Are there energy-efficient dehumidifiers?
Yes. Look for an ENERGY STAR labeled dehumidifier. It removes the same amount of moisture as a similarly sized standard unit, but uses 10 to 23% less energy. These are high quality units which have more efficient refrigeration coils, compressors, and fans than conventional models. Over the lifetime of a machine, savings can add up to about $200. QI’ve heard that dehumidifiers can use a lot of electricity. Is this true? A. The short answer is, yes. But as with most energy-related questions, it’s not that simple. Running a dehumidifier in a wet basement, for example, could cost you as much as $31 a month. However, if you’d like to replace an older dehumidifier or are looking to buy a new one, look for the ENERGY STAR. Newer models have more efficient compressors and use considerably less energy. Here are some things to keep in mind about using a dehumidifier: • Dehumidifiers are only effective for controlling humidity in an enclosed area and need to be sized appropriately. ENERGY STAR ca