If you're battling window condensation or musty smells, you've likely asked yourself: "is a dehumidifier expensive to run?" With energy prices on everyone's mind, it's a valid concern. The short answer is: no, modern dehumidifiers are surprisingly energy-efficient, often costing less to run than a tumble dryer or a space heater.
In this guide, we'll break down the wattage, hourly costs, and smart watts to keep your electricity bill low while keeping your home dry.
How Much Electricity Does A Dehumidifier Use?
The power consumption of a dehumidifier depends on its type (compressor vs dessiccant) and its extraction capacity. Most household units range between 150W and 700W.
1. Compressor Dehumidifiers (The Efficiency Kings)
These are the most common for heated homes. They use a refrigeration cycle to condense moisture.
- Average Wattage: 150W - 300W.
- Running Cost: Approx. 4p to 8p per hour (based on a 28p/kWh tariff).
2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers (Best for cold spaces)
These use an internal heater to dry out a moisture-absorbing wheel. They are excellent for unheated garages or conservatories, but use more power.
- Average Wattage: 300W - 650W.
- Running Cost: 10p to 18p per hour.
Dehumidifier vs. Other Household Appliances
To put "dehumidifier energy use" into perspective, let's look at how it compares to other common gadgets:
| Appliance | Average Wattage | Estimated Cost Per Hour |
| Low-energy dehumidifier | 160W | ~4.5p |
| Flat screen TV | 100W - 150W | ~3p - 4p |
| Tumble Dryer | 2500W - 4000W | ~70p - £1.12 |
| Electric Kettle | 3000W | ~84p |
Pro Tip: Using a dehumidifier is "Laundry Mode" to dry clothes indoors is often 10 times cheaper than running a tumble dryer!
5 Ways To Lower Your Dehumidifier Running Costs
- Use A Humidistat: Don't let the unit run 24/7. Set it to 50% or 55% humidity. Once the air reaches this level, a smart unit will automatically switch to standby mode, consuming almost zero power.
- Close Windows and Doors: Running a dehumidifier with a window open is like trying to air-condition the entire street. Seal the room to extract moisture faster.
- Clean the Filters: A clogged filter makes the motor work harder, increasing energy consumption. A quick vacuum of the filter every few weeks keeps it efficient.
- Position it Centrally: Place the unit away from walls and furniture so air can circulate freely.
- Choose The Right Size: Buying a unit that's too small for your damp problem means it will run constantly on high speed. A larger unit (like a 20L model) can often clear a room in 2 hours and then shut off, saving more energy in the long run.
The Verdict: Is It Worth It?
While a dehumidifier does add a small amount to your electric bill, it often saves you money elsewhere. Dry air is easier (and cheaper) to heat than damp air, and preventing mold damage can save you thousands in home repairs.
