You're our first priority.
Every time.
Appliancesradar.com is a review channel. When you complete orders through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more
If you live in a humid climate or have areas of your home that tend to suffer from moisture and humidity, having a dehumidifier can be essential for creating a comfortable living environment.
However, it is important to know how much electricity these appliances use before making the decision to invest in one.
In this blog post, we'll discuss the typical energy consumption of different types of dehumidifiers and provide tips on getting the most out of them without burning through too much power. Read on to learn more about optimizing your energy usage with an efficient dehumidifier!
What is Dehumidifiers and Their Electricity Use
Dehumidifiers are electrical appliances that help reduce the humidity in a room or space, making it more comfortable to live and work in.
They are particularly useful for those living in humid climates, as excess moisture can cause mold growth, musty odors, and other problems.
Dehumidifiers draw air into the appliance and remove excess moisture from it before releasing the now-dryer air back into the room.
The amount of electricity a dehumidifier uses depends on its size and features, but most models are fairly efficient when it comes to power consumption.
The average dehumidifier will use about 300 watts of energy per hour while running, which is similar to other common appliances such as TVs and microwaves. The most energy-efficient models, however, can consume as little as 200 watts per hour.
Read more: https://appliancesradar.com/best-dehumidifier-for-apartments/
The Different Types of Dehumidifiers and Their Average Electricity Usage
There are three main types of dehumidifiers that you can choose from. Each type has a different energy consumption rate, so it's important to know what to look for when making your selection.
- Desiccant dehumidifier. These use an absorbent material such as silica gel or activated charcoal to draw moisture from the air. They are considered to be the most energy-efficient type of dehumidifier and typically only use about 250 watts of electricity per hour.
- Refrigerant dehumidifiers. These use a cooling coil to condense moisture from the air, which is then collected in a tray or bucket for disposal. Refrigerant dehumidifiers tend to be more energy-efficient than desiccant models, using about 200 watts of electricity per hour.
- Compressor dehumidifiers. These use a compressor and fan to draw air into the unit and remove moisture from it before releasing the now-dryer air back into the room. Compressor dehumidifiers are usually slightly less energy-efficient than refrigerant models, consuming about 250 watts of electricity per hour.
How Each Type of Dehumidifier Affects Your Electric Bill
The amount of electricity a dehumidifier uses will depend on its size and features, but most models are fairly efficient when it comes to power consumption.
For example, a small portable desiccant dehumidifier can use as little as 250 watts per hour while running, which equates to around $0.21 per day or $6.30 per month.
Larger compressor and refrigerant dehumidifiers, on the other hand, usually consume about 300 watts of electricity per hour. This equates to around $0.25 per day or $7.50 per month in electric bills if they are running continuously.
Explore Ways to Reduce the Amount of Electricity Used by a Dehumidifier
Although the electricity usage of dehumidifiers is relatively low compared to other appliances, there are still steps you can take to make sure you're getting the most out of your dehumidifier without wasting energy.
First, make sure to purchase an energy-efficient model. Look for models that have the Energy Star label and read reviews from customers who have used the product.
This will ensure that you're buying a model that is designed to run efficiently while still providing effective humidity control.
Next, be sure to set the dehumidifier for the right room size and conditions. The less moisture in the air, the less power your dehumidifier needs to consume in order to keep your environment comfortable.
Additionally, make sure to clean and maintain your dehumidifier regularly. This will help ensure that it is running as efficiently as possible.
Finally, be sure to turn off the dehumidifier when you are not at home or if the humidity levels in your home have already been reduced to a comfortable level. This will save you money on your electric bill and help extend the life of your dehumidifier.
Other Methods for Increasing Home Comfort Without Using a Dehumidifier
If you find that your humidity levels are comfortable without a dehumidifier, there are other steps you can take to increase the comfort of your home.
- Install a whole-house fan. A whole-house fan helps circulate air throughout your home and will reduce the humidity levels significantly without using electricity.
- Open windows and doors. Whenever possible, open windows and doors in your home to let fresh air into the space. This will help lower indoor humidity levels naturally, as well as saving you money on energy bills.
- Use air conditioning sparingly. Air conditioners are great for cooling down a room, but they can also increase the humidity levels in your home if used too often or left running without any occupants present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to run a dehumidifier 24 hours a day?
Yes, it is safe to run a dehumidifier 24 hours a day.
However, unless there is a particularly high humidity level in your home that requires constant monitoring, it's best to turn the dehumidifier off when you are not at home or if the desired humidity levels have already been achieved.
This will help reduce your electric bill and extend the life of your dehumidifier.
Is it cheaper to run AC or dehumidifier?
It depends on the room size and conditions, as well as the efficiency of your air conditioner or dehumidifier.
Generally speaking, dehumidifiers tend to be more efficient when it comes to power consumption than air conditioners.
However, if you have a smaller space with high humidity levels that require constant monitoring, an air conditioner can help reduce the humidity quickly and more effectively.
Is it safe to leave dehumidifier on all night?
Yes, it is safe to leave a dehumidifier on all night. However, you should make sure that the room or area where the dehumidifier is located is well-ventilated and kept away from any combustible materials.
Additionally, make sure to turn off the dehumidifier when you are not at home or if the desired humidity levels have already been achieved. This will help reduce your electric bill and extend the life of your dehumidifier.
How often should you empty a dehumidifier?
Most modern dehumidifiers are designed to indicate when it's time to empty the water tank or bucket, so be sure to follow any instructions provided with your model.
Generally speaking, you should empty your dehumidifier at least once every two days or when the water tank is full. This will help ensure that your dehumidifier is running efficiently and effectively.
How much electricity does a dehumidifier use?
The amount of electricity a dehumidifier uses depends on its size and features, but most models are fairly efficient when it comes to power consumption.
The average dehumidifier will use about 300 watts of energy per hour while running, though the most energy-efficient models can consume as little as 200 watts per hour.
How often should I clean my dehumidifier?
You should aim to clean your dehumidifier at least once a month to ensure that it is running as efficiently as possible.
This will help make sure that the air inside your home is free from dust and other allergens, as well as reducing the amount of electricity the dehumidifier needs to consume in order to keep your environment comfortable.
Are there any other ways I can increase comfort levels in my home without using a dehumidifier?
Yes! There are several methods you can use to increase comfort levels in your home without relying on a dehumidifier.
These include installing a whole-house fan, opening windows and doors when possible, and using air conditioning sparingly. Additionally, you can use plants to naturally reduce humidity levels in your home.
Conclusion
By understanding how much electricity dehumidifiers use and exploring ways to reduce their energy consumption, you can save money on your electric bill and create a comfortable living environment without sacrificing efficiency.
Additionally, there are other methods for increasing home comfort such as installing whole-house fans, opening windows and doors, and using plants to naturally reduce humidity levels in your home.
With the right approach to dehumidifier use and a few simple steps, you can keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient.
Enjoy!
References:
