If your routine is typical of most families, you finish up dinner, clean up, load the dishwasher, and run it immediately. But doing so could actually be costing you money.
According to Corey Gilgan, owner of Oregon Generators, the early evening is the worst time to run your dishwasher. “The majority of Americans run their dishwashers between 6 and 8 p.m., right when energy demand peaks and rates are at their highest.” Waiting until later in the evening can save you some serious cash.
Photo by andresr on Getty Images
Peak energy hours, between 6 and 9 p.m., are actually the most expensive time to use major appliances. “Think about what happens in most households around dinnertime,” says Gilgan. “You’ve got the stove running, lights on throughout the house, maybe the TV going, and then people add the dishwasher to that mix. You’re essentially paying peak rates for every appliance.”
Utility companies often charge two to three times more during these hours, which can send your energy bill skyrocketing. And if you run the dishwasher more than once a day (mom to three teens here raises her hand), those costs can be even more significant.
Related: Guy’s Cleaning Hack for Getting Dishes Spot-Free Is Worth Checking Out
What is the Best Time to Run Your Dishwasher to Save Money?
A simple way to save yourself some cash is by running your dishwasher after 9 p.m. This takes advantage of off-peak energy rates, when demand drops and utilities lower their prices. Many companies charge significantly less during these hours, making it the smartest time to run energy-hungry appliances.
The savings are even greater in the fall, when heating systems kick on and energy use spikes. By simply shifting one major appliance to off-peak hours, families can help balance out those rising seasonal costs. Start doing laundry after 9 p.m. and you’ll save even more money!
This story was originally reported by Parade Home & Garden on Sep 30, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade Home & Garden as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
