What percentage of energy used by dishwashers goes into heat drying?

Dishwashers use energy in several phases, and a significant portion of that energy is dedicated to drying the dishes after they have been washed. Heat drying specifically involves using energy to evaporate any remaining water from the dishes at the end of the washing cycle.

Research has indicated that heat drying can consume a large percentage of the total energy usage of a dishwasher, as this process often requires significant energy input to effectively remove moisture. The figure that aligns most closely with industry estimates is that around 80% of the energy used in the entire operation of a dishwasher is associated with the heat drying phase.

This high percentage underscores the importance of understanding energy efficiency in dishwashing appliances. Many modern dishwashers employ alternative drying methods, like air drying or using residual heat from the wash water, which can significantly reduce energy consumption. However, the traditional heat-drying method remains a major factor in overall energy usage.