Hand Washing vs Dishwashers and Water Saving Tips
Healthy living includes healthy environment, and one of the most precious natural resources in the world is fresh water. Many parts of the world have shortages of fresh water, which can mean unhealthy environment.
We can help conserving water with few simple changes, one that is often up for debate is hand washing vs dishwashers. Here are some tips on how we can help our environment conserving water starting with something simple as washing dishes.
Hand Washing vs Dishwasher
Energy and Water
Efficient dishwasher uses less than half as much energy and saves nearly 5,000 gallons of water per year as washing dishes by hand does
Cleaning
Efficient dishwasher boost temperature to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which allows to kill most bacteria on dirty dishes. Most water heaters in a home are set to reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid burning. Meaning that the water does not get hot enough to sanitize the dishes when washing by hand.
Cost
The efficient dishwasher can cut your utility bills up to 40% and skip the dry cycle and let your dishes air-dry to save even more.
Time
Most manufacturers advise against rinsing dishes first before placing them in the dishwasher. You can clean the dishes more efficiently by scraping them.
Once you place them in the dishwasher just push the button, thus saving time washing and drying the dishes by hand
Environment
When using a dishwasher you use less energy, reduce air pollution and greenhouse gasses and by reducing water consumption we protect our streams, lakes and oceans.
This applies to both ~ when using detergent use one that does not contain chlorine and phosphates, both of these cleaning agents can damage the environment.
Water Saving Tips
Dishwashing
If washing dishes by hand fill sink with water instead of continually running the tap water. Tap water runs approximately 3 – 5 gallons of water per minute, efficient dishwashers can use as little as 3 gallons of water per load.
Faucets
Fix leaky faucets, a faucet dripping 60 drops per minute will waste 192 gallons per month. When brushing your teeth or shaving turn off the faucet.
Shower
Replace your showerhead for one that uses a maximum of 2.0 gallons per minute. Take shorter showers the difference between 5-minute vs 10-minute shower is approximately 12.5 gallons depending on the efficiency of the showerhead
Laundry
Adjust water level in the washing machine for the amount needed for the load. When replacing your washing machine look for one that has higher efficiency and a low water factor
Finally, always check your water bills for any irregularities as this may be an indication of a leak.
For healthy living check out our healthy gluten-free recipes