Home tips: Handy laundry advice

This information will help you make the most of your laundry room appliances.

Washer Works

In our ever-changing marketplace, even washing machines experience product innovations. Case in point: the front-loading washers you see in all the appliance stores. They do the same job as the top loaders, but which is right for you?

Front-loading washers are more expensive than traditional models ($1,000 to $1,400 versus $300 to $800). However, they are more energy and water efficient; some boast a 40% or more savings on water usage and 50% or more on energy savings, which helps offset their higher price tag. Also, many of the new washers have special sensors to clean really tough stains and extend the life of your fabrics. Front loaders can slide under a countertop for extra workspace.

Besides the initial cost, you need to consider a couple of things about front-loading washers before buying. First, keep in mind that once the wash starts, you can't add anything else. Also, many manufacturers recommend that you use a special detergent.

A new top-loading washer is probably going to be more efficient than the one you currently have, but there are also other ways to save. The frequency and amount of clothes washed at a time can make a big difference.

Use the different wash cycles on the machine-you paid extra for themto match water level and temperature to what you're washing.

Finally, no matter what kind of washing machine you buy, keep in mind that the appliance should last 10 to 15 years, depending on use. To keep yours running, be sure it's on a level surface, and don't overload it, which can drastically reduce its life span.

Dryer Dynamics

There's essentially only one style of dryer, so the biggest decision when buying one is whether you need gas or electric. This is usually dictated by the hookup at your home. However if you want to make a change, it generally costs less to operate a gas dryer than an electric one. Before you jump, though, remember that gas dryers are often more expensive. You must also consider the cost of adding a gas line to your laundry room. The money you save on your utility bills may never equal what you spent to switch over to gas.

If you want to save on monthly energy costs, look for a dryer with a moisture sensor. It senses the moisture in the clothes and shuts off when they're dry. Keeping your lint collector clean can go a long way to improving the efficiency of this appliance. If the exhaust hose to your dryer resembles a snake, take heed. Such bends and twists are prime areas for lint to accumulate, which can cause your dryer to work harder and could trigger fires.

Safeguarding against problems is easy. First, only use metal dryer vent pipes. Flexible types are fine, but rigid ducting is best. Avoid plastic vent pipes, which can weaken. Check your vent connections regularly to make sure that the hoses are securely fastened to both the dryer and wall; otherwise, lint will be expelled into your laundry room. ROBERT MARTIN

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