Dehumidifier Cost Calculator

A typical 50-pint basement dehumidifier draws around 550 W and runs roughly half the day in humid months. At the US average rate of $0.17/kWh that's about $34/month in peak season.

Yearly cost depends heavily on how long humid weather lasts in your climate. A coastal or humid southern basement can easily exceed $200/year; a Northern basement run only summer-fall might be $80–$120.

• Choose an ENERGY STAR model — they use 15% less electricity for the same pint capacity.
• Right-size: an undersized unit runs constantly. A 50-pint unit is plenty for most basements under 1,500 sq ft.
• Set the humidistat to 50% RH, not lower. Each 5% drop adds noticeable cost.
• Air-seal rim joists and basement penetrations so outdoor humidity isn't constantly leaking in.
• Insulate cold water pipes — they shed water that the dehumidifier then has to remove.

Results are estimates based on typical conditions. Actual costs vary by climate, utility rates, equipment efficiency, and home characteristics. Use them as a starting point — for precise figures consult a qualified energy auditor or your utility company. Estimates are not a guarantee, and any work you do on your home is at your own risk — we are not liable for installation errors or property damage. Air sealing a home with gas, oil, propane, or wood-burning appliances can cause backdrafting and carbon monoxide risk — get a combustion safety test and keep CO alarms working. See our Disclaimer.