By the Numbers: U.S. consumers adopting some greener behaviors

83 percent

Americans who said they always run the dishwasher with a full load, according to a May 2009 nationally representative survey of 2,014 adults. The survey, conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center, focused on energy-saving practices.

"Most of the energy used by a dishwasher goes to heat water. So fill your dishwasher to get the most from the energy used to run it," says Christina Kielich, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Department of Energy.

While running a full load is widespread behavior, only 10 percent of respondents said they're not rinsing dishes before loading the dishwasher. That's a water- and energy-wasting step that costs people real money. As Consumer Reports and most dishwasher manufacturers advise, it's not necessary to prerinse dishes before a cycle; just scrape off any food from the dishes. Read our advice on the best way to load a dishwasher and check out our buyer's guide to dishwashers.

That wasteful move is surprising considering that less-expensive energy-saving measures seem to appeal to Americans these days. Indeed, only 3 percent of survey said they are using solar, wind, or geothermal energy systems, which have high up-front costs and, potentially, long payback periods. Still, 40 percent of respondents say they'll buy a green product even if it costs more.

Many of the newest dishwashers in our continuously updated ratings and latest report on these appliances (available to subscribers) use less water and electricity than their predecessors. Some tested models consume about 3 gallons per load, while thirsty models drink up to 12 gallons. New federal regulations taking effect on January 1, 2010, limit all dishwashers to a maximum of 6.5 gallons for the normal cycle; Energy Star-qualified models use even less water.—Gian Trotta | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: Our Energy Saving & Green Living guide features many easy ways to cut energy bills. Stay tuned for new details on the $300 million State Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program, or cash for clunkers for appliances, and take advantage of existing incentives on Energy Star-qualified appliances.

Comments

[Sarah]

I am looking for patio doors with blinds between the glass. I have heard varying descriptions of how bad they are and how good they are. Has anyone any reliable information on durability on the mechanism of the blinds for various manufacturers; Pella, Jeld-Wen, Gorell, etc....

[John]

I think it is best to rinse the plates before putting them in the dishwasher. Remember it is a dishwasher not a waste disposal unit!

[Refrigerator Gaskets]

Those are some great statistics that you listed. I think its great that 83% of people are doing some part in reducing their energy usage. This is not perfect, but we have to crawl before we can walk.