SSgardener - Quite sure, had the water company out a few years ago to do a double check to make sure that the squishy part of my yard was not from my lines. It was the neighbor's extreme overwatering that made it squishy. And from what my neighbors say, I actually have one of the lowest waterbills... probably 'cuz I don't have grass. And it's just me & my husband, so we're talking 2 plates, 2 glasses, 1 fork/1 spoon, & whatever pots/pans I use. And also considering I don't put the pots/pans into the dishwasher (hand wash them).. handwash. The article you posted didn't show any hard facts:
We recently covered a tip on dishwasher efficiency, but may have left you still feeling guilty or at least wondering about whether you should be pampering yourself with this labor-saving appliance. Now, thanks to a scientific study at the University of Bonn in Germany, you can have your cake and eat it too-relaxed in the knowledge that the cleaning up with your trusted machine will be a piece of cake and the eco-friendly thing to do...The Bonn study proves that the dishwasher uses only half the energy and one-sixth of the water, less soap too. Even the most sparing and careful washers could not beat the modern dishwasher. The study also rated the cleanliness achieved, again in favor of the washing machine (sorry grandma). There have been studies before, but this is one of the few that stands (wo)man against machine and it sets itself apart by including a thorough analysis of the effect of half-loads and the whole demand range from your cake plate to the grimiest pots. Surf to research under household technology at U. Bonn's site for more. :: U. Bonn Household Technology
No way to actually look at the Bonn study to see how many dishes, type of food on dishes, what kind of soap, etc etc etc. Not to mention the electricity bill generated w/the dishwasher (I'm saving probably around $10/$15/month on handwashing.. haven't used my dishwasher in 2 months & my electric bill is about $15/$17 cheaper than normal), plus all the other waste like what to do with the dishwasher when it's time to replace it, having to replace it every 5 years, etc etc etc. To me, just much much faster to wash by hand, plus gives DH & I 10 minutes w/o distractions (TV/PS3/intertubez).
