What Does Eco Cycle Mean On A Washing Machine?

Almost all modern washing machines have an eco cycle, but what does it mean? What is it for? And How do you use it? 

In this article we answer all of these questions and more. If you’re confused about the eco cycle on your washing machine, keep reading.

What Is An Eco Wash On The Washing Machine?

The eco in eco wash stands for ecology, because the eco wash is a better wash cycle ecologically than any other cycle on your washing machine. It works by using less water, and heating that smaller amount of water to a lower than normal temperature.

Around 90% of all the energy your washing machine uses during a wash cycle is used to increase the temperature of the water. The eco cycle works at a lower than average water temperature and it uses less water overall as well. This means the water achieves its desired temperature faster.

If there is a downside to the eco wash cycle, it’s the amount of time the programme runs for which can be in excess of 4 hours. You would think that this long programme would use more power because it’s in operation for longer.

However, a lot of that time the laundry is simply soaking in the water. This allows the clothes to wash effectively without using loads of energy.

Why Should You Use The Eco Cycle On Your Washing Machine?

There are several reasons why you should use the eco cycle on your washing machine which include;

• It’s Environmentally Friendly
  Using less water and less energy means the eco wash cycle is an environmentally friendly choice.
• It Lowers Energy Costs
  Almost all of the electricity used when operating a washing machine comes from heating the water. The eco cycle uses less water at cooler temperatures which saves on your energy costs.
• It Lowers Water Charges
  The eco cycle uses 20 to 40% less water than regular wash programmes. Which means a lower water bill as well.

Some people have shown concern in how clean their laundry will be after using an eco cycle. However, many washing machines have modern stain removal technology. 

This stain removal technology allows for the removal of most regular stains from your clothes.

When Should You Use The Eco Cycle On Your Washing Machine?

You should get into the habit of using the eco wash cycle every time you do your laundry. Especially if you want to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

With that being said, there are some occasions when the eco cycle isn’t the best programme to choose. These include;

• Heavily Stained Clothes
  Particularly heavily stained  or dirty washing could need a hotter wash to remove all of that ingrained dirt and grime. You could try running the laundry through the eco cycle again, but not only might this not be effective, it will actually cost you more than running one regular cycle.
• Illness Clothes
  If someone in your family has been ill with an infectious disease or has vomited on clothes or bed clothes/sheets etc, these clothes should be washed using a hot wash (as hot as the fabric allows) to remove bacteria and germs.
• Cold Water Washes
  If you have clothes that can be washed using cold water, this is an even more environmentally friendly and money saving wash cycle. With the added bonus that cold water cycles tend to be far shorter than eco cycles.

How Much Energy Is Saved Using An Eco Wash?

It is estimated that using an eco cycle uses between 35 to 60% less energy than a hot wash. Plus you will also save on water usage too.

SEE ALSO: Cotton Vs Synthetic Wash Cycle – What’s The Difference?

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