What the best dehumidifiers do

  • Large capacity. Depending on the size of the area you need to use your dehumidifier in, a large capacity dehumidifier will be capable of removing more moisture than smaller-capacity models.
  • Ample collection container. If you're looking at a dehumidifier which has a water collection container, consider its size. A smaller-capacity container will need to be emptied more frequently.
  • Humidity range. Dehumidifiers can be set to the preferred humidity, ranging between 30 and 85 percent. Machines with a wider range have more customization options to suit your preferences; however, most users will strive for relative humidity between 50 and 60 percent to avoid mold and mildew.
  • Fan speeds. Dehumidifiers that utilize fans sometimes have two speed options, meaning you can set the fan to run faster or slower depending on your preferences. The slower speed typically is less noisy than the high speed.
  • Automatic shutoff. Automatic shutoff deactivates the dehumidifier when the collection canister becomes full, a useful feature if you won't be available frequently to empty the unit.
  • Automatic defrost. When used in cooler spaces, the coils in dehumidifiers can freeze up, rendering the machine useless until it warms up. Auto defrost helps to thaw out the coils without human intervention.
  • Container full indicator. It can be difficult to tell if the container is full, but some units offer indicator lights to let you know it's time to empty the unit.
  • Remote control. Remote humidistat control isn't an essential feature if you're using a dehumidifier in a space you occupy frequently. But if you're using it in a remote area, such as a basement, a remote control makes it easier to maintain your ideal settings.
  • Automatic restart. Dehumidifiers are often used in unoccupied homes to help prevent mold and mildew buildup while a home is on the market or otherwise vacant for extended periods of time. In the event of a power outage, auto restart will reactivate the machine after a power interruption-when you'd otherwise have to physically visit the property to turn it on.
  • Low minimum temperatures. Depending on where you'll be using a dehumidifier, you'll want to choose a model that operates effectively at the lowest temperatures it will be exposed to. Basements and crawl spaces, for instance, tend to have lower temperatures than main living quarters.
  • Energy Star rating. Dehumidifiers with an Energy Star rating operate more efficiently than non-rated models. If you're dealing with an area with high humidity and will be running the appliance often, Energy Star-rated models will save you money on electricity.
  • Solid warranty. Be mindful of the warranty options when purchasing a dehumidifier. In general, dehumidifiers last a few years, although malfunctions are possible.

Know before you go

How large is your space? Before you buy a dehumidifier, you'll need to know the size of the space you intend to use it for. Dehumidifiers vary significantly in the square footage they can effectively remove adequate moisture from, so choose a model with sufficient coverage, or consider buying two units.

Will you be using your dehumidifier in a crawl space? If you're using a dehumidifier in a crawl space, you'll need to know the dimensions of the area you can actually place the appliance in, in addition to the square footage of the area you want to cover.

Will you want to move the dehumidifier? Sometimes, consumers purchase a dehumidifier that they plan to rotate through different areas of the home. If this is the case, heavier models aren't the most practical option. Consider where you'll be using it, whether you'll need to relocate it up or down flights of stairs and whether the dehumidifier you're considering is designed to be permanently or semi-permanently configured in one place.

Value expectations: The dollars and cents of it

Dehumidifiers vary drastically in price from a few hundred dollars for a standard appliance to well over $1,000 for professional-grade machines. The amount you'll want to spend depends on the seriousness of your moisture problem. If you have a larger space with a significant mold or mildew problem, for instance, the investment in a high-priced machine can be worth it. Most dehumidifiers last for just a few years, and warranties don't always cover repairs. Consider the fact that you'll likely be replacing the machine within several years before you buy.

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