The short answer
Choose the washer-dryer label’s washing-only or complete wash-and-dry figure for the task you actually run, with its matching unit and capacity. The complete-task energy already includes washing. Adding the washing-only quantity again would double-count that stage; separately run tasks need non-overlapping inputs.
Choose the task you actually run
A combined washer-dryer’s EU label distinguishes washing-only performance from the complete wash-and-dry task. Read the heading, unit and capacity associated with the figure you select.
The complete-cycle quantity already covers that stated complete task. Adding the washing-only energy to it would count washing again.
Two illustrative inputs
Imagine a product information sheet with these illustrative quantities, each explicitly stated per 100 cycles:
| Task | Stated energy | Energy per task | Cost at €0.30/kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washing only | 50 kWh / 100 cycles | 0.50 kWh | €0.15 |
| Complete wash and dry | 300 kWh / 100 cycles | 3.00 kWh | €0.90 |
These numbers illustrate the arithmetic, not a typical appliance. The correct input depends on whether the task ends after washing or includes drying.
Estimate a mixed household routine
Suppose you run three washing-only cycles and one complete wash-and-dry cycle each week. Treat these as four distinct weekly tasks:
(3 × 0.50) + (1 × 3.00) = 4.50 kWh per week
4.50 × 52 × €0.30 = €70.20 per year
Do not enter four washing-only cycles and then add a complete cycle if the complete cycle is one of those same four loads. Write down which loads belong in each group first.
The running-cost calculator handles one stated basis at a time. Calculate the washing-only group and complete-cycle group separately, then add their annual costs when the groups do not overlap.
Check drying capacity as well
The amount suitable for a complete wash-and-dry programme can differ from the washing capacity. Use the capacity and programme described by the manufacturer; a single washing load may not correspond to a single valid drying task.
A cost estimate does not establish whether your chosen load is permitted. Read the instructions for the specific model and selected programme.
Use the washing-machine calculator for each compatible cycle figure. Read the per-100-cycle explanation and the washing cost-per-load guide for the frequency calculation.