How Much Energy Does a Dehumidifier Use?

A dehumidifier can be an effective way to decrease moisture in the home while increasing overall energy efficiency. But you may be wondering, do dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity? Read on to learn why your dehumidifier is worth the investment in resources and about potential dehumidifier energy costs

How Does a Dehumidifier Work?

Although a dehumidifier uses energy, it can actually help increase energy efficiency in your home by balancing the moisture levels, improving indoor air quality, and enabling your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to run more efficiently.

Dehumidifiers use a fan to trap moisture from the air and condense it into water before releasing the dry air back into the room. By decreasing the humidity in a room, dehumidifiers help prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and other bacteria in your home. Dehumidifiers are especially needed in rooms where moisture tends to collect, such as your basement or rooms that have a musty or stale odor.

Do Dehumidifiers Use a Lot of Electricity?

The amount of electricity that a particular dehumidifier uses varies depending on size and energy efficiency. Large dehumidifiers tend to be more energy efficient than smaller models and like most appliances, newer models are much more efficient than those of previous generations.

Calculating Your Dehumidifier Energy Cost

So, how much energy does a dehumidifier use? You can approximate your dehumidifier’s energy cost with just a little research and a simple calculation.

1. First, Determine Your Watts Per Hour
   This should be provided on the unit or in its manual. The number will be labeled “Watts Per Hour.”
2. Calculate Daily Operating Cost
   Once you’ve established your expected Watts Per Hour, you can use a simple formula to calculate the daily cost of operating your unit. Use the following formula: (watts per hour) x (daily hours of use) / 1000 x (your state’s electricity rate in cents per kilowatt hour) = Daily Operating Cost

You may be surprised to see how efficient your unit is. If your unit is older or small, it may be less efficient than you had hoped for. Consider upgrading your portable dehumidifier or whole-home unit with help from your local Aire Serv for optimal energy efficiency.

Dehumidifier Energy Costs: Worth the Investment

Using an electric dehumidifier will come with some energy costs, but the improvement to your indoor air quality can actually save you money in the long run by preventing the need to pay for mold removal and promoting energy efficiency in your HVAC system.

Want to learn more about improving the air quality in your home with items like whole-home dehumidifiers? Call us or request an appointment online to get started today.