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Dehumidifier consumption

Calculate kWh and cost while accounting for the compressor cycling off when target humidity is reached.

✓ Adjustable duty cycle✓ Monthly cost✓ Annual cost

Your inputs

Power, duty cycle and tariff

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Indicative diagram of this calculator inputs — Cost depends on real power draw, usage time and the price per kWh.

How we calculate consumption

We multiply power, hours and running factor. The percentage avoids assuming the compressor draws full power the whole time the unit is switched on.

W ÷ 1,000 × hours × factor × days × €/kWh

Switched on does not mean continuous full-power use

Once target humidity is reached, the compressor may stop while the unit remains on. A power meter helps determine the real running factor.

It may use more at first

In a very damp room, the unit works harder during the first few days. Consumption may fall once walls, furniture and air reach a more stable moisture level.

Running factor is the key input for a realistic estimate

A dehumidifier can remain switched on for many hours without the compressor drawing full power continuously. Once the target humidity is approached, many units cycle, so the running factor can have a larger effect on monthly cost than the headline wattage.

Expect higher consumption at the beginning

In a very damp room, the machine may run almost continuously during the first days while moisture is removed from the air, furniture and surfaces. Consumption can fall later if the moisture source is controlled and the target humidity becomes easier to maintain.

Room conditions change performance

Temperature, airflow, open doors or windows, laundry drying and incoming moisture all affect runtime. Measure over several representative days if you want to estimate the real duty cycle.

For a worked example, see dehumidifier electricity use. If the room has a persistent moisture problem, read how to control humidity at home before assuming continuous dehumidification is the long-term solution.

Editorial review: 11 Oct 2026. A dehumidifier manages humidity; it does not repair an active leak or water ingress.