Estimate one drying cycle
Multiply the dryer's average kilowatts while operating by the cycle length and the electricity rate. If a dryer averages 3 kW during a 45-minute cycle, it uses about 2.25 kWh for that load.
Rated watts can overstate the average
The heating element cycles and the drum motor draws much less power than the element. A whole-cycle energy reading is better than assuming the maximum label wattage stays on from start to finish.
- Convert minutes to a fraction of an hour before calculating.
- Include a second cycle when loads commonly need more time.
- Calculate gas dryers differently because the fuel and electric loads are separate.
Turn cost per load into a monthly total
Multiply cost per load by loads per week and by 4.33 for an average month. Use the household's real laundry frequency so the estimate scales correctly for one person or a large family.
Reduce heated drying time
A faster washer spin removes water before the heated cycle begins. Clean the lint screen, maintain the vent, avoid over-drying, and use moisture sensing so the element does not keep reheating already-dry clothes.
Rate source and limits
The default rate is the EIA U.S. residential average for April 2026, retrieved July 16, 2026. It is an average revenue per kilowatt-hour, not a quote for your utility plan. Fixed fees, taxes, tiers, and time-of-use prices can change the bill.
Open the EIA source