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How to Cut Energy Use with Your Washing Machine: 10 Practical Tips

With energy prices showing no signs of dropping, many UK households are on the lookout for ways to save money. One often-overlooked culprit? Your washing machine. It’s an essential part of daily life, but it can quietly rack up energy costs—especially if you’re not using it efficiently.

The good news is that with just a few simple changes, you can reduce your electricity usage without sacrificing clean clothes. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 practical ways to cut energy use with your washing machine, helping both the planet and your wallet.

Why Your Washing Machine Affects Your Energy Bill

Your washing machine’s energy consumption mainly comes from heating water and spinning clothes dry. A standard model uses roughly 0.7 kWh per load, which adds up quickly if you’re running several loads a week.

The more energy you use, the higher your electricity bill—so finding small ways to make each wash more efficient can lead to meaningful savings over the course of a year.

10 Practical Tips to Reduce Energy Use

Wash at 30°C Whenever Possible
Most everyday laundry doesn’t need hot water. Washing at 30°C instead of 60°C can cut energy use in half.
Use Full Loads, Not Half
It takes almost the same amount of energy to wash a half-load. Wait until you have a full drum to maximise efficiency—but don’t overload it either.
Choose the Eco Wash Setting
Yes, it takes longer—but the eco mode uses lower temperatures and less water, leading to significant energy savings.
Air Dry When You Can
Tumble dryers are some of the most energy-intensive appliances. Hang clothes outside or use indoor drying racks whenever possible.
Use a High Spin Speed
The faster the spin, the more water is removed—reducing the time (and energy) needed to dry clothes afterwards.
Wash Less Frequently
Avoid running multiple small loads. Combine clothes where appropriate and only wash when necessary.
Keep the Filter Clean
A blocked filter forces the machine to work harder and use more energy. Cleaning it regularly keeps things efficient.
Use Cold Wash Detergents
Specially formulated cold water detergents clean effectively at lower temperatures—perfect for saving energy.
Wash During Off-Peak Hours
If you’re on a tariff like Economy 7, running your machine at night can cut costs significantly.
Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model
Older machines can be huge energy hogs. Look for a modern A-rated washing machine with inverter motors and eco features.

How Much Can You Actually Save?

Usage Scenario	Cost Per Year (est.)
Standard habits	£70
Using energy-saving tips	£45
Estimated savings	£25/year

Other Things That Affect Washing Machine Efficiency

Age of the appliance – Older machines tend to be less efficient.
Limescale build-up – Common in hard water areas, reducing heating efficiency.
Detergent type and dosage – Overusing detergent can lead to more rinsing and higher energy use.
Water hardness – May affect detergent performance and machine longevity.

When Is It Time to Upgrade Your Washing Machine?

If your washer is:

Over 10–12 years old
Regularly breaking down
Lacking an energy efficiency rating (or rated D or lower)

…it may be time to switch to a modern, energy-efficient washing machine. Look for labels under the new EU energy rating scale (A to G) and features like eco settings, smart sensors, and inverter motors.