HUMIDITY CONTROL CALCULATOR
Dehumidifier Electricity Cost Calculator
Calculate the cost of running a room or whole-home dehumidifier.
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LIVE CALCULATOR
Updates instantlyEstimate cost using duty cycle
watts
hours
%
$/kWh
Formula: Daily cost = (watts ÷ 1,000) × hours on × duty cycle × electricity rate
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How this estimate works
Duty cycle estimates the percentage of scheduled time the compressor actively draws entered power.
- Use your equipment data. Check a label, specification sheet, controller, or energy meter.
- Enter your utility rate. A recent bill is more useful than a national average.
- Test different schedules. Change one input at a time to compare scenarios.
Ways to reduce or refine the cost
1
Set a practical humidity target.
2
Close windows and doors while it runs.
3
Clean filters and address moisture intrusion.
Transparent methodology
Results use the values you enter and standard energy formulas. They are planning estimates, not bills or guarantees.
Frequently asked questions
What is duty cycle?+
It is the percentage of scheduled time the compressor actively operates.
Can a dehumidifier run continuously?+
Some units can; follow the manual and maintain drainage and filters.
Is a larger unit always more expensive?+
Not necessarily. It may reach the target faster.
How to verify this estimate
Best input
Use measured kWh over representative humidity conditions.
Reality check
Track relative humidity, runtime, drainage method, and room conditions.
Important limitation
Capacity ratings do not equal continuous electrical input; cycling and defrost behavior matter.
Primary reference: ENERGY STAR Dehumidifiers. Reviewed September 2026.