Three tested scenarios
| Scenario | Assumptions | Annual energy | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two loads per week | 500 W, 0.7 h/day, 2 days/week, 60% duty; 1 W standby for 23.8 h/day; $0.18/kWh | 30.587 kWh | $5.51 |
| Three loads per week | 500 W, 0.7 h/day, 3 days/week, 60% duty; 1 W standby for 23.7 h/day; $0.18/kWh | 41.501 kWh | $7.47 |
| Daily-use example | 500 W, 0.7 h/day, 7 days/week, 60% duty; 1 W standby for 23.3 h/day; $0.18/kWh | 85.155 kWh | $15.33 |
Standby fills non-cycle time without overlap. All scenarios use $0.18/kWh.
How the estimate works
Then the tool adds 1 W of standby during average non-cycle hours. The 60% duty assumption represents pauses and changing loads within the scheduled cycle.
What changes washer energy?
- Load count, selected program, duration, and spin speed.
- Internal water heating, where present, and selected wash temperature.
- Machine size, efficiency, load sensing, and maintenance.
- Standby or network features between loads.
Ways to reduce total laundry energy
Run appropriately full loads, use cooler water when fabric care and hygiene needs allow, and select efficient cycles. A higher final spin may reduce dryer energy, subject to garment instructions. Evaluate the complete laundry process rather than the washer estimate alone.
Measure complete cycles
For a plug-in electric washer, measure one or several representative complete cycles. Enter measured kWh and total measurement hours, then set the weekly frequency. If the machine heats water internally, the meter captures that; an external water heater does not.
Related: refrigerator cost · methodology · accuracy guide
Last reviewed: August 14, 2026