05-23-2014, 06:00 AM
Agree with previous posters on this - but there is, I think, a third option on the propane - which is to go with a couple of the intermediate size tanks - about 10 gallons - that are much easier to handle than the bigger ones but give you a bit more life.
Another tip I would offer that isn't completely obvious, is to get one of the high-efficiency washing machines. They are more expensive, but remove much more of the residual moisture from the clothes than a conventional washing machine. We also line dry, but have much less need for dryer time (during the monsoon season) with the high-spin washers than we ever did with a conventional washing machine. The better washing machines also reduce the hot water demand - although that is pretty irrelevant to us since we only wash in cold water - but with a toddler, your daughter may feel the need to go with some hot loads.
Another tip I would offer that isn't completely obvious, is to get one of the high-efficiency washing machines. They are more expensive, but remove much more of the residual moisture from the clothes than a conventional washing machine. We also line dry, but have much less need for dryer time (during the monsoon season) with the high-spin washers than we ever did with a conventional washing machine. The better washing machines also reduce the hot water demand - although that is pretty irrelevant to us since we only wash in cold water - but with a toddler, your daughter may feel the need to go with some hot loads.