How Much Does It Cost to Run a Washing Machine?
The running cost of a washing machine depends primarily on the water temperature and cycle length, and on your electricity tariff. At UK electricity prices in 2026 (approximately 24p per kWh), the cost per wash is roughly:
| Programme | Typical energy use | Approximate cost per wash |
|---|---|---|
| Cold wash (20°C) | 0.15–0.3 kWh | 4–7p |
| 30°C cotton | 0.3–0.5 kWh | 7–12p |
| 40°C cotton (typical daily wash) | 0.5–0.9 kWh | 12–22p |
| 60°C cotton | 0.9–1.4 kWh | 22–34p |
| 90°C cotton | 1.5–2.0 kWh | 36–48p |
Annual Running Costs
A typical UK household runs the washing machine 4–5 times per week, primarily on 40°C programmes. Annual running cost for a mid-range modern machine is approximately £35–£65 per year. An older, less efficient machine of similar capacity may cost £60–£100 per year to run on the same usage pattern.
New Energy Labels and What They Mean
Since March 2021, washing machines in the UK use a revised EU/UK energy label with ratings from A (most efficient) to G. Most new machines are rated B or C; only the most efficient models (primarily Miele and premium AEG models) achieve an A rating. The old system where A+++ was the top rating has been replaced — so a machine labelled A+++ under the old system is approximately a C or D under the new system.
Does Buying a New Machine Pay Off in Energy Savings?
If your current machine is over 10 years old and a G or E equivalent under the new labelling, upgrading to a modern B-rated machine could save £30–£50 per year in energy costs. At current appliance prices (£350–£550 for a quality mid-range machine), the payback period through energy savings alone is 7–18 years — so it is rarely the primary justification for replacement, but it is a genuine benefit over the machine's lifetime.