How to Determine the Power Consumption Cost of Running a Dehumidifier or Air Mover (Electricity Use Calculator)

During water or fire restoration jobs, the equipment a contractor uses on the job site can require a substantial amount of electricity. It is important that restoration pros determine the cost of electricity usage on the job so that the amount can be added to the property owner’s insurance claim. The following is a formula you can follow to find the power consumption cost of running a dehumidifier or air mover on a typical restoration job.

First, convert amp draw to kilowatt per hour (kWh). Then multiply kWh by the local charge per kilowatt hour.

Here’s the formula:

1. Amps x voltage = watts per hour
2. Watts per hour / 1,000 = killowatts per hour (kWh)
3. kWh x cost per kWh = hourly electricity cost per unit

Example: Dry Air Typhoon Air Mover

1. 3 amps x 115 volts = 345 watts per hour
2. 345 watts per hour / 1,000 = 0.345 kWh
3. 0.345 x $0.16* = $0.0552 hourly electricity cost

To run the unit for 24 hours, the cost would be $1.32 per day ($0.0552 x 24)

If you’ve estimated that you will need to run 15 of these air movers for 120 hours, the cost would be calculated as follows:

15 air movers x 120 hours x $0.0552 hourly power cost = $99.36

*In 2020, the national average cost per kWh was approximately $0.16. You may need to contact the local power utility company or request a copy of the property owner’s electricity bill to determine the cost per kWh in your area.

For more information or for help in selecting the right drying equipment for the job, contact a Jon-Don representative at 800-556-6366.