How Much Does a Dishwasher Cost to Run?
Updated March 2026. Default rate effective 1 April 2026 (Ofgem Q2 2026). Figures are typical estimates rather than model-specific guarantees.
A typical dishwasher costs approximately 29p per standard cycle and around £76 per year to run based on 5 cycles per week.
Calculator24.5p/kWh
W
times
min
p/kWh
Per use
49.0p
Per day
35.0p
Per week
£2.45
Per month
£10.65
Annual cost
£127.75
Typical annual electricity use: 521.43 kWh
Based on typical dishwasher usage at current rates.
Annual estimate
£127.75
Annual electricity use
521.43 kWh
Typical household bill context
About 19% of a typical home's annual variable electricity spend at the current default rate.
What Affects the Cost of Running a Dishwasher?
Dishwasher costs are affected by: Programme selected — eco programmes use approximately 0.7 kWh vs 1.2 kWh for standard. Water temperature — most energy goes to heating water. Load size — running half-empty wastes energy per item.
Helpful guides
Related appliances
Assumptions and methodology
- Electricity rate: 24.5p/kWh (Ofgem Q2 2026)
- Default wattage is based on a typical appliance in this category
- Usage assumptions are meant to be a sensible starting point, not a fixed rule
- Costs vary with tariff, model, settings, load size, and household habits
Tips to Reduce Dishwasher Running Costs
Use the eco programme when possible — it uses roughly 40% less energy than the standard programme by washing at a lower temperature for longer. Only run full loads to maximise efficiency per item washed.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about electricity costs and our calculators.