Washing machines are one of the most convenient appliances in modern households, but they are also among the most energy-hungry devices. Running your washing machine frequently, especially with hot water settings, can result in sky-high electricity bills. However, there’s a surprisingly simple way to cut down on these costs dramatically. Many people are unaware of a small, often overlooked button on their washing machine that can make a significant difference—the temperature control button. By adjusting this setting, you can save up to 65% on energy costs without sacrificing clean clothes.

The Hidden Button That Saves Energy

Every washing machine comes equipped with a temperature control button or dial, though its location may vary depending on the brand and model. This button allows users to adjust the water temperature for each wash cycle. Despite its importance, most people tend to overlook it and run their laundry cycles at the default temperature, which is typically set to 40°C (104°F). While this temperature ensures effective cleaning, it also consumes a significant amount of electricity because heating water accounts for the largest share of your washing machine’s energy use.

Recently, Ms. Beth, a mother of two from the UK, shared a simple but highly effective washing machine energy-saving tip on social media. She pointed out that most people don’t realize how much energy they waste by washing clothes at 40°C when a lower temperature would work just as well. Her advice? Lower the washing machine temperature to 20°C (68°F) before starting the cycle.

How Lowering the Temperature Saves Energy

Heating water is the most energy-intensive part of running a washing machine. The higher the temperature setting, the more electricity the appliance consumes. When you lower the temperature from 40°C to 20°C, the washing machine uses significantly less energy because it doesn’t need to heat the water as much. In fact, experts and appliance manufacturers agree that this small adjustment can save up to 62% on energy costs for each load of laundry.

Will Lower Temperatures Affect Cleaning Performance?

One common concern people have about washing clothes in cold water is whether it will effectively clean their garments. The good news is that modern laundry detergents are specifically designed to work efficiently in cold water. These detergents can dissolve properly at lower temperatures, lift dirt, and remove stains without requiring hot water.

Cleaning experts confirm that a temperature of 20°C (68°F) is sufficient for most daily laundry loads. Unless you’re dealing with heavily soiled clothes, grease stains, or bedding that requires sanitization, washing at lower temperatures won’t compromise cleanliness. In fact, washing at cooler temperatures can actually be gentler on fabrics, preventing shrinkage and color fading over time.

The Environmental and Financial Impact of Washing at 20°C

Switching to cold water washing isn’t just good for your wallet—it’s also better for the environment. When your washing machine uses less energy to heat water, it reduces your household’s carbon footprint. Additionally, reducing your electricity consumption helps decrease reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

From a financial perspective, the savings can be substantial. If your household runs multiple loads of laundry per week, the cost difference between washing at 40°C and 20°C adds up quickly. Over the course of a year, this adjustment could potentially save hundreds of dollars on your electricity bill.

How to Adjust Your Washing Machine Temperature

Adjusting your washing machine temperature is incredibly simple, and it doesn’t require any special tools or expertise. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Locate the Temperature Control Button or Dial: Look for a button labeled “Temp,” “Temperature,” or an icon showing a thermometer.
2. Select 20°C (68°F): Turn the dial or press the button to set the temperature to 20°C (68°F). Some washing machines also have a specific “Cold Wash” setting.
3. Use a Cold-Water Detergent: For best results, choose a high-quality detergent labeled for cold water washing.
4. Start the Wash Cycle: Load your laundry, add detergent, and start the machine as usual.

When to Use Hot Water Instead

While washing at 20°C is suitable for most laundry, there are times when hot water is necessary. These situations include:

• Heavily Soiled Clothes: Items covered in grease, mud, or stubborn stains may require a warmer wash.
• Sanitizing Bedding or Towels: After illness, it’s sometimes essential to use hot water to kill bacteria.
• Washing Baby Clothes: For delicate baby fabrics, hot water may be recommended.

However, these scenarios are exceptions rather than the rule. For standard everyday laundry, 20°C is perfectly effective.

Additional Laundry Energy-Saving Tips

If you want to save even more energy while doing laundry, consider these additional tips:

• Wash Full Loads: Running half-empty loads wastes water and energy.
• Air-Dry Clothes: Skip the dryer when possible and let your clothes air-dry.
• Use the Eco Mode: Many modern washing machines have an energy-efficient “Eco” setting.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your washing machine clean and ensure the filter isn’t clogged.

Small Adjustment, Big Savings

Saving energy doesn’t have to involve drastic lifestyle changes or expensive investments. Simply adjusting your washing machine temperature from 40°C to 20°C can make a world of difference. This one small habit can reduce your electricity costs by up to 65%, extend the lifespan of your washing machine, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

So the next time you toss in a load of laundry, take a moment to adjust that temperature setting. You’ll save money, protect the planet, and still enjoy fresh, clean clothes.