likely
use less.
If you want to save energy as well as water,
use the air-dry option instead of heated drying and don't
set the hot water tank temperature any higher than your appliances
require.
When selecting a new machine, choose a model
that is energy and water-efficient. Typical non-conserving
machines can use from 13 to 25 gallons of water per day. Today's
high efficiency models can effectively clean your dishes using
as little as 9 to 11 gallons.
Using the right cycle with your dishwasher
is as important as choosing a water-efficient model. Many
dishwashers have three or more cycle options from which to
choose. A regular cycle starts with a pre-wash, followed by
a main wash and then two rinse phases. Low-energy or water-conserving
cycles omit the pre-wash, saving about 4 gallons. Pot-scrubbing
cycles use water five times: pre-wash, rinse, main wash, rinse,
and rinse again. These cycles use about 3 gallons more than
a regular wash cycle; they use more energy as well.
When washing dishes by hand, wash
with sudsy water in one compartment of the sink, and rinse
with fresh water in the other. Do not let the tap run constantly!
If your sink has only one compartment, buy a 2-compartment
rubber divider!
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