Lowest Operating Cost: Clothes washers
Ranked by estimate. Operating cost is an estimate, computed from each model's measured annual energy use at the EIA U.S. national-average residential electricity rate (18.56 ¢/kWh, March 2026). Your actual cost depends on your local utility rate and how you use the appliance.
The Hisense WF5S2845BB holds the lowest estimated annual operating cost among certified clothes washers in the dataset, at $7.24 per year based on measured energy consumption of 39 kWh annually calculated at national-average electricity rates. The ranking reflects energy use alone and does not incorporate payment or commercial arrangement; models are sorted solely by the operating cost derived from their certified energy performance.
This energy-efficiency ranking provides one analytical lens for comparison but does not constitute comprehensive buying guidance. Capacity, available features, reliability history, and purchase price represent additional factors that influence the total value and suitability of any washer model. Consumers evaluating options should weigh the energy-cost advantage against these other performance and practical considerations to determine the best fit for their needs.
| Model | Operating cost (est.) | Energy use | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hisense WF5S2845BB | $7.24/yr | 39 kWh/yr | 2.8 cu ft |
| Hisense WF5S2845BT | $7.24/yr | 39 kWh/yr | 2.8 cu ft |
| Hisense WF5S2845BW | $7.24/yr | 39 kWh/yr | 2.8 cu ft |
| Electrolux ELFW7337*** | $9.28/yr | 50 kWh/yr | 4.4 cu ft |
| Electrolux ELTE7300*** - | $9.28/yr | 50 kWh/yr | 4.4 cu ft |
| Electrolux ELTE730C*** - | $9.28/yr | 50 kWh/yr | 4.4 cu ft |
| Electrolux ELTG7300*** - | $9.28/yr | 50 kWh/yr | 4.4 cu ft |
| Frigidaire FWFX22D4EW | $9.28/yr | 50 kWh/yr | 4.4 cu ft |
| Speed Queen LWN6ZR**116T*** | $11.14/yr | 60 kWh/yr | 3.2 cu ft |
| Speed Queen LWN6ZR**119T*** | $11.14/yr | 60 kWh/yr | 3.2 cu ft |
| Midea MLH25N7BWW | $12.06/yr | 65 kWh/yr | 2.5 cu ft |
| Midea MLH27N4AWWC | $12.06/yr | 65 kWh/yr | 2.5 cu ft |