How many watts does a Washing Machine (top-load) use?

A Washing Machine (top-load) draws 1,200 watts continuously once it's running, but its motor needs a brief surge of up to 2,300 watts to start. A generator has to cover that starting surge, not just the running load, or the motor won't start.

Running it 1 hour/day costs roughly $6.12/month at the U.S. average residential rate (~$0.17/kWh, early 2026, per the EIA) — real rates vary a lot by state and utility. Use your own rate in the House calculator →

Generators that can run this

• WEN 56235i
  1,900 W run · 2,350 W start · ~$430
• Champion 3500-Watt Inverter (100571)
  2,300 W run · 3,500 W start · ~$699
• POXURIO 2550-Watt Inverter (KF370033-01)
  2,550 W run · 2,550 W start · ~$399

Prices as of July 2026 — check the current listing before buying.