How Much Does a Heat Pump Tumble Dryer Cost to Run?
Updated March 2026. Default rate effective 1 April 2026 (Ofgem Q2 2026). Figures are typical estimates rather than model-specific guarantees.
A heat pump tumble dryer is slower than a standard dryer but usually much cheaper to run per load because it reuses heat instead of generating it from scratch each time.
Calculator24.5p/kWh
W
times
min
p/kWh
Per use
44.9p
Per day
19.2p
Per week
£1.35
Per month
£5.86
Annual cost
£70.26
Typical annual electricity use: 286.79 kWh
Based on typical heat pump tumble dryer usage at current rates.
Annual estimate
£70.26
Annual electricity use
286.79 kWh
Typical household bill context
About 11% of a typical home's annual variable electricity spend at the current default rate.
What Affects the Cost of Running a Heat Pump Tumble Dryer?
The main trade-off is time versus electricity use. Heat pump models often have longer cycles, but the average energy used per load is far lower than standard condenser models.
Helpful guides
Compare running costs
Related appliances
Assumptions and methodology
- Electricity rate: 24.5p/kWh (Ofgem Q2 2026)
- Default wattage is based on a typical appliance in this category
- Usage assumptions are meant to be a sensible starting point, not a fixed rule
- Costs vary with tariff, model, settings, load size, and household habits
Tips to Reduce Heat Pump Tumble Dryer Running Costs
Use auto-sensing programmes and clean the lint filter after every load. Heat pump dryers reward regular use because the running-cost gap adds up across the year.