Is It Cheaper To Use a Dishwasher or Wash By Hand?
Washing dishes is a daily task—but which method is more cost-effective? While handwashing may seem cheaper, it can waste more water and time than you think.
Dishwashers use electricity, but newer models are surprisingly efficient. Whether you’re managing utility bills or planning for off-grid power, understanding the true cost of each method helps you make smarter choices.
Let’s dive into the pros, cons, and practical takeaways of dishwasher use versus handwashing.
What are the Pros and Cons of Using a Dishwasher vs. Handwashing?
Many people wonder which method is more efficient for cleaning dishes—especially in terms of cost, energy use, and water consumption. Dishwashers and handwashing have distinct advantages and drawbacks, depending on how they're used and the technology behind them.
While dishwashers tend to use more electricity, they can save time and, surprisingly, even water—especially newer ENERGY STAR®-rated models. On the other hand, handwashing offers flexibility and requires no electrical power, which makes it appealing for off-grid living or emergency scenarios.
Understanding the trade-offs between each method can help you make the best decision for your household’s budget, energy usage, and lifestyle. The next two sections break down the pros and cons to help you compare.
Dishwasher Pros and Cons
Dishwashers have come a long way in terms of efficiency and performance. While they require electricity and a larger upfront investment, they can streamline daily routines, reduce water waste, and provide consistent cleaning results. The table below highlights the key benefits and limitations of using a dishwasher to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your lifestyle and energy goals.
Pros | Cons |
Time-saving: Automates the dishwashing process, freeing up time for other tasks. | Higher upfront cost: Purchasing and installing a dishwasher can be expensive. |
Water-efficient: Modern ENERGY STAR® dishwashers can use less water than handwashing. | Uses electricity: Requires a power source, which adds to utility bills or off-grid power needs. |
Consistent sanitization: Heats water to temperatures that kill bacteria effectively. | Not ideal off-grid: Without backup power (e.g., EcoFlow Portable Power Stations), it's not practical during outages. |
Less labor-intensive: Reduces physical effort and strain, especially helpful for larger households. | Requires regular maintenance: Filters, arms, and seals need occasional cleaning and repairs. |
Energy-efficient models available: Newer dishwashers are designed to minimize energy usage. | Cycle duration: Some dishwashers take 2+ hours to complete a full cycle. |
Handwashing Pros and Cons
For those who value flexibility or want to minimize electricity use, handwashing dishes can be a practical option—especially in homes without dishwashers or off-grid setups. While it often takes more effort and time, handwashing offers more control over water and energy use, depending on your habits. Here's a breakdown of the main pros and cons of washing dishes by hand:
Pros | Cons |
No electricity required: Ideal for off-grid living or power outages. | Less water-efficient: Can use more water than dishwashers if not careful. |
Lower upfront cost: No appliance purchase or installation necessary. | Time-consuming: Washing and drying dishes manually takes longer. |
Full control: You decide how much water and detergent to use. | Less consistent sanitation: Water may not be hot enough to kill bacteria. |
Minimal maintenance: No moving parts or filters to clean. | Labor-intensive: Can cause strain or discomfort, especially for large loads. |
Takes up no space: Doesn’t require dedicated floor space or installation. | Higher water bills possible: Running water constantly can drive up usage. |
How Does Using a Dishwasher Compare to Handwashing?
Both methods have trade-offs depending on your energy setup, household size, and habits. Let’s break down the key considerations to help you decide which is more efficient for your home.
Dishwasher Energy Usage
Dishwashers use electricity to heat water, run wash cycles, and dry dishes. ENERGY STAR® models use about 0.9 kWh per cycle, depending on cycle length and features. If you're running one daily, that's roughly 27 kWh monthly. For grid-connected homes, that adds a few dollars to your monthly bill. If you're off-grid or using backup power, a high-efficiency dishwasher paired with the EcoFlow DELTA Series Portable Power Stations ensures you can operate it without stressing your energy reserves.
Handwashing Energy Usage
Handwashing generally uses no electricity, making it ideal for off-grid living or when using backup power. However, if you're using hot water from an electric water heater, that energy still counts. Heating water manually or with a gas heater can reduce reliance on your solar or battery system.
Cost of Running a Dishwasher
The cost of operating a dishwasher includes water, detergent, and electricity. A single load typically costs around $0.20–$0.35, depending on local rates. Over a month, that can total $6–$10. While upfront appliance costs can be high, the convenience and water savings often make up for it over time.
Water Usage
Modern dishwashers can use as little as 3–5 gallons (11–19 liters) per cycle. In contrast, traditional handwashing can use 8–27 gallons (30–102 liters), depending on whether the faucet runs continuously. If you fill a basin for soapy water and just one more for rinsing, you can cut that total in half. However, dishwashers still tend to win in terms of water efficiency.
Time and Labor
Dishwashers are clear winners when it comes to saving time and physical effort. You simply load, start the cycle, and move on. Even though a full cycle may take 2+ hours, your hands-on time is just a few minutes.
Handwashing requires significantly more time and effort—scrubbing, rinsing, drying—all by hand. For larger families or frequent meals, that time adds up quickly. If you're using one of the EcoFlow Portable Power Stations, the convenience of saving labor through a dishwasher can justify the minimal energy tradeoff.
Environmental Impact
Handwashing may avoid electricity entirely, but it tends to waste more water—unless you're careful. Heating water also requires energy, so the impact depends on your water heater and habits. If you're looking to reduce your overall environmental footprint, using a water-efficient dishwasher powered by a solar-compatible system like the EcoFlow DELTA 3 offers a strong balance of sustainability and practicality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Cheaper to Hand Wash Dishes or Use a Dishwasher?
While handwashing avoids electricity costs, it often uses more water, especially if the tap runs continuously. A dishwasher—especially an energy-efficient model—can be cheaper over time due to lower water use and time savings. The final cost depends on your habits, appliance efficiency, and local utility rates.
Does Using the Dishwasher Save Electricity?
Surprisingly, yes—if compared to handwashing with hot water from an electric heater. Dishwashers use electricity efficiently to heat water and run cycles. ENERGY STAR® models minimize power usage per load, and when paired with solar solutions or battery backup, they can operate with little or no grid electricity.
What Uses Less Water, a Dishwasher, or Washing Dishes by Hand?
A modern dishwasher typically uses 3–5 gallons (11–19 liters) per cycle. In contrast, handwashing can use up to 27 gallons (102 liters) if the faucet runs continuously. If you handwash using a basin, the gap narrows—but dishwashers are usually the more water-efficient option.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a dishwasher and handwashing isn’t just about convenience—it’s about balancing time, cost, and resource efficiency. While dishwashers may use electricity, they often save water and effort in the long run.
For off-grid or backup scenarios, pairing an energy-efficient dishwasher with the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 ensures you stay efficient, prepared, and powered—no matter how you choose to do the dishes.