Run full loads. Dishwashers like washing machines use the same amount of energy for all loads. Use the air-dry setting or open your dishwasher after the wash cycle is finished. Air drying dishes saves more energy than the heat-dry setting. Use a water-sheeting agent, such as Jet Dry®, to allow your dishes to dry quicker. Don’t pre-rinse; scrape dishes clean instead to save up to 20 gallons of water. Run your dishwasher after peak energy hours. In some cities, this can save you money on your energy bill.