This month is O&M (Operations and Maintenance) month at the Tech Go Green blog and today’s installment relates to major household appliances.  These appliances are responsible for an average of 15% of residential energy usage.  Properly caring for your refrigerator, washer, dryer, and dishwasher both saves energy and prolongs their usefulness.

Refrigerator: One of the best ways to care for a fridge is to keep it clean.  Specifically, clean the seals around the fridge and freezer doors to ensure that the cold air does not leak out.  Also, don’t overstuff the refrigerator and keep its contents organized, as this allows the cold air to circulate well, keeping the food colder at higher temperature.  Regularly vacuum the grate beneath the fridge door; this is the air intake and can easily get clogged, overtaxing the motor.  Finally, unless you have a frost-free version, be sure to defrost your freezer whenever the ice is ¼ to ½ inch thick.

Washer and dryer: When you first install your washer and dryer, be sure to check that they are perfectly level.  Any unevenness can cause the machines to vibrate, which causes wear and damage.  When loading the washer do not to overfill it and put small items like socks into a washing bag to prevent them from clogging the pump or jamming the agitator.  Also use cold water whenever possible to save energy.  The dryer’s exhaust vent and lint trap should be cleaned after every use to allow the machine to run at optimal efficiency.  Also try line drying clothing until just slightly damp and then putting them in the dryer, drastically reducing drying time.

Dishwasher: Before using your dishwasher, run hot water in your sink for 15 second to warm up the pipes—this reduces the washer’s runtime.  Also make sure the dishwasher is completely full, but not cramped, when it is run.  Regularly clean the filter, which can get clogged with food, and check that the holes in the spray arms are not blocked by food or soap scum.