Does a Dehumidifier Use a Lot of Electricity? Energysaving Tips for Optimal Usage

Does a Dehumidifier Use a Lot of Electricity?

No, a dehumidifier does not use a lot of electricity.

The average small dehumidifier uses 300W of energy, while a larger one uses 700W.

Dehumidifiers draw less electricity than water heaters, air conditioners, and hair dryers.

The most energy-efficient dehumidifiers can cost less than $1 to run for 10 hours.

Energy efficiency is measured by the “Energy Factor Value” (EEV) and a more efficient dehumidifier can save almost $100/year in electricity costs.

It is important to consider the power costs and energy efficiency when evaluating a dehumidifier.

The best dehumidifiers have the Energy-Star label for high energy efficiency.

Key Points:

  • Small dehumidifiers use 300W of energy, while larger ones use 700W.
  • Dehumidifiers use less electricity than water heaters, air conditioners, and hair dryers.
  • Energy-efficient dehumidifiers can cost less than $1 to run for 10 hours.
  • More efficient dehumidifiers can save almost $100/year in electricity costs.
  • Power costs and energy efficiency should be considered when evaluating a dehumidifier.
  • The best dehumidifiers have the Energy-Star label for high energy efficiency.

Did You Know?

1. Contrary to popular belief, dehumidifiers are actually quite energy-efficient appliances. While they do consume electricity, they use significantly less energy compared to other household appliances such as air conditioners or refrigerators.

2. Did you know that dehumidifiers have actually been around since ancient times? The first recorded use of a dehumidifier dates back to ancient Egypt, where they used porous clay pots filled with water to absorb excess moisture from the air.

3. Dehumidifiers not only reduce humidity, but they can also help in preventing the growth of mold and mildew. By maintaining optimal moisture levels, these appliances actively combat the conditions that allow these harmful organisms to thrive in your home.

4. If you’re concerned about the noise levels of a dehumidifier, here’s an interesting fact: the noise produced by these devices can actually help you sleep better! Many people find the ambient sound of a dehumidifier comforting and soothing, providing them with a relaxing environment for a good night’s rest.

5. Have you ever wondered why you feel cooler in a room with low humidity? This is because dehumidifiers can make a space feel cooler by removing excess moisture from the air. When there is less moisture present, your body’s natural cooling mechanisms, such as perspiration, work more efficiently, giving you a cooler sensation.

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Electricity Usage Of Dehumidifiers

When considering the impact of a dehumidifier on your electricity bill, it is essential to understand the electricity usage of these devices. Fortunately, dehumidifiers do not draw many amps or watts and are not expensive to run.

On average, a small 30-pint dehumidifier uses around 300W of energy, while a larger 70-pint dehumidifier uses approximately 700W of energy. While this may seem like a significant amount, it is important to note that dehumidifiers consume less electricity than water heaters, air conditioners, and hair dryers, but consume about the same as a computer.

The Energy Efficiency Of Dehumidifiers

Energy efficiency is a crucial factor to consider when evaluating the electricity usage of a dehumidifier. The energy efficiency of dehumidifiers is expressed by the “Energy Factor Value” or EEV, measured in liters per kilowatt-hour (L/kWh). A more energy-efficient dehumidifier can save you almost $100 per year in electricity costs compared to a less energy-efficient model.

Commercial dehumidifiers have a more substantial impact on energy efficiency.

To ensure energy efficiency, look for dehumidifiers with an EEV of 1.5 or above. The best dehumidifiers have the Energy Star label, indicating high energy efficiency. By opting for energy-efficient dehumidifiers, you can reduce both your electricity costs and your carbon footprint.

Impact Of Dehumidifiers On Electricity Costs

Dehumidifiers use electricity, and their usage can have varying degrees of impact on your electricity costs. Running the most energy-efficient dehumidifier for ten hours can cost less than $1. However, if used constantly, dehumidifiers can account for a significant percentage of electricity consumed per month by households. In some cases, dehumidifiers can make up 19% to 81% of monthly electricity consumption if used 24/7. For a typical household using a dehumidifier for eight hours per day, they can still account for 6.3% to 27% of monthly electricity usage.

It is crucial to consider power costs when evaluating the efficiency of a dehumidifier. By choosing energy-efficient models and using them strategically, you can mitigate the impact on your electricity bill.

Energy Efficient Dehumidifiers And Electricity Consumption

Energy-efficient dehumidifiers are specially designed to minimize electricity consumption while effectively removing moisture. These models have wattages ranging from 214W to 540W, with consumption as low as 5.52 kWh per day. In comparison, standard dehumidifiers consume more electricity while removing the same amount of moisture from the air per watt.

If you choose an ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifier, it will consume between 5.52 kWh and 13.14 kWh of electricity per day. These dehumidifiers have an integrated Energy Factor (IEF) of 1.79 on average, indicating a higher level of efficiency.

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Choosing An Energy Efficient Dehumidifier

When selecting a dehumidifier, there are several factors to consider to ensure optimal energy efficiency. Here are some important points to keep in mind:

  • Assess the capacity of the dehumidifier, which refers to the amount of moisture it can remove from the air in 24 hours. The higher the capacity, the more effective the dehumidifier. On average, energy-efficient dehumidifiers can remove 39.09 pints of moisture from the air per day.

  • Look for dehumidifiers with an IEF (Integrated Energy Factor) of 1.9 or higher. This rating ensures optimal energy efficiency. There are over 117 ENERGY STAR certified portable dehumidifiers available with an IEF of 1.9 or higher, with some models reaching an impressive 1.95 IEF.

  • Consider whole-home dehumidifiers for even higher levels of efficiency. These can achieve IEFs of up to 2.35, making them a great option for large spaces or homes.

Remember, choosing an energy-efficient dehumidifier not only helps to reduce energy consumption but also lowers your utility bills. So take these factors into account when making your selection.

  • Assess the capacity of the dehumidifier
  • Look for dehumidifiers with an IEF of 1.9 or higher
  • Consider whole-home dehumidifiers for even higher efficiency levels

Popular Energy Efficient Dehumidifier Models

To assist you in selecting an energy-efficient dehumidifier, let’s explore two popular models known for their efficiency and performance.

The 50 pint Midea Cube dehumidifier is suitable for larger rooms and has an impressive IEF of 1.95. This model has a smart design that maximizes water collection, and its compact size allows for easy placement. The Midea Cube also features smart features that enable you to preset humidity levels, further improving energy efficiency. It has achieved the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient label, demonstrating its commitment to energy savings.

Another highly regarded option on the market is the hOme HME020030N dehumidifier, which is the best-selling model on Amazon. This dehumidifier boasts an IEF of 1.7, consuming just 6.1 kWh per day. With substantially lower electricity consumption than most dehumidifiers, the hOme HME020030N provides excellent energy efficiency without sacrificing performance.

In conclusion, dehumidifiers do use electricity, but their consumption is relatively low compared to other household appliances. By investing in energy-efficient dehumidifiers and considering your power costs, you can significantly reduce your electricity bills and lessen your environmental impact.

  • Invest in energy-efficient dehumidifiers
  • Consider power costs
  • Reduce electricity bills
  • Lessen environmental impact
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Frequently Asked Questions

Are dehumidifiers expensive to run?

Dehumidifiers can vary in their energy consumption and cost to run. While it may seem that running a dehumidifier can be expensive, it ultimately depends on the specific model’s wattage and the duration it is operated. In the given scenario, with a wattage of 480w, running the dehumidifier for an hour would cost slightly over 14p. However, it’s important to note that the cost can fluctuate depending on factors such as electricity rates in different regions and the efficiency of the dehumidifier itself.

Are dehumidifiers heavy on electricity?

Dehumidifiers can be somewhat heavy on electricity due to their long duration of use. Although the wattage and hourly electricity usage are not significant, older models can consume up to 23.6 kWh per day, resulting in a considerable amount of electricity being used. Therefore, it is essential to consider the energy efficiency of a dehumidifier before operation to minimize electricity consumption.

Does a dehumidifier use more electricity than AC?

While both an air conditioner and a dehumidifier contribute to energy use, the dehumidifier consumes significantly less electricity than AC. This is because the primary function of an air conditioner is to cool the room, requiring more energy to power its compressor and coolant system. On the other hand, a dehumidifier focuses on reducing humidity levels, thereby using only a fraction of the electricity consumed by an AC unit. Therefore, if energy efficiency is a priority and you primarily want to address high humidity levels, a dehumidifier is a preferable option.

Should you leave a dehumidifier on all the time?

It is generally not necessary to leave a dehumidifier running all the time. Running it for 12 hours a day is typically sufficient to maintain the desired indoor relative humidity levels. Leaving it on continuously may lead to excessive drying of the air, potentially causing discomfort and respiratory issues. In addition, running the dehumidifier constantly would consume more electricity, resulting in higher energy costs. It is important to strike a balance between maintaining optimal humidity levels and conserving energy.

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