How Much Does A Dishwasher Cost Per Cycle?
Reference table
| Scenario | Power | Use time | Cost at 24.67p/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eco cycle | 700W | 2 hours | 34.54p |
| Standard cycle | 1,200W | 1 hours | 29.60p |
| Intensive cycle | 1,500W | 1.50 hours | 55.51p |
What to know
Dishwasher energy use is mostly water heating, so eco cycles can be cheaper even when longer.
Practical guidance
A full dishwasher often compares well with hand washing, especially if hand washing uses lots of hot water.
How to use this
Use the energy label kWh per 100 cycles when available for a better model-specific estimate.
FAQs
Is daily dishwasher use expensive?
A 30p cycle every day is around £9 per 30 days in electricity.
Should I rinse first?
Scrape plates instead. Pre-rinsing with hot water can waste energy and water.
Does heated dry add cost?
Yes, if the machine uses extra heat at the end.
Is hand washing cheaper?
It depends on hot water use and washing style.
Last reviewed 3 May 2026. Source: Ofgem energy price cap. Figures are estimates. Actual prices vary by region, supplier, tariff, payment method and meter type.