Is it cheaper to run a dishwasher or wash dishes by hand?

Have you ever thought about how much water you really use when washing dishes by hand? 

It might surprise you to learn that traditional hand washing can consume over 9 litres of water per wash, especially if you keep the tap running! In contrast, modern full-sized dishwashers can operate using as little as 2.2 litres for a full load. Even slimline dishwashers use as little as 2.7 litres. 

This significant difference not only impacts your water bill but also reflects on your environmental footprint. In fact, statistics from the Energy Saving Trust reported on by Compare the Market found that washing dishes by hand makes up 4% of the water use of an average household. Dishwashers only make up 1% of this usage. 

With each wash then, you’re not just keeping your dishes clean; you’re also making a choice that benefits both your bills and the planet.  

It’s a simple way to bring more efficiency into your home – and here at Hotpoint, we’re here to guide you through it with this in-depth guide.

Did you know that dishwashers are designed to heat water internally, allowing for optimal energy usage? This not only leads to sparkling clean dishes but also helps you save on your utility bills. 

When washing by hand, you often waste energy heating more water than necessary. 

Our advanced dishwashers are designed to give you sparkling clean results while using less energy. With smart eco-settings and precise temperature control, they’re the perfect partner for reducing household energy use without compromising on performance.

Another appealing aspect of a dishwasher is that it can heat water to reach a much higher temperature than your hands could cope with if you were to wash dishes in a sink. This level of heat not only cleans dishes, but it also helps to sanitise the items too. 

Hot water and detergent are all that are needed for dishwashers to deliver effective cleaning results.  

When washing dishes by hand, the same sponge is often used time and again, coming into contact with all kinds of food and grime. This can increase the risk of spreading bacteria and germs between your plates, glasses and cutlery.

When used efficiently, your dishwasher can help reduce your environmental footprint, saving both water and energy with every cycle Many dishwashers come with eco-cycles, further enhancing their sustainability.  

By making the switch to a dishwasher , you're embracing a lifestyle that values both efficiency and environmental responsibility. Let's work together towards a more sustainable future. 

To get the most out of your dishwasher and keep your bills low, consider these handy tips: 

1. Simply scrape away any leftover food before loading into the dishwasher. These modern appliances are designed to deliver a thorough, effective clean without the need to waste water. 
2. Run full loads: Maximising your dishwasher’s capacity helps reduce water and energy use per dish, making each cycle more efficient and cost-effective. 
3. Load your dishwasher correctly: Dishes might not be cleaned properly if you overfill the dishwasher or put items in the wrong compartment. Keep roasting tins and large plates on the bottom rack, while using the top rack for smaller cups and glasses. 
4. Use eco-cycles: Many modern dishwashers feature dedicated eco cycle that deliver a thorough clean while saving energy and water. These cycles may run for a little longer, but they work efficiently at lower temperatures, helping you care for both your dishes and the environment. 
5. Maintain your dishwasher: Regularly clean the filter, spray arms, and seals to ensure efficient operation. Click here for expert advice on cleaning and caring for your dishwasher. 

By following a few simple tips, you can help your dishwasher run efficiently for longer, making every after-dinner clean-up hassle-free.  We’re here to help you enjoy the satisfaction of an effortlessly clean kitchen, try these handy tips below.

Maintaining your is essential for ensuring it runs efficiently and lasts for years to come mind. Here are a few simple steps you can follow: 

1. Clean the filter: Regularly check and clean the filter to remove any food debris, allowing for drainage. We have put together this helpful guide to ensure you keep this important part of your dishwasher in tip-top shape. 
2. Inspect and clean the spray arms: Remove the spray arms and rinse them under warm water. Clear any blockages to guarantee thorough and even water distribution. 
3. Wipe down seals and doors: Keeping the seals and door edges clean prevents dirt build-up, ensuring a proper seal and effective operation. 
4. Run a hot cycle with a cleaner: Every few months, run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner to eliminate any grease and odours. 

By adding simple maintenance to your routine, you can keep your dishwasher working at its best and enjoy the convenience of effortlessly clean dishes.  

Decided it’s time to elevate your kitchen with a dishwasher? Choose a Hotpoint model which is designed with advanced technology to make cleaning simpler, smarter, and more efficient.  

Standout features include: 

• Maxi Space Tubs – Pack in more dishes without overfilling your dishwasher with a design that provides 10%1 more usable space. 
• Hydroforce Third Rack – With this additional rack placed at the top of our dishwashers, you can benefit from more loading space to place bowls, utensils and cups. 
• Height-Adjustable Baskets – This clever feature makes it simple to create extra space when you need it, whether that’s for tall wine glasses in the upper basket or large dinner plates in the lower basket, helping your dishwasher adapt to every load with ease.  
• 3D Zone Wash Technology – Remove even tough, baked-on food like lasagne with the powerful 3D Zone Wash system. The new independent spray system at the bottom of the tub offers up to 80%* more power, so your crockery all comes out sparkling clean. 

*Average water power percentage increase versus non-3D Zone Wash option activated mode. 

• Super Silence Technology – Your dishwasher does not need to disturb a relaxing family evening at home when switched on, as this feature can lower the appliance’s noise level to just 39 db(A). 
• ActiveDry Technology – Better drying results are possible with a feature that automatically opens the dishwasher’s door once a wash cycle ends. 
• Enhanced Railing System – We have redesigned the inner door of our modern dishwashers, so that the lower rack of the appliance is much more stable when you are loading and unloading it. 

Check out all of our dishwashers in stock today – we have both freestanding and integrated designs available to match your home’s layout – and order the appliance that will be perfect for your household online now. 

1Comparison between Hotpoint dishwasher models with standard tub and Hotpoint dishwasher models with Maxi Space tub. Extra space refers to the increased total loading area among the three racks.