best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (2023)

Does your home have that warm, clammy feeling? Especially when the weather turns muggy, humidity can soar indoors. Besides making your home uncomfortable, the condition creates a breeding ground for black mold, mildew and other allergens. And that’s something to sneeze at: A top-performing dehumidifier will quickly drop your home’s relative humidity below 60%, the threshold at which bacteria, microbial agents and bad odors thrive. Unlike humidifiers, which add moisture to the air, most best use of dehumidifier work by drawing humid air over refrigerated coils, which pull out the excess moisture and condense it into a reservoir.
But with so many types of dehumidifier on the market, it can be tricky to know which one is right for your needs. First, you need to consider coverage as well as overall performance. If you have multiple spaces which require the appliance, it may be better to get a smaller, more portable unit. Those with particularly large or humid rooms, however, may be better off buying a machine with a higher capacity and a pump, to make disposing of the water easier. Other handy features include smart connectivity, which lets you monitor and control the device from your phone. We compare and list the best use of dehumidifier to help you beat the humidity in Hong Kong. When relative humidity is high, it can damage the property due to mould and Bacteria. You will feel tired and even increase the risk of asthma and eczema.
Spring has arrived! And as the temperature rises, so does the humidity. Walls are covered in condensation and drying clothes never seem to dry. This means the wet season is upon us and this can be a nightmare for many people. When the humidity is really high, it¡¯s not good for your health either. You¡¯ll find yourself feeling tired, more prone to headaches and if you are in a damp and mouldy room, it could even increase the risk of asthma and eczema. To prevent this, you need a best use of dehumidifier at home! With so many to choose from, you probably can¡¯t decide which model to buy as many have similar features. So, let me show you how to pick the right one. Just look out for these three factors (1) dehumidifying capacity (2) water tank capacity and (3) extra features. It¡¯s that simple!
If you want to reduce moisture in your home, and prevent mold and mildew, you’ll need one of the best use of dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers can also be handy at eliminating lingering odors as well as reducing dust and allergens in the air.
best use of dehumidifier

Bestseller No. 1

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (1)

Rosewill Portable Air Conditioner 12000 BTU AC Fan Dehumidifier & Heater, 4-in-1 Cool/Fan/Dry/Heat w/Remote Control, Quiet Energy Efficient Self Evaporation Unit for Single Room Use, RHPA-18003

  • 4 Mode Options: Air Conditioner, Fan, Dehumidifier, and Heater with built-in continuous drain design and effective cooling for spaces up to 300 square feet. Washable dust filters trap dirt and debris, improving indoor air quality and unit life span.
  • Programable Convenience: Three fan speeds help control temperature and energy costs. Intelligent functions like Sleep Mode, and automatic on/off with programable 24-hour timer, offer utility and ease of use.
  • Compact Mobile Design: Designed to save space and fit easily in any room. This unit is perfect for single-room cooling/heating, and the included caster wheels allow for quick, effortless transport.
  • Practical Controls: Dual LED digital touch display panels and full-function remote control makes this 12,000 BTU portable unit simple to program and use.
  • Self-Evaporating System: There is less need to empty water trays thanks to innovative evaporative technology that draws moisture out of your space to evaporate in the outside air.

$369.99

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Bestseller No. 2

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (2)

BaseAire 113 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier with Drain Hose for Crawl Spaces, Basements, Whole House, Compact, Portable, Auto Defrost, Memory Starting, 5 Years Warranty, Commercial Industrial Home Use

  • 👍[Large-Capacity Dehumidifier, Highly Effective Moisture Removal] - This professional-grade dehumidifier is highly efficient in moisture removal, which extracts up to 113 pints (18.1 gallons) of moisture per day, can cover an area of 1200 sq. ft of dehumidification. 35% dehumidification improved, offers higher water extraction rates than typical household dehumidifiers, ideal for commercial industrial home use.
  • 👍[Professional, Smart, Easy to Use] - With the built-in humidity sensor and digital control panel, you can simply set the desired humidity value, this crawl space dehumidifier will auto cycle ON/OFF to maintain the desired humidity level, meanwhile auto drain, auto defrost, and auto restart after power outage for the most ever effortless humidity control under your house.
  • 👍[Built to Withstand More Rugged Conditions] - Baseaire commercial grade dehumidifier is made of heavy duty sheet metal, that doesn’t crack, break or become brittle like traditional plastics. It is equipped with an automatic defrost system and can operate in temperatures as low as 33.8°F. Built for the rigors of crawlspaces, basements, restoration sites, construction sites, and industrial settings.
  • 👍[Compact Size, Effortless Drainage, Wide Range of Application] - Simply attach the included 6.56 ft drain hose to this basement dehumidifier to drain the condensation automatically and continuously by gravity. Without the huge water tank of traditional household dehumidifiers, you save the trouble of frequent pouring water, and also have a more compact dehumidifier size, suitable for more spaces such as crawl space, basement, garage, attic, warehouse, factory, store.
  • 👍[Reliable Quality, 5 Years Warranty and Professional U.S. After-Sales Team] - All Baseaire basement/crawlspace dehumidifiers are professionally and rigorously tested before being put on the market. We confidently provide a 5-year warranty and professional lifetime technical support. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. We will reply within 24 hours and solve your problem quickly.

$587.48

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SaleBestseller No. 3

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (3)

AMANA 35 Pint Portable Dehumidifier with Adjustable Humidistat, Auto Shut-Off Indicator, and 24-Hour Timer | for Use in Bathrooms, Basements, and Bedrooms | AMAD351BW, Day, White

  • MOISTURE REMOVING: The AMANA portable dehumidifier absorbs up to 35 pints of moisture from the air per day. Get rid of that clammy, damp environment today by removing condensation in a convenient way!
  • ADJUSTABLE HUMIDISTAT TO SET FOR YOUR OWN COMFORT LEVEL! This is ideal for any space such as your basement, apartment, office, home, bathroom, bedroom, attic, laundry room, etc.
  • THE MODERN, SLEEK DESIGN is easy to use with its touch controls with LED display, 2 fan speeds, and 24-hour on/off timer
  • CONVENIENT: The machine has easy-rolling caster wheels allowing you to conveniently move the unit from room to room, providing relief when and where you need it
  • AUTOMATIC: Auto-restart saves your settings during a power outage

$194.59

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Bestseller No. 4

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (4)

Rosewill Portable Air Conditioner 7000 BTU, AC Fan & Dehumidifier 3-in-1 Cool/Fan/Dehumidify w/Remote Control, Quiet Energy Efficient Self Evaporation AC Unit for Single Room Use, RHPA-18001

  • 3 CONVENIENT MODES: Use as an Air Conditioner, Fan and Dehumidifier with built-in continuous drain design and effective cooling for spaces up to 200 square feet. Includes washable dust filters to trap dirt and debris before they build up, improving indoor air quality and AC unit life span.
  • 2 SPEEDS & MORE: Adjust between two fan speeds, save energy with Sleep Mode and program times of use or shutoff with the automatic on/off timer up to 24-hours.
  • SPACE-SAVING DESIGN: Portable AC unit perfect for single room cooling including bedroom, apartment, college dorm room, garage and more. Move the free standing air conditioner from room-to-room with four easy mobility caster wheels.
  • USER-FRIENDLY UNIT: A big LED digital display touch control panel and full-function remote control make this 7000 BTU portable air conditioner easy to use, especially while lounging around or when adjusting settings from a distance.
  • SELF-EVAPORATING SYSTEM: This air conditioning unit’s evaporative technology draws moisture out of the room and evaporates it into the outside air, reducing the need to empty a water bucket (except in areas with high humidity).

$299.99

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Bestseller No. 5

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (5)

Soleus Air 45 Pint (3,000 SQ FT) Dehumidifier, Supreme Safety Dehumidifier with Tri-Pat Safety Technology, Overheat Sensors, Easiest to Use with Auto Programmed MyHome Mode, Mirage Display, Whisper Quiet

  • TRI-PAT SAFETY: Soleus Air exclusive patented safety technology with automatic-shutoff monitors compressor temperature and electrical wiring
  • MY HOME MODE: Soleus Air exclusive MyHome Mode offers perfect humidity presets for basement, living space and sleeping space to take the guesswork out of humidity control
  • MIRAGE DISPLAY: illuminates and displays the humidity level so that it can easily be seen from across the room
  • ELECTRONIC CONTROLS: Electronic controls and adjustable humidistat keep all of the settings at your fingertips for convenient humidity control
  • TIMER: 24-hour ON and OFF timer allows customized humidity control on your schedule

$189.99

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Bestseller No. 6

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (6)

aerbyon DH1800 Dehumidifier 600 sq.ft coverage with Auto Turn Off, 60oz Portable and Silent dehumidifier for use in Home, Bedroom, Bathroom, Closet, Kitchen, 2-year warranty

  • 💧【Efficient Dehumidifier】 The DH1800 brings large dehumidification coverage with its sizable water tank. With an 1800 ml (60oz) capacity, it can pull in over 750 ml (25oz) of water per day.
  • 💧【Adaptable Controls】With a multiple button setup, the DH1800 allows you to customize the dehumidifier to fit your personal needs with options such as humidity controls.
  • 💧【Auto Turn Off Function】 The DH1800 comes equipped with a full tank sensor. This will turn off the dehumidifier once the tank is full meaning you can rest easy knowing there won’t be any spills or leakage.
  • 💧【Whisper- Quiet Operation】With the touch of a single button, the DH1800 is activated and runs at a noise level below 40dB making it simple and silent.
  • 💧【Two- Year Warranty】Aerbyon believes in its products and so it provides a warranty longer than the industry standard. The DH900 is covered for 2 years, meaning you can rest easy once you have purchased.

$76.99

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SaleBestseller No. 7

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (7)

Instant HEPA Quiet Air Purifier, From the Makers of Instant Pot with Plasma Ion Technology for Rooms up to 1,940ft2, removes 99% of Dust, Smoke, Odors, Pollen & Pet Hair, for Bedrooms, Offices, Pearl

  • ADVANCED AIR CLEANING TECH: Combines a HEPA-13 filter that captures 99.97% of dust, pollen, smoke, mold, & other ultrafine impurities, combined with Plasma Ion Technology that projects positive and negative ions in the air allowing you to breathe easy.
  • CLEAN AIR IN MINUTES: Filters up to 630 SQFT per hour, and AHAM-Verified to exchange 126 SQFT 5 times per hour, allowing you to breathe cleaner air in minutes.
  • AUTO MODE: Automatically senses the air quality and adjusts the fan speed according to detected quality. Digital read out of % air quality and light band indicates when air quality is good-white, okay-orange, or poor-red, and adjusts to get back to good.
  • ODOR REDUCER: Activated carbon filter layer helps decreasing unpleasant smells, allowing your rooms or office space to be refreshed.
  • WHISPER-QUIET: Light sensor automatically turns off displays and lowers noise to whisper-quiet levels when it is time for bed.

$212.99

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Bestseller No. 8

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (8)

LG UP8770 86-in 4K UHD 120Hz Smart TV 86UP8770PUA (2021)

  • ULTRA SLIM DESIGN: A sleek bezel that puts the focus on your content. We designed LG UHD TVs to be thin in profile with a lightweight frame that's perfect for both mounting on a wall or displaying on a stand.
  • α7 GEN 4 AI PROCESSOR: Savor every detail. Our powerful a7 Gen 4 AI Processor 4K uses AI technology to automatically enhance both picture and sound. You don't have to press a button.
  • TRUMOTION 240 (NATIVE 120HZ): TruMotion 240 technology reduces blur to sharpen every detail with up to 240 frames per second– giving fast-moving gaming sequences a crystal-clear look for picture that moves with you.
  • DOLBY VISION IQ plus DOLBY ATMOS: Dolby technology drives cinematic picture and sound. Dolby Vision IQ automatically adjusts your TV's picture settings based on what you're watching, while Dolby Atmos envelops you in sound that seems to move all around you.
  • GOOGLE ASSISTANT & ALEXA BUILT IN: There’s no need for an extra device – just ask your TV for music, weather, news, your Amazon shopping list, and more. Plus, conveniently control your connected home and smart devices.

$2,499.00

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SaleBestseller No. 9

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (9)

R.W.FLAME Portable Air Conditioner for Room,with Dehumidifier & Fan,Standing Air Conditioner for Room Use,10000BTU Portable AC unit with Remote Control & Window Kit,LED Display

  • 3 IN 1 MULTIFUNCTIONAL:This 10000BTU(ASHRAE) portable AC contains three different functions and two fan speed settings.Cool – Cool the room to the set temperature;Dehum – Reduce the humidity in the room (24L/24H);Fan – Circulate the air in the room without cooling.A variety of functions to meet your various needs in the all season
  • 24H TIMER & SLEEP MODE:The Portable Air Conditioner is built-in timer from 1 to 24hours, the fans can be turned off at the time you set it when you fall asleep or forget to turn it off;You can also turn on the air conditioner in advance through the timer function, and feel the cool air immediately when you get home.
  • INTELLIGENT CONTROL PANEL & REMOTE CONTROL:User-friendly function settings, all functions can be completed through the top operation panel or remote control, to meet the needs of various scenarios
  • EASY TO INSTALL & PORTABLE:It features rolling wheels for easy portability,do not require any permanent installation, allowing you to move to the space where you need.It can be used in many places where the installation of outdoor units of air conditioners is limited, such as temporary houses and garages.
  • EASY TO CLEAN & ETL CERTUFY:The rear filter can be easily removed for easy cleaning, ensuring that every breath is as fresh as ever.In addition, this air conditioner is ETL certified.Using the refrigerant with the highest safety level, green and environmental protection

$239.98

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Bestseller No. 10

best use of dehumidifier - LavaLove (10)

Waykar 2000 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier for Home and Basements, with Auto or Manual Drainage, 0.66 Gallon Water Tank Capacity

  • Dehumidifier for Space Up to 2000 Sq. Ft: Our dehumidifiers are able to remove up to 34 pints (under 95°F,95%RH condition) of moisture per day. (Please note: under 95°F,95%RH condition,the max dehumidification capacity up to 34 pints) in areas up to 2000 Sq. Ft and adjust humidity from 30% to 80%.It is a dehumidifier ideal for any basements, office, home, bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, stockroom, living room, laundry room, cellars, crawlspace, etc..
  • Unique Design for The Modern Home: The Waykar dehumidifiers designed with modern look. With 360° rotatable wheels and ergonomically lift up handles, you can move around this dehumidifier easily. A quiet fan that won't disturb you when you sleep or at work, adjustable fan speeds for multiple choices. 24-hour Timer Setting for preset operation and reduced energy consumption
  • Intelligent Control: After you set your desired humidity, the dehumidifier will run intelligently. Humidity Auto Control-Simply adjust to your desire humidity, it will work smartly, when it reached its designated humidity, it will automatically stop working and then automatically restart to dehumidify when the humidity above target is sensed. Automatic Shut Off/On-Shuts off automatically when the bucket is full and switch it on again after the bucket emptied. Power Outage Automatic Restart
  • Easy To Use: Auto Drain - The unit comes with a 6.56 feet drain hose that you can attached to the drain pipe hole to continually drain water that is dehumidified. Manual Drain - The water tank is 0.66 gallon/2.5 L,when it reaches maximum capacity, the "Full Tank "indicator will light up, the dehumidifier will automatically switch off until the tank has been emptied. Meanwhile, a reusable and washable filter preserves fresh and clean air quality
  • Support: All of Waykar Dehumidifiers are covered with 30-Days Money Back if you are not satisfied with the product, 1 year warranty, 2nd year warranty extension and lifetime expert tech support. Please don't hesitate to contact us if there is any question, we will reply to you within 24 hours and help you solve the problems. Waykar customer support team is always just one-email away

$169.99

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How to choose the best dehumidifier for you
There are a huge range of dehumidifiers on the market. Before choosing your favorite, here are a few factors you should consider:
Regulations
In 2019, the U.S. Department of Energy instituted new dehumidifier testing standards(opens in new tab). Nowadays, dehumidifiers are assessed at lower temperatures to better simulate being placed in a real-life environment, such as the basement.
As a consequence, the biggest dehumidifiers, which originally offered 70-pint capacities, have now been reduced to capacities of 45-50 pints. This is because warm air can hold more water than cool air, so the dehumidifier will naturally absorb less in lower temperatures.
Medium-sized models, on the other hand, have been reduced from 50 pints to 30 pints capacities. Whereas small dehumidifiers have moved from 30 pints to roughly 20 pints.
Because of this recent change, many models are being discontinued and replaced with updated designs to suit the new procedure.
Type
There are different types of dehumidifiers on the market. The most common type is a condensing dehumidifier, which pulls the absorbed air over refrigerated coils, which cools it enough the condense and separate the moisture.
Other types include desiccant dehumidifiers, which will use a water-absorbing material, and thermoelectric dehumidifiers, which operate with charged plates. Generally speaking, neither of these latter two types are as effective as condenser models, which is why we only recommend this type in our list.
Capacity
Dehumidifiers generally come in three sizes: large (45-50-pint capacity), medium (30-pint capacity) and small (20-22-pint capacity).
Under the old regulations, these sizes were 70, 50 and 30 pints, respectively, and you’ll see such numbers with three older models above.
Features to look out for
Pint capacity

The capacity in pints relates to how much moisture the dehumidifier claims to absorb per day. The bigger the capacity, the larger and damper space it can handle.
Bucket size
Pint capacity shouldn¡¯t be confused with bucket size however. This specification indicates how much the internal bucket can actually hold before it will need to be emptied. The larger the bucket, the less often you will need to empty it.
Drainage type
On this list you will find passive and pump drainage types. Passive types let you passively drain the water through a hose, or alternatively you can manually carry and empty the bucket yourself. Whereas pump drainage types will automatically pump the water out. Pumps are preferred as the water doesn¡¯t need to rely on gravity alone to drain, so you can direct the hose into a sink or out of the window. However, these models do cost more than without.
Energy Star Certification
It¡¯s always useful to look out for Energy Star Certification as this guarantees savings in terms of energy and money.
Humidity sensor
With a humidity sensor, your dehumidifier will detect relevant changes in the atmosphere and can automatically switch on and, in some cases, set its power accordingly. Those without a sensor will just be manually controlled.
Frost sensor
A frost sensor will detect the formation of ice on the condenser coils. The dehumidifier will then shut off the compressor to give the ice a chance to melt. If it continues to run with frost on the coils, this can damage the parts and make the appliance work much harder to absorb any moisture.
Auto restart
If the dehumidifier suddenly loses power, auto restart means it will automatically switch back on to its previous settings once power is restored.
Number of speeds
This relates to how many speeds the fan has on the dehumidifier. The more speeds there are, the better as it gives you greater control and means excess energy isn¡¯t wasted.
How we test dehumidifiers
Products experts and analysts at the LavaLove continuously survey the marketplace and manufacturers to identify the models that consumers nationwide are most likely to find in stores and online. From there, we identify models for testing across different size categories to cover every need and budget. Note: We only test condensing models, since they capture more moisture than desiccant models (which use a water-absorbing material) or thermoelectric dehumidifiers (which use an electric charge to “attract” humidity).
Hands-on testing begins in our Lab under controlled humidity and temperature conditions. The key performance-based test measures how much water each dehumidifier collects in a 48-hour time period. Our engineers also use a decibel meter to assess how loud each machine is when running on its highest fan speed.
Usability is another important part of our evaluation; it happens in the Lab, as well as in the homes of consumer testers, allowing us to test the dehumidifiers under real-world conditions. We look at such factors as portability, how intuitive the display and controls are and ease of cleaning, including how easy it is to wash the filter and empty the water reservoir. Finally, we evaluate each brand’s customer service by contacting their help lines with a pretend problem and seeing how quickly it is remedied by the representative.
How to clean a dehumidifier
When you consider that bacteria and mold is being sucked into your humidifier, it¡¯s no wonder that it needs an occasional clean. This isn¡¯t as difficult as you might think, simply follow these steps if none are given in your manual:
1. Unplug the humidifier from the wall. You don¡¯t want to risk an electric shock!
2. Remove the water reservoir bucket and tip out any residual water. Clean this with warm soapy water and a microfiber cloth.
3. While that¡¯s drying, wash the filters. The filters collect any impurities so it¡¯s essential that these get an occasional clean. You should have a main filter and potentially a much smaller bucket filter. If you¡¯re not sure where to find these you can refer to your manual. Both need to be washed in warm soapy water, rinsed and then left to dry.
4. If you notice a lot of dust inside your machine, you can also use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to pick up any remaining fluff.
5. Lastly, give the outside a once over with a microfiber cloth for finishing touches.
Pros And Cons Of Using a Dehumidifier
The following are a list of pros and cons of using a dehumidifier¡ªafter reading these, you should be able to have a more concise idea as to whether or not using one will really benefit the health of your home and your personal health.
Dehumidifier Pros
Dust Mites, mold, mildew, and certain allergens cannot thrive in a dry climate; therefore, taking the humidity out of the air will help in lessening these problems.
Running a dehumidifier will help reduce dust in the air.
If your home (or any room specifically) has a musty or mildew-like smell, a dehumidifier can get rid of that odor, as those are caused by dampness.
Having a dehumidifier run frequently will ensure that mold spores will not grow on your furniture, clothing, bedding, etc.
Certain small insects are attracted to moisture, so having a dehumidifier will deter those little pests.
If you, your family members, or even your pets are prone to allergic reactions to moisture, mildew, or mold, keeping a dehumidifier running will help keep everyone happy and healthy.
Dehumidifier use will help your A/C run more efficiently, as it helps get all of the humidity out of the air and your A/C won¡¯t have to work double time.
Dehumidifier Cons
Dehumidifiers can be loud and sometimes warm¡ªin the summer, this could be annoying.
Dehumidifiers are work¡ªyou must dump, clean, and refill the water-collection tank and also (some models) clean the air filter regularly. To prevent yourself from running down the hallway toward the bathroom, spilling dirty water, you can reduce your maintenance requirements by installing a drain hose that empties collected water into a floor-level drain.
Constantly running a dehumidifier will increase your energy bill.
A good humidifier (you need to get the size that is required for the room it is in) can be pricey. If you are actually wanting to reap the benefits of owning one, you need to splurge on a trusted and quality brand.
FAQ
How to use a dehumidifier
Most dehumidifiers are very easy to use. Essentially, it¡¯s just a matter of setting the required moisture level and the unit will do the rest. All you will need to do is empty the water tank.
For a bathroom, you should position the dehumidifier just outside the bathroom door and ensure the door is left open so the unit can draw the moist air towards it. If you¡¯re drying clothes, just place the dehumidifier in the room, making sure the door and windows are all closed.
How much does a dehumidifier cost to run?
Dehumidifiers are generally cheap to run. Look for one which draws less than 330 Watts and you will never spend more than 12p per hour. It’s often much less on lower power settings.
What size dehumidifier do I need?
Domestic dehumidifiers can extract up to 25 litres of water per day, though some as little as 250ml. We have largely focused on 20l models since these are the most popular for domestic use. For larger spaces, damper environments or colder temperatures, choose something more powerful. (Or vice versa for smaller spaces.)
What works better than a dehumidifier?
If your home is above 50% humidity then a dehumidifier is needed. However, if humidity levels are below 30%, a humidifier is needed. To determine the humidity level in your home pick up a hygrometer for less than $20 at a home improvement store.
Is it bad to have a dehumidifier on all day?
An average unit in your space, if it was operating correctly, should extract the moisture to around 50 to 55% Relative Humidity. With this assumption, you can safely run your dehumidifier for about 12 hours a day.
Where is the best place to put dehumidifier?
The best place to put a dehumidifier is in the location closest to the source of the moisture. In multi-level homes, this means that dehumidifiers should most often be placed in basements or upstairs close to the stairs to your basement. This is because the basement is the most humid place in your home.
Does a dehumidifier use a lot of electricity?
The simple answer is yes, even though dehumidifier wattage or energy consumption of many models is low (Average being 483 watts), they stay on for at least 12 hours a day and in most cases, 24 hours. The average cost is about $1.95 daily, meaning it could cost up to (if not more than) $58.42 a month.
How do you know if you need a dehumidifier?
We suggest that the ideal is 50% relative humidity (Rh). If it’s above 60%, a dehumidifier is usually necessary. Try to avoid letting Rh drop to below 40% as this may make the air too dry, exacerbating respiratory symptoms.

FAQs

What is the most efficient way to use a dehumidifier? ›

Here's how to get the most from your dehumidifier.
  1. Set the humidity level. The optimal relative humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent, according to Energy Star (and 30 to 40 percent in colder areas during heating season). ...
  2. Pick the right spot. ...
  3. Close all windows and doors. ...
  4. Empty the tank regularly. ...
  5. Keep it clean.
Jun 30, 2022

What is the most effective time to run a dehumidifier? ›

If you're concerned about spending too much on your electricity bill, you can try calling your energy company and asking about the “best times.” Usually, the best times to run your unit, that will save you money, is between 10 pm and 7 am — this is when less people are consuming energy, which drives down the rates.

What is the best setting for a dehumidifier in your home? ›

So what is the best humidity setting for a dehumidifier? According to Energy Star, the optimal level of relative humidity in your home should be between 30% and 50%. Anything below this range may cause extreme dryness in your home and levels above may promote bacteria growth.

Where should a dehumidifier be placed for the best results? ›

You should position the dehumidifier closer to the source of the water problem to help it cure the problem faster, whether it's clothes drying or a shower room with no extractor fan. Avoid putting it in the bathroom, too.

Is it best to leave dehumidifier on all the time? ›

The dry, filtered air is then pushed through the HVAC system for conditioning and then into the rooms of your home. Should you keep your dehumidifier running all the time? In order to achieve the ideal indoor relative humidity levels of 35 to 50 percent, it is recommended that you run a dehumidifier for 12 hours a day.

Should I leave my dehumidifier on all night? ›

Can I leave the dehumidifier running at night? Yes, we recommend using a dehumidifier 24hrs, however, be aware that there will always be a noise generated from the machine when it is operating.

How long does it take for a dehumidifier to dry out a room? ›

How long will it take to get the moisture under control? As long as the dehumidifier you choose is large enough for the area it is working in, and there are no specific damp problems, then a dehumidifier will normally reduce the humidity to the chosen level within a few days to a week.

How much should I run a dehumidifier a day? ›

Mini models can use as little as 22 watts, while high-volume dehumidifiers go up to around 500 watts. An example dehumidifier that can extract up to 20 litres a day, with a wattage of 480w would use 0.48 kWh, meaning that an hour's usage would cost just under 16p.

Can you dehumidify too much? ›

Can you dehumidify too much? There is a chance of dehumidifying your home too much with a dehumidifier, especially if you are leaving your dehumidifier running for several hours on a timer unattended. Over-dehumidifying your home can lead to an increased chance of respiratory illnesses and dry and cracked skin.

What is the best percentage to run a dehumidifier? ›

Many dehumidifiers are equipped with a humidistat, which measures and can set the relative humidity (rh) in a room. A 50 percent rh is recommended for summer, while in winter, the ideal rh can be as low as 30 percent. A whole-house dehumidifier may be needed if high humidity is a problem throughout your home.

What level should dehumidifier be for summer? ›

Ideal humidity – and signs of trouble

Every home is different, but a level between 30 and 40 per cent humidity is typically ideal for keeping your home warm and comfortable in the winter, without leaving condensation on the windows. In the summer, that level can be higher, between 50 and 60 per cent.

Is 70 humidity in a house too high? ›

Research from the Building Science Corporation found that humidity of 70% or higher adjacent to a surface can cause serious damage to the property. The Health and Safety Executive recommends that relative humidity indoors should be maintained at 40-70%, while other experts recommend that the range should be 30-60%.

Will dehumidifier dry out damp walls? ›

Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air. This can help to reduce condensation on walls and prevent mould and mildew growth. However, dehumidifiers will not necessarily dry out damp walls. If your walls are damp, you may need to use a combination of a dehumidifier and a fan to help dry them out.

How close should a dehumidifier be to your bed? ›

Specifically, we recommend that you keep your humidifier at a distance of around 3 feet from your bed – although there's no inherent harm in placing it closer, if you're restricted on room.

When should you not use a dehumidifier? ›

Most dehumidifiers should not be operated in temperatures below 60° F, since the moisture removed from the indoor air can freeze when it condenses on the cooling coils, which can damage the unit.

Why is my dehumidifier filling up every day? ›

If your dehumidifier's water basin is filling up too quickly, you probably have extra water in the air due to an issue like a cracked pipe, water leak or open crawl space. If you're hardly getting any water in the basin, you may need to simply turn the control to a drier setting.

Should a dehumidifier fill up every day? ›

The water volume will vary depending on the humidity level and the capacity of the collection tank. On average, a home dehumidifier collects five gallons of water per day. When a dehumidifier fills up quickly, you may have excess humidity in your home or an issue with the dehumidifier itself.

Should I turn off my dehumidifier in the winter? ›

If the temperature or humidity drops below the ideal level, you will want to turn the dehumidifier off. You never want the coils or water to freeze because it can cause lasting damage to the device.

Do dehumidifiers stop mold? ›

Mould will easily grow and spread if the right conditions are present. So, dehumidifiers don't kill mould, but they can help to prevent it from growing inside your home by reducing humidity. However, the best way to deal with it is to get rid of its source.

Do dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity? ›

The simple answer is yes, even though dehumidifier wattage or energy consumption of many models is low (Average being 483 watts), they stay on for at least 12 hours a day and in most cases, 24 hours. The average cost is about $1.95 daily, meaning it could cost up to (if not more than) $58.42 a month.

Can I run a dehumidifier with central air? ›

A dehumidifier and an air conditioner can be used simultaneously. You should use a dehumidifier with your air conditioner when your air conditioner by itself cannot adequately keep the humidity levels at a comfortable level.

How much water should a dehumidifier take out of a room? ›

Most dehumidifiers will remove between 30 and 70 pints of water per day. It's probable that a newly installed dehumidifier will run constantly, especially in excessively humid weather conditions.

What are the disadvantages of dehumidifier? ›

Dehumidifier Cons
  • Dehumidifiers can be loud and sometimes warm—in the summer, this could be annoying.
  • Dehumidifiers are work—you must dump, clean, and refill the water-collection tank and also (some models) clean the air filter regularly. ...
  • Constantly running a dehumidifier will increase your energy bill.
Feb 26, 2020

When should I use a dehumidifier in winter or summer? ›

Hibernating for Winter

So, while a dehumidifier can prove beneficial during the spring, summer, and early fall, it's best to unplug your unit as the colder weather arrives.

How long should a dehumidifier sit before using? ›

Why does the dehumidifier need to be to be upright 24 hours before running for the first time? It's necessary for the oils in the compressor to settle before turning the unit on, not doing so can affect the performance of the unit.

Will a dehumidifier lower my electric bill? ›

A dehumidifier will start to immediately reduce your utility bills once it comes on. Because your home will feel cooler with lower levels of moisture in the air, you will not need to run the air conditioner as often.

Should I use a dehumidifier 40% or 60%? ›

Indoor relative humidity (RH) should be kept below 60 percent — ideally between 30 percent and 50 percent, if possible. Low humidity may also discourage pests (such as cockroaches) and dust mites. The key part that we forget when it comes to basement dehumidifier settings is the temperature.

How do you tell if there is too much moisture in your home? ›

Symptoms include:
  1. Condensation on windows during the winter.
  2. Excessive mildew in the bathroom.
  3. Mold growing on interior surfaces (corner of a closet, kitchen or bathroom).
  4. Peeling, cracking or blistering paint on exterior or interior finishes.
  5. Excessive dust mite populations (a cause of dust allergies).

What makes humidity worse? ›

Warm air can possess more water vapor (moisture) than cold air, so with the same amount of absolute/specific humidity, air will have a HIGHER relative humidity if the air is cooler, and a LOWER relative humidity if the air is warmer.

Can I sit in the same room as a dehumidifier? ›

Yes it is perfectly safe to sleep in the same room as a dehumidifier. If you are particularly interested in a dehumidifier for the bedroom the noise level will be particularly important to you.

What temperature is too low for dehumidifier? ›

Ordinarily, a dehumidifier will not operate satisfactorily at temperatures below 41 degrees Fahrenheit or under extremely low humidity conditions. At temperatures below 41 degrees the evaporator coils may freeze. This could make it necessary to defrost the coils as often as once per hour.

Should you use a dehumidifier in hot weather? ›

Using a dehumidifier in summer

To help keep your home environment as comfortable as possible throughout summer, running a dehumidifier is an ideal option to reduce the level of moisture in the air.

Is 50% humidity too high in a house? ›

Ideal in-home humidity levels should hover around 45%.

Anything under 30% is too dry, and over 50% is too high.

What humidity is best for sleeping? ›

The best relative humidity for sleeping and other indoor activities has been debated. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the best indoor relative humidity falls between 30% and 50%, and it should never exceed 60%. Other studies suggest 40% to 60% is a better range.

Is 60% humidity too high for my house? ›

When the indoor humidity level is below 30 percent, the air is too dry, which can harm both a home's structural integrity and the homeowners' health. Conversely, when the level is above 60 percent, the air is too wet, which is also harmful to both the home and the homeowners.

Will a dehumidifier help with mold on walls? ›

If the humidity in a room increases, mold will start growing in patches on walls, clothes, and more. So, to answer your question, dehumidifiers do NOT kill mold, but they do prevent it by reducing humidity. If you have a mold problem in your home, don't wait. Mold spreads as long as it has a water source.

Is DampRid good for humidity? ›

Does DampRid work? Yes. CHOICE household products expert Chris Barnes says, "We put a DampRid container in a sealed test chamber about the size of a closet with 80% humidity and a fan for air movement. Within three days, DampRid reduced humidity to 43% and collected almost half a cup of water."

Does a dehumidifier stop damp smell? ›

There's a musty smell in your home

When you walk into your home, you want it to smell clean and fresh. Moisture in the air tends to hold and trap odor, Bautista says. A dehumidifier will dry out the air and take away this moldy scent.

Which way do you face a dehumidifier? ›

Easterly-facing walls get less sunlight, so they suffer most from condensation. Move your dehumidifier between rooms with easterly-facing walls to fully protect your house from damp and mould.

Should a humidifier be on the floor or table? ›

The higher up off the floor the humidifier is placed the better. It produces a mist that has to get mixed with the air. When the humidifier is placed on the floor, the mist has no chance to get mixed with the air and it causes wet floors. Try to put it on a nightstand or a table.

Does a dehumidifier work better upstairs or downstairs? ›

However, these machines are designed to work in a small area such as a single room. They are too small in capacity and size to efficiently dehumidify larger areas and, because you should keep the room closed off, a dehumidifier in the basement will have little effect on the upstairs.

Where not to put a dehumidifier? ›

You want to place your machine in an area where there is good air circulation so the unit can efficiently work. We do not recommend placing a dehumidifier directly against a wall or piece of furniture. Instead, put it at least six inches away from these vent-blocking surfaces.

Where is the best place to put dehumidifier? ›

The best place to put a dehumidifier is in the location closest to the source of the moisture. In multi-level homes, this means that dehumidifiers should most often be placed in basements or upstairs close to the stairs to your basement. This is because the basement is the most humid place in your home.

What is a healthy humidity level? ›

What is healthy humidity? Most people find that a relative humidity between 30 to 60 percent is the most comfortable, with indoor humidity ideally between 30 to 50 percent.

Will using a dehumidifier help lower or raise my cooling costs? ›

A dehumidifier will start to immediately reduce your utility bills once it comes on. Because your home will feel cooler with lower levels of moisture in the air, you will not need to run the air conditioner as often.

Is it more efficient to run a dehumidifier on high or low? ›

Running a dehumidifier at a low setting is generally more energy-efficient than running it on a high setting; the medium setting strikes a good balance between energy efficiency and dehumidification rate.

How long does it take a dehumidifier to reduce humidity? ›

How long will it take to get the moisture under control? As long as the dehumidifier you choose is large enough for the area it is working in, and there are no specific damp problems, then a dehumidifier will normally reduce the humidity to the chosen level within a few days to a week.

Does dehumidifier make AC run more? ›

Reduced Energy Costs

It's true! A dehumidifier helps your cooling system work more efficiently day-after-day. By removing excess moisture from the air, your air conditioner isn't required to work harder to maintain ideal temperatures in your home.

Will mold grow at 60 humidity? ›

Water Vapor

If there are no cold-condensing surfaces and the relative humidity (RH) is maintained below 60 percent indoors, there will not be enough water in those materials for mold to grow. However, if the RH stays above 70 percent indoors for extended periods of time, mold will almost certainly grow.

Do dehumidifiers help with mold? ›

Reduce Mold and Mildew

A dehumidifier is designed to reduce the moisture level in the air by extracting the excess water. By doing so, dehumidifiers can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew and improves the indoor air quality of your space.

How much water should a dehumidifier collect in a day in a small room? ›

Most dehumidifiers will remove between 30 and 70 pints of water per day. It's probable that a newly installed dehumidifier will run constantly, especially in excessively humid weather conditions.

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