Is a washing machine expensive to run?

Washing in cold water removes the water-heating cost, which is most of a wash cycle's energy. At typical use it adds about $2.51 to a monthly electric bill at the US-average rate, but that swings from $1.75 in the cheapest states to $6.52 in the most expensive.

How many watts does a washing machine use?

Washing Machine typically draws about 500 running watts. Because it has a motor or compressor, it briefly spikes to around 1,200 watts at startup, which matters for generator and breaker sizing but not for energy cost. Check the nameplate or label on your specific unit for its exact rating.

How can I lower the cost of running a washing machine?

Washing in cold water removes the water-heating cost, which is most of a wash cycle's energy. You can also cut the cost by lowering your electricity rate — many utilities offer cheaper off-peak hours — or simply by running it fewer hours. Use the calculator above to see how changing hours per day or your rate moves the number.

How Much Does It Cost to Run Washing Machine?

The washer's motor uses little electricity — the real cost of laundry is the hot water and the dryer that follow. At the US-average rate of 16.5¢/kWh, running a washing machine costs about $2.51/month ($30.08/year) at typical use. Adjust the watts, hours, and your rate below for your exact number.

Power (watts)

Hours per day: 1

Days per week: 7

Your state (sets the rate)

Electricity rate ($/kWh)

Cost to run a washing machine

$30/yr

Per day: $0.08
Per month: $2.51
Energy per year: 183 kWh

Cost = power (kW) × hours × days × your rate. Defaults are typical values — enter your appliance's actual watts (often on a label) and your real rate for a precise figure.

Cost to run a washing machine by electricity rate

Same 500 W appliance, 1 h/day — the bill changes with where you live.

Scenario	Rate	Per month	Per year
Cheapest states (North Dakota)	11.5¢	$1.75	$21.01
US average	16.5¢	$2.51	$30.08
Most expensive (Hawaii)	42.9¢	$6.52	$78.22

Find your state's rate on the electricity rates by state page, or see the appliance wattage chart for more devices.

Frequently asked questions

At the US-average residential rate of 16.5¢/kWh, a washing machine drawing 500 watts for about 1 hour a day costs roughly $0.08 per day, $2.51 per month, and $30.08 per year. Your actual cost depends on your electricity rate and how much you use it — adjust both in the calculator above.

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How Much Does It Cost to Run Washing Machine?

Cost to run a washing machine by electricity rate

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to run a washing machine?

Is a washing machine expensive to run?

How many watts does a washing machine use?

How can I lower the cost of running a washing machine?

Cost to run other appliances