Get the most from an energy efficient dishwasher
Hook it up right
When installing a new dishwasher, check the manual to determine whether hot or cold water should be hooked up to the dishwasher. Though many models only require cold water, installers often hook up the hot water by default.
Help get the water hot
If your dishwasher is hooked up to the hot water line and you routinely wait a noticeable amount of time to get hot water out of the kitchen faucet, run the dishwasher right after using hot water for other kitchen tasks.
Using the energy-saving settings or delicate mode
Many dishwashers do a fine job of cleaning in delicate mode. Experiment before you assume that the regular cycle is the only way to get your dishes clean.
Air dry
Dishwashers use a lot of energy drying the load. Open the door and let the air do the job instead.
Fill it up
As long as there’s some space around each item, the fuller the better.
Let the dishwasher do the work
Test to figure out the few super-sticky items that your dishwasher may not clean without help (baked-on cheese, for example). Except for those few foods, you don’t need to waste time or hot water pre-rinsing the dishes.
