Basements are notorious for being damp, musty, and prone to mold and mildew growth. This is due to the inherent nature of being situated below ground level, where moisture seeps in from the surrounding soil. Inadequate ventilation can compound the issue, making it essential to find solutions for preventing excess humidity in these spaces. Dehumidifiers serve as an effective tool in maintaining optimal humidity levels and ensuring a healthier environment in your basement.
A dehumidifier works by extracting moisture from the air and collecting it, either in a built-in reservoir or by draining it out via a hose. This process not only reduces humidity levels, but also inhibits the development of mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. An added bonus is that a dehumidifier can help extend the life of your household items – such as furniture, documents, and electronics – that are stored in the basement.
When selecting the best dehumidifier for your basement, there are several critical factors to consider, including the size of the area to be dehumidified, the device’s capacity, energy efficiency, and any additional features that may be beneficial to your specific needs, such as an auto shut-off function or built-in pump system. Ensuring that the chosen dehumidifier effectively addresses your humidity issues in a cost-effective and efficient way is key to maintaining a healthy and comfortable basement environment.
With these factors in mind, we set out to find the top dehumidifiers for basements by thoroughly researching and evaluating numerous models. Our goal is to help you navigate the wide range of options and choose a dehumidifier that best suits your needs. So let’s dive in and explore the best dehumidifiers available for making your basement a drier, healthier space.
Best Dehumidifiers for Basements
In this article, we have curated a list of the best dehumidifiers specifically designed for basements, ensuring optimal performance and durability.
HOmeLabs 4500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier
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The HOmeLabs 4500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier is a great investment for those in need of effective moisture removal in large rooms or basements.
Pros
Large coverage area of up to 4,500 square feet
Quiet fan and sleek design
Easy to use with automatic shut-off and continuous draining option
Cons
Hose for continuous draining not included
May not work efficiently with an evaporative cooler in the same room
Water tank capacity might require frequent emptying
We immediately noticed that this dehumidifier was easy to set up in our basement. Its large coverage area of up to 4,500 square feet and 1.6-gallon water tank capacity allowed us to effectively remove up to 50 pints of moisture per day (based on the 2012 DOE Standard). Besides, the built-in wheels and handles made it convenient to move around to different locations depending on our moisture needs.
The modern and sleek design of the HOmeLabs dehumidifier sets it apart from other bulky dehumidifiers. Additionally, the quiet fan did not interrupt our daily activities, making it a pleasant experience for us while it operated. The device was easy to use – we simply adjusted it to our desired moisture level, and it ran a continuous 24-hour cycle until the water tank was full. Once full, it automatically shut off, which we appreciated.
However, we noticed a few minor drawbacks with this dehumidifier. First, the hose for continuous draining was not included, so we had to acquire one separately. Also, if your indoor space has an evaporative cooler, this dehumidifier might not work efficiently in the same room. Lastly, depending on your area’s humidity, you may find yourself emptying the water tank quite often due to its capacity.
Overall, the HOmeLabs 4500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier is an excellent option for those looking to eliminate moisture in large rooms or basements. Its effective moisture removal, quiet operation, and user-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment.
Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier
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The Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier is a reliable choice for those who want an efficient basement dehumidifier with user-friendly features.
Pros
Easy-to-clean washable filter
Customizable humidity control
Continuous drain option available
Cons
Slightly noisier than some other models
Inaccurate integrated hygrometer
May increase room temperature slightly
We recently tried the Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier in our basement and were quite impressed with its performance. The easy-to-clean washable filter allowed us to keep the unit working at its best with minimal fuss. The captured dust improved our basement’s air quality significantly, making it much more comfortable.
The customizable humidity control was a standout feature, allowing us to adjust the level of humidity in the room to our liking. This ensured maximum comfort, and it was very easy to make these adjustments. Additionally, the continuous drain option meant that we didn’t have to worry about emptying the water bucket, saving us both time and effort.
Despite its efficiency, we did notice a slight increase in the ambient temperature of the room when the unit was in operation. This may not be ideal for those who want to keep their basements cool while reducing humidity. Additionally, the integrated hygrometer in the device was not very precise, but we didn’t find this to be a major issue, as we relied on an external hygrometer to monitor humidity levels.
In conclusion, the Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier is a great option for those who are looking for a reliable and efficient dehumidifier to improve their basement’s air quality. With user-friendly features like the customizable humidity control and easy-to-clean filter, this unit is well worth considering.
GINOST Dehumidifier for Home and Basement
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This GINOST dehumidifier efficiently controls humidity in large spaces and is recommended for anyone needing a reliable option.
Pros
High efficiency and large coverage area
Adjustable humidity control
Real-time moisture display
Cons
Somewhat bulky
Lower operation mode could be quieter
Limited color options
In our experience, GINOST’s Dehumidifier for Home and Basement was perfect for handling our 2000 square feet space. It helps improve the indoor air quality by removing up to 25 pints of water per day, even under 90°F and 90% relative humidity (RH) conditions. This effectively reduces dampness in the room and protects walls, furniture, and creates a healthier living environment.
We appreciate the adjustable humidity control feature, which allows customization of dehumidifying needs between 30% and 80%. The smart technology of auto-restart ensures that the dehumidifier will stop when the room reaches the designated humidity and restart when the humidity exceeds the target range. This device is excellent for various areas in our home, such as the bathroom, living room, crawlspace, garage, and cellar.
One of the standout features is the real-time moisture display with a digital screen showing the relative humidity (RH) in percentage. The 3-color light ring indicates the humidity ranges: blue (＜45%), green (45%~65%), and red (＞65%). The caster wheels and side handles make it easy to move from room to room, allowing us to dehumidify various spaces in our home.
Although the noise level is lower than 36dB, the night mode could be quieter. The unit’s size can be a bit bulky, and the color options are limited, but these are minor issues compared to the benefits it brings to our living space. In conclusion, the GINOST Dehumidifier for Home and Basement is an efficient and reliable option for controlling humidity in larger spaces.
Vellgoo 4,500 Sq.Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier
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The Vellgoo dehumidifier is a powerful and efficient option for maintaining a comfortable basement environment.
Pros
Energy Star verified and efficient moisture absorption
User-friendly controls with customizable humidity settings
Drain hose included for continuous drainage
Cons
Slightly higher price point
Hose length may be insufficient for some setups
Heavy at 35 pounds
The Vellgoo 4,500 Sq.Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier impressed us with its powerful performance that can remove up to 52 pints of moisture per day in spaces as large as 4,500 square feet. This makes it an excellent choice for managing humidity in basements, laundry rooms, bathrooms, garages, offices, and more.
We appreciated how user-friendly the controls are, allowing us to easily set our desired humidity level and choose between continuous and customized modes. The dehumidifier stops or restarts automatically to maintain the set humidity. Additionally, the silent reminders for the full bucket ensured we had a peaceful and uninterrupted sleep at night.
The included 6.56-foot drain hose allows for continuous drainage without the hassle of emptying the water tank. However, the hose length might not be sufficient for some setups, but there’s the option to connect it to a garden hose using the provided adapter.
We found the Vellgoo dehumidifier to be quite heavy at 35 pounds, but the built-in universal wheels and handle make it easier to move around. Other thoughtful features, such as the child lock, automatic defrost, and washable filter, added to our positive experience with this dehumidifier.
In conclusion, the Vellgoo 4,500 Sq.Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier is a powerful and efficient option for those looking to maintain a comfortable and healthy basement environment. Though it’s a bit pricier and heavier than some other options, its performance, user-friendly controls, and thoughtful features make it worth considering.
Aiusevo 4,500 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier
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The Aiusevo 4,500 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier is a reliable choice for maintaining a healthy humidity level in basements and large rooms.
Pros
Efficiently removes up to 50 pints of moisture per day
Multiple modes and settings for various dehumidification needs
Portable design with wheels and carrying handles
Cons
Smaller water tank capacity compared to some competitors
Included drain hose may be too short for some setups
No garden style drain hose adapter provided
Upon using the Aiusevo 4,500 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier, we were impressed by its ability to effectively cover medium to large rooms. The unit’s three distinct modes (DEHU, DRY, and Non-stop) cater to various dehumidification needs, whether maintaining a healthy humidity level, drying wet items, or managing a constantly damp space.
Despite its compact size, the Aiusevo dehumidifier has a powerful capacity, removing up to 50 pints of moisture per day. The device is user-friendly, with auto dry settings, customizable fan speeds, and a timer function allowing for scheduled operation. Plus, the built-in child lock ensures it’s safe to use around little ones.
One drawback, however, is the smaller water tank capacity. While this dehumidifier automatically shuts off when full, frequent emptying is necessary. The included drain hose is short, which may not suit every setup, and we noticed that no garden style drain hose adapter is provided. Despite these minor cons, we found the Aiusevo 4,500 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier to be efficient, versatile, and portable—perfect for managing humidity in basements and larger living spaces.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best dehumidifiers for your basement, there are several factors to consider. These features can help you make an informed decision and ensure the best results.
Capacity
The first thing to consider is capacity, which refers to the amount of moisture a dehumidifier can remove within a 24-hour period. Measure your basement’s square footage and find a dehumidifier rated for that space. Typical capacities range from 30, 50, to 70 pints per day. For larger basements, you may need multiple units or a whole-house dehumidifier.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor in choosing a dehumidifier that won’t break the bank with electricity bills. Look for Energy Star certified models, as they consume less energy while still providing excellent performance.
Dehumidifier Size
Energy Cost Range / Year*
30 Pint
$25 – $45
50 Pint
$40 – $70
70 Pint
$60 – $130
Note: The energy cost range varies depending on local energy prices and usage habits.
Humidity Controls
Look for dehumidifiers with adjustable humidity controls, which allow you to set your desired humidity level. Most models have a built-in hygrometer that measures the current humidity level and starts or stops the dehumidification process accordingly.
Drainage Options
There are three types of drainage options: manual, continuous, and pump-assisted. Manual drainage requires emptying the water collection bucket regularly, while continuous drainage allows for attachment to a hose that feeds water directly into a drain. Pump-assisted models use a built-in pump to push water up or out to a sink or drain, making them ideal for basements without a floor drain.
Noise Levels
Since dehumidifiers may be used in living areas, consider noise levels when making your decision. Most models have a noise rating in decibels (dB). Lower numbers indicate quieter units. On average, dehumidifiers produce noise in the range of 48-53 dB. Some models have multiple fan speeds, allowing you to choose a quieter setting when needed.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best dehumidifier for your basement, ensuring a comfortable and healthy living environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size dehumidifier do I need for my basement?
To determine the right size dehumidifier for your basement, you should consider the square footage and the dampness level. Generally, a larger dehumidifier is more effective in removing moisture. For a moderately damp basement up to 1,500 square feet, we recommend a 30-pint dehumidifier. For wet basements between 2,000 to 2,500 square feet, a 50-pint unit would be more appropriate.
Which dehumidifier brands are the most reliable?
Reliability is an essential factor when choosing a dehumidifier. Some of the most reliable brands we have identified are Frigidaire, hOmeLabs, Honeywell, and Keystone. These brands offer a good balance of quality, performance, and customer support.
Should I run my dehumidifier constantly?
Running your dehumidifier constantly is not always necessary, but it depends on the humidity levels in your basement. We recommend using a hygrometer to measure the humidity. If it consistently stays above 60%, you might want to run your dehumidifier regularly. Many modern dehumidifiers come with a built-in humidistat that allows them to automatically maintain the desired humidity level.
How often should I empty the dehumidifier?
The frequency of emptying your dehumidifier depends on its water tank capacity and the humidity level in your basement. Smaller units may need to be emptied every day, while larger units can go for a few days without needing to be emptied. Alternatively, you can use a continuous drainage option to avoid the hassle of manually emptying the water tank.
Which dehumidifiers are best for energy efficiency?
Energy efficiency should be a priority when selecting a basement dehumidifier. We recommend looking for units that are Energy Star certified, as these dehumidifiers use less energy and can save you money on utility bills. Top energy-efficient models include brands like hOmeLabs, Frigidaire, and Friedrich.
How do I maintain my basement dehumidifier for optimal performance?
Proper maintenance is vital for the long-term performance of your dehumidifier. We suggest the following steps:
Clean the air filter regularly, at least once a month.
Keep the water tank clean and free from bacteria buildup.
Inspect the unit for any blockages, dust, or debris around the intake and exhaust grilles.
Make sure the dehumidifier is placed on a level surface and has enough clearance around it for proper airflow.
