Want to lower your energy bills without sacrificing clean dishes? Improving your dishwasher’s energy efficiency is a smart place to start. Today’s dishwashers are far more efficient than older models, but even the best appliances can waste electricity and water if not used properly. With a few simple adjustments to how and when you run your dishwasher, you can conserve energy and reduce your utility costs every month.
From selecting the right cycle to loading your dishwasher strategically, small changes can make a big impact. Whether you're trying to live a little greener or just save some extra money, boosting your dishwasher efficiency helps your home run more sustainably. Below, we’ll explore how much energy dishwashers use, six easy ways you can use yours more efficiently, and how to narrow the field and choose an energy efficient dishwasher.
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Find quiet, durable, and energy-efficient dishwashers from leading brands like Boschm KitchenAid, GE, and more at Idler's Home, today!
Shop Dishwashers Near MeHow Much Energy Does a Dishwasher Use?
On average, a standard dishwasher uses between 1.2 to 1.8 kWh of electricity per load, depending on the model, water temperature, and cycle settings. Each week, you likely spend an average of $1.17 to $1.44 in dishwasher energy bills, which amounts to $60.84 to $74.88 per year. Water usage also plays a role in overall energy consumption, especially if your dishwasher heats the water internally.
ENERGYSTAR®-certified dishwashers are designed to use less than 3.5 gallons of water per cycle and can save about 5,800 gallons of water over their lifetime compared to older models. Choosing a high efficiency dishwasher and running it strategically reduces the load on your water heater and lowers both water and energy bills. Even if your dishwasher isn't brand new, using it wisely can still result in significant savings.
6 Simple Tips to Improve Your Dishwasher Efficiency
Improving your dishwasher’s energy efficiency doesn’t require a total lifestyle change—just a few smart habits and upgrades can lead to noticeable savings on your energy and water bills. Below are six easy, practical ways to get the most out of your dishwasher without wasting resources or sacrificing clean dishes.
1. Only Run Full Loads
It might seem obvious, but it’s one of the most effective tips: wait until the dishwasher is full before you run it. Dishwashers use the same amount of water and energy whether they’re half-empty or packed, so running a cycle for just a few dishes wastes valuable resources. If you’re worried about odors or food drying onto your plates, give them a quick rinse or use the rinse-hold setting (if your machine has one) until you’ve got a full load.
2. Use the Eco or Energy-Saving Setting
Most newer dishwashers come with an “eco” or “energy-saving” mode that uses less water and heats it to a lower temperature. While these cycles may take a little longer to run, they use significantly less electricity overall. If you’re not in a rush, this setting can help you cut down both your energy use and your monthly utility bill without lifting a finger.
3. Skip the Heated Dry Cycle
Your dishwasher’s heated drying option draws a surprising amount of energy. Instead, try selecting the “air dry” or “no heat dry” setting if your model includes it. Or simply crack the door open after the cycle ends and let your dishes air dry naturally. It might take a bit longer, but it’s an easy way to save electricity, especially if you’re running multiple loads a week.
4. Use a Rinse Aid
Using a rinse aid doesn’t just help prevent spots on your glassware, but it also improves drying efficiency. Rinse aid breaks the surface tension of water, causing it to sheet off dishes more quickly and thoroughly. That means less time drying, which is especially helpful if you’re skipping the heated dry cycle. Plus, your dishes will come out looking cleaner and shinier with less effort.
5. Load Your Dishwasher the Right Way
Believe it or not, how you load your dishwasher can affect how efficiently it runs. Make sure nothing blocks the spray arms from spinning and that large pans or dishes don’t cover smaller items. Water should be able to flow freely throughout the machine. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal rack placement. This helps ensure every item gets clean in one cycle, avoiding the need for rewashing.
6. Clean the Filter and Spray Arms Regularly
A clogged filter or blocked spray arms can force your dishwasher to work harder than necessary, using more water and energy in the process. Set a reminder to clean the filter every few weeks and inspect the spray arms for food debris or buildup. This simple maintenance keeps your machine running at peak efficiency and helps extend its lifespan. That’s definitely worth a few minutes of your time!
How to Choose an Energy-Efficient Dishwasher
When you're shopping for a new dishwasher, energy efficiency should be at the top of your priority list—not only to reduce your environmental impact but also to help lower your monthly utility bills. The good news? There are plenty of modern and energy efficient dishwashers packed with smart features that save both energy and water without compromising cleaning power.
Look for the ENERGYSTAR® Label
The easiest way to spot a water efficient dishwasher is to check for the ENERGYSTAR® certification. This label means the appliance meets strict efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. ENERGYSTAR® dishwashers use less water and about 12% less energy than non-certified models, making them a smart choice for both the environment and your wallet.
Check the EnergyGuide Label
In addition to ENERGYSTAR®, take a moment to read the yellow EnergyGuide label on the appliance. This tag provides a quick snapshot of how much electricity the dishwasher uses per year and estimates the average yearly operating cost. Comparing these labels across different models can help you make an informed choice based on your usage habits and budget.
Consider Water Usage
The most efficient dishwasher models not only use less energy but also less water. Older models can use 10-15 gallons per load, while newer ENERGYSTAR® models use as little as 3-5 gallons. Look for dishwashers with features like soil sensors or load-sensing technology, which automatically adjust water use based on how dirty your dishes are. That way, you’re not wasting water on lightly soiled loads.
Think Long-Term Value
While the best dishwasher efficiency may cost a bit more upfront, these machines typically pay for themselves over time through lower energy and water bills. If you want to calculate long-term savings, factor in how often you run your dishwasher, the cost of electricity in your area, and potential rebates for ENERGYSTAR® appliances.
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Featured Energy-Efficient Dishwashers
Keep reading to learn more about our top best energy efficient dishwasher recommendations from Idler’s.
Bosch 500 Series 24” Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop this Bosch 500 Series Built In Dishwasher
This dishwasher from the Bosch 500 Series is ENERGYSTAR®-certified and powerful. PrecisionWash uses sensor technology and powerful, precision spray arms to get your dishes sparkling clean. The AutoAir feature automatically releases the door at the end of the cycle to dry your dishes naturally. Bosch’s reputation for quiet dishwashers holds true with this model and its 44dBA operation. Finally, this model features a flexible third rack and adjustable RackMatic system for easy organization.
GE Profile 24” Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop this GE Profile Built In Dishwasher
With room for up to 16 place settings, this ENERGYSTAR®-certified dishwasher offers smart features like built-in Wi-Fi and remote control via the SmartHQ app. It utilizes sensor technology to enhance and improve cycles over time, and like our last pick, it also has a third rack. We love the deep clean silverware jets and four bottle wash jets so every nook and cranny of the dishwasher is covered. When it comes to getting your dishes clean, the Piranha Hard Food Disposer eliminates the need for pre-rinsing, which is ideal for busy households.
LG 24” PrintProof Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop this LG Built In Dishwasher
Sleek and efficient, this LG top-control dishwasher is a crowd-pleaser. It features TrueSteam with Sanitization and Dynamic Heat Dry for faster, more complete drying. There is a third rack, and you can connect your dishwasher to the SmartHQ app for easy monitoring. This dishwasher also holds up to 15 place settings and offers LG’s leading 1-hour wash and dry cycle.
→ Learn more: The Best Kitchen Appliance Packages by Brand
Improving your dishwasher efficiency isn't just good for the planet—it's good for your wallet, too. By following a few simple habits like running full loads, using eco settings, and upgrading to an ENERGYSTAR®-certified model, you can dramatically reduce your water and electricity usage over time. And when it comes time to invest in a new, energy-efficient dishwasher, make sure you're choosing one with features that match both your needs and your sustainability goals.
At Idler’s, we carry a wide range of energy-efficient dishwashers from trusted brands like Bosch, GE Profile, and LG. Our team is here to help you find the perfect model for your home, whether you're looking for quiet operation, advanced eco features, or a sleek built-in look. Stop by one of our showrooms or browse online to start improving dishwasher efficiency and enjoying cleaner dishes today.
Dishwasher Energy Use FAQ
Compared to handwashing, most modern dishwashers are surprisingly efficient. An ENERGYSTAR®-certified dishwasher uses around 270 kWh per year, which averages out to less than a dollar per week in electricity for most households. Older models, however, may use much more, making an upgrade well worth it.
The most energy-efficient dishwashers are typically ENERGYSTAR®-certified models with smart wash sensors, low water usage (3–5 gallons per load), and efficient drying systems. Brands like Bosch, GE Profile, and LG often lead the pack in energy performance, offering both eco cycles and advanced water-saving technologies.
For energy savings and dishwasher efficiency, the eco cycle is usually the better choice. Although it takes longer to run, it uses lower water temperatures and less energy overall. Quick wash cycles may be convenient in a pinch, but they often consume more water and power to finish in less time.
If you're in California's Central Coast, look no further than Idler’s Home. We offer a curated selection of top-rated energy-efficient dishwashers, along with expert advice and installation services. Visit us in-store or online to explore the best options for your home.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Energy-Efficient Dishwashers at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop energy-efficient dishwashers online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you compare dishwasher efficiency among top models — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use?