Is it cheaper to use the dishwasher or wash them by hand? I think dishwasher but I need some kind of proof. Ive read serveral times that im right but can someone confirm?
I didn't find any definitive answers online. But as these authors indicate, a lot depends upon whether you prewash dishes, the type of dishwasher, and how you wash dishes by hand. Using a heated dry cycle on the dishwasher would increase the electrical costs.
http://www.greenlivingtips.com/articles/211/1/Dishwashers-vs-hand-washing.html
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=372485
http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-2084280_ITM
As a single person, I only run my dishwasher every 4 or 5 days. I'm sure that's cheaper than running water and using detergent to had wash them 2 or 3 times a day.
My father-in-law was an engineer who pioneered in dishwasher design for Hotpoint in the 1930s and 40s. He claimed that a dishwasher was more sanitary than handwashing. That makes sense because the machine uses much hotter water and is more thorough than a person can be washing the dishes by hand.
A dishwasher uses more electricity. Modern ones use less water but when you wash dishes by hand, it's not necessary to let the water run. However, I agree it is more sanitary to use the dishwasher!
Sra
To determine whether using a dishwasher or washing dishes by hand is cheaper, we can analyze a few factors. Although individual circumstances may vary, here's how you can calculate the cost and reach a conclusion:
1. Electricity and Water Usage:
Dishwashers typically use both electricity and water. You can refer to the appliance's energy label or manual to find the average power and water consumption per cycle. Multiply these values by the number of cycles you run in a week or month to estimate the usage.
When washing dishes by hand, consider the amount of water used per wash and the time spent with the tap running.
2. Water Heating:
Dishwashers often have a water heating element, which requires electricity or gas. Determine the energy cost for heating water in your region and estimate how often hot water is used when hand washing dishes.
3. Detergent and Additives:
Account for the cost of dishwasher detergent and any additional rinse aid or sanitizer that may be needed. Similarly, consider the cost of dish soap, sponges, and other cleaning supplies used for hand washing.
4. Efficiency:
Modern dishwashers are designed to clean efficiently and effectively, often using less water than what would be used when hand washing. Consider the efficiency of your dishwasher and your hand washing technique as you compare.
Once you have gathered all the necessary data, you can calculate the approximate cost of using the dishwasher and washing dishes by hand over a specific period (week, month, or year). Compare the costs to determine which method is cheaper for you.
It's worth noting that factors such as personal preference, convenience, and environmental impact may also play a role in your decision.