Do Dehumidifiers Use up a Lot of Electricity?

Dehumidifiers do consume electricity, but whether they use "a lot" depends on unit size, technology type, runtime, and environmental conditions. In most residential and commercial applications, their energy use is moderate and predictable, especially when compared to the damage they prevent.

1. Typical Power Consumption by Dehumidifier Type

Residential Dehumidifiers (30–70 PPD)

Power draw: 300–700 watts

Daily energy use: 4–8 kWh (running 12–16 hours)

Monthly cost: approximately $15–35 (at $0.12–0.15/kWh)

Commercial Units (70–150 PPD)

Power draw: 600–1,200 watts

Daily energy use: 8–18 kWh

Monthly cost: $30–80

Industrial Dehumidifiers (200–1,000+ PPD)

Power draw: 1.5–6 kW

Daily energy use: 20–90+ kWh

Monthly cost: $100–500+, depending on duty cycle

2. Energy Efficiency Matters More Than Size

Key Efficiency Metrics

Energy Factor (EF) or Integrated Energy Factor (IEF)
Measures liters/pints of water removed per kWh

Higher EF = lower operating cost

Modern ENERGY STAR® units typically use 20–30% less energy than older models.

3. Runtime Is the Biggest Cost Driver

A properly sized dehumidifier:

Runs longer at lower load

Cycles less frequently

Uses less total energy than an undersized unit running continuously

Common causes of excessive energy use:

The unit is too small for the space

High infiltration (open doors, air leaks)

Set RH unrealistically low

No drainage, causing shutoffs and restarts

4. Refrigerant vs. Desiccant Energy Use

Refrigerant Dehumidifiers

Most energy-efficient at >60°F (15°C)

Lower operating cost

Preferred for homes, basements, and warehouses

Desiccant Dehumidifiers

Use more electricity per pint

Essential for cold or low-RH environments

Higher energy cost, but necessary for certain applications

5. Cost vs. Value Perspective

While a dehumidifier may add:

$0.50–$2.50 per day (residential)

$3–$15 per day (industrial)

It can prevent:

Mold remediation costs

Structural corrosion

Inventory damage

HVAC inefficiency

Health complaints

In cost–benefit terms, dehumidification is usually net positive.

6. How to Minimize Electricity Use

Choose the correct capacity (do not undersize)

Set RH to 45–55%, not 30–35%

Use continuous drainage

Seal air leaks and reduce infiltration

Pair with HVAC control where applicable

Select high-IEF industrial dehumidifiers

Bottom Line

Dehumidifiers do not inherently use "a lot" of electricity, especially when correctly sized and operated within their optimal temperature range. Energy consumption is controllable and typically far lower than the cost of moisture-related damage.