Washing Machine Electricity Use Per Load

Washing machines use 0.3–2 kWh per load, depending on:

  • Water temperature

  • Spin cycle strength

  • Machine size

  • Efficiency rating


Cold Wash vs Hot Wash

  • Cold wash: 0.3–0.6 kWh

  • Warm wash: 0.8–1.2 kWh

  • Hot wash: 1.5–2.0 kWh

Heating water is the biggest energy cost.


Cost Per Load

Example:

0.6 kWh × $0.20 = $0.12/load

Monthly Cost

If you wash 20 loads per month:

20 × 0.12 = $2.40/month

Tips to Reduce Energy Use

  • Wash with cold water

  • Choose high-efficiency models

  • Avoid small loads