Dishwasher Electricity Cost Calculator: Cost per Cycle
Estimate a full wash cycle instead of treating the nameplate wattage as constant power.
Your usage
Example inputsResults update as you type. All costs are in U.S. dollars. See result ↓
For your own rate, add per-kWh supply and delivery charges; leave out fixed fees. Find it on your bill →
Example result — edit inputs to match your use
Estimated electricity cost30 kWh per month at 18.31¢/kWh
1 kWh × 30 loads × $0.1831 = $5.49Daily = monthly ÷ 30. Annual = monthly × 12. Rates are held constant. Actual use may vary.
↑ Edit inputsMeasure the complete program
The starting 1 kWh per cycle and 30 monthly cycles are illustrative inputs. Replace them with a meter reading or documented cycle energy. If your reading measures only the dishwasher, energy used by a separate water heater is outside that reading.
Compare the same washing job
Match the number of place settings and cleaning program before comparing two estimates. Heated dry, water temperature, and different program choices can change the total. Record the entire cycle, including drying, instead of measuring a few minutes while the motor runs.
Can I divide the EnergyGuide annual kWh by 365?
Only if the label assumes one cycle every day. Check the stated test frequency and water-heating assumptions first. Annual tested use divided by the label’s annual cycle count gives a test-based per-cycle figure, not a measurement of your own program.
Make the estimate yours
Replace the example values with measurements or the product label. Select your state for an official average, then override it with your bill’s variable rate when available.
Read the calculations and assumptionsDishwasher cost at different electricity rates
This static worked example uses 1 kWh per cycle × 30 cycles/month. These chosen rates show price sensitivity; they are not utility offers. The interactive result above uses your edited inputs.
| Electricity price | Monthly cost | Annual cost* |
|---|---|---|
| 12¢/kWh | $3.60 | $43.20 |
| 20¢/kWh | $6.00 | $72.00 |
| 30¢/kWh | $9.00 | $108.00 |
*Annual cost repeats this monthly pattern 12 times. Use your actual season length for seasonal equipment. Values are rounded only for display.
Practical energy guides
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Dishwasher per Cycle?
Calculate dishwasher cost per wash from kWh, then account for cycle selection, drying, hot-water boundaries, and your monthly number of loads.
Understand your billHow to Find Your Electricity Rate on Your Bill
Find the right cents-per-kWh rate for an appliance calculator. Separate supply, delivery, fixed fees, and time-of-use charges with a worked bill example.