Plug Count

How many watts does a dehumidifier use?

A typical portable dehumidifier uses about 400 watts: roughly 235 W for a 22-pint model, 380 W for 35 pints and 515 W for 50 pints, with older units up to about 700 W. The compressor needs around 800 watts to start.

Running watts
400 WTypical; 235–700 W across models
Starting watts
800 WCompressor start surge lasting under a second.
Per day
3.8 kWh24 h of use, cycling
Current
3.3 AAt 120 V while running

Figures checked against DOE, ENERGY STAR and manufacturer data on . Your model's label is the final word.

Watts by model and setting

Most dehumidifier models draw between 235 and 700 W while running; a typical one draws about 400 W. Assumes a 35-pint class unit at about 400 W with the compressor running about 40% of the day; a damp basement can push this much higher.

  • Capacity in pints per day: bigger units draw more watts but remove water faster
  • ENERGY STAR models use about 20% less energy than conventional units; check the Integrated Energy Factor (liters per kWh)
  • Humidity setpoint and how damp the space is set how long the compressor runs
  • Room temperature: cool basements reduce efficiency and can trigger defrost cycles

Running a dehumidifier on a generator or power station

  • Generator: at least 400 running watts and 1,200 starting watts (running plus the 800 W start surge, the cautious way to size it). Check both numbers on the spec sheet. A generator rated 2,000 W or more covers it with room to spare.
  • Power station: continuous output of at least 400 W and a surge rating that covers about 800 W. Pure sine wave output is the safe choice for motors and electronics.
Power station capacityEstimated runtime
500 Wh2.7 h
1,000 Wh5.3 h
2,000 Wh10.6 h
3,000 Wh15.9 h

Based on 160 W average draw (running watts × duty cycle) and 85% usable capacity.

  • A 2,000 W inverter generator or a power station with about 1,000 W surge can handle a typical dehumidifier
  • It is a low-priority load in most outages; run it in cycles if you need to protect a flooded or damp basement
  • Use a pure sine wave power station so the compressor and controls run normally
  • Keep generators outside, away from basement windows and vents, to avoid carbon monoxide

Add it to the generator calculator

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier?

At about 400 W running 40% of the day, a mid-size unit uses roughly 4 kWh a day, around 60 cents at 15 cents per kWh.

Can I run a dehumidifier on a portable power station?

Yes for a few hours: a 1,000 Wh pure sine wave station can run a 400 W unit for about 2-3 hours of compressor time, longer as it cycles.

Sources