Laundry and moisture
Tumble Dryer Cost Calculator UK
Estimate the cost of drying a load and see how changing cycle length or dryer type affects your bill.
Estimated running cost
- Per hour
- 61.68p
- Per day
- 46.26p
- Per week
- £3.24
- Per month
- £13.88
- Per year
- £168.84
Formula: dryer wattage ÷ 1,000 × cycle length × electricity price.
Cost table
| Scenario | Power | Use time | Cost at 24.67p/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat pump dryer, 700W for 2 hours | 700W | 2 hours | 34.54p |
| Condenser dryer, 2,500W for 1.5 hours | 2,500W | 1.50 hours | 92.51p |
| Vented dryer, 3,000W for 1.25 hours | 3,000W | 1.25 hours | 92.51p |
Formula
dryer wattage ÷ 1,000 × cycle length × electricity price = running cost
For example, a 2,500W tumble dryer used for 1.5 hours at 24.67p/kWh costs 2.5 x 1.5 x 24.67p = 92.51p.
Ways to reduce the cost
- Spin clothes at a higher washing-machine speed first.
- Clean the lint filter and condenser regularly.
- Dry full but not over-packed loads.
- Use a heated airer or dehumidifier when speed is less important.
FAQs
How much does a tumble dryer cost per load?
A typical high-power cycle can cost roughly 70p-£1, depending on wattage and length.
Are heat pump dryers cheaper?
They usually use much less electricity per load, though cycles may take longer.
Does half a load cost half as much?
Not always. Many dryers still use similar heating energy unless they have good sensor drying.
What matters most?
Cycle energy use in kWh is the best number. The calculator estimates it from wattage and time.
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.