Washing Machine Cost Calculator
Calculate the cost per laundry load, weekly cost, and annual operating cost of a washing machine combining electricity, water, and laundry detergent.
Washer Energy, Water & Detergent Inputs
4,368 gallons & 140.4 kWh per year
Washing Machine Cost Per Load Formula
Cost Per Load = (Energy kWh ร Electric Rate) + (Water Gallons รท 1,000 ร Water Rate) + Detergent Cost- Electricity Cost Per Load = Energy Used Per Cycle (kWh) ร Electricity Rate ($/kWh).
- Water Cost Per Load = (Water Used Per Cycle in Gallons รท 1,000) ร Water Rate per 1,000 Gallons.
- Annual Operating Cost = Cost Per Load ร Loads Per Week ร 52 Weeks.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Electricity Cost/Load = 0.45 ร $0.168 = $0.0756; Water Cost/Load = (14 รท 1,000) ร $6.50 = $0.091
- Total Cost Per Load = $0.0756 + $0.091 + $0.25 detergent = $0.4166 (~$0.42/load)
- Annual Cost (312 loads/yr) = $0.4166 ร 6 ร 52 = $129.98/year
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter the electrical energy (kWh) and water (gallons) consumed per wash cycle.
- 2Enter your local electricity rate ($/kWh) and water rate ($ per 1,000 gallons).
- 3Input your weekly laundry loads and optional detergent/fabric softener cost per load.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Does not include external tank water heating energy unless included in your kWh/cycle entry (see Water Heater Cost Calculator for hot water energy).
- Annual totals use 52 weeks per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gallons of water does a washing machine use per load?
Modern ENERGY STAR front-load washers typically use 12 to 15 gallons per load, whereas older standard top-load agitator washers can use 25 to 40 gallons per load.
Does washing in cold water really lower laundry costs?
Yes. Up to 75%โ90% of the total energy used for a hot-water wash goes toward heating the water rather than spinning the drum motor.
How much detergent cost should I enter per load?
Liquid laundry detergent typically costs $0.12 to $0.22 per load, while single-dose laundry pods generally range from $0.25 to $0.38 per load.
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