Start here · Essential guide
Choosing and Running Household Appliances Sensibly
A practical framework for deciding which appliances matter most for energy and water use, and how everyday habits and replacement choices change their footprint.
Running a Lighter Home
Appliances and Laundry
Running washing machines, dryers, fridges and other appliances with less energy and water.
Dishwasher Versus Hand Washing Trade-offs
Dishwasher or sink? The answer depends on load size, water heating, tap habits and machine age. Here is what shapes the water and energy use of each approach.
Fridge and Freezer Efficiency Basics
Where you put a fridge or freezer, what temperature you set, the state of its door seals and how you defrost it all affect how much energy it uses.
How to Read Energy Labels on Appliances
Energy rating labels help compare similar appliances, but they have limits. Learn what the ratings and figures measure, and what they do not tell you.
Microfibre Shedding From Laundry
Synthetic clothes release tiny fibres in the wash. Here is how it happens, what is known about reducing it, and how far filters and wash bags can help.
Standby Power and Phantom Loads Explained
Many devices keep drawing electricity when switched off or idle. Learn why, how to find the ones worth unplugging, and which to leave alone.
Tumble Dryers, Heat Pump Dryers and Line Drying
Compare vented, condenser and heat pump tumble dryers with line drying, and learn the practical limits of drying clothes indoors, including moisture.
Washing Clothes at Lower Temperatures
Cooler washes use less energy, and modern detergents are designed for them. See how temperature, detergent and hygiene interact, and when hotter washes still make sense.
Washing Machine Habits That Save Energy and Water
Load size, programme choice, detergent dose and basic maintenance all affect how much energy and water a washing machine uses. Practical habits to adopt.
Related topics
More in running a lighter home
Energy and Carbon at Home Cut household and workplace energy use and understand where emissions come from. Water and Indoor Air Use water wisely and understand air and water quality at home. Sustainable Home Spaces Rooms, repairs, garden and routines for a lower-impact home. Heating, Cooling and Insulation How homes gain and lose heat, and the measures that make comfort cheaper to maintain. Sustainable Renovation and Materials Planning repairs and renovations around materials, order of work and safety.