UK running cost calculator
Washing Machine Cost Calculator UK
Estimate the electricity cost of running your washing machine per wash, per week, per month, and per year using the energy label method.
Last reviewed: 25 April 2026
Calculator inputs
Choose a wash frequency, match the machine label value, and adjust the electricity rate if your tariff is different.
Result Card
Estimated washing machine cost
Based on 0.68 kWh per wash at 24.67 p/kWh and 4 washes per week. Standing charge is not included because this calculator estimates the cost of running one appliance.
0.68 kWh used per wash
4 washes per week
Weekly cost x 4.345
Weekly cost x 52
68 kWh per 100 cycles / 100
kWh per wash x washes per week x 52
Efficient preset comparison
Compared with an efficient A-rated machine, this could cost about £8.72 more per year.
How this estimate works
See the exact steps behind the estimate so the result stays easy to sense-check.
This calculator uses the washing machine energy label method. It divides the kWh per 100 cycles value by 100 to estimate energy use per wash, then applies the current default UK electricity unit rate. Actual cost can vary by tariff, programme, temperature, load size and washing machine model.
- kWh per wash = kWh per 100 cycles / 100
- Cost per wash = kWh per wash x electricity price per kWh
- Weekly cost = cost per wash x washes per week
- Monthly cost = weekly cost x 4.345
- Yearly cost = weekly cost x 52
- Yearly kWh = kWh per wash x washes per week x 52
Electricity rate source: Ofgem energy price cap unit rates.
Energy label method: washing machines show energy use as kWh per 100 cycles.
Example calculation
A worked example helps the user compare the result with a familiar everyday scenario.
An average C-rated machine using 68 kWh per 100 cycles works out to about 0.68 kWh per wash.
At 24.67 p/kWh and 4 washes per week, that is about £0.17 per wash, £2.92 per month, and £34.89 per year.
Simple ways to reduce washing costs
Small household changes can often reduce running costs without overcomplicating the decision.
- Wash full loads when possible.
- Use eco programmes when suitable.
- Wash at lower temperatures for lightly soiled clothes.
- Check your machine's energy label for kWh per 100 cycles.
- Reduce unnecessary extra washes.
- If you use a tumble dryer, better spin drying can also reduce drying costs.
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Washing machine cost questions
Short answers to common questions about washing machine running costs.
Why use kWh per 100 cycles instead of watts?
Washing machines do not run at one fixed wattage for the whole cycle. The energy label value gives a more realistic cycle-based estimate.
Does the programme selector change the calculation?
No. It is guidance only on this page. For the most accurate estimate, use the kWh per 100 cycles value from your own machine label.
Does this include standing charge or full water bills?
No. Standing charge is excluded, and water cost is only added if you turn on the water estimate and enter your own water rate.
Estimate notice
This is an estimate. Your actual cost may vary depending on your tariff, programme, temperature, load size and washing machine model.