How Much Does It Cost to Run a Tumble Dryer Per Day in the UK and How to Reduce the Cost | Supamart

Tumble dryers are incredibly convenient for getting your laundry done quickly, especially during colder months. However, one thing many people overlook is the cost of running a tumble dryer. If you’ve ever wondered how much it costs to use a tumble dryer every day, you’re not alone. Understanding the cost of operating a tumble dryer and how you can reduce this expense is essential, particularly as energy prices continue to rise. At Supamart, we aim to help you make more informed decisions when it comes to your laundry care, including energy-saving tips for your tumble dryer.

In this article, we’ll break down how much it costs to run a tumble dryer in the UK per day and provide some practical tips to reduce the cost.

1. How Much Does It Cost to Run a Tumble Dryer in the UK?

The cost of running a tumble dryer can vary depending on several factors, including the energy rating of your dryer, the duration of the cycle, and the cost of electricity in your area. However, on average, you can expect the following:

Average Energy Consumption:

• Energy Rating: Tumble dryers have different energy ratings, which directly affect their energy consumption. Older, less efficient dryers tend to consume more electricity, while newer models with higher energy efficiency ratings (such as A+++ or A++) are much more cost-effective.

• Energy Use per Hour: On average, a tumble dryer consumes between 2.5 to 4 kWh per cycle. The exact figure will depend on the model and how long the drying cycle runs.

Cost of Running:

The cost of running a tumble dryer depends on your electricity rate, which varies across the UK. As of 2023, the average cost of electricity in the UK is around 34p per kWh (this varies based on your energy provider and tariff).

• Average Cost per Cycle:
  • A typical drying cycle for an average tumble dryer will use 2.5 kWh to 4 kWh of electricity.
  • At an average electricity rate of 34p per kWh, this equates to a cost of around 85p to £1.36 per cycle.

How Much Does it Cost Per Day?

If you use your tumble dryer once a day, the cost per day will be approximately:

• £0.85 to £1.36 per day (assuming one drying cycle per day).

This translates to around £25 to £40 per month for daily use.

2. How Can You Reduce the Cost of Running a Tumble Dryer?

Now that we’ve established the cost of running a tumble dryer, let’s take a look at some effective ways to reduce these expenses while still getting the laundry done efficiently.

1. Use Energy-Efficient Models

Upgrading to an energy-efficient tumble dryer is one of the most effective ways to cut down on costs. Look for models with A+++, A++, or A+ ratings, which consume significantly less energy than older or less efficient models.

• Why it Helps: Energy-efficient dryers use advanced technology like heat pump dryers, which recycle hot air during the drying process to minimize energy consumption.

Tip: When shopping for a new tumble dryer, check for energy ratings and look for energy-efficient features such as condensing systems or heat pump technology.

2. Use the Dryer Wisely

Avoid overloading or underloading your tumble dryer, as this can affect its efficiency and energy consumption.

• Don’t Overload: Overloading the tumble dryer means that air cannot circulate properly around your clothes, leading to longer drying times and higher energy use.

• Don’t Underload: Similarly, underloading the machine wastes energy since the dryer still uses a significant amount of power to dry just a few clothes.

• Tip: Try to load the dryer with the maximum recommended amount of laundry, and avoid running it with only a few items.

3. Use the Dryer’s Sensor Drying Feature

Many modern tumble dryers come with a sensor drying feature that automatically detects when clothes are dry and stops the cycle. This prevents the dryer from running longer than necessary.

• Why it Helps: Using the sensor drying function ensures that your dryer doesn't continue running unnecessarily, which saves you energy and reduces costs.

Tip: Always use the sensor drying setting when available to ensure optimal energy use.

4. Clean the Lint Filter Regularly

A clogged lint filter can hinder airflow and make your tumble dryer less efficient, causing it to consume more energy.

• Why it Helps: Cleaning the lint filter after every use allows for better airflow, reducing the time needed to dry your clothes and improving the dryer’s efficiency.

Tip: Clean the lint filter before every load and check for blockages in the vent hose.

5. Dry Larger Loads Together

Try to dry larger loads of laundry at once, rather than running multiple smaller cycles throughout the day. Drying one big load is generally more efficient than running two smaller ones.

• Why it Helps: Drying larger loads means the dryer can work more efficiently and complete the drying process in less time.

Tip: Plan ahead and batch dry your laundry whenever possible to avoid unnecessary additional drying cycles.

6. Dry Clothes on a Lower Heat Setting

Using the highest heat setting on your tumble dryer will consume more energy. By switching to a lower heat setting, you can save energy and money.

• Why it Helps: Lower heat settings consume less energy, and modern dryers are still effective at drying clothes at lower temperatures.

Tip: Use eco-mode or a lower heat setting when possible to reduce energy usage.

7. Consider Air Drying When Possible

If you’re looking for a more long-term solution to cutting costs, consider using a clothesline or drying rack for some of your laundry. Hanging clothes to dry naturally eliminates the need for a tumble dryer altogether.

• Why it Helps: Air drying clothes completely eliminates energy costs associated with tumble drying, though it may take longer.

Tip: Dry clothes outside during warm weather, or use an indoor drying rack on days when the weather isn’t conducive to outdoor drying.

Conclusion: Save Money on Your Tumble Dryer with These Tips

In the UK, running a tumble dryer daily can cost you around £25 to £40 per month, depending on the model, energy rates, and frequency of use. However, by making a few simple adjustments—like using energy-efficient models, optimizing your dryer’s settings, and adopting eco-friendly drying habits—you can significantly reduce these costs.

At Supamart, we are committed to helping you save both energy and money. By offering high-quality, energy-efficient appliances and providing helpful tips on how to use them, we ensure that your laundry routine is as cost-effective and eco-friendly as possible.

Shop now at Supamart to find energy-efficient tumble dryers and other household appliances that will save you money and help you reduce your environmental impact.