Washing Machine Running Cost Calculator UK

Calculate how much your washing machine costs to run per wash, week, month and year using your own electricity rate.

Updated: August 2026

The calculator defaults to 26.11p per kWh, the Ofgem average electricity unit rate for a standard variable tariff paid by Direct Debit from 1 July to 30 September 2026. Your own tariff may be different.

View Ofgem electricity rates →

Calculate Your Washing Machine Running Cost

p/kWh
Replace the default with the unit rate shown on your electricity bill if different.
kWh
Use the appliance energy label, manual or manufacturer's specification page where possible.

Your Estimated Running Costs

Per Wash£0.00
Per Week£0.00
Per Month£0.00
Per Year£0.00

Usage Summary

Estimated annual use:

Estimated electricity use per year:

Washes Frequency Comparison

Uses per weekMonthly costAnnual cost

How is the wash running cost calculated?

The calculation multiplies electricity used for one wash by the price you pay for each kilowatt-hour of electricity.

Cost per wash = Energy used per cycle × Electricity price

With the default example, 0.75 kWh × £0.2611 = £0.1958, or about 20p for one wash.

Where can I find the energy usage?

Check the appliance energy label, manufacturer website, product manual or specification page. Washing-machine labels may show kWh per 100 cycles; divide that figure by 100 for an estimate per wash.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a washing machine cost to run?

It depends on the machine's energy consumption, your electricity tariff and how often you use it. Enter those values above for a personalised estimate.

Does washing at a lower temperature save electricity?

Lower-temperature programmes can often use less electricity because less energy is required to heat the water, although actual consumption varies by appliance and programme.

Is this calculator exact?

No. It is an estimate. Programme, load, temperature, machine efficiency and your tariff can all change actual consumption.

What does kWh mean?

kWh means kilowatt-hour, a standard unit used to measure electrical energy consumption.

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