How Much Electric Does a Washing Machine Use

The washing machine is one of the most frequently used appliances in most UK households, often running several times a week or even daily. While essential for modern living, it can also be one of the more energy-demanding appliances, especially when used inefficiently. Understanding how much electricity your washing machine uses and what factors influence that consumption helps you make smarter decisions about when and how to wash your clothes. Over time, even small adjustments can lead to noticeable savings on your household energy bills.

Average Electricity Use of a Washing Machine

The electricity consumption of a washing machine depends on several factors, including its energy rating, drum size, water temperature, and cycle type. On average, a standard 7 to 9 kg washing machine uses between 0.5 and 2 kWh of electricity per cycle. The exact figure depends largely on whether you wash at high temperatures or stick to eco settings.

In cost terms, if your energy tariff is 30 pence per kWh, a typical 40°C wash cycle using 1 kWh would cost around 30 pence. That means running your washing machine five times per week would cost about £1.50 weekly, or roughly £78 annually. If you regularly use high-temperature settings, longer cycles, or additional rinses, that total can rise closer to £100 to £120 per year.

Modern energy-efficient models use less water and electricity by combining efficient motors with smarter controls. Older machines, especially those over ten years old, may consume twice as much energy as newer A-rated appliances.

What Affects Electricity Consumption

The most significant factor affecting electricity use is water temperature. Heating the water accounts for up to 90 per cent of the total energy used in a washing cycle. A 60°C wash can consume twice as much electricity as a 30°C cycle. Switching to cooler settings can therefore reduce energy use dramatically without affecting cleaning performance, particularly with modern detergents designed to work at lower temperatures.

Load size also plays a major role. Running half-empty loads wastes energy and water, as the machine uses nearly the same power regardless of how full it is. It’s best to wash full loads whenever possible, though avoid overloading, as that can reduce cleaning effectiveness and strain the motor.

The cycle type matters too. Quick wash cycles may seem more efficient, but they often use more energy per minute because the machine must spin faster and heat water rapidly. Eco modes take longer but use less power overall, as they rely more on mechanical action than heat.

Typical Power Ratings and Usage Patterns

Most household washing machines in the UK have power ratings between 1,500 and 2,500 watts. The machine does not draw that much power continuously, as it cycles between washing, rinsing, and spinning phases. During the heating phase, the power draw is at its highest, as the internal element works to bring water up to the chosen temperature. Once heated, the power usage drops significantly while the drum rotates.

A typical 60°C cotton wash might use 1.5 to 2 kWh, while a 30°C eco cycle could use just 0.5 to 0.7 kWh. For energy-conscious households, switching to lower temperatures is one of the simplest and most effective ways to save electricity.

Energy Efficiency Ratings and Regulations

Washing machines sold in the UK must display an energy efficiency rating based on the A to G scale, with A being the most efficient. This rating reflects annual electricity and water consumption based on standardised testing. Modern A-rated machines can use up to 30 per cent less electricity than older models.

The UK government’s Ecodesign regulations also set limits on how much power appliances can use during operation and standby. As a result, newer machines are designed with advanced inverter motors, intelligent load detection, and optimised water flow to improve efficiency. Many can automatically adjust the amount of water and energy used based on the weight of the laundry, helping reduce waste on smaller loads.

The Cost of Different Washing Temperatures

To get a sense of how water temperature affects running costs, consider the following comparison. A 30°C wash typically consumes around 0.6 kWh of electricity, costing about 18 pence per cycle. A 40°C wash uses roughly 1 kWh, costing around 30 pence. A 60°C wash can use up to 1.6 kWh, costing approximately 48 pence. Over the course of a year, regularly choosing lower temperature settings could save you more than £40 in electricity alone.

Cold washes are suitable for lightly soiled clothes, delicates, and colours that may fade. Warmer cycles remain useful for bedding, towels, and heavily soiled items, as heat helps remove bacteria and grease. However, with modern detergents, most households can safely rely on 30°C or 40°C cycles for the majority of laundry.

Water Usage and Its Energy Impact

While washing machines use electricity directly to power the motor and heat water, they also influence energy use indirectly through water consumption. The more water a cycle uses, the more energy is required to heat it. Most modern front-loading washing machines use between 40 and 60 litres per cycle, whereas older top-loading models can use 100 litres or more.

Using eco modes or half-load settings reduces water use, which in turn cuts electricity costs. Maintaining your machine also plays an important role. Limescale build-up on heating elements can make the machine work harder and consume more energy, especially in areas with hard water. Running a descaling cycle periodically helps maintain efficiency.

Using Your Washing Machine Efficiently

There are several practical ways to reduce electricity consumption without compromising wash quality. Start by washing full loads wherever possible and using the correct programme for the fabric type. Avoid using unnecessarily high spin speeds unless drying time is a concern, as spinning at maximum speed consumes more electricity.

Switching to off-peak hours can also make a difference if you are on a time-of-use tariff such as Economy 7 or Smart Meter-based flexible plans. Running the washing machine overnight or in the early morning when rates are lower can reduce the cost per cycle.

If your machine has an eco mode, use it regularly. Though these cycles take longer, they use lower temperatures and reduced water heating, which saves energy overall. Modern detergents are formulated to work effectively in cooler water, so you won’t lose cleaning performance.

Washing Machine Lifespan and Long-Term Savings

An efficient washing machine not only reduces electricity bills but also lasts longer if maintained properly. Keep the drum clean, check filters for debris, and ensure the door seal is dry after use to prevent mould build-up. Avoid overloading, as it stresses the drum bearings and motor. Proper maintenance keeps the appliance running smoothly and prevents unnecessary energy loss from mechanical inefficiency.

If your washing machine is over ten years old, replacing it with a new A-rated model can cut energy use by up to a third. Over its lifetime, the savings on energy bills can easily outweigh the cost of purchase, particularly for households with frequent wash cycles.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Reducing the electricity used by your washing machine has a positive environmental impact, as lower energy consumption means fewer carbon emissions from power generation. Many UK homes now pair efficient washing practices with renewable electricity tariffs or solar panels, further reducing the carbon footprint of laundry.

Choosing biodegradable detergents and washing at cooler temperatures also helps the environment by reducing microplastic release and water pollution. Small, consistent actions like these contribute to a more sustainable household routine.

Conclusion

A typical washing machine uses between 0.5 and 2 kWh of electricity per wash, costing between 15 and 60 pence depending on temperature, load size, and cycle type. The main factor affecting energy use is water heating, which can account for up to 90 per cent of total consumption.

By washing full loads, lowering temperatures, and using eco cycles, you can reduce running costs and extend the life of your machine. For homeowners, a qualified electrician can check that your sockets, circuits, and wiring are suitable for heavy appliances like washing machines, ensuring safe and efficient operation for years to come.