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How Much Does a Washing Machine Cost to Run?

A washing machine uses about 400–500 watts per cycle. However, if you use hot water, most of the energy cost is from the water heater, not the washer.

watts
hrs/day
$/kWh

Daily Cost

$0.08

0.5 kWh

Monthly Cost

$2.40

15.0 kWh

Yearly Cost

$29.20

182.5 kWh

For perspective...

At $29.20/year, that's about $2 per month — roughly 6 gallons of gas per year.

Energy-Saving Tips for Your Washing Machine

  • Wash with cold water — 90% of the energy goes to heating water
  • Front-load washers use about 40% less water and energy than top-loaders
  • Full loads are more efficient than multiple small loads