Fact or fiction? You can save energy by hand-washing dishes.

Answer: Fiction

It is commonly assumed that washing dishes by hand saves hot water. However, according to the Edison Electric Institute, you can use less energy with an energy-efficient dishwasher when properly used and when only operating it with full loads.

One feature that makes a dishwasher more energy efficient is a booster water heater. A booster heater increases the temperature of the water entering the dishwasher to 140° F, as recommended for cleaning. Some dishwashers have boosters that operate automatically, while others require manual selection before the wash cycle begins.

Another dishwasher feature that reduces hot water use is the availability of cycle selections. Shorter cycles require less water, thereby reducing energy cost.