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Dehumidifier Cost Calculator

Estimate the running cost of a basement or whole-home dehumidifier based on its capacity and how many hours a day it actually runs.

1. Unit & Usage

Unit Capacity

Hours Running Per Day (actual compressor run time, not just plugged in)

Your Electricity Rate ($/kWh)

2. Running Cost

kWh × rate

MONTHLY COST

$—

SEASONAL COST (6 months)

$—

Real run time is usually less than 24 hours. Most dehumidifiers cycle on a humidistat — 6–10 hours of actual compressor time per day is typical, not constant running.

Tips for lower running cost

Set the humidistat target closer to 50–55% rather than as low as possible — a lower target means the unit runs more.
Seal obvious moisture sources (sump pit lids, window gaps) so the dehumidifier isn't fighting a constant leak.
A correctly sized unit for the space runs less overall than an undersized one working overtime.