Appliance Wattage & Running Cost
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What size generator or power station for a dishwasher? (1,500+ W)

To run a dishwasher, choose at least
1,500 W running.

A dishwasher draws about 1,200 W while running. Pick a generator, inverter or power station rated comfortably above these numbers.

Battery runtime calculator

Estimated runtime

Assumes about 85% usable capacity. Motors need extra headroom for startup surge.

How long a power station lasts

Power stationEstimated runtime
300 Wh0 h 13 min
500 Wh0 h 21 min
1,000 Wh0 h 43 min
2,000 Wh1 h 25 min
3,000 Wh2 h 8 min

Sizing guide

Minimum running watts1,500 W
Minimum starting watts1,500 W
Suggested inverter1,500 W or higher

See also dishwasher wattage and running cost.

FAQ

How many watts does a dishwasher use?

About 1200-1500 watts, mostly for heating water and the heated dry cycle.

How can I cut dishwasher running costs?

Use eco mode and air-dry instead of heated dry to skip the most power-hungry step.