Solar Washer and Dryer
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, clothing is one of the most vital physiological needs for human survival. It is true that humans have taken this need to a higher level by not only wearing clothing to satisfy their physiological needs but also to boost their self-esteem and increase their chances. Because of fashion, people have more clothes than they need, and this has led to more and more items needing to be washed daily.
Washing machines and dryers are not cheap, and they consume large amounts of energy, enough energy to drive up the electricity bill considerably. That’s why a solar washer and dryer is an awesome idea It solves the problem of energy consumption and, at the same time, helps humans reduce their carbon footprint and help the planet get back on its feet.
This article looks at solar-powered washers and dryers. It will explain the science behind this innovation, provide tips on what to consider when deciding to switch to solar power, and identify the most popular brands currently on the market.
Solar Washer and Dryer
What is a solar-powered dryer and washer? According to the term itself, it means that their power supply comes from solar energy. Solar panels absorb photons from the sun and convert these light particles into usable energy.
Although you can easily dry your clothes using the old method of drying in the sun, not everyone has the space to hang up their clothes. This is especially true for condominiums without verandas. However, the sun’s energy can still be used for this function. With the innovation of the solar dryer, you can dry your clothes in the comfort of your home while using renewable energy. You can also clean your clothes without consuming a lot of fossil energy thanks to the solar washer.
There is now a solar-powered dryer that accelerates the drying of clothes while consuming the energy produced by the sun’s photons. These products are similar to T-post hangers, except that they dry clothes faster thanks to improved heating with the extra help of the sun.
A solar-powered washer works by adapting the solar technology used in most appliances. This type of washer is equipped with solar panels that absorb particles of sunlight. The energy obtained through this mechanism is used to charge the washing machine’s battery, allowing it to consume less fossil-fuel-generated electricity.
Using a circuit controller, the amount of energy received by the system is regulated to prevent damage due to overcharging. The battery powers the DC motor, allowing the machine to run and clean. There are also portable washing machines that can be connected to a solar system to allow off-grid washing. This can be an alternative to a true solar-powered machine.
Of course, there are now brands that have both the dryer and the washing machine in one machine. Thus, the solar panels of the machine allow the rolling and heating mechanisms to wash and dry the clothes placed in it using solar cells installed in the machine.
Thanks to these innovations, it is so easy to go directly online to buy products. However, there are several things to consider in order to arrive at a product worthy of the name. The following section discusses these factors so that you can make an informed decision.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Solar-Powered Washer and Dryer
What aspects should you consider when choosing a solar-powered dryer and washer? First of all, you need to consider your power consumption. If you wash 3 or 4 times a week and charge 7 or 8 kilos at a time, then a battery-powered solar machine may not be the most efficient option as the battery could easily degrade due to continuous use.
You should also consider the intended purpose. If you have already installed solar panels in your home, you can connect a regular machine to your power source while running your solar-powered washing machine. If you want to use it off-grid, for example on your outdoor trips or motor home adventures, you can choose portable solar machines instead.
You should also consider your budget. These machines cost between $150 and $300, almost as much as regular machines. If you have an old machine and are planning to change it, it may be a good idea to try solar machines for a change and compare their performance with regular machines.
When considering a solar-powered dryer, you need to think about the space you have available. If you already have a good place to dry your clothes in the sun, then a machine that performs this function does not seem like a good idea. However, if you are a resident of a condominium, you can certainly benefit from a free-standing solar dryer.
If you have a solar system, you can hook it up to a combination portable washer and dryer and save even more money. If you live in an RV or live off-grid, you can also use this method to wash with solar energy.
Top 3 Best Solar Washers and Dryers
To help you make a decision, you will find below the most sought-after brands of solar-powered washing and drying equipment for the year. Please note that the brands listed below are not solar-powered, but rather are attached to a solar system, so they are still considered good solar washer equipment.
3. Portable Mini Washing Machine by Giantex
If you’re looking for more capacity for the same price, the Giantex version of the portable washing machine may be just right for you. It has a capacity of 16 pounds, 9 for washing and 7 for drying. Its wash slot has a 150-watt wash slot and its spin dryer has a 135-watt spin power.
With separate controls for wash, wash type and spin, you have more control over your wash. Easy to use and lightweight, you can recharge it with your solar charger and enjoy free wash consumption for a long period.
Pros
- Excellent capacity
- Good price
- Good customer feedback
Cons
- May shake too much if capacity is maximized
Check Price on Amazon
2. Solar-Powered Clothes Dryer by Whirlgig
Whether you live in a dormitory or in an off-grid stretch of forest, this automatic drying machine may be perfect for you. It comes complete with a retractable umbrella-style clothesline, a weight ring and pliers to stabilize the equipment even in windy weather.
And with solar panels that can be positioned up to 12 feet from the equipment, a 12-volt transformer that can be connected to the grid if preferred, and assembly instructions.
Pros
- Easy to build and install
- Doesn’t require much electricity
- Space saving
- Made with quality materials
Cons
- The motor is a little loud for indoor usage
Check Price on Amazon
1. Portable Compact Twin Tub Laundry Machine & Spin Cycle by Best Choice Product
If you want to use your solar system, you can plug it into Best Choice Product’s portable washer and dryer and clean your clothes in minutes. It has received excellent customer reviews, making it our choice as an alternative to solar-powered washing. This 13-pound capacity machine can simultaneously wash 8 pounds and dry 5 pounds of clothes in less than an hour.
The wash takes 15 minutes and each spin cycle takes 5 minutes with minimal noise. As it is ETL certified, you can feel comfortable and safe. This cleaning equipment has a 1300 RPM motor and a 300W capacity that your system can surely handle.
Pros
- Good capacity
- Good customer reviews
- ETL-certified
Cons
- May not work for big volume laundries
Check Price on Amazon
Conclusion
There may be several reasons why one would want to switch to a solar dryer or washer alternative. You may really want to help save the planet by switching to renewable energy. They may also want to save more money by using the sun’s energy to power their appliances. Curiosity may also be an important part of wanting to change.
Whatever the reason, it is important to understand how solar-powered appliances work and whether it is the best option. For people who have access to a drying area exposed to the sun, hanging up their clothes may be a better option.
Hand-washing clothes can also be a good way to exercise. However, not everyone can afford the luxury of having space or time to dry and wash their clothes naturally.
Portable clothes washers and dryers can be efficiently connected to a solar system or can be charged using a solar charger, so that they do not consume electricity generated by coal from the grid. These portable alternatives save a lot of space and have almost the same performance as a plugged-in machine.
Of course, these machines can only support a limited weight capacity, so care must be taken not to overload them, otherwise, they may not last as long. Take a look at the list we’ve provided above, and you might like the idea of becoming portable and solar-powered.
