One advantage of summertime is the abundance of solar energy that can be harnessed to dry laundry. In fact, a clothesline is an efficient and cost-free way to reduce your electricity bill.
In 2021, the average cost to Iowans of a kWh of electricity was 12.21 cents ( U.S. Energy Information Administration). According to the EPA a typical electric dryer is one of the biggest users of power in the home, about 769 kWh per year. This works out to an average of about $94 a year on your bill. Since 80% of homes operate a dryer, the cost across the country, in terms of both money and energy is enormous.
Energy Star ratings for dryers were introduced in 2012 and reduce electricity use by about 20%–definitely the way to go if you need to purchase a new appliance. Meanwhile, why not get out those clothes pins and, at least for the sunny season, cut back by 100%!
For more on the American relationship with clotheslines, see the full blog post here.
For tips on running your dryer efficiently, see “16 Ways to Save Money in the Laundry Room.”
Read the entire Good Energy Newsletter, Summer 2022