Lowest Operating Cost: Dishwashers
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 Loch L1126 ranks as the lowest-operating-cost dishwasher in the dataset, with an estimated annual operating cost of $14.85 based on measured energy consumption of 80 kWh per year. The ranking is derived from certified models sorted by operating cost, calculated using their measured energy use and the national-average electricity rate. No payment or consideration influences the placement of models on this list.
Operating cost represents only one dimension of dishwasher selection. Capacity, features, reliability, and purchase price all factor into the overall value and suitability of a unit for a given household. This energy-efficiency ranking should be treated as one lens through which to evaluate potential purchases, rather than as comprehensive buying guidance. Consumers should weigh the estimated annual operating cost against specifications, features, reliability data, and upfront pricing to determine which model best fits their needs and budget.
| Model | Operating cost (est.) | Energy use | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loch L1126 | $14.85/yr | 80 kWh/yr | 2.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24STX6I1 | $21.16/yr | 114 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24STX6PX1 | $21.16/yr | 114 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9 | $24.87/yr | 134 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24SCTX9 | $24.87/yr | 134 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24SDFTX9 | $24.87/yr | 134 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24SI9 | $24.87/yr | 134 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24STI9 | $24.87/yr | 134 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| Fisher & Paykel DD24SV2T9 | $24.87/yr | 134 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |
| BLACK+DECKER BCD6SD | $28.77/yr | 155 kWh/yr | 6.0 place settings |
| BLACK+DECKER BCD6W | $28.77/yr | 155 kWh/yr | 6.0 place settings |
| Cafe CDD220**W*** | $28.77/yr | 155 kWh/yr | 7.0 place settings |