laundry

Cost to run a washing machine

An ENERGY STAR top-load washer uses about 0.5 kWh per cycle (cold wash). Hot water washes can push that to 2.0+ kWh because of water heater electricity.

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US average: $0.16/kWh. CA & HI: $0.30+. Look at any electric bill for your exact rate.

Estimated cost

kWh per cycle
0.50
Cost per cycle
$0.08
Cost per week
$0.40
Cost per month
$1.73
Cost per year
$21

Ways to lower the cost

  • Wash in cold — saves up to 90% of the energy per load.
  • Run full loads.
  • Switch to a heat pump dryer if you're replacing — 50% less energy than vented electric.

Want to verify your actual rate?

Many bills are wrong about the rate they apply. A free bill check confirms what you're really paying per kWh.