• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

HomeownerCosts

How Much Electricity Does A Washing Machine Use? (Washer Energy Consumption Explained)

A washer makes it easy to have fresh laundry without putting in the work or hiring someone to do it for you. But how much electricity does a washing machine use, and how much does it cost you?

The electricity consumption of a washing machine varies based on the model. The most energy-efficient models consume 250 to 300 watts per hour. Older models, or those in less efficient classes, can use up to 2,100 watts per hour.

Washer/dryers typically consume more energy than standard washers, with a surge in power when the dryer is enabled. 

Beyond these considerations, the type of washing machine can also influence electricity consumption.

Topics

  • Washing Machine Electricity Consumption By Type
  • How Much Electricity Does A Washer Use?
    • Washing Machine Electricity Consumption per Load
    • Washing Machine Electricity Consumption per Month
    • Washing Machine Electricity Consumption per Year
  • 7 Factors That Impact Electricity Consumption
    • 1. Energy Efficiency Rating
    • 2. Load Size
    • 3. Wash Cycle Duration
    • 4. Water Temperature
    • 5. Spin Speed
    • 6. Frequency of Use
    • 7. Additional Features
  • FAQs
    • Does washing at 30 cost less?
    • Is it cheaper to use the washing machine at night?
    • What is the most expensive time to run a washing machine in the UK?
  • Conclusion

Washing Machine Electricity Consumption By Type

The electricity consumption of a washing machine is primarily determined by its class, or energy rating. However, the actual type of washer also plays a role.

The table below highlights the electricity consumption requirements for various types of washers:

Washing Machine TypeElectricity Consumption
Compact (mini)0.4 to 0.8 kWh
Front-loading0.5 to 1.0 kWh
Top-loading0.7 to 1.2 kWh
Washer/dryer combo0.5 to 3.5 kWh

=> Looking for a custom house floor plan? Click here to fill out our form, a member of our team will be in touch.

*Energy consumption intervals in the table are averages based on reported electricity use of various appliances in each class. The lower value refers to energy efficient models (energy rating A), while the higher value refers to less energy efficient models (energy rating G).

How Much Electricity Does A Washer Use?

Knowing how much a washing machine consumes on average can help you figure out the appliance’s overall impact on your electricity bill.

However, you might want to break down the costs by load, month or year.

Washing Machine Electricity Consumption per Load

The electricity consumption of a washing machine per load depends on the washer type, its energy rating and the cycle length.

As explained, the average washing machine can consume between 400 to 3,500 Wh. This is what your washer consumes when it runs for one hour. Knowing the watt-hours your appliance requires can help you calculate the electricity consumption per load.

For instance, if you have an energy-efficient washing machine that only consumes 250 watts per hour and you run a 15-minute wash cycle, the appliance will consume 62.5 watt-hours per load (0.0625 kWh). 

Similarly, if your washing machine requires 2,100 watts per hour and the wash cycle lasts 2.5 hours, you’re looking at an electricity consumption of 5,250 watt-hours per load (5.25 kWh).

Considering the national average price of electricity (£0.34 per kWh), you could spend as little as £0.021 or as much as £1.79 per load, on average.

Washing Machine Electricity Consumption per Month

Knowing the electricity consumption and cost per load can help you calculate the monthly impact of using a washing machine in your household.

These values vary widely, depending on the size of your household and your laundry habits. To put things into perspective, we’re going to consider the average UK family of four.

Nationwide, a family of four does laundry eight to ten times a week. A normal wash cycle takes 50 minutes to one hour to complete. In this case, the average consumption per load varies from 208.3 Wh to 3,500 Wh, with a cost between £0.07 to £1.19 per load.

In a week, the average family’s washer would consume between 1,666.4 and 35,000 Wh (1.6664 and 35 kWh), which is the equivalent of £0.56 to £11.9 per week.

To figure out the monthly cost, you must multiply the weekly cost by 52 (number of weeks in a year) and divide by 12 (number of months in a year). 

Using the formula above, the average monthly washing machine electricity consumption for a family of four is somewhere between 7.22 and 151.6 kWh. This works out to £2.45 to £51.54 per month.

It goes without saying that you could spend a lot more or save a lot, depending on your actual habits, preferred cycle and the type of washing machine.

Washing Machine Electricity Consumption per Year

Figuring out the yearly electricity consumption of your washer once you know the monthly consumption is easy. All you have to do is to multiply the monthly value by 12. 

Following the example above, the washing machine of an average family of four would consume between 86.64 and 1,819.2 kWh per year. This would be £29.40 to £618.52 per year.

7 Factors That Impact Electricity Consumption

While the averages above apply to most households, there are factors that affect the washer’s electricity consumption.

1. Energy Efficiency Rating

The most important factor that can impact your washer’s energy consumption is the energy efficiency rating. Since 2021, the rating system in the UK classifies appliances from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient).

Classes D and above are your best bet if you want an energy-efficient appliance. Also note that washing machines manufactured before 2021 may use the old rating system that goes from A+++ to E.

2. Load Size

When doing laundry, you might be tempted to fit as many clothes as possible into the washer so that you can reduce the number of loads and save. However, this practice can be counteractive. 

Washing machine motors need more power to spin a heavy drum. Hence, overloading the machine can boost the energy consumption per load. In some cases, this could cost you more than washing two loads.

Hence, if you want to save, you should avoid overloading the washer.

3. Wash Cycle Duration

As mentioned, the length of the wash cycle has a direct impact on electricity consumption and costs.

Unless your clothes are heavily soiled, running a normal or long cycle is often unjustified. Instead, you can choose an eco or quick cycle that typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes. This can help you reduce monthly and yearly costs.

4. Water Temperature

Another factor that influences electricity consumption and costs per load is the wash temperature.

Washing machines consume more energy to heat the water. It also needs time to bring water to temperature, which is why hot water cycles are longer than cold water ones.

Lukewarm water (30°C) is your best choice to clean most laundry effectively while keeping consumption low.

5. Spin Speed

Spinning the clothes at the end of a wash cycle can speed up drying. However, this setting can boost energy consumption.

If you want to keep it as low as possible while also avoiding your laundry dripping water everywhere, choose a spin setting with fewer rotations per minute.

6. Frequency of Use

It goes without saying that the more you use the washer, the higher the electricity consumption. But the daily frequency of use can also play a role.

When running several loads one after the other, the motor could overheat and increase electricity consumption. If you can, try to split the chore and do the loads on several days throughout the week, rather than washing everything on the same day.

7. Additional Features

Additional features, such as pre-wash or drying cycles, also have an impact on electricity consumption.

You can avoid pre-washing your clothes by soaking them in soapy water for at least an hour before throwing them in the washer. Likewise, allowing your laundry to air dry can help you save.

FAQs

Does washing at 30 cost less?

Yes, washing at 30°C generally costs less compared to washing at higher temperatures.

This is because heating water accounts for a significant portion of the energy consumed by a washing machine.

Is it cheaper to use the washing machine at night?

It could be cheaper to use the washing machine at night, but it greatly depends on the contract with your supplier.

Most suppliers offer more advantageous rates for using electricity during off-peak hours, but those hours can vary from company to company.

What is the most expensive time to run a washing machine in the UK?

Typically, the most expensive time to run a washing machine in the UK is in the afternoon, between 4 PM and 7 PM.

However, your supplier may define different peak hours, so you should check out your contract to determine the best time to schedule your laundry.

Conclusion

Washing machines can use between 250 and 2,100 watts per hour, depending on their type and class. Washer/dryer combos typically consume more, up to 3,500 watts per hour.

Based on your household size and washing habits, you could consume between 86.64 and 1,819.2 kWh per year, which can cost you from about £30 to over £600 a year.

Primary Sidebar

Pages

  • 15 Disadvantages Of Fibreglass Roofing (Here’s What To Know!)
  • 15 North East Facing Gardens Pros & Cons (Ultimate Guide)
  • 16 Disadvantages Of Karndean Flooring: Is It Worth It? (UK Guide)
  • 17 Problems With Acer Trees: UK Edition (What To Do)
  • 45+ False Chimney Breast Ideas: Best Living Area Examples
  • 8 Problems With Amtico Flooring (Read This Before Buying!)
  • 9 Most Common Faults Of Karcher Pressure Washers (How To Fix Them)
  • Aqualisa Shower Problems (Solutions Explained UK)
  • Are Soda Crystals The Same As Bicarbonate Of Soda? (3 Differences + Uses)
  • Artex Removal (Ultimate Guide UK)
  • Average Deep House Cleaning Costs (2025 Price Guide UK)
  • Back Boiler Removal Costs: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
  • Baking Soda vs Bicarbonate of Soda (Definitive Guide)
  • Bathroom Fitting Cost: 2025 Installation & Renovation Prices UK
  • Bathtub Installation Costs & Fitting Prices: 2025 Guide
  • Block Paving Cost: 2025 Driveway Paving Prices (per m2) UK
  • Brick Summer House Cost: How To Save In 2025
  • Can You Mount A TV Above A Log Burner? (UK)
  • Can You Paint Matt Over Silk? (UK Paint Guide)
  • Can You Put Zoflora In Washing Machine? (No! Do This Instead)
  • Can You Use Baking Powder For Cleaning? (Yes! Here’s How)
  • Can You Use Emulsion As Undercoat? (The Definitive Guide)
  • Can You Use Kitchen Paint In A Bathroom? (Answer Explained)
  • Can You Use Masonry Paint On Wood? [3 Application Tips]
  • Can You Use Polyfilla On Wood? (The Definitive Guide)
  • Carpet Fitting Cost 2025: Installation & Laying Prices UK
  • Chimney Breast Removal Cost 2025: Compare Prices UK
  • Clothes Not Smelling Fresh After Tumble Drying (Why & Fixes)
  • Complete Bathroom Tiling Cost Guide (2025 Prices)
  • Complete Cobblestone Driveway Costs (Prices Per m2)
  • Complete Velux Loft Conversion Cost Guide UK (2025)
  • Concrete Driveway Cost UK: 2025 Imprinted & Stamped Prices
  • Conservatory Prices: Compare 2025 Installation Costs UK
  • Cost Of Extension Over Garage: Save Money In 2025 (UK)
  • Cost of Laying a Patio: 2025 Price Calculator UK (m2)
  • Cost of Rewiring a House: 2025 UK Price Comparison
  • Cost Of Running Electricity To Shed: Save In 2025
  • Cost of Velux Windows: 2025 Fitting & Installation UK
  • Cost To Lower Your Ceiling In 2025: Money Saving Tips
  • Demolition Cost per M2 (Garage/House): 2025 Prices UK
  • Disadvantages Of Corian Worktops In The UK (11 Cons)
  • Do Wickes Have a Cutting Service? (Answer Explained)
  • Does Vinegar Bleach Clothes? (9 Ways To Use Vinegar In Laundry)
  • Does Washing Machine Use Hot Water? Not Always (Here’s Why)
  • Double Glazing Cost 2025: Window Installation Prices UK 
  • Electrician Call Out Fees & Price List: 2025 Cost & Charges UK
  • Enzymatic Cleaners (Everything You Need To Know)
  • Fuse Box Replacement Cost: Complete 2025 Price Guide UK
  • Garage Conversion To Bedroom Cost Guide: Save Money In 2025
  • Garage Door Repair Costs: How Much In 2025? (UK Prices)
  • Garage Gym Conversion: Costs, Process & Tips (2025)
  • Garage Roof Replacement Costs: 2025 Price Guide UK (per M2)
  • Garden Clearance Costs In 2025: How To Save Money (UK)
  • Garden Room Extension Costs: 2025 Price (Savings Guide)
  • Garden Room With Bathroom Costs & Price Guide (2025)
  • Gardener Prices 2025: The Ultimate Cost Guide
  • Government Home Improvement Loans UK: Ultimate Guide (2025)
  • Granite Worktop Installation Costs: Save In 2025 (UK Guide)
  • Gravel Driveway Cost UK: 2025 Prices For All Types (per m2)
  • Gutter Cleaning Prices List 2025: UK Cost Comparison
  • House Extension Cost 2025: Compare Building Prices UK
  • House Rendering Cost: 2025 Exterior Walls Guide (m2) UK
  • How Long Does Gloss Take To Dry? The Definitive Guide
  • How Much Does A Washing Machine Weigh? (In KG)
  • How Much Does It Cost To Move Radiators? Definitive Guide
  • How Much Electricity Does A Washing Machine Use? (Washer Energy Consumption Explained)
  • How Much Postcrete Per Post? (5 Key Factors UK)
  • How Much Salt For The Dishwasher? (A Guide To Optimal Usage)
  • How Much To Build A Garage: 2025 Costs UK (Single & Double)
  • How To Clean A Very Stained Toilet Bowl: 14 Ways (UK Guide)
  • How To Disconnect A Gas Cooker (5 Steps)
  • How To Disguise Drain Covers In Gardens: UK (11 Ways)
  • How To Fill Gap Between Oven and Countertop: 5 Fixes
  • How To Fill Holes In Plasterboard: UK Guide (3 Methods)
  • How To Get Biro Off Leather: 13 Ways (UK Guide)
  • How To Hide Cooker Hood Ducting (DIY Guide UK)
  • How To Remove Airlock From Gravity Fed System: 5 Steps
  • How To Remove Limescale From Toilets Below The Waterline (UK Guide)
  • How To Scare Away Pigeons But Not Other Birds: UK (15 Ways)
  • How To Stop Ivy Growing Through Fence: UK Guide (13 Ways)
  • How To Stop Salt Coming Out Of The Wall: 2-Step Fix (UK)
  • How To Wash Sofa Covers Without Shrinking (Step-by-Step Guide)
  • Is Teflon Banned In UK? [Answer Explained]
  • Karndean Flooring Cost 2025: UK Installation & Fitting Prices (per m2)
  • Kitchen Fitting Cost 2025: New Installation Prices UK
  • Kitchen Sink Installation Cost: 2025 Replacement Prices UK
  • Loft Conversion Cost 2025: Attic & Dormer Prices UK
  • Loft Insulation Cost: 2025 Price Comparison UK (per m2)
  • Mist Coat Ratio: What’s The Perfect Mix? (Do This!)
  • Mounting TV On Chimney Breast (Yes Or No?)
  • New Driveway Cost: 2025 Installation Prices (m2) UK
  • Oil-Filled Radiators: 2025 Running Cost (UK Guide)
  • Outside Tap Fitting Costs: Installation Prices In 2025
  • Painting & Decorating Costs 2025: Room Prices & Day Rates UK
  • Painting A Breeze Block Wall: 5 Steps & Tips
  • Parquet Flooring Cost: 2025 Fitting & Installation Prices UK 
  • PAT Testing Cost 2025: Appliance Certification Prices UK
  • Patio Door Glass Replacement Costs: How To Save In 2025 (UK)
  • Patio Doors Cost: 2025 Sliding & uPVC Installation Prices UK
  • Plastering Cost 2025: House & Walls Skimming Prices (m2) UK 
  • Plumber Hourly Rates: 2025 Costs & Pricing Guide UK
  • Porch Extension Costs Guide (2025 Prices)
  • Postcrete Vs. Concrete: UK Comparison Guide
  • Removing Emulsion Paint From Plaster Walls: 5-Step Guide UK
  • Resin Driveway Cost UK: 2025 Installation Prices (Per M2)
  • Roof Replacement Cost: 2025 New Installation Prices UK
  • RSJ Steel Beam Costs: Installation Prices (2025)
  • Rules For Communal Gardens In Flats: UK Guide (11 Rules)
  • Save On Amtico Flooring Costs: How Much In 2025? (UK Guide)
  • Save On Drain Unblocking Costs (2025 Price Guide)
  • Save On Excavation Costs: UK Pricing In 2025
  • Save On Flat Roof Extension Costs: 2025 Prices Explained
  • Save On Oven Cleaning Prices: 2025 Cost Guide UK
  • Scaffolding Cost 2025: Compare Hire & Rental Prices UK
  • Septic Tank Cost 2025: Replacement & Installation Prices UK
  • Sitemap
  • Standard Desk Height UK: Guide & Tips
  • Stopping Loft Condensation: 10 Things To Do (Fix)
  • Stud Wall Cost: 2025 Partition Installation & Build Price UK
  • Suspended Ceiling Costs Guide: 2025 Pricing Explained (UK)
  • Tapered Or Square Edge Plasterboard? The Definitive Guide
  • Tarmac Driveway Cost: 2025 UK Price Calculator (per m2)
  • The Cost Of Moving A Bathroom Upstairs: 2025 Pricing
  • Toilet Installation Costs In 2025: The Ultimate Guide (UK)
  • Top 13 Most Energy Efficient Washing Machines: UK 2025 Guide
  • Top 20 Plasterboard Alternatives (Choose This!)
  • Top 7 Best Sugar Soap Alternatives (DIY, Natural, Homemade)
  • Total Wallpapering Costs Guide: 2025 Pricing & Quotes (UK)
  • Tree Surgeon Prices 2025: Compare Tree Removal Costs UK
  • Types of Washing Symbols UK: The Ultimate Guide (2025)
  • UK Guide To Waste Pipe Dimensions: Sizes, Applications & Fittings
  • Ultimate Brick Shed Cost Guide (2025 Prices Explained)
  • Ultimate Replumbing House Costs Guide (2025 Pricing UK)
  • Walk In Shower Installation Costs: How Much In 2025? (UK)
  • Washing Machine Compartment Drawers (Ultimate Guide UK)
  • Wet Room Installation Costs: 2025 Fitting Prices UK
  • What Are White Goods? (Answer Explained UK)
  • What Does Hotpoint F05 Error Mean? (Fixes)
  • What Is Baking Soda Called In The UK? (Answered + Common Uses)
  • What Is Rinse And Spin On A Washing Machine Mean? (UK Guide)
  • What Size Drill Bit For Wall Plug? (UK Guide)
  • What’s The Cost Of A Home Sauna? (2025 Price Guide UK)
  • Where Do You Put Vinegar In A Front Load Washer? (UK Guide)
  • Where To Buy Hydrogen Peroxide For Cleaning (UK)
  • Where To Buy Rubbing Alcohol (UK)
  • Where To Put Powder In A Washing Machine? (UK Guide)
  • White Vinegar vs Distilled Malt Vinegar: Your Ultimate Guide
  • Why Does Gloss Go Yellow? 5 Reasons & Fixes (Do This!)
  • Why Is Borax Banned In The UK? [Yes, Here’s Why]
  • Why Is My Bathroom Extractor Fan Not Working? (7 Easy Solutions)
  • Your Kitchen Rewiring Cost Guide: Save Money In 2025
  • Zinc Roofing Costs: Save Money In 2025 (UK Guide)

> TRADESMEN REGISTER HERE<
CONTACT · BLOG · ABOUT · Products · Sitemap · PRIVACY POLICY · TERMS OF USE
Copyright © 2025 HOMEOWNERCOSTS.CO.UK