Moisture and humidity are the main enemies of any house. A damp basement could cause mold and mildew, which means that your family members are susceptible to respiratory illnesses and allergies, not to mention the damage to property that could result from uncontrolled humidity.
The structure of your home could be at risk and so is your furniture and whatever else you might be keeping in your crawlspace or basement. Be aware that even the most effective dehumidifiers designed for use in basements won’t protect your home from damage in the event that you don’t tackle the source of the problem, so it’s important to get rid of sources of moisture as well as improve ventilation first. It’s possible to make a few investments in maintenance for your home to improve the drainage, grading or insulation. After that, adding a humidifier will drastically reduce the amount of water that is in the air around your house.
The majority of dehumidifiers operate by drawing air through cooling coils. The water is then condensed out of the air in liquid form, and is taken away to drains or collected so it can be manually emptied. The dry air is heated before exiting the device, which prevents it from cooling the space it is venting into. There are huge, all-encompassing dehumidifiers, the majority of people require a smaller, less portable model. We’ve put together the top dehumidifiers that are suitable for drying any air that is trapped in the small basement crawlspace or an unintentional room in your home. Find out about six of the top dehumidifiers you can get for your home.
- BEST OVERALL: Frigidaire 70-Pint Dehumidifier
- RUNNER UP Ivation 4.500 sq Ft Large-Capacity Dechumidifier
- BEST DISPLAY: GE 70-Pint Dehumidifier
What Should You Consider when choosing the right dehumidifier for your Basement?
Sorts of Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers function in various ways and certain methods are more suited for the high levels of humidity that are common in basements.
- Compressor dehumidifiers A majority of basement dehumidifiers utilize a compressor to run an air-drawing fan over cold coils and cause the moisture to condense (like droplets that form on the outside of a chilled drink). Droplets are then pumped into a tank that has to be regularly emptied or in an area draining to a floor using a hose drain. If you are looking for the ideal dehumidifier to use in basements with high humidity levels, the compressor dehumidifier could be your ideal choice.
- Desiccant dehumidifiers In this kind of dehumidifier, the moist air is pulled through a filter composed from a desiccant (a chemicals drying agent). The desiccant is used to trap moisture and then it is drained into a tank for collection. Desiccant humidifiers can regulate moisture levels in rooms above ground, but they might not be strong enough for basements.
- Thermoelectric dehumidifiers: Also called “Peltier dehumidifiers,” in honor of scientist Jean Charles Peltier, who invented the thermoelectric method to extract moisture from the air. These units function by drawing damp air along the surface of a small, heated surface (called “sinks”) in which it is absorbed and then dripping into a tank for collection. Thermoelectric dehumidifiers are best suited to warmer rooms and are typically small in size. Although they could be the ideal basement dehumidifiers to use in small spaces, they’re not the best option for a cool or large basement.
Capacity and Cost Aspects
Dehumidifiers are classified by capacity (how they are able to remove from the air each day.) Although they are classified as “small-medium, small, and large,” it refers to their capacity, not to the dimensions of the tank they collect in. Tanks for collection hold anywhere from one to three gallons. In general the greater the power of the dehumidifier, the higher it is capacity. To get rid of the high amount of humidity found in the basements of many homes, a huge capacity dehumidifier is essential.
- Capacity: Small The lightweight and mobile, and inexpensive ($45 up to 90) units are able to collect the equivalent of 15-30 pints of water per day. They’re ideal for small spaces or closets.
- Medium capacity capable of capturing 30 to 45 pints humidity daily, dehumidifiers with medium capacities can be used in large and medium-sized rooms. However, they could not be powerful enough for basements. They are priced between $115 and $200.
- Big capacity with the capacity to remove up to pints of water per day, a larger capacity device is an ideal dehumidifier to fight basement mold. Expect to spend between $180 and $300.
It can cost anywhere from 25 to $50 per month to run an enormous capacity dehumidifier subject to your electricity rates as well as the size of your Basement and the level of humidity. Although today’s dehumidifiers are much more efficient than the ones of the past and are more energy-efficient, you should look to find an Energy Star label when shopping. These have the highest efficiency for basements. You could save as much as 30 percent in electricity costs when compared to a conventional machine.
Noise Level
Dehumidifiers emit a sound that is similar to that of an air conditioner in a window and the greater their capacity is, the louder the device will sound. The majority of dehumidifiers emit at least 53 decibels (comparable to the sound of a conversation) as well as 65 decibels (comparable to the noise of traffic); however, manufacturers aren’t required by law to publish the decibels they produce on their devices. The reading of customers’ reviews is the most reliable method to gauge how loud the dehumidifier you purchase will be. (Tip To cut down on noise, ensure the dehumidifier is placed on an even surface.)
Drainage
Every dehumidifier has tanks for collection. However, some models provide the option of attaching the drainage pipe (typically the standard garden hose) to redirect the water to the floor drain. The dehumidifier will automatically close when the tank for collection is empty; therefore, if you will not be capable of emptying it every day, then you’ll need to consider buying one that has a drainage hose. Remember how a single pint of water weighs about one pound. Thus, although an enormous capacity dehumidifier could capture as much as 75 points in a day, most tanks hold up to 3 gallons to permit easy and frequent emptying. A bodybuilder would wish to carry 75-pound tanks around!
Energy Consumption Concerns
It can cost anywhere from 15 to $50 per month to run an enormous capacity dehumidifier, depending on the utility costs, your Basement’s size, and humidity level. Although today’s dehumidifiers are much more efficient in energy use than those that were used ten years ago, it’s a good idea to search for those with the Energy Star label when purchasing. The Energy Star certified models are most effective, and you can reduce up to 30% on your energy bills compared to a conventional machine.
A Host to helpful Options
Each dehumidifier allows you to select the basic level of humidity–normal dry, dry, or extremely dry. However, some models come with other features you may consider useful.
- Controls digital lets you select the desired humidity level by percentages, like 35 or 45 percent. The unit will turn off automatically when the humidity in the room reaches the set level and will then return to the normal setting as needed.
- You can program the timer to automatically turn the dehumidifier off or on when a predetermined time is reached, which means you don’t need to do it manually.
- A self-restart feature that allows the unit to follow an interruption in power like an outage in the energy supply.
- A simple-to-carry collection tank with ergonomic handles and a stylish spout that allows you to dump the water with no spillage.
- A sensor for frost to detect the presence of frost and shut the machine down to conserve energy. When a compressor machine is operating for long periods, frost will form on the coils. This decreases the effectiveness of the dehumidifier. Thus, while a dehumidifier with frozen-up frost can continue to operate but it won’t efficiently remove humidity off the atmosphere. Certain models also have an option to turn the unit off after the coils have been defrosted.
What type of dehumidifier will I require?
If humidity is a concern throughout your home A whole-home integrated system could be the best way to move.
If the issues with moisture are seasonal or restricted to a few rooms within the home, a portable unit for your home is the best option. Dehumidifiers that are smaller tend to cost less and are easier to transport, but they are less effective when operating at a continuous speed. It’s better to erron in the direction of caution by choosing a bigger model as opposed to a smaller one, and running the unit more frequently.
What can I do to select the best dimension dehumidifier?
The dimensions of your room and the amount of damp will determine how large the dehumidifier ought to be. Dehumidifiers can be sized according to the amount of water they can take out during the day. The more wet and larger your area is, the stronger your dehumidifier will have to be.
For instance 70-pint dehumidifier will cover a wet 700 square feet, or a somewhat humid 1,200 square foot. Remember: If the room is colder (say basement) then the dehumidifier removes less moisture because cooler air has less moisture as compared to warmer air.
What is the most crucial feature when purchasing the dehumidifier?
- Connection to the hose. If you’re planning to use a large capacity dehumidifier for a very wet task, finding the dehumidifier equipped with a hose connector will save you from needing to empty the machine manually. If you are unable to find one with a hose connection, search for one with the ability to pump water towards windows or a sink. you’ll have to physically (and often) take the water that’s been collected and dump it If not.
- The indicator of your air filter alerts you you should clean the air filters.
- A self-humiditystat is able to detect the humidity in the air, and then turn off automatically when the desired level has been reached.
- Setting the temperature to low or the auto defrost feature is useful when the dehumidifier is situated in a cool area as it guarantees that it will operate properly at lower temperatures.
What can I do to ensure that my dehumidifier is running effectively?
- Check that the airflow isn’t blocked. Certain models have vents on topthat allow it to rest against the wall. Some have vents on the sides, which means that they can’t be placed against furniture or walls.
- Clean the air filter regularly. The dehumidifier isn’t as effective in the event that it’s filthy. You should clean it at least every week.
- Make sure you unplug the device at the time you’re emptying your containers or cleaning them.
What does the new standards of testing apply to what I buy?
In the year 2019 The Department of Energy (DOE) modified the criteria for testing the dehumidifier’s capacity. Dehumidifiers in the past were tested at temperatures of 80 degrees F however, as of June 13th in 2019, dehumidifiers have been ordered to test at lower temperatures of 65degF “to more accurately reflect expected performance in a basement setting. “
This means that the dehumidifier that is tested according to the new guidelines is likely to have a lower capacity. For instance, a dehumidifier that was previously identified “70-pint dehumidifier” will now likely be regarded as to be a 50-pint dehumidifier in accordance with the new guidelines. In this roundup all the choices conform to the new guidelines. This means that if earlier purchased the dehumidifier the initial size of your pint could be adjusted to meet the new guidelines since you can’t compare older units with more modern devices apples for apples.
Best Large Dehumidifier
Honeywell 70 Pint Dehumidifier
Honeywell’s TP70PWKN is a powerful dehumidifier that can handle large areas that span up to 4000 square feet by taking up 70 pints of water from the air each day. If you’re not familiar with dehumidifier shopping, don’t get confused by two contradicting sets of numbers. This model is often advertised as a model with a 50-pint capacity as an example. The reason for this is a new DOE testing process introduced in 2019, which has reduced the estimates of the effectiveness of several models. It is important to ensure you are comparing apples with apples when looking for an air dehumidifier.
This Honeywell model comes with or without a pump – this is the pump model. However, the pump does not begin until the built-in 14-pint tank is filled and it will automatically empty the appliance using an attached hose, which can be used to move it either up or down fifteen feet. The humidistat is a digital device that controls the system in accordance with the humidity levels in the room. It also features a digital status indicator that lets you see the humidity in an instant from a distance of just feet.
It’s safe to leave the TP70PWKN unattended use. In the case of the tank built-in, it comes with an auto shut-off the moment it’s empty and it can automatically restart in the event of power outages. It’s also simple to move around with its four casters that roll, and it comes with a handy handle to move and carry it around. The five-year warranty is among the longest warranties in the market and you’ll be able to rest assured that it’s an investment you can be confident in.
Best Medium Dehumidifier
hOmeLabs HME020006N Dehumidifier
The Honeywell HME020006N Dehumidifier is available in various sizes, ranging from a small 30-pint model up to a 70-pint model comparable to the Honeywell 70-pint Dehumidifier previously mentioned in the listing. The 50-pint variant (35 pints per day based on the updated 2018 DOE standard) as it’s an excellent middleweight dehumidifier capable of handling approximately 3,000 square feet of space. It comes with a 13-pint removable tank of water and can continue to run until it’s filled when it stops immediately. You can also connect a drain pipe for continuous drainage, but no pump built-in could limit the options for drainage (you cannot use the hose up to a window or sink, for instance.).
This is a “fire and forgets” model. However, the front of the case features a digital display of humidity as well as an array of buttons for adjusting operations. Do you need to boost the humidity removal in short intervals of duration? The turbo setting increases the fan’s speed from 165 cubic feet of air each minute up to 188 CFM. In contrast to other models, this one doesn’t require you to put it in the basement. Its minimalist design and sleek lines will look right at the place in a stylish room that requires moisture removal. With wheels that can be moved and weigh less than 40 pounds, it can move it around easily, but there’s no carry handle at the top.
Best Small Dehumidifier
Ivation IVAESDH30P Dehumidifier
Not all situations require a dehumidifier with a large capacity, and you can save lots of cash by choosing an affordable model. Ivation’s IVAESDH30P is a fantastic portable device that tests almost every box you may be interested in. It’s programmed with an integrated humidity sensor to choose the desired humidity level for your home to have. It shuts down once the water tank gets full, and it will restart if required.
Ivation has three models of this dehumidifier that is ranging that range from 70 pints to 30 pints. It’s the 30-pint version (actually 22 pints based on the latest version of the 2019 DOE specifications) that we’re suggesting for smaller spaces of approximately 1500 square feet. It comes with a simple-to-empty 10.4-pint water tank as well as the drain hose hookup but there’s no pump, so you’ll have to connect the water through an outlet on the floor.
Although it’s true that the Ivation isn’t the most attractive dehumidifier but it does come with a cool set of controls that are digital in addition to the capability to adjust the desired level of humidity as well as a 24-hour timer as well as select between two fan speeds and check the status of the filter. It’s also very portable due to the casters that roll along with the frame that weighs 29 pounds.
Best Quiet Dehumidifier
Tosot 50 Pint Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers aren’t known for their silence; however, many models generate quite a noise. If you’re thinking of putting one in your basement or in the crawlspace, it may be fine, but should you want it to be up there in the middle of a crowd, what is the loudness will be a major factor to take into account. The majority of dehumidifiers don’t announce their volume even though they average between 58 and 61 decibels. That’s the reason the Tosot-50-pint dehumidifier is so appealing as it runs at only 51 decibels, which is the same as a peaceful conversation among a small group of members of your family in the living room. It’s obvious that it’s on. However, it’s not a burden for you to hear.
This device can pull 50 pints from the air, and that’s using the updated 2020 DOE system. In comparison to apples, the older rating system classified this as a 70-pint dehumidifier. It has a programmable thermostat that lets you set the amount of humidity that you desire and can depend on the 8-pint bucket or empty the water collected through the connection to the hose. Despite its low volume, it comes with the ability to draw water up, down, or along the sides from up to 12 feet. It will continue to run until the bucket is full completely or until the bucket is full when you’re using a drain pipe.
Tosot creates its products with a focus on design and this model doesn’t look like an ordinary dehumidifier. It’s great if you have to install it in an area with a lot of people walking through. It comes with a set of controls at the top that let you choose the level of humidity, timer, and speed of the fan.
Best Smart Dehumidifier
Frigidaire 50-Pint Smart Dehumidifier
If you’re not keen on the thought of having to walk to the basement to check the dehumidifier, then you may consider the Frigidaire FGAC5044W1, which is one of the only smart dehumidifiers available. The model comes with Wi-Fi and is connected to a mobile application for iPhone or Android as well as can be controlled by voice using Alexa as well as Google Assistant. Through it, users are able to remotely turn the appliance either on or off. You can also alter the desired level of humidity and be notified when the bucket of water needs to be cleaned. You’ll require a reliable wireless signal in the basement (or where you put the dehumidifier); therefore, you may want to verify that prior to buying this model.
Apart from the advanced Wi-Fi capability, it’s a common high-capacity dehumidifier. It is able to remove up to 50 pints worth of moisture from the air every day and features an outlet hose connection for drains and a larger than average sixteen-pint bucket of water. It has an automatic shut-off when the bucket is filled but you’re using the drain pipe. It’s not possible to get an integrated pump. However, the options for drainage could be restricted. Controls (if you don’t utilize the mobile application) are located on the top of the device, and there’s also an easy-to-move handle that allows you to move the device around. Naturally, it has four wheels. In addition, it has three fan speeds, while most dehumidifiers typically have only two.
Best Budget Dehumidifier
Frigidaire 22-Pint Dehumidifier
Although the majority of portable dehumidifiers cost over $200 however, there are a couple of top-quality models which are less expensive. For instance, the Frigidaire 23-Pint Dehumidifier is one such model. Not just is it priced just a bit higher than $150but also punches far above its capacity. It can remove 22 pints worth of water from the air every day and can comfortably fit in an entire basement or any other area with a total of 1500 square feet. It’s also one of the smallest as well as lightest units we’ve ever seen at only 34 pounds (and particularly simple to move due to the four casters on top, top-mounted carrying handle, and even two-hand handles to the side).
It comes with three fan speeds and comes with an automatic shut-off feature when the 16-pint capacity water tank is filled. It can also be set to run continuously drain, but you’ll need to connect a hose and connect it to an adjacent drain to do this. There’s not a pump in it, but you’d probably expect this given the unit’s low price and tiny dimensions. The top-mounted controls run the unit in a 24-hour period and adjust the desired humidity and select the appropriate fan setting.