How Much Does It Cost to Run a Washing Machine? (UK 2026)
Based on the active UK Ofgem price cap of 24.5p per kWh (1 January 2026 – 31 March 2026).
A typical 1800W washing machine costs £0.44 per hour of continuous use at current UK electricity rates (24.5p/kWh). For typical daily usage (4 wash cycles per week (~1 hour each = ~0.6h/day average)), it costs approximately £0.26 per day or £56.09 per year.
Manufacturer specs: Miele & Samsung Eco 40-60 cycle rating (water heater element 1800W–2000W, motor 300W)
* Includes 0.5W standby consumption outside active hours (£1.05/year).
How to Save Money Running a Washing Machine
- Wash at 30°C or 20°C instead of 40°C or 60°C; heating the water accounts for up to 90% of a washing machine's electricity consumption.
- Always run full loads rather than partial loads; two half loads consume 50% more electricity and water than one full wash.
- Use the Eco 40-60 cycle; while the program takes longer, it washes at a lower temperature and uses significantly less power.
- Clean the drain pump filter and run a monthly 60°C maintenance wash with vinegar to eliminate soap scum and keep the heater efficient.
Alternative Appliances Compared
vs. Tumble Dryer
View running cost →A washing machine uses roughly 0.7 kWh per cycle, whereas an electric tumble dryer uses 2 to 3 times more electricity (1.4–3.5 kWh) to dry the same load.
vs. Dishwasher
View running cost →Both appliances spend the vast majority of their electricity heating water; eco wash cycles on both drastically reduce domestic utility bills.
Washing Machine Technical Power Profile
Source data: Miele & Samsung Eco 40-60 cycle rating (water heater element 1800W–2000W, motor 300W)
Frequently Asked Questions: Washing Machine Electricity Costs
How much does it cost to do a load of washing in the UK?â–¾
An average 40°C cotton cycle consumes around 0.8 kWh, costing approx. 19.6p at current price caps. Running an Eco 30°C cycle drops consumption to 0.45 kWh (approx. 11p per wash).
Why do Eco cycles take 3 to 4 hours if they save energy?â–¾
Eco cycles rely on chemical detergent action and mechanical drum agitation over a longer time at cooler water temperatures (approx. 30°C), rather than rapidly boiling water with power-hungry electric elements.
Does washing at 20°C really clean clothes?▾
Yes. Modern liquid enzymatic detergents are specifically engineered to activate and break down oils and proteins at 20°C and 30°C.
How much does a quick 15-minute wash cost?â–¾
While quick cycles run for fewer minutes, they rapidly heat water to target temperature, often consuming around 0.5 to 0.7 kWh—similar to or higher than a longer Eco cycle.
Can connecting a washing machine to hot water supply save electricity?â–¾
Only if your home has heat pump or solar thermal hot water. Most modern washing machines are cold-fill only because internal electronics meter temperature precisely.