Dehumidifiers are must-have appliances for controlling moisture and promoting healthy indoor air quality. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to confidently choose the best dehumidifier for your needs.
What is a Dehumidifier and How Does it Work?
A dehumidifier is an electrical appliance that reduces humidity levels indoors by extracting moisture from the air. It works similarly to an air conditioner using a refrigeration cycle to condense water vapor and collect it in a tank or drain it away.
The key benefits of a dehumidifier include:
- Controls mold, mildew, and dust mites by keeping humidity under 50%
- Prevents musty smells and feels less damp
- Protects furnishings and building structure from moisture damage
- Alleviates some allergies and respiratory issues
- Allows moisture-sensitive items to be stored safely
- Keeps basements and other notoriously damp places drier
Types of Dehumidifiers
There are three main technologies used in dehumidifiers today:
Refrigerant dehumidifiers work like mini air conditioning units to cool air and condense then collect water. This is the most common and affordable type and good for moderate climates.
Desiccant dehumidifiers use materials that absorb moisture combined with a fan to move dry air. They don‘t need to cool air so they can work in cold areas but run hot.
Thermo-electric dehumidifiers (also called Peltier dehumidifiers) use special electricity-generating materials to create a reaction that pulls moisture from the air. Good for smaller spaces.
Key Features to Look for in a Dehumidifier
Here are the must-have features to compare when shopping for a dehumidifier:
- Coverage capacity: Match pint moisture removal ability to room size
- Tank size: Bigger is better; reduces emptying frequency
- Continuous drainage: Allows non-stop dehumidifying without filling up
- Automatic shut-off: Turns off when full to prevent spills
- Automatic humidistat: Stops running when target humidity is reached
- Washable air filter: Reduces debris collected in the tank
- Portability: Casters let you wheel it room to room
- Low noise: Quieter units don‘t disrupt conversations or sleep
Additional nice-to-have features are defrost capability, a full bucket indicator light, adjustable humidistat and fan speeds, timers, and energy efficiency credentials.
Dehumidifier Buying Guide
Figuring out the right dehumidifier size and features for your space might seem complicated but this handy guide makes it easy.
For Bathrooms
Bathrooms tend to be smaller areas with sporadic humidity from hot showers. A smaller unit (30-50 pint) is sufficient for moisture control. Focus on an enclosed model with automatic shut offs to prevent leaks. Quieter operation around 40 decibels will allow conversations.
Great options: hOmeLabs or Pro Breeze compact dehumidifiers
For Basements
Damp basements require heavy-duty dehumidification power. Look for 70 pint (or more) removal ability and hose connectors for continuous drainage. Larger tanks help too. Basements tend to be less frequented so a bit louder around 50 dB is fine.
Great options:Waykar, Aiusevo, or Vellgoo medium to large dehumidifiers
For Bedrooms
Bedrooms need consistent, quiet moisture removal day and night. Mid-size 50 pint capacity models provide ample absorption without being too big. Auto shut off prevents leaks while you sleep. Super quiet operation around 40 db is essential.
Great options: Frigidaire, Tabyik or NineSky medium silent dehumidifiers
For Living Spaces
Living rooms, kitchens and other gathering areas need balanced moisture control that blends into the background. Look for 50-70 pint abilities to manage opening doors/windows. Low noise around 40-45 dB allows uninterrupted conversations and entertainment. Compact size helps them blend into corners.
Great options: hOmeLabs, SEAVON or Midea mid-size to large dehumidifiers
Expert Dehumidifier Shopping Tips
- Test room humidity first; 40-50% relative humidity is optimal
- Calculate target pint capacity at 70 pints per 1,000 square feet
- Buy slightly larger capacity than you need for flexibility
- Choose continuous drainage models for driest possible air
- Position away from walls for airflow; near damp areas is best
- Clean air filters monthly to maintain efficiency
- Mobile models on casters simplify storage when not needed
- Pair with humidifiers during dry winter months
Troubleshooting Common Dehumidifier Problems
Unit runs but room doesn‘t get dry:
Make sure humidity level is correctly set below current room reading. Check filter cleanliness and clearance around unit. Size up capacity if needed.
Dehumidifier is noisy:
Normal operation hums around 50 dB but rattling means a loose part or airflow restriction. Arrange filters, coils and fans to prevent vibration.
Water leakage:
Check alignments, fittings and seals around tank. Confirm float switch turns off when full. Use drainage hose option if tank leaks.
Frost buildup:
Defrost sensor has likely failed – this component automatically defrosts ice buildup every few hours. Replace sensor or unit.
Our Top Dehumidifier Recommendations
We evaluated dozens of brands and models to showcase the very best choices across a range of price points. Our picks offer outstanding moisture control, durability, plus features tailored for bedroom, living spaces and whole home dehumidification.
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No matter what problems high humidity is causing in your home, this guide has hopefully helped identify the perfect dehumidifier solution! Choosing the right moisture removal capacity, size, drainage options and bonus features can completely transform comfort and air quality issues. Use our targeted buying recommendations and expert tips to confidently shop for a quality dehumidifier that outperforms expectations for years to come.
