ENERGY STAR-qualified refrigerators are 20% more energy efficient than non- qualified models. Models with top-mounted freezers use 10%-25% less energy than side-by-side or bottom-mount units.
Check the manual that came with your dishwasher for the manufacturer's recommendations on water temperature; many have internal heating elements that allow you to set the water heater in your home to a lower temperature (120°F).
Scrape, don't rinse, off large food pieces and bones. Soaking or pre-washing is generally only recommended in cases of burned- or dried- on food.
Be sure your dishwasher is full (not overloaded) when you run it.
Avoid using the "rinse hold" on your machine for just a few soiled dishes. It uses 3-7 gallons of hot water each use.
Let your dishes air dry; if you don't have an automatic air-dry switch, turn off the control knob after the final rinse and prop the door open slightly so the dishes will dry faster.
