How Much Electricity Does a Washing Machine Use

Washing machines are one of the most common household appliances, running in almost every UK home several times a week. While they are essential for keeping clothes clean and fresh, many people are unaware of how much electricity they actually consume. Understanding this not only helps households manage their energy bills but also supports better choices when it comes to buying new appliances or adjusting everyday usage.

Average Electricity Consumption of a Washing Machine

The electricity used by a washing machine depends on several factors, including its size, efficiency rating, load, and the programme selected. On average, a modern washing machine in the UK uses between 0.5 and 2 kilowatt hours per cycle. A typical 7kg machine running a standard 40°C wash will usually consume around 0.7 kilowatt hours. With an electricity rate of 30 pence per kilowatt hour, this means each cycle costs about 20 pence.

For a household running four cycles per week, the annual consumption would be around 145 kilowatt hours, costing roughly £44 per year. Households with larger families or those who run daily washes will naturally use more, with some reaching 250 kilowatt hours annually.

How Water Heating Affects Consumption

It is important to remember that the largest part of a washing machine’s electricity use comes from heating water. Washing at higher temperatures, such as 60°C or 90°C, can double or even triple the amount of electricity used compared with washing at 30°C or using a cold-water setting. For most everyday laundry, lower temperatures are sufficient and recommended, making this one of the simplest ways to save energy.

Some modern washing machines are also designed to be connected to a hot water supply, reducing the demand on their internal heating elements. However, this is less common in the UK, where most households connect their machines to a cold water feed.

Energy Efficiency Ratings and Running Costs

When buying a new washing machine, checking the energy rating is key to understanding long-term running costs. Energy labels, which follow the EU and UK grading system, range from A to G. An A-rated machine is the most efficient and will typically use significantly less electricity per cycle than a lower-rated model.

Although an efficient washing machine may cost more upfront, the savings in energy bills add up over its lifespan. For landlords providing appliances in rental properties, choosing efficient models can also help meet minimum efficiency standards and support tenants with manageable utility costs.

Impact of Load Size and Spin Speed

How a washing machine is used has a major impact on electricity consumption. Overloading can reduce efficiency and cause the machine to work harder, while underloading wastes energy by running unnecessary cycles. Manufacturers usually provide guidelines on optimum load sizes for each programme, and following these helps balance electricity use with effective cleaning.

Spin speed also plays a role in overall energy use. Higher spin speeds use slightly more electricity during the cycle but remove more water from clothes, which reduces the energy needed if a tumble dryer is used afterwards. For households aiming to save electricity overall, a well-balanced approach is to select the highest spin speed suitable for the fabric type.

The Role of Eco Programmes

Most modern washing machines now include eco modes or energy-saving programmes. These often run at lower temperatures and extend the wash time to achieve the same cleaning results. Although they may take longer, they typically use less electricity and water, making them a practical option for regular laundry. Using eco settings wherever possible is one of the simplest ways to keep electricity use low without compromising on results.

Annual Costs in Real Terms

If we take the example of a washing machine using 0.7 kilowatt hours per cycle, with an average of four cycles per week, this would equate to an annual cost of about £44. A less efficient machine running hotter cycles or with larger loads might cost £80 to £100 a year. By comparison, an A-rated washing machine running cooler eco cycles could bring the annual cost down below £40.

For a family of four doing daily washes, these numbers can increase quickly. In such cases, selecting a machine with a high energy efficiency rating and making use of lower temperature cycles can have a noticeable effect on yearly energy bills.

Maintenance and Usage Habits

Regular maintenance can also help keep a washing machine running efficiently. Cleaning the detergent drawer, removing limescale build-up, and ensuring filters are clear all help the machine operate smoothly and consume less electricity. Running full loads rather than frequent smaller washes is another effective way to save.

Households that want to reduce consumption further can also consider time-of-use tariffs. Running washing machines during off-peak hours can reduce the unit cost of electricity, although this depends on the supplier and tariff structure.

Environmental Considerations

Reducing the electricity consumption of washing machines not only lowers bills but also helps reduce carbon emissions. As electricity demand continues to grow, choosing energy-efficient appliances and using them wisely supports broader environmental goals. For landlords and businesses, energy-efficient choices can also demonstrate commitment to sustainability, which is increasingly important under current building and rental standards.

Conclusion

A washing machine typically uses between 0.5 and 2 kilowatt hours of electricity per cycle, with annual costs ranging from around £40 to £100 depending on usage patterns and efficiency. The biggest factor influencing electricity use is the temperature of the wash, making lower settings one of the easiest ways to save energy. Choosing an A-rated machine, maintaining it properly, and running it with full loads are all practical steps for reducing both electricity costs and environmental impact. For homeowners, tenants, and landlords alike, understanding how much electricity a washing machine uses provides reassurance and allows for more sustainable and cost-effective laundry routines.