The Best Dehumidifiers

HOW TO CHOOSE = The best dehumidifiers will provide the most benefit if they are set to keep indoor humidity indoors at between 30% and 50% in warm weather, and 30% to 40% in the cool months. The size of the unit is determined by the size of the room, and the amount of moisture in the air.

Give the room size to your supplier and he will help you determine the size of the unit. The most popular units have capacity of 30 to 50 pints. If you aren’t sure, or if you’re between sizes, go with the larger.

An energy star rated model will save on energy costs in the long run. Consider the size of the collection tank. Unless you’ve connected a hose, or have another method of continuous drainage, the collection tank will have to be emptied periodically. Depending on the humidity in your area, this could mean every 2 or 3 days.

Most of the best dehumidifiers with come with a shut-off option to prevent overfilling and spillage. Also look for an adjustable humidistat, which controls the level of relative humidity. An automatic-reset feature comes in handy after you’ve emptied the collection tank.

If your dehumidifier will be in your unheated basement where the temperature will get below 65 degrees, get a low-temperature model. This will have an auto-defrost feature to prevent ice formation. Even the best dehumidifiers need good air circulation, so make sure there is good clearance all around the unit.

Casters will let you move the unit easily (they are heavy). Look for reusable, washable filters. Many models have filters to protect the coils from dust. Reusable filters eliminate the need to buy replacements.

THE REVIEW = The Best Dehumidifier is the Soleus Air CFM-40E. Owners say it works well and isn’t noisy. This 40-pint dehumidifier can operate in temperatures as low as 36 degrees Fahrenheit and has an auto-defrost feature.

The only negative was the 12.5 pint collection tank. Unless you use a continuous drainage method, you’ll be emptying the tank often. This unit lists for $195.

Other top performers include:

Best Basement Dehumidifier = Frigidaire FDF70S1 @ $200.

Best Small Dehumidifier = Soleus Air CFM-25E @ 185.

Best Mini (for small spaces) = Eva-Dry EDV-E-500 @ $25. Good for bathrooms, closets, or clothing chests.

Best price found in Apr., ’10 = Amazon.com for all models. Once you get to Amazon, type the model you want into the search bar at the top of the page. The correct page will appear.

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