How much does it cost to run a washing machine for 1 hour?

 Ever wondered how much your washing machine is really costing you every time you hit ‘start’? The short answer: in Australia, running a standard washing machine for one hour usually costs between 30 cents and $1, depending on the machine’s energy efficiency, water heating, and your electricity tariff. But that’s the quick answer—let’s unpack it properly.

How do electricity tariffs affect washing machine costs?

Electricity pricing in Australia varies by state, provider, and time of day. A typical residential tariff in 2025 is around 25–40 cents per kWh. Since most washing machines use 0.3–2 kWh per cycle, your actual cost per hour can swing a lot.

• Cold wash on an efficient machine: ~0.3–0.6 kWh = about 10–25 cents

• Warm wash with average machine: ~1 kWh = about 25–40 cents

• Hot wash or older top-loader: up to 2 kWh = 50 cents–$1

Heating water is the biggest culprit. If you choose a cold wash (often just as effective for everyday laundry), you’ll cut running costs by more than half.

Does machine type matter?

Yes—your machine’s design and star rating have a direct impact on running costs.

Machine Type	Energy Use (per cycle)	Typical Cost	Notes
Front-loader (efficient, cold wash)	0.3–0.6 kWh	10–25c	Uses less water, spins drier clothes
Front-loader (warm wash)	~1 kWh	25–40c	Balanced option for stain removal
Top-loader (older models)	1.5–2 kWh	50c–$1	Higher water + energy consumption

Anyone who’s used a top-loader from the 90s knows they can sound like a jet engine while draining your wallet.

What about water costs?

Water isn’t free either. A standard wash might use 40–60 litres, costing a few cents more per load. Front-loaders are generally more water-efficient, sometimes halving this figure. If you’re in Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane, where water pricing is rising, the savings add up.

How does load size change the cost?

Oddly enough, half-filling the machine doesn’t halve the cost. Most of the energy goes into heating water and spinning, regardless of whether it’s half full or packed tight. The smartest move is to run full, balanced loads—your clothes and your wallet will thank you.

Is it cheaper to use a laundromat?

If you only do the occasional big wash or live in a small flat, a laundromat can work out better value. Industrial machines are super efficient and can handle bulk loads in less time. You also save on detergent, water, and the wear-and-tear of your own appliance. That’s why a quick search for a laundromat near me might actually be the more cost-effective option.

FAQ

Is it cheaper to wash clothes at night?
Yes, if you’re on a time-of-use tariff. Off-peak rates (usually overnight) can be half the daytime cost.

Does quick wash save money?
Often yes, because it uses less water and electricity—but check if it heats water. A “hot” quick wash can still cost more than a “cold” normal cycle.

Should I always wash in cold water?
For most clothes, cold water works fine and saves energy. Warm or hot water is better for sheets, towels, and heavily soiled fabrics.

Final thought

The cost of running a washing machine for one hour can range from loose change to nearly a dollar, depending on your habits. If you want to save, stick with cold washes, full loads, and efficient front-loaders. And if you’re weighing up the convenience of home washing versus industrial machines, a local laundromat may well be the smarter play.

For more detail on energy use, the Energy Rating government site has excellent resources.