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No, a dehumidifier generally does not use a lot of electricity, provided you choose the right model for your home’s temperature. For households across Ireland dealing with dampness, condensation, and the high cost of living, a dehumidifier can actually be a cost-saving tool. By removing moisture from the air, these appliances make your home feel warmer and easier to heat, potentially reducing your overall energy consumption (kWh) and helping you manage your monthly utility bills more effectively.
A dehumidifier is a home appliance designed to reduce and maintain the level of humidity in the air. It works by drawing in moist air, removing the water, and circulating drier air back into the room.
In Ireland, where the climate is naturally damp and average relative humidity often exceeds 80%, these devices are essential for preventing mould growth and protecting the structure of your home.
Most modern units come with a built-in humidistat, allowing you to set a target level (usually 50%).
Once the room reaches this level, the machine switches off or enters a low-energy monitoring mode, ensuring it only uses electricity when absolutely necessary.
While a dehumidifier uses electricity to run, it contributes to your home's efficiency front:
Not all dehumidifiers use the same amount of power. The technology you choose should depend on where you plan to use it:
To understand the cost of running a dehumidifier in Ireland, we need to look at its wattage and the current unit price of electricity.
Unlike a kettle, a dehumidifier doesn't always run at full tilt once the initial moisture is cleared.
For calculation purposes, let's use the standard 24-hour rate of approximately €0.3475 per kWh (34.75 c/kWh), inclusive of VAT.
This is a common benchmark used by major energy providers like Electric Ireland and Bord Gais.
| Dehumidifier Type | Kilowatt (kW) | Cost per Hour (c) | Cost for 8 Hours (c) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compressor (Small/Eco) | 0.15 kW | 5.2 c | 41.7 c |
| Compressor (Standard 20L) | 0.35 kW | 12.2 c | 97.3 c |
| Desiccant (Full Power) | 0.65 kW | 22.6 c | 180.7 c |
Note: Calculations are based on a unit rate of 34.75 c/kWh. To see how this affects your total bill, check out our guide on the average electricity usage in Ireland.
To get the most value out of your appliance, follow these efficiency tips tailored for the Irish climate:
It's helpful to compare a dehumidifier's consumption to other household appliances.
| Appliance | Typical Wattage (W) | Cost per Hour (c/kWh*) | Daily Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dehumidifier (Compressor) | 200 W | 6.9 c | Low |
| Air Fryer | 1,500 W | 52.1 c | Medium |
| Tumble Dryer | 2,500 W | 86.9 c | Very High |
| Immersion Heater | 3,000 W | 104.2 c | High |
For most Irish households, especially those struggling with condensation or drying clothes indoors, the answer is a resounding yes.
While there is an upfront purchase cost, the potential energy savings from more efficient heating and reduced laundry costs often mean the unit pays for itself within two winters.
Beyond the financial aspect, the health benefits of removing mould spores from the air are invaluable.
By choosing a model that matches your needs, you can ensure your home stays dry, warm, and energy-efficient.
Read More of Our Energy Saving Guides
The services and products mentioned on this website may only represent a small selection of the options available to you. Selectra encourages you to carry out your own research and seek advice if necessary before making any decisions. We may receive commission from selected partner providers on sales of some products and/or services mentioned within this website. Our website is free to use, and the commission we receive does not affect our opinion or the information we provide.
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