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ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Suds and savings

10 ways to save money in the laundry room

Your clothes washer and dryer account for a significant portion of energy consumption in your home, and let’s face it — laundry is no one’s favorite chore. Make the most of your laundry energy use. There are several easy ways you can save energy, and money, in the laundry room.

1. Wash with cold water. Switching from warm water to cold water can cut one load’s energy use by more than half, and by using a cold-water detergent, you can still achieve that brilliant clean you’d normally get from washing in warm water.

2. Wash full loads when possible. Your washing machine will use the same amount of energy no matter the size of the clothes load, so fill it up if you can.

3. Use the high-speed or extended spin cycle in the washer. This setting will remove more moisture before drying, reducing your drying time and the extra wear on clothing.

4. Dry heavier cottons separately. Loads will dry faster and more evenly if you separate heavier cottons like linens and towels from your lightweight clothing.

5. Make use of the “cool down” cycle. If your dryer has this cycle option, you can save energy because the clothes will finish drying with the remaining heat in the dryer.

6. Use lower heat settings to dry clothing. Regardless of drying time, you’ll still use less energy.

7. Use dryer balls. Dryer balls, usually wool or rubber, will help keep clothes separated for faster drying, and they can help reduce static, so you can eliminate dryer sheets.

8. Switch loads while the dryer is warm. This allows you to take advantage of the remaining heat from the previous cycle.

9. Clean the lint filter after each drying cycle. If you use dryer sheets, remember to scrub the filter once a month with a toothbrush to remove excess buildup.

10.Purchase ENERGY STAR-rated washers and dryers. When it’s time to purchase a new washer or dryer, look for the ENERGY STAR label. New washers and dryers that receive the ENERGY STAR rating use about 20% less energy than conventional models.

To learn about additional ways you can save energy at home, visit www.logancounty.coop/energy-calculators.

2020 Nissan Leaf 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric

PHOTO COURTESY OF NISSAN PHOTO COURTESY OF HYUNDAI

Electrify your daily commute

Electric vehicles are gaining popularity, so car manufacturers are creating new electric models to appeal to consumers. Electric vehicles may have higher sticker prices than traditional gas-powered vehicles; however, their lifetime costs can end up being less due to lower maintenance and fuel costs. Since electric vehicle technology is improving and purchase prices keep decreasing, consumers are starting to consider electric vehicles for their next vehicle purchase. There’s an electric model out there for almost everyone, depending on your priorities and preferences. For many, affordability is most important when purchasing a new vehicle. There are several budgetfriendly options for those who want an electric vehicle but don’t want to break the bank. One of the most popular and most affordable electric options is the Nissan Leaf. The 2020 Nissan Leaf has an MSRP of $31,600, according to U.S. News & World Report. Another affordable electric vehicle is the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq Electric with an MSRP at about $33,000. The Hyundai Ioniq Electric has one of the highest MPGe ratings compared to other electric vehicles, at 133 MPGe, meaning it uses electric power very efficiently, thus needing fewer charging sessions. Additional benefits of the Hyundai Ioniq Electric include high safety scores and a long warranty. Some consumers may prioritize a greater mileage range on their electric vehicle to eliminate range anxiety. Several new electric vehicle models have an especially large range. Another more affordable option that still provides a modestly long driving range is the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt, with a maximum range of 259 miles and an MSRP of roughly $36,600. The Chevrolet Bolt is a strong competitor among many electric vehicles, making it a solid choice as an everyday car. Many families are driving SUVs, and Volkswagen offers an all-electric model with an MSRP of $39,995. The VW model ID.4 SUV has an estimated range of 250 miles. This means members should be able to complete the commute from Logan County to Columbus twice on a single charge. For those interested in a more luxurious electric vehicle, the 2020 Tesla Model 3 is an option to consider. With a starting MSRP of $35,400, the car provides a sophisticated interior while delivering great efficiency and 220 miles of range. The 2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus has the largest range available on the market at 402 miles of maximum range, but this car comes with the MSRP price tag of about $80,000. Before purchasing any new vehicle, be sure to appropriately research which model will work best for you and your family. Having a plan for charging your new vehicle will also be critical, either at home or at public charging stations. To help you know if you should integrate an electric vehicle into your lifestyle, check out our Electric Vehicle Calculator at www.logancounty.coop/energy-calculators.