In the courts of kings and queens in medieval Europe, the jester was the person whose job was to do silly things in order to make people laugh . See full definition.
High efficiency models such as front-loading washers can greatly reduce water use. Small machines (those under 4.0 cubic feet) that use less than 6.5 gallons of water per cubic foot can reduce water use by up to 50%. For additional information see: Clothes Washers: Water and Energy-Saving Tips and Technologies (73 KB)
A washer and dryer combination consumes a high amount of electricity. The dryer has the higher energy needs, ranging from 1,800 to 5,000 watts, according to the Washing Machine Advisor. Their occasional use means they do not consume as much energy as some other appliances, but use a lot when they do operate. The clothes washer uses somewhat less energy, ranging from 350 to 500 watts.