Does A Dehumidifier Use A Lot Of Electricity

Dehumidify or dehumidification

This means to pull out or remove the water vapor from the air. Dehumidification is the process of eliminating atmospheric moisture in various ways. The basis of mechanics of dehumidifiers is the chosen method

There are two types of dehumidifiers. A refrigerant and a desiccant dehumidifier. 

Refrigerant dehumidifier 

A refrigerant dehumidifier uses pretty much the same mechanism as your home refrigerator. A cold metal plate on which moisture from the air condenses cools the air that comes in contact. A fan draws the room air over to the cold coil(s).

The liquid water droplets that form during this process drip into a water tank in the dehumidifier. The relative humidity in the room/home goes down to normal levels. The unit will then turn to standby.

Refrigerant dehumidifiers are most effective at typical room temperatures. I have noticed that their performance declines when conditions are cooler. This decline in efficiency is because ice crystals form on the metal cooling plates.

I have also noticed that once the temperature falls below 65°F/18°C, there is remarkable inefficiency. After this point, you need a higher-performing unit which tends to push up the price. So if you need a dehumidifier to use in a room with low temperatures, this may not be the best option.

Desiccant dehumidifier

Desiccant, or absorption dehumidifiers use a desiccant to absorb water from the air. A desiccant is a material that absorbs water. You’ve likely seen a small pack of crystals labeled “silica gel.” You find them in boxes, cameras, computers, and other gadgets.

How Does It Work? A desiccant in a dehumidifier works as follows:

A wheel made of desiccant spins through the incoming air stream and absorbs moisture. A part of the wheel passes through a stream of heated air throughout the rotation cycle. This “reactivates” the desiccant by removing moisture.

The condensed water is then collected in the dehumidifier’s collection tank. Otherwise it empties out through a hose. This type of dehumidifier is often smaller and lighter than refrigerant dehumidifiers. Most desiccant dehumidifiers are portable units.

The advantage of a desiccant dehumidifier is that it can work at lower temperatures. You might want to consider this model if you’re looking for a dehumidifier for a very cool space. , such as a garage or workshop.