How much does a washing machine cost to run?
A typical washing machine costs about 21.1p per wash to run. At 4 washes a week that is 84.2p a week, or £43.80 a year, based on 400 W for 2 hours (0.80 kWh) at 26.32p per kWh.
Adjust for your washing machine
Worked example
400 W is 0.4 kW. Running for 2 hours uses 0.4 × 2 = 0.80 kWh. At 26.32p per kWh that costs 21.1p.
Four washes a week come to £43.80 a year at this level. One fewer wash a week, by running full loads, saves about £10.95.
How to cut the cost
Most of the energy goes into heating the water, so a 30 or 40 degree wash is much cheaper than a hot one. Wait for a full load, and use the eco cycle, which runs for longer at lower power.
Questions
Does a washing machine use a lot of electricity?
Much less than a tumble dryer. A typical wash uses about 0.80 kWh, which costs 21.1p at 26.32p per kWh.
Is it cheaper to wash at night?
Only if you are on a time-of-use tariff such as Economy 7 or a smart tariff. On a standard tariff the unit rate is the same all day.
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.