How much does a vacuum cleaner cost to run?
A typical vacuum cleaner costs about 10.5p per clean to run. At 2 cleans a week that is 21.1p a week, or £10.95 a year, based on 800 W for 30 minutes (0.40 kWh) at 26.32p per kWh.
Adjust for your vacuum cleaner
Worked example
800 W is 0.8 kW. Running for 30 minutes uses 0.8 × 0.5 = 0.40 kWh. At 26.32p per kWh that costs 10.5p.
Two half-hour cleans a week cost £10.95 a year. A 1,600 W machine doing the same job would cost £21.90, which is why the wattage matters more than the brand.
How to cut the cost
Empty the bin or bag before it gets full, keep the filters clean, and do not run the vacuum on max power for ordinary floors. A clogged filter makes the motor work harder for the same suction.
Questions
How much does it cost to vacuum a house?
About 10.5p for 30 minutes with an 800 W vacuum at 26.32p per kWh.
Is a cordless vacuum cheaper to run?
The battery charge costs a few pence, so it is usually cheaper per clean. Charge it only when needed and unplug when full.
Other appliances
Electricity rate: Ofgem energy price cap, 1 October to 31 December 2026, Great Britain average, Direct Debit, default tariff: 26.32p per kWh. Your own tariff and region may differ, so change the rate above to match your bill. Appliance figures are typical estimates; your appliance's energy label or manual is more accurate. Last checked 2026-11-03. Next review: January 2027, when Ofgem announces the next quarter's cap.