What is the cheapest time to run a washing machine?

When’s the Best Time to Run Your Washing Machine to Save Money?

If you’re looking to lower your energy bill, the time you run your washing machine actually matters more than you might think. According to energy experts, there’s a “sweet spot” that could help you save—specifically, between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. During these off-peak hours, demand for electricity drops significantly, which often translates to lower rates, especially if you’re on a time-of-use billing plan.

Many utility providers charge more during peak hours—typically between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.—when people are home, cooking, heating or cooling homes, and powering multiple appliances. Running your washer outside of that window can make a noticeable difference over time.

Interestingly, there’s another window worth considering: between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Some experts mention this early morning slot as a secondary sweet spot, especially for those who’d rather not run machines overnight. It’s still considered off-peak in many regions and avoids the mid-morning energy climb.

The key takeaway? Shift your laundry to nighttime or early morning hours. Most modern washing machines have delay-start features, so you can load and set it to run after 10 p.m. without lifting a finger. Not only does this ease strain on the power grid, but it can also reduce your electricity costs—especially during summer or winter when energy demand spikes.

While the exact hours may vary slightly depending on your local provider, the general rule holds: avoid late afternoon and early evening. By simply changing when you press “start,” you could be saving money—without changing a thing about how often you do laundry.