How Much Electricity Does a Dishwasher Use

Dishwashers are a common feature in many UK homes, providing convenience and improved hygiene compared to handwashing. Yet one of the main concerns for households is how much electricity a dishwasher uses and whether it significantly impacts energy bills. The answer depends on the size of the appliance, the type of programme selected, water heating requirements, and how frequently it is used. Understanding its energy use helps homeowners make informed choices about efficiency, running costs, and whether they can reduce consumption without compromising on performance.

Typical Power Ratings of Dishwashers

Most dishwashers in the UK are rated between 1,200 and 2,400 watts, with compact models falling at the lower end and full-size machines at the higher end. The actual electricity use per wash is measured in kilowatt hours. On average, a standard cycle consumes between 1 and 2 kilowatt hours. At the current average UK electricity tariff of around 28 pence per kilowatt hour, this works out at approximately 28 to 56 pence per cycle. Energy-efficient models often use less power, particularly if equipped with eco programmes designed to wash at lower temperatures over a longer duration.

How Water Heating Affects Energy Use

The biggest draw on electricity in a dishwasher comes from heating the water. While some machines are connected directly to a hot water supply, most heat water internally using an electric element. A hotter setting such as an intensive wash requires more energy to heat water to the necessary temperature. By contrast, eco settings typically heat the water to a lower level, which reduces energy use but increases cycle time. For most households, using eco programmes where suitable provides a good balance between cleanliness and energy efficiency.

Impact of Load Size and Frequency of Use

The way a dishwasher is used has a significant effect on electricity consumption. Running the machine once a day at full load will use far less energy per item washed than running it twice a day at half load. Over a month, this difference adds up considerably. A household running a dishwasher daily on a standard cycle could expect it to consume between 30 and 60 kilowatt hours per month, costing roughly £8 to £17. Smaller households who only run it every other day would naturally see lower costs.

Comparing Dishwashers to Handwashing

A common question is whether dishwashers use more energy than washing by hand. While they do require electricity, dishwashers can actually be more efficient overall. This is because modern machines use far less water than handwashing, especially on eco settings, and heating water in a controlled, insulated environment is often more efficient than running hot water continuously from a tap. This means that while a dishwasher does consume electricity, it can still be the more economical and environmentally friendly option when used efficiently.

Energy-Saving Features on Modern Dishwashers

Many newer dishwashers include features that reduce electricity use. Eco modes, delay start functions to take advantage of off-peak tariffs, and load sensors that adjust water and energy use to the size of the wash all help minimise running costs. Some high-efficiency dishwashers also incorporate heat recovery technology, reusing warmth from the washing process to preheat water for rinsing. Choosing a modern machine with an A or B energy label under the latest UK efficiency standards ensures lower electricity consumption compared to older models.

Dishwashers in Relation to Other Household Appliances

When comparing energy use, dishwashers sit somewhere in the middle. A fridge freezer uses 100 to 400 watts but runs continuously, making its annual cost higher. A washing machine uses 500 to 2,000 watts per cycle, similar to a dishwasher, but the frequency of use varies. By comparison, an electric oven consumes around 2,000 to 3,000 watts and can use 2 kilowatt hours in a single hour of cooking, costing more per use. This shows that while dishwashers do add to household energy bills, they are not among the most demanding appliances.

Practical Examples of Running Costs

If a full-size dishwasher consumes 1.5 kilowatt hours on a standard cycle, at 28 pence per kilowatt hour, the cost is about 42 pence per wash. If used once a day, this amounts to £12.60 per month. An energy-efficient model on an eco setting using 1 kilowatt hour per wash would bring that down to around £8.40 per month. Households that run their dishwasher multiple times daily may see monthly costs rise towards £20 to £25, which highlights the value of filling the machine properly and avoiding unnecessary washes.

Environmental and Practical Benefits

Although dishwashers do use electricity, they can improve hygiene by washing at higher temperatures than most people tolerate by hand, which helps reduce bacteria. They also save time and can make kitchen routines more efficient. From an environmental perspective, modern models are designed to reduce both water and electricity consumption, so the environmental impact is often less than expected, particularly if eco settings are used consistently.

Final Thoughts

On average, a dishwasher in the UK uses between 1 and 2 kilowatt hours of electricity per cycle, costing between 28 and 56 pence depending on the tariff. While not insignificant, this cost is manageable compared to other household appliances, especially when eco programmes and full loads are used. Homeowners can keep running costs down by selecting an energy-efficient model, choosing lower temperature cycles where possible, and only running the machine when it is fully loaded. With the right approach, a dishwasher can remain both practical and cost-effective in day-to-day life.