Kitchen cost guide
How much does a dishwasher cost to run?
The dishwasher uses electricity for pumps, controls and water heating. Enter total cycle hours and the rated or measured average draw for an electricity-only planning estimate.
Appliance energy cost
Use the power label on your appliance and the electricity rate shown on your bill.
Formula: watts ÷ 1,000 × hours per day × days × electricity rate. Cycling appliances and variable-speed equipment can use less than their full rated power.
What changes the answer?
Water heating can sit inside or outside the estimate
Some of the heating happens in the appliance and some may come from the home's water heater. This calculator covers only the watts entered, so add separate fuel or water-heating cost when it matters to the decision.
Eco cycles trade time for lower intensity
A longer cycle is not automatically more expensive. Efficient programs can use lower temperatures and less water while running pumps for more time.
Compare cost per full load
Running full loads usually lowers cost per dish. Use your actual number of monthly cycles rather than assuming daily operation, and avoid pre-rinsing unless the manual calls for it.
Use this result as a planning range
Repair leaks, damaged cords and overheating immediately; do not use a dishwasher that is leaking near electrical connections.
Review the formulas and public sources in our methodology.
Official references
- Appliances and ElectronicsU.S. Department of Energy
- Electric Meters and kilowatt-hoursU.S. Department of Energy
- How to use the EnergyGuide labelFederal Trade Commission