The first mechanical dishwashing devices emerged in the US in the mid to late 19th century with the first reliable hand-powered dishwasher invented and unveiled by Josephine Cochrane at the 1893 Chicago world fair. Cochrane, who was very wealthy and didn’t wash dishes herself, invented it because she was reportedly fed up of her servants chipping her fine china while washing by hand.
The dishwashers we know today started appearing in homes from the 1970s onwards. They are one of the least common household appliances with only 40% of UK households owning a dishwasher compared with tumble dryers (57%) or microwaves (92%).
Whether or not you’re thinking about hanging up your rubber gloves or planning to recycle your old dishwasher and invest in a new one, here are some things to consider:
Look at the energy label
The current EU Energy Label for dishwashers ranges from A+++ (most efficient) to D (least efficient). The majority of models currently available to buy in the UK have a A rating, which seems good, but these models are actually mid-table in terms of performance and will use more than 25 per cent more energy than the most efficient models currently available. As technology continues to improve, it’s worth seeing if you can find a A+ , A++ or A+++ model that suits you as these will use considerably less energy.
Size matters
Dishwashers come in a range of sizes and are measured in terms of the place settings they hold. Current dishwashers range from six to 15 place settings. Full-sized dishwashers (12-plus place settings) are generally the most energy and water efficient, but a compact or slimline model may be more suitable for a single person household or a small kitchen.
And finally, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your dishwasher and save energy:
Load it up to the max
Before running your dishwasher wait until you have a full load to ensure you use the maximum capacity of your dishwasher. This will help make the most of the energy, water and detergent used. Avoid overloading the dishwasher or blocking the water arms though – the dishwasher cannot work efficiently if overloaded.
No need to pre-rinse
Modern dishwashers are designed to clean even really dirty dishes, there is usually no need to pre-rinse under the tap. Just ensure you scrape off food and empty liquids – the dishwasher will do the rest.
Use the energy-save or economy programme
This type of programme is designed to clean normally dirty tableware and is most efficient programme in terms of energy and water. Dishes are washed at a lower temperature, typically 50C, and use around three litres less water than the standard dishwasher cycle. Some dishwashers also have a low water or quick wash cycle so look out for these if there isn’t an economy programme.
Avoid the half-load programme
While this type of programme will use less water and energy than a normal cycle, the water saving doesn’t equate to half. It's better to wait until your dishwasher is completely full and then select an economy or water-saving cycle to save water, energy and money on running costs.
Avoid using the rinse-hold setting
This feature uses 10 to 25 litres more hot water for each use. Never use "rinse-hold" for just a few dirty dishes. Instead, consider the old-fashioned hand wash or rinse basin option.
For more advice on getting the most from your appliances, visit the Top10 website.
Lizzie Kenyon is from Keep Britain Tidy.
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