How Much Does a Washing Machine Cost to Run?
Washing Machine running cost: about £0.21 per cycle, or £43.80 a year with 4 cycles a week, at the 26.32p per kWh Ofgem price cap.
| Per day (average) | £0.12 |
|---|---|
| Per week | £0.84 |
| Per month | £3.65 |
| Per year | £43.80 |
| Energy used per year | 166 kWh |
How we worked out the cost
We use a typical figure of 0.8 kWh per cycle for a typical 40°C cotton wash. At 26.32p per kWh, that is 0.8 × 26.32p = £0.21. Over a week of 4 cycles it is £0.84, and over a year £43.80.
These are typical estimates rather than lab measurements. Your appliance may use more or less, so adjust the kWh in the calculator for your own.
Washing Machine cost at different electricity prices
| Electricity price | Per cycle | Per year (4 cycles a week) |
|---|---|---|
| 20p per kWh | £0.16 | £33.28 |
| 25p per kWh | £0.20 | £41.60 |
| 26.32p per kWh (Ofgem cap) | £0.21 | £43.80 |
| 30p per kWh | £0.24 | £49.92 |
| 35p per kWh | £0.28 | £58.24 |
| 40p per kWh | £0.32 | £66.56 |
How to reduce the cost
- Washing at 30°C can cut the energy used by around a third compared with 40°C.
- Wash at 30°C or 40°C with full loads, as heating water uses most of the energy.
- Use the highest spin speed to wring out more water, then dry outside or on a rack when you can.
- Run appliances in an eco mode where available.
How does it compare?
| Appliance | Cost per use | Typical use | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tumble Dryer | £0.92 per cycle | 3 cycles/week | £143.71 |
| Heat Pump Tumble Dryer | £0.39 per cycle | 3 cycles/week | £61.59 |
| Heated Clothes Airer | 7.9p per hour | 14 hours/week | £57.48 |
| Iron | £0.26 per hour | 2 hours/week | £27.37 |
| Fridge Freezer | £0.13 per day | 7 days/week | £47.90 |
| Chest Freezer | £0.11 per day | 7 days/week | £38.32 |
| TV | 2.6p per hour | 28 hours/week | £38.32 |
Based on the Ofgem price cap of 26.32p per kWh for 1 October to 31 December 2026. Ofgem states these figures do not include VAT from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027, because the Government has removed VAT from electricity bills for that period. The standing charge is not included. Source: Ofgem.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a washing Machine cost to run per cycle?
At the Ofgem price cap of 26.32p per kWh, a typical washing Machine costs about £0.21 per cycle, using around 0.8 kWh (a typical 40°C cotton wash).
How much does a washing Machine cost to run for a year?
With 4 cycles a week, it costs about £43.80 a year (£3.65 a month), using about 166 kWh. Change the numbers in the calculator above to match how you use yours.
Is the price cap the rate I actually pay?
Not necessarily. The cap is an average limit on default tariffs. Your own rate depends on your supplier, region and tariff, so check your bill and use the calculator to see the cost at your rate. Doubling the rate doubles the cost.
How accurate are these figures?
They are estimates for a typical modern appliance. Age, model, settings and how you use it all change the real cost, so treat them as a guide and check your appliance’s energy label for a precise figure.
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Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year from official sources and are estimates for guidance only, not financial or legal advice. Printed from ukanswers.co.uk.