How Much Does It Cost to Run a Dehumidifier: Daily, Monthly, and Yearly Expenses

Dehumidifiers are essential household appliances that ensure space remains comfortable in humid environments. On average, a dehumidifier consumes 300 - 900 watts per hour, depending on its size and capacity. If you run the dehumidifier (500W) for 12 hours per day to maintain the optimal humidity levels, the power consumption will be 6 kWh per day. So, how much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? You can expect to pay around $0.95 daily and $28.71 monthly. 

Running the same dehumidifier for 4 - 8 months a year will cost you $114.84 - $229.68 annually. However, the cost depends on the dehumidifier's wattage consumption, how often you run it, and the electricity rate in your area. Jackery Solar Generators can reduce your dependence on the electricity grid and help you power various household appliances, including dehumidifiers, for long hours. They are built with sturdy handles and ergonomic designs to ensure easy transportation.

Key Takeaways

• Dehumidifiers generally consume anywhere around 300 - 900W, depending on the size and capacity of the dehumidifier model.
• Running a dehumidifier (500W) continuously for 12 hours a day can cost between $0.60 and $2.43 per day.
• The annual cost to run a dehumidifier (500W) can range from $142.99 - $583.34, depending on usage patterns and the electricity rate in your area.
• Jackery Solar Generators are eco-friendly, essential home backup solutions that can supply electricity to appliances, such as dehumidifiers, fans, coolers, etc.

How Many Watts Does a Dehumidifier Consume

On average, a dehumidifier consumes between 300W and 900W, depending on the capacity, brand, and energy efficiency rating. Small and portable dehumidifiers generally use 250W—400W. However, the larger units may range between 600W and 900W. Typically, dehumidifiers work around 12 hours a day, though this may depend on seasonal humidity. You can check out how many watts a dehumidifier uses to understand the power consumption of the appliance and calculate the expenses accordingly. 

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Dehumidifier

The cost of running a typical dehumidifier depends on three main factors: the number of hours it runs, the wattage consumption, and the local electricity rate. Let's take a few examples to understand better: 

Example 1: Small Dehumidifier & Low Usage

Suppose you run a small dehumidifier (300W) in a dry climate for 4 hours per day. The power consumption will be 1.2 kWh. If the electricity rate per kWh is 15.95 cents per kWh, the cost to run a dehumidifier will be $0.19 daily, $5.74 monthly, and $22.96 quarterly. 

Example 2: Large Dehumidifier & Heavy Usage

If you are using a large dehumidifier (700W) in your basement or wet climate for 12 hours per day, the power consumption will be 8.4 kWh. Assuming the electric rate is 15.95 cents per kWh, the daily and monthly costs will be $1.33 and $40.19, respectively. If you use the appliance for 8 months, the yearly expenses will be $321.55.

Daily, Monthly, and Yearly Costs to Run a Dehumidifier

The costs to run a dehumidifier vary by electricity rate and local climate. For example, if you live in an area with higher humidity and the electric rate per kWh is higher, the costs will be higher. Let's break down how much it costs to run a dehumidifier daily, monthly, and yearly: 

Source:  Electric Power Monthly - US Energy Information Administration (EIA)

Note: We assume that the dehumidifier (500W) runs for 12 hours a day and is used for 8 months a year.

Official Tips to Reduce the Cost of Dehumidifiers

Now that you know the cost of running a dehumidifier, you might be looking for ways to save money. Thankfully, Energy Star offers easy tips on reducing the appliance's running cost. 

• Use a Hygrostat-Controlled Model: A dehumidifier with a built-in hygrostat will automatically turn off when the desired humidity is reached. This will help you save energy and cut down on electricity bills.
• Choose an Energy Star Dehumidifier: According to Energy Star reports, an Energy Star dehumidifier uses efficient components and 14% less energy. In fact, the energy saved per year by an efficient dehumidifier can power a refrigerator for nearly two months.
• Place the Unit in the Most Humid Area: Placing the dehumidifier in a humid area can maximize its performance and minimize runtime. This helps you cut down on energy consumption and save on utility bills, especially in basements or bathrooms.
• Invest in a Solar Generator: Run a dehumidifier with the Jackery Solar Generator during peak daylight hours to reduce utility bills. These solar generators have powerful battery capacities and can power various household appliances with solar energy.

How to Save on Your Electricity Bill With Jackery Solar Generators

Jackery is a global leader in manufacturing solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels. The Jackery Solar Generators combine power stations and solar panels to power various household appliances, such as dehumidifiers, fans, coolers, etc. They can help you save anywhere from $22.45 - $72.92 per month and $142.99 - $583.34 per year. Here are two reliable Jackery Solar Generators for solar-powered dehumidifiers:

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus is a portable solar-powered generator that can power dehumidifiers in your apartments, RVs, or even the basement. For example, if you run a dehumidifier (500W) in the basement for 8 hours every day, you will spend $0.63 per day, $19.14 per month, and $153.12 for 8 months a year. Investing in a solar generator will help you reduce electricity bills and power appliances with solar energy. It features a sturdy, foldable handle so you can carry the solar generator anywhere you like. 

Appliances Running Time

• 30-Pint Dehumidifier (300W) = 3.3H
• 50-Pint Dehumidifier (500W) = 2.0H
• 70-Pint Dehumidifier (800W) = 1.3H
• Air Cooler (900W) = 1.1H
• Fan (200W) = 4.8H

Customer Review

"I used the unit to power the fridge to see how long it would last; I was just powering the fridge. I found that it will power my fridge for 21 hours. Better than I thought. I have purchased the extra battery unit to extend the time." — William McClellan.

Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus

The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus has a large battery capacity and can power different sizes of dehumidifiers. Whether you want to power dehumidifiers during a long-term power outage or when you are outdoors, the solar generator has got your back. For example, a large dehumidifier (900W) running for 8 hours powered with a solar generator can help you save $1.14 per day and $34.45 per month. With the help of add-on battery packs, the capacity can be extended up to 24 kWh to run appliances for extended periods. 

Appliances Running Time

• 30-Pint Dehumidifier (300W) = 5.3H
• 50-Pint Dehumidifier (500W) = 3.3H
• 70-Pint Dehumidifier (800W) = 2.1H
• Air Cooler (900W) = 1.9H
• Fan (200W) = 7.7H

Customer Review

"This device is the perfect companion to my 1500. Grab and go with the 1500 and 2000 Plus for power outages. Love that it's expandable, and I definitely plan to take advantage. The app is nice, simple, and not invasive. Very satisfied with this purchase." — Tony.

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Dehumidifier FAQs

How much does it cost to run a crawl space dehumidifier?

The typical crawl space dehumidifier uses between 580 and 850 watts per hour. If you are running the dehumidifier (700W) for 8 hours every day and the electricity rate is 15.95 cents per kWh, the cost to run a crawl space dehumidifier will be $0.89 per day and $26.79 per month.

Can you leave a dehumidifier on 24/7?

Yes, a dehumidifier can be used 24/7, especially in damp areas. However, it is not necessary. Most dehumidifiers have a humidistat that automatically shuts off when the desired humidity level is reached. Depending on how long you run the appliance, you can calculate how much it costs to run a dehumidifier 24/7.

Heating vs dehumidifying: What is more energy efficient?

Generally, dehumidifying is more energy-efficient than heating. This is especially important if you are using a dehumidifier instead of a heating system to remove moisture and heat from a space.

Do dehumidifiers use up a lot of electricity?

While dehumidifiers use around 300W - 900W per hour, they generally don't use as much as other appliances like air conditioners. Modern dehumidifiers, especially those with an Integrated Energy Factor (IEF) rating, are designed to be energy-efficient.

Conclusion

Running a dehumidifier is a practical solution to maintaining comfort and air quality, especially in humid regions. While these devices don't consume as much electricity as central cooling systems, their continuous use can subtly drive up your monthly bill. Understanding wattage consumption and tracking your usage patterns can help you calculate how much it costs to run a dehumidifier daily, monthly, and yearly. The Jackery Solar Generator adds an extra layer of cost-efficiency by powering dehumidifiers with solar energy, allowing you to reduce dependence on the grid.