Operations
has led to an expectation that a similar energy rating exists within commercial laundry equipment. However, there is not a recognised energy rating for commercial machines. This is because the energy used, and the
water consumed in, commercial machines can vary hugely due to the ability to create bespoke programmes. Modern commercial machines often have functions that allow every parameter within a cycle to be changed including time, temperature and, where relevant, the amount of water used. The challenge is to find the right balance between delivering the results needed - particularly within a care home environment - and not wasting energy. As there is not a simple energy labelling system within a commercial environment, it is more important to look for other functions and features which may help you meet your environmental goals. These could include the below.
Automatic or dynamic weighing systems Some washing machines and dryers have systems that weigh the clothes in the drum and then adjust the water, heat and time of the cycles accordingly. This ensures that energy or water is not being wasted if a smaller load is in the drum. In machines that do not have automatic
weighing systems, some have the option to manually input the weight of the laundry so that parameters can be adjusted accordingly. Of course, this does mean the laundry will need to be weighed in advance.
Energy efficient programmes Depending on the manufacturer, energy saving eco programmes are available. For example, Miele Little Giants have energy- efficient ECO 40-60 programmes that have longer running times but are more efficient in terms of energy and water consumption. Again, it is the challenge of finding the balance between saving energy and water versus the operational requirements of a busy laundry.
High G-force
The higher the G-force which is generated when your washing machine runs the spin cycle, the drier your items will be at the end of the cycle. For example, a WASHCONNECT dryer has a stainless-steel drum capable of generating up to 400 G. A high G-force gives you the option
to remove more water with less residual moisture left in the material. Using the highest spin speed available that is appropriate for the garments and fabric types you are washing will reduce tumble drying time and save energy.
Residual moisture control Some dryers have residual moisture control. Rather than the cycle being based on time, there are sensors in the drum which calculate when the laundry is dry. For example, you could set a cycle for sheets that stops when they are at the optimum moisture level. This ensures a better finish and prevents damage to the fabric while reducing energy usage.
Well insulated dryers
Just like buildings, it is important that your equipment is well insulated to prevent heat loss and wasted energy. Check when you are purchasing about the insulation used. For example, WASHCONNECT machines have a ceramic fibre tank and an EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber gasket, which are designed to minimise heat loss.
The right size of machine Another way of ensuring your laundry is as energy efficient as possible is by making sure you have the right capacity of machine. Even if your machine does not have residual moisture control or dynamic weighing, you can be confident that you are not using more energy and water than is required for your average loads.
Choosing the right size of machine can be difficult but there is a rule of thumb that you can use. Typically, you will need 0.5kg capacity per resident in your home. So, if you have 16 residents, you are likely to need an 8kg machine (16 residents x 0.5kg). If your home is residential, this can be reduced to 0.4kg capacity per resident. Conversely, in a nursing or dementia- based home it is likely to increase to 0.75kg capacity per resident.
A word about waste So, you have decided you need a machine but you want to ensure you minimise your home’s impact around waste. Key in this area is to make sure that whoever is taking away your old machine is following Waste
February 2022
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com
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