Dishwashers are one of the most energy-intensive devices in your home. Newer models use around 1,000 watts per load, while older models consume as much as 2,400 ‒ the same as your oven after an hour of cooking. But the real reason dishwashers use a lot of electricity is because they’re connected to your water heater.
How Much Does It Cost to Run Your Dishwasher?
Simply running your dishwasher costs homeowners in New York up to $0.60 per hour. For homeowners in New Jersey, it’s $0.35. In Pennsylvania, they pay up to $0.36, while Marylanders pay only $0.27.
However, this is only the cost of the electricity, not the cost to heat the water. Depending on how long your dishwasher’s been around, cleaning your dishes may take as much as six gallons. Newer, Energy Star models use less than four.
Water heaters use a lot of energy. Most dishwashers have a target temperature of 130-140°F. If you have an older model, built before 1994, heating sufficient water takes around 1.06 kWh (Kilowatt Hours) ‒ enough to double the cost per load. Heating water for modern dishwashers takes only 0.71 kWh, which comes out to an additional $0.17 in New York and $0.08 in Maryland.
How to Reduce the Amount of Electricity Your Dishwasher Uses
If you’re worried about your energy bill, there are several ways to keep your dishwasher from using a lot of electricity. Most are simple and can be implemented right away to help save money.
- Only Run Full Loads. Dishwashers use the same amount of electricity regardless of how many dishes you put in them, so don’t run your dishwasher unless the upper and lower racks are full.
- Don’t Overload. Water needs to circulate freely to clean plates, glasses, and silverware, so when you load the dishwasher, make sure nothing overlaps. If there’s residue on the plates afterward, it’s a sign your washer’s overfilled.
- Open the Door Right Away. Exposing your dishes to outside air helps you take advantage of the residual heat left behind by the cleaning process. It speeds up evaporation and eliminates the need for your dishwasher’s dry cycle.
- Run Your Washer at Night. Electricity prices are lowest when demand is low, generally early in the morning or late at night. Power companies refer to these times as “off-peak.” Additionally, running your dishwasher at night also prevents its heat from interfering with your air conditioner.
- Buy an Energy Star Model. Older dishwashers use more electricity and water than new ones. To maximize savings, consider purchasing an Energy Star model instead. Energy Star dishwashers are significantly more efficient in terms of water and electricity.
How Agway Helps Protect Your Energy Bill
Regardless of when you run your dishwasher, Agway delivers electricity at the most affordable price in your market. We also protect your finances from sudden and expensive repairs with our EnergyGuardTM program.
It covers you in case your heating, cooling, and electrical systems suddenly malfunction. Your dishwasher and water heater depend on your home’s interior wiring. A single fault could render them inoperable, with dishes piling up in the sink. But with EnergyGuardTM, you don’t have to worry about the cost of repair. You simply call us. We hire the technician and handle all the expenses, including parts and labor. There are no deductibles or service fees. Contact us today and find out how much you can save!
