Calculate your cost
Start with the example below, then replace the wattage, daily runtime, and rate with the numbers for your dehumidifier.
This setup uses about 120 kWh in a 30-day month.
Please enter valid values within the ranges shown.
| Schedule | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|
| Half runtime | 4 | $11.30 |
| Page example | 8 | $22.60 |
| Longer runtime | 12 | $33.89 |
Same 500-watt input and 18.83¢/kWh rate; only runtime changes.
Formula for the page example
0.5 kW × 8 hr × $0.1883 = $0.75 per day
Convert watts to kilowatts, multiply by the active hours used each day, then multiply by the electricity price in dollars per kWh. Multiply the daily result by 30 for the monthly estimate shown above.
How to read this estimate
In a damp basement or humid climate, a dehumidifier may run for long stretches. Compressor time and the selected humidity target matter more to the bill than the hours when only the fan appears to be running.
Use this as a baseline until you can check the label or measure the dehumidifier directly. Model, settings, condition, climate, and household routine can all change the result.
What changes the cost?
- 01
Room humidity, temperature, and moisture infiltration
- 02
Pint capacity, efficiency, and selected humidity target
- 03
Drain setup, filter condition, and compressor duty cycle
Ways to spend less
- Set a reasonable humidity target instead of the minimum setting.
- Close basement windows and address water intrusion.
- Clean the filter and keep the intake and exhaust unobstructed.