Using HE Dishwashers and Washing Machines Properly

With today's focus on energy efficiency, many rental properties feature high-efficiency clothes washers or dishwashers. These appliances may save you or tenants money on your electric, water, or gas bills, but only if used properly.

High-Efficiency Clothes Washers

One of the biggest advantages that high efficiency washing machines offer over standard washing machines is reduced water usage, but with high-efficiency washers also comes high-efficiency laundry detergent. This detergent is designed to create less suds while still ensuring an exceptional clean.

High-efficiency laundry detergent can be used in both traditional washers and high-efficiency washers, but traditional detergent CANNOT be used in high-efficiency washers. If traditional detergent is used in a high-efficiency washer, it will produce too many suds and potentially result in mold and odor on your clothes. It may also result in damage to the washer, which will defeat any potential savings.

High-Efficiency Dishwashers

Many modern dishwashers are also certified as high-efficiency, and to best take advantage of that, detergent pods are the best option. While dishwashers can in fact still clean dishes by using powder or liquid detergent, pods will give you the most effective clean. Pods will not leave a film like liquid detergent and will be more powerful than powder detergent.

Additionally, even if in a pinch, remember that dishwashers CANNOT use standard liquid dish soap. This soap will cause far too many suds and will result in bubbles pouring out of the front of your dishwasher! This could also result in potentially catastrophic damage to the dishwasher. Only detergent made specifically for dishwashers can be used, whether that be powder, liquid, or pod form.

Another great tip is to occasionally use a dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar to clean your dishwasher. These products should only be used with an empty dishwasher to keep your appliance running in tip-top shape.