Tips for Efficient Washing Machine Use  

Washing machines are one of the most frequently used appliances in our homes and help keep clothes clean and fresh. However, they can contribute to household energy and water consumption, which can affect utility costs.

There are a number of steps that may help reduce the cost of doing your laundry. Read on to discover practical laundry tips and learn what to consider when shopping for a washing machine with a high energy-efficiency rating.

Shopping for a washing machine with a higher energy-efficiency rating

Washing machines with higher energy-efficiency ratings can use less electricity during operation than lower-rated models. This may result in lower running costs, depending on the model, programme, frequency of use and energy tariff.

Check and compare the energy label, programme energy consumption, water consumption and capacity when choosing a machine. Lower electricity consumption during use may also reduce the emissions associated with operating the appliance, depending on how the machine is used and the electricity supplied.

  • What makes a washing machine energy efficient?

    Several design features and programme settings can affect a washing machine’s electricity and water consumption, including:

    Water usage: The amount of water used can affect the energy needed to heat it. However, water and energy consumption are measured separately, so compare both figures on the Energy Label.

    Inverter motors: An inverter motor can adjust its operation according to the demands of the cycle, which may help optimise energy use. Check the appliance’s Energy Label to compare the overall efficiency of different models.

    ProSense: Selected washing machines use ProSense load-sensing technology to adjust cycle time, water and energy consumption according to the detected load. Availability and performance vary by model and programme.

    Programme settings: Many washing machines include programmes designed to manage water and electricity consumption for particular loads. The Eco 40-60 programme is used to determine the appliance’s energy-efficiency class, while quick programmes are intended for suitable smaller or lightly soiled loads. A shorter cycle is not necessarily the lowest-energy option.

    The clearest way to compare washing-machine efficiency is to check the Energy Label and product information sheet.

  • Energy Labels explained

    New washing machines within the scope of energy-labelling rules must display an Energy Label at the point of sale, including when sold online. For washing machines, the label uses a scale from A, the most efficient class, to G, the least efficient.

    The washing-machine Energy Label also includes:

    • Energy consumption in kWh per 100 Eco 40-60 cycles
    • Rated load capacity
    • Eco 40-60 programme duration
    • Water consumption in litres per Eco 40-60 cycle
    • Spin-drying efficiency class
    • Noise emissions during spinning, shown in decibels and as a noise-emission class

     

Opt for shorter cycles  

If your clothes contain no major stains, you should always choose a shorter cycle. Short cycles typically use less water and energy, which may help to save money on your utility bills.

Opting for a lower temperature

For everyday, lightly soiled laundry, choosing a lower-temperature cycle can clean effectively while using less energy than a higher-temperature wash. Always follow the garment-care label and appliance instructions.

Lightly soiled garments and appropriately pre-treated items may be suitable for a cold or lower-temperature wash, provided the care label, detergent instructions and hygiene requirements allow. For many jeans and denim garments, a cold or lower-temperature cycle may also help reduce colour fading and shrinkage.

Lower-temperature cycles generally use less energy to heat the water than higher-temperature programmes. This can help reduce your washing machine’s running costs, although actual savings will depend on the appliance, programme, frequency of use and electricity tariff.

 

What temperatures should you use for different clothes

Selecting an appropriate wash temperature can help clean clothes effectively while protecting the fabric. Always check the garment-care label and detergent instructions first, as suitable temperatures vary by material, colour and level of soiling.

Whites: Washable white cotton items may be suitable for a 60°C programme when more intensive cleaning is required. Lower temperatures may be appropriate for delicate or lightly soiled white garments.

Bed linen: A 40°C programme may be suitable for routine washing. Washable cotton bedding can often be washed at 60°C where additional hygiene is required and the care label permits it.

Towels: A 40°C programme may be suitable for routine washing, while some washable cotton towels can be washed at 60°C when a more intensive wash is appropriate.

Underwear: Select the programme and temperature according to the care label. Some cotton underwear may be washed at 60°C, while synthetic or delicate items may require a lower temperature.

Heavily stained items: Check the care label and consider pretreating the stain before washing. A higher temperature may be appropriate for some fabrics, but it is not suitable for every garment or type of stain.

Make the most of each load

Where appropriate, wait until you have enough laundry for a suitably full load, without exceeding the machine’s stated capacity. A partial load may still use a considerable proportion of the water and energy required for a full load, although this varies by machine and programme. Washing fuller loads can therefore reduce the number of cycles needed and lower the cost per item washed.
  • Does washing your clothes at night save money?

    Whether running your washing machine at a particular time is cheaper depends on your electricity tariff. Standard tariffs may charge the same rate throughout the day, while some time-of-use tariffs offer lower prices during specified off-peak periods. Check your tariff or contact your energy supplier to find out whether different rates apply.

    For safety, do not leave a washing machine running overnight or unattended. Operate the appliance while you are at home and awake, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

    Selected AEG washing machines include a delay-start option, allowing you to schedule a cycle for a convenient time when you expect to be at home and awake.* If your tariff offers cheaper electricity during that period, this may help reduce the cost of the cycle. Actual savings depend on your tariff, programme and appliance energy consumption.

    *Features vary by model.

  • Keep up with washing machine maintenance

    Regular care can help your washing machine operate as intended and may reduce the risk of avoidable problems.

    • Support effective operation: Clean the detergent drawer, drum and user-accessible filters in accordance with the appliance manual.
    • Identify issues early: Follow the troubleshooting guidance for minor issues and contact a suitably qualified professional where repairs are required.
    • Support appliance longevity: Regular care and correct use may help keep components in good working order for longer.
    • Care for clothes: Correct loading, suitable programmes and appropriate maintenance can help reduce avoidable wear on garments.

    Read our appliance-care guide for routine maintenance information. Our troubleshooting guide can also help identify common issues and explain when professional assistance may be needed.

  • Select a suitable spin speed

    Where the garment-care label permits, a higher spin speed can remove more water from laundry before drying. This may reduce the time or energy required for subsequent machine drying, although any savings will depend on the drying method, appliances used and energy tariff.

    Delicate fabrics may require a lower spin speed. Always check the garment-care label and select an appropriate programme.

  • Pre-treat stains
    Consider pre-treating tough stains before washing, following the garment-care label and stain-removal product instructions. Appropriate pre-treatment can improve the likelihood of removing a stain in the first wash, potentially reducing the need for a repeat cycle and its associated energy, water and cost.

Choosing your next washing machine

If you’re looking for a new washing machine, explore the AEG range and compare each model’s capacity, features and Energy Label to find an option that suits your needs.

Selected models include ProSense load-sensing technology, which detects the load and adjusts cycle time, water and energy consumption accordingly. This helps tailor the cycle to the load and avoid unnecessary resource use.

Selected models in the 8000 series feature PowerCare, which premixes detergent before distributing it through the load to help provide more even coverage. Some models also include the ÖKOPower programme, designed to clean suitable loads at 30°C in less than an hour.

Selected 9000 AbsoluteCare models include SoftWater Technology, which softens incoming water to support effective washing and fabric care. Features vary by model, so check the individual product specifications before purchasing.