Apparently harmless, the habit of turning on the washing machine while someone takes a shower can not only make the electricity invoice not only compromise the operation of the boiler and even represents electrical risk. The warning was given by channeling professionals, who identify this error as one of the most frequent in Portuguese houses.
According to the Spanish newspaper AS, the problem is due to the fact that many domestic systems use the same hot water source for both washing machine and shower. When both equipment is working simultaneously, the boiler, especially if it has a limited capacity between 110 and 150 liters, may not be able to provide sufficient hot water.
According to the technicians, this extra effort can translate into fluctuations in water temperature and pressure, as well as forcing the equipment to work irregularly. With this, efficiency is lost, more energy is spent and the lifetime of the boiler is shortened.
Divided hot water, affected yield
When the washing machine enters the heating phase and the shower is in use, the system tries to compensate for demand by increasing energy consumption. In the short term, this results in a higher light bill. In the long run, wear can lead to costly damage.
In addition, the shower tends to suffer with sudden breaks of temperature or pressure, which delays the task instead of accelerating it. In some cases, laundering yield is also compromised by flow fluctuations.
Experts cited by the same source recommend that these tasks are not done simultaneously, especially if the boiler is of small capacity or already show signs of wear.
Solutions for those who do not want to change their habits
Among the alternatives pointed out by the technicians is the replacement of the boiler with a model of greater capacity. Another option is to install a pressure equilibrium valve or a dedicated thermostat that helps stabilize the flow and protect both circuits.
The installation of circuit separation equipment can also prevent both systems from entering conflict. These solutions require initial investment, but may translate into significant savings in the medium term.
Tips for reducing washing machine consumption
In addition to avoiding simultaneous use with the shower, it is advisable to take advantage of reduced rates, such as the hours between midnight and 8am during the week. On the weekend, energy usually has the lowest cost of the weekly cycle.
Washing clothes at high temperatures also implies higher energy consumption. Eco programs, because they use less water and lower temperatures, are an effective and economic alternative.
Risks of putting the washing machine in the bathroom
Although it seems like a practical solution, placing the washing machine in the toilet is advised against for safety reasons. According to cleaning expert Niina Silander, quoted by Finnish portal Ilta Sanomat, “if there is moisture in division, the risk of electric discharge increases.”
This configuration also tends to aggravate the problem of the shower and the machine to work at the same time, as they share the same space and often the same water and energy circuits.
Each house is a case but the rule is clear
The consequences of this habit depend on the capacity of the devices, the thermal and electrical insulation of the house, and how the circuits were installed. If in doubt, and according to, the safest is to consult a technician before keeping routines that may be expensive, or dangerous.
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