How Much Does a Dehumidifier Cost to Run? Energy and Savings.

Every homeowner wants their house free from moisture since dehumidifiers are a unique solution to air conditioning. But with the rise in energy costs, the question arises: How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier? Are they relatively economical, or will they draw on my electricity bill?

They actually do not cost that much! Dehumidifiers are energy-efficient appliances that help prevent mould, control condensation, and even gently heat a room without breaking the bank. 

This guide will explain all about dehumidifier costs, energy-saving tips, and which dehumidifiers cost less to run.

💡 Energy Saving Trust – How to Reduce Energy Bills.

Running Costs of a Dehumidifier:

The cost of running the dehumidifier simply depends on several variable aspects:

• Wattage of a dehumidifier
•  Energy tariff (cost per kilowatt-hour – kWh)
•  Duration of use per day.
•  Type of dehumidifier (compressor vs. desiccant)

💡 Here is the formula to calculate running costs

(Wattage ÷ 1000) × Cost per kWh × Hours Used

Example:

A dehumidifier rated at 500W = 0.5 kWh. Energy cost (October 2024) = 24.5p per kWh. Per hour cost = 0.5 kWh x 24.5p = 12.25p. Cost for 24 hours = £2.94 a day.

💡 Tip: Higher wattage models remove moisture faster but cost more to run, so finding the right balance is key.

Are Some Dehumidifiers Cheaper to Run Than Others?

Yes! The dehumidifier type makes an incredible difference in operating costs.

Compressor (Refrigerant) Dehumidifier-running costs-estimate: 

Best for normal household temperatures (average >10 °C). Cheaper to run in standard home conditions. Efficient removal of excess moisture. Good example: Meaco Arete One 10L Dehumidifier-approximately 4p per hour.

Desiccant: Sometimes more expensive to run

Best for cold spots (below 10°C). Consumes a lot of energy but can contribute to heating a room. Good examples include basements, garages, and unheated conservatories.

💡 Tip: If you’re only dehumidifying main living areas, a compressor model is the cheapest option.

Ways to keep dehumidifier operational costs to a minimum:

• Use a smart timer run, just run only when dehumidification is necessary.
• Picking the right size saves energy: a larger unit would necessarily run for less time.
• Empty the water tank at the appropriate time. This keeps the water from getting full, which hinders the smooth functioning of the machine
• Let it breathe! Open windows and extractor fans will help promote natural reduction of excess moisture.
• Buy one with energy-saving features. Auto shutoff and laundry mode are two features designed for reducing electricity costs.

Is it Cheaper to Run a Dehumidifier or Heating?

It’s amazing but true: a dehumidifier will save you money when it comes to heating.

•  The air feels warmer with little relative humidity, so during winter you may need less heating.
• The heaters typically consume 1,000-3,000 watts of energy in an hour while that’s only between 200-600 watts by a dehumidifier.
•  While a central heating system can run you about £1.70 an hour, a 500-watt dehumidifier will cost around 12p an hour.

💡 Tip: If you’re wondering how to use a dehumidifier to save on heating, go for desiccant ones; they will heat the air slightly.

Need a dehumidifier? Have a look at some of our products

Mistakes Associated with Usage of Dehumidifiers That Increase Costs

🚫 Wrong Type of Dehumidifier for Space

Read on: How to choose the right dehumidifier size?

🚫 Use at all times for its unnecessary costing. 

🚫 Failure to clean filters thereby reduce efficiency

🚫 Ventilation problems are ignored, thus making dehumidifiers work half as hard as possible

Conclusion– 

So, actually, how much does a dehumidifier cost to run varies with wattage, usage, and type, but on an average, it runs around 4p-12p an hour.

Dehumidifiers can help you save money over time: 

•  Prevent damage due to mould
• Increase heating efficiency
•  Improve air quality and reduce allergies 

📞 Do you want to control moisture coming into your house? Call Disaster Care Capital today for expert advice and solutions!.