All worked examples below use explicitly chosen inputs. They are not measured household averages, utility quotes, or guaranteed savings.
Use a whole-cycle energy figure
A dishwasher does not necessarily draw its maximum wattage for every minute of a long program. A full-cycle kWh measurement or a documented test value provides a clearer starting point.
Check which program, load, and water-heating assumptions the value describes. A meter at the appliance may exclude energy supplied by a separate water heater. Do not silently treat that limited reading as the whole home’s water-heating cost.
See how cycle energy changes the result
The figures below are chosen scenarios at 20¢/kWh. They show sensitivity to cycle energy, not an observed range or rating for a particular dishwasher.
| Cycle energy | Cost per cycle | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| 0.7 kWh | $0.14 | $4.20 |
| 1.0 kWh | $0.20 | $6.00 |
| 1.5 kWh | $0.30 | $9.00 |
Match program and drying options
ENERGY STAR highlights program choices and options such as disabling heated dry. The effect on your own kWh needs a model-specific value or measurement. Compare an equivalent load and acceptable cleaning result.
A saving of 0.2 kWh per cycle at 20¢ saves $0.04 per cycle, or $1.20 for 30 cycles. Separating that arithmetic from a claim about a particular setting avoids overstating savings.
Reference: ENERGY STAR: dishwasher buying guidance
Interpret annual labels before converting them
An annual EnergyGuide figure assumes a testing pattern. Divide by the stated annual cycle count only when you understand those assumptions. Do not automatically divide by 365 and call the result “per wash.”
The calculator excludes separately billed water, sewer charges, detergent, and energy not included in your cycle reading. Those items matter when comparing a dishwasher with hand washing, so the electricity result alone cannot settle that broader comparison.
Sources & calculation notes
References checked 2026-10-09. Example arithmetic is calculated by HomeWattCheck. Article review dates are separate from the EIA data period displayed in our calculators.
Each calculator states its scope beside the result. Appliance tools estimate electricity at one rate; the time-of-use comparator includes two price periods and entered fixed fees. Complex tariffs may need additional calculations. State averages describe reported residential revenue per kWh, not your utility’s offer. See our data sources and methodology or state rate comparison.