How much does it cost to run a Dehumidifier?

Want to know how much it costs to run a dehumidifier? Input a few details into the cost calculator below to find out.

You’ll need to input the dehumidifier’s wattage, the price you’re paying for electricity and how long you intend to use the dehumidifier.

You can also select the number of days you want to use it. For example, if you plan to use it for a week, set the number of days to 7.

How to work out your dehumidifier’s running cost

To estimate how much a dehumidifier will cost to run, you need to know the following:

• Wattage of the dehumidifier: This is usually listed in the product specifications. Dehumidifiers can range from roughly 200 watts for small units to 750 watts for large units.
• Electricity rate in your area: The cost of electricity varies by region and can be found on your electricity bill, typically measured in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
• Hours of operation: Determine how many hours per day you’ll be using the dehumidifier.

How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier per day?

Here’s an example calculation, assuming the dehumidifier runs for 12 hours a day:

• Find out the dehumidifier’s wattage. Let’s say it is 500 watts.
• Convert watts to kilowatts: 500 watts ÷ 1,000 = 0.5 kW.
• Multiply the kilowatts by the hours of operation: 0.5 kW × 12 hours = 6 kWh per day.
• If your electricity rate is, for example, 29 pence kWh: 6 kWh × £0.29/kWh = £1.74 per day.

How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier per month?

To find out the monthly cost, multiply the daily cost by the number of days you use the dehumidifier each month:

£1.74 per day × 30 days = £52.20 per month.

Remember, this is a simplified estimate. Multiple factors, such as fluctuating humidity levels which cause the dehumidifier to work harder or varying electricity rates based on time-of-use, can also impact your actual costs.

Types of dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers typically come in two main types: desiccant dehumidifiers and refrigerant dehumidifiers.

Desiccant dehumidifiers use absorbent materials to extract moisture from the air, making them ideal for cooler climates as their efficiency is less impacted by temperature. They are often lighter and quieter than their counterparts.

On the other hand, refrigerant dehumidifiers, also known as compressor dehumidifiers, work by drawing air over cold coils to condense out the moisture, similar to how a refrigerator operates.

These models are particularly effective in warm, humid conditions as they also help to cool the air slightly.

How dehumidifiers work

A dehumidifier’s purpose is to reduce and maintain the level of humidity in the air, making your environment more comfortable and preventing the growth of allergens like mould and mildew.

Regardless of the type, all dehumidifiers operate on the same basic principle: they pull in humid air and remove the moisture, then blow the drier air back into the room. The collected water is typically stored in a tank that you need to empty periodically.

With a refrigerant dehumidifier, moist air passes over refrigerated coils causing the moisture to condense into water.

In contrast, a desiccant dehumidifier absorbs moisture with a desiccant material which is then heated to release the moisture into a condenser and collect it. Both types effectively reduce humidity levels, improving air quality in your space.

Factors affecting dehumidifier running costs

When considering the expenses associated with operating a dehumidifier, you’ll need to account for the unit’s size and capacity, its power rating and wattage, and the room conditions where the device will be used.

Unit size and capacity

The size of your dehumidifier and its capacity to remove moisture from the air have significant bearing on running costs.

A larger unit designed for a commercial space will usually consume more energy compared to a smaller, domestic model.

Specifically, the capacity, measured in litres of water extracted per day, directly correlates to how much energy the unit will use. For a typical home dehumidifier:

• Small (10 litres/day): Lower energy use
• Medium (20 litres/day): Moderate energy use
• Large (30 litres/day or more): Higher energy use

Power rating and wattage

The power rating and wattage are indicators of how much electricity a dehumidifier uses. Units with a higher wattage will consume more energy, which can be directly translated into cost. For instance, if a dehumidifier has a power rating of:

• 250 watts: Less expensive to run
• 500 watts: More expensive to run

The actual cost to run these units depends on the current energy price cap and how often the dehumidifier is operational.

Room conditions and humidity level

Your dehumidifier works harder in conditions with high humidity and temperature, increasing the operating costs.

The more moisture in the room, the longer and harder the dehumidifier must work to achieve the desired humidity level, which is often around 50%.

• High humidity rooms: Increased energy consumption
• Cooler rooms: May reduce energy needed as warmer air holds more moisture

Also, the size of the room is a factor, as a small dehumidifier in a large, damp space may need to run continuously, incurring higher costs than a correctly sized unit for the space.

Keeping doors and windows closed when the dehumidifier is running can also maximise efficiency and control costs.

Energy-saving features and tips

To minimise your energy bills while using a dehumidifier, consider models with energy-efficient features such as:

• Auto shut-off that turns off the unit when your desired humidity level is reached.
• Adjustable humidistat to fine-tune the humidity settings for optimal performance.
• Energy Star certification, indicating a more energy-efficient model.

Moreover, some energy-saving tips include:

• Using your dehumidifier only when needed or during off-peak times to benefit from lower electricity rates.
• Regularly maintaining your dehumidifier, such as cleaning the filters, to keep it running efficiently.
• Positioning the dehumidifier in the most effective location, usually the centre of the room, away from walls and furniture for proper airflow.

Additional cost of running a dehumidifier

While the primary expense of running a dehumidifier is the energy consumed, additional operational costs should be considered to get a full picture of the financial outlay over the lifespan of the device.

Maintenance and filter replacement

Maintenance is essential to ensure that your dehumidifier operates efficiently over the years. Regularly cleaning the unit and ensuring it is free from obstructions will prevent undue stress on its components.

Periodic servicing might incur a minor professional fee but can prevent more costly repairs later.

Filters in dehumidifiers need to be replaced typically once a year, although this may vary depending on the model and frequency of use.

Expect to pay between £10 and £40 for a new filter. Keeping filters clean and replacing them when necessary is crucial; a clogged filter can increase the energy bill as your dehumidifier works harder to draw in air.

Summing up

As you can see, understanding the cost of running a dehumidifier is vital in managing your household energy expenses.

A dehumidifier can greatly improve the comfort of your home, especially in damp environments, but this comfort does come with an ongoing cost reflected in your energy bills.