Dishwasher Running Cost Calculator: Per Cycle and Per Month
Eco cycle against normal cycle, including heated drying. Adjust the wattage, runtime and your own electricity rate below — every figure updates instantly in your browser, and nothing you type is sent anywhere.
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How this cost is calculated
The formula is kWh = watts ÷ 1000 × hours, then cost = kWh × your rate per kWh. Standing charges and tiered or time-of-use pricing are billed separately by your supplier, so treat these numbers as the marginal cost of running this appliance rather than a full bill.
For the full breakdown with regional price tables, read the detailed guide, or estimate your whole household on the home electricity bill calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dishwasher cheaper than washing by hand?
Usually yes, once the cost of heating tap water is counted — a full machine load uses less hot water than a running tap.
Why does eco mode take longer but cost less?
It heats water to a lower temperature and soaks for longer, and heating water is nearly all of the energy used.
Does air drying save money?
Yes, skipping the heated dry phase saves roughly 0.3-0.5 kWh per cycle, about $1.50-$2.40 a month.