How much does it cost to install energy-efficient washers and dryers? (Laundry Room | Costs, Budgeting & Planning)

Published on 27 November 2025 at 18:03

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your laundry room, chances are you’ve already eyeballed those shiny, whisper-quiet, ultra-efficient washers and dryers sitting in showrooms from Chatswood to Alexandria Homemaker Centre. And let’s be honest—your current washer probably sounds like it’s preparing for lift-off every time it hits the spin cycle.

So here’s the million-dollar question (don’t worry, it’s not actually a million):
How much does it cost to install energy-efficient washers and dryers in Sydney?

Laundry appliances are no longer “just appliances”—they’re smarter, cleaner, quieter, cheaper to run, and they save water like a champion. This is a major cost saver for Sydney households where water prices and electricity bills love to climb like they’re in a fitness challenge.

Let’s break it all down clearly, practically, and with genuine local context.


1. Typical Cost to Install Energy-Efficient Laundry Appliances in Sydney

When you're installing new washers and dryers—especially energy-efficient models—there are two main cost components:

  1. The appliances themselves

  2. The installation cost

Let’s start with the installation costs, because the price of the machine depends heavily on the brand and features you choose.

A. Installation Cost Breakdown

Here’s what you can expect across Sydney:

Installation Item Price Range Basic washer installation $90 – $180 Basic dryer installation $110 – $250 Stacked washer-dryer installation $180 – $400 Wall-mounting (vented dryer) $150 – $350 Removing old appliances $30 – $80 each New plumbing points (if required) $180 – $600 New power or circuit upgrade $250 – $850 Total installation estimate $200 – $1,500+

Most Sydney homeowners upgrading from older appliances pay between $250 and $600 for installation unless structural or electrical upgrades are needed.

Local Pricing Influences

  • Homes in Inner West terraces (Newtown, Stanmore, Erskineville) often need plumbing/electrical upgrades due to older systems.

  • Modern apartments in Mascot, Zetland, Wolli Creek may require strata-compliant installation or mounting, affecting cost.

  • Larger homes in Baulkham Hills, Turramurra, Wahroonga often customise cabinetry layouts, which may require additional trade work.


2. Cost of Energy-Efficient Washers and Dryers in Sydney

Now let’s talk appliance costs. The unit price varies based on size, brand, and energy rating.

Typical Appliance Costs

Appliance Type Price Range 7–8kg energy-efficient washer $600 – $1,400 9–10kg high-efficiency washer $1,200 – $2,500 Heat pump dryer (very efficient) $1,000 – $3,000 Condenser dryer $650 – $1,500 Classic vented dryer (least efficient) $350 – $750

Energy-efficient washers and heat pump dryers cost more upfront but save significantly on electricity and water over time. For example, heat pump dryers use up to 50–70% less electricity than traditional dryers.


3. What Affects Total Cost Most?

Every home is unique, so let’s break down the main elements that influence what YOU will pay.

A. Type of Dryer

This makes the biggest difference.

  • Heat pump dryer → most expensive upfront but lowest running cost

  • Condenser dryer → moderate cost

  • Vented dryer → cheapest but least efficient

In suburbs like Mosman, Hunters Hill, Lane Cove, homeowners often choose heat pump dryers to keep humidity low and protect cabinetry.

B. Existing Plumbing and Electrical Setup

If your laundry room is older—or tucked inside a kitchen cupboard like in many Inner City and Inner West apartments—you may need additional upgrades.

Signs you may need extra work:

  • no floor waste drain

  • outdated taps

  • no hot/cold mixer

  • low pressure supply

  • only a 10amp circuit while your dryer requires 15amp

C. Laundry Layout

Do you want:

  • side-by-side setup?

  • stacked washer-dryer tower?

  • custom joinery?

Custom cabinetry in suburbs like Castle Hill, Strathfield, or Pymble can add $500–$2,000+ but makes the laundry much more functional.

D. Brand and Smart Features

Add-ons that increase cost include:

  • smartphone control

  • steam cleaning

  • auto-dosing detergent systems

  • built-in sensors that adjust water usage

These features are popular in luxury builds in Vaucluse, Bellevue Hill, Balmoral.


4. Realistic Total Budget for a Sydney Laundry Upgrade

Let’s put it together.

Scenario 1: Basic Upgrade (Parramatta Apartment)

  • Mid-range washer + mid-range dryer

  • No electrical changes

  • Simple installation
    Total Cost: $1,300 – $2,200

Scenario 2: Energy-Efficient Upgrade (Ryde Family Home)

  • 4–5 star washer

  • Heat pump dryer

  • New stacking kit
    Total Cost: $2,500 – $4,500

Scenario 3: Premium Complete Laundry (North Shore Home)

  • Top-energy-rated washer

  • Smart heat pump dryer

  • Custom cabinetry

  • Electrical upgrade for dryer

  • New mixer tap and drainage
    Total Cost: $5,500 – $9,000+


5. Why Energy-Efficient Appliances Are Worth the Investment

Even if the upfront cost feels steep, Sydney homeowners choose energy-efficient washers and dryers because they pay off long-term.

Savings Breakdown

  • Electricity usage drops dramatically, especially with heat pump dryers.

  • Water usage decreases—important in Sydney where water rates climb regularly.

  • Your clothes last longer with gentler washing and drying cycles.

  • Eco-friendly appliances increase property value, especially in modern family suburbs like Kellyville, Marsden Park, Epping.

Plus, they run so quietly that you can finally do laundry at 10pm without sounding like you’re running a jet engine.


6. Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

To avoid surprises, be aware of these possible costs:

Transport & Delivery Fees

Especially if your home has stairs or limited access.

Cabinetry Adjustments

New appliances may not fit existing joinery.

Ventilation Work

For older vented dryers.

Water Hammer Arrestors

Required in some homes when installing modern washers to reduce pipe noise.

These are common in older areas like Ashfield, Petersham, and Haberfield.


7. Tips to Reduce Your Installation Costs

You don't need to overspend. Here’s how to keep the budget tight but effective:

Choose the Right Size

Don’t buy a 10kg washer for a two-person home.
Electricity savings shrink when you oversize.

Bundle Renovation Tasks

If you're already doing your kitchen or bathroom, get your laundry plumbing/electrical upgraded at the same time.

Buy During Seasonal Sales

Sydney’s big sales happen during:

  • EOFY

  • Boxing Day

  • Black Friday

  • September renovation season

Let Your Renovator Handle the Trades

A renovator can coordinate plumbers, electricians, cabinet makers and installers—avoiding costly rework.


8. Final Advice: What’s a Realistic Budget?

For most Sydney homeowners:
Budget $2,000–$4,000 for a proper energy-efficient washer + dryer setup including installation.

If you want premium appliances or custom cabinetry, budget higher.

Remember:
A good laundry renovation isn’t just about washing clothes—it’s about convenience, efficiency, style, and long-term savings.


Ready to Upgrade Your Laundry Room in Sydney?

A well-planned laundry renovation can dramatically improve your home’s efficiency and daily comfort. If you’re considering a laundry, kitchen, bathroom, or full-home renovation, visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more information about kitchen, bathroom and house renovation services from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.

Add comment

Comments

There are no comments yet.