The Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers
Crawl spaces might not be the most glamorous part of your home, but they’re important for maintaining a healthy living environment. Left unchecked, they can turn into moldy, mildewy, pest-ridden zones, due to all that dampness. This could go a long way in causing structural damage and also health problems.
How do you keep it dry and safe? One simple gadget: a crawl space dehumidifier. This handy device helps you manage humidity levels, protecting your home from unwanted moisture and the problems that come with it.
Stay with us as we provide a review of some of the best crawl space dehumidifiers that can make your space moisture-free and protect it.
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Best Versatile
Color | Blue – Black |
Tank Capacity | N/A |
Dimensions | 21.2″D x 15.5″W x 13.9″H |
Weight | 54.9 lbs |
Wattage | 500 watts |
Dehumidification Capacity The amount of moisture a dehumidifier can remove from the air in a day, typically measured in pints. | 16 ounces per day |
Sound Level | 36 dB(A) |
Coverage Areas | 4500 square feet |
- you need a versatile dehumidifier.
- you want one with both a drain hose and a water tank.
- you prefer a quiet dehumidifier.
- you’re on a budget.
- water leakage is a big concern to you.
- you need a bigger water tank.
The variable humidity settings range from 90% to 10%, offering the flexibility needed to maintain ideal conditions in any environment.
But what really tops off this product is the overflow protection system: it is an auto-stop and an alarming feature that will alert you of a holding tank that is nearly full, ensuring extra prevention of water damage. This way, the user is assured that an overflow problem will not occur.
Another excellent feature is the fact that it can begin running after a power outage.
If there was a power cut, then once there is a power supply, the dehumidifier automatically restarts on the previous settings and you can resume keeping your desired humidity without setting it time and again. So convenient and user-friendly.
Additionally, the new dehumidifier features a very low-noise design and works at 36 dB(A) or less. This particularly works to the benefit of those who live directly above or next to the crawl space.
Sahauhy Crawl Space Dehumidifier Reviews
- Ease of use: Installation is straightforward, and the remote control allows users to check humidity from an upper level without going to the crawlspace. All unit functions, including an audible beep, are on the remote.
- Performance and maintenance: The unit is quiet and maintains low humidity settings well. However, a user reported that the drain tube rusted and leaked onto the floor less than a year after purchase.
- Warranty: Overall, the purchase experience is positive. Delivery is efficient, the unit works well, and warranty registration is simple with helpful support available.
- Packaging: Some customers have reported issues with poor packaging or shipping, resulting in ripped wires or broken parts.
Best Design
Color | White |
Tank Capacity | 120 Pints |
Dimensions | 19.2″D x 12.2″W x 13.3″H |
Weight | 44 lbs |
Wattage | 40 watts |
Dehumidification Capacity | 55 Pints per Day |
Sound Level | 52 dB(A) |
Coverage Areas | 1300 Square Feet |
- you want one that consumes little energy
- you prefer one with an auto-defrost option
- you prefer a portable unit
- you need a quiet unit
- you need it to cover a bigger space
- you want one with a built-in moisture container
Capable of removing up to 120 pints of moisture daily at saturation and 55 pints per day under AHAM conditions, this unit is perfect for areas up to 1,300 square feet.
It is ideal for crawl spaces, basements, storage areas, garages, large rooms, and commercial spaces.
It has adjustable feet for easy leveling and a duct connection for venting exhaust outdoors. Weighing just 44 pounds, it is portable and suitable for homes with multiple or limited-access crawl spaces.
The automatic defrost feature allows the dehumidifier to operate efficiently at low temperatures, as low as 36 degrees Fahrenheit. When frost is detected on the coils, the unit initiates an automatic defrost cycle to prevent frost buildup, ensuring continuous operation without periodic stops.
The Energy Star certification ensures efficient moisture removal while using less energy, helping to reduce energy bills and making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Advanced internal corrosion protection technology minimizes corrosion and freon leakage, extending the life of the coils and maintaining heat transferability.
AlorAir Crawl Spaces Dehumidifier Reviews
- Pros and performance: Users highlight several pros including a very low noise level, ease of setup, and quick moisture removal. For example, it reduces humidity from 65% to under 50% within a day when used in a basement.
- Design: The dehumidifier lacks a built-in moisture container, requiring it to be close to a drain. Additionally, the discharge tube is gravity-fed, so the unit must be positioned higher than the drain or container.
- Customer support: Overall, users are satisfied with the purchase and the customer support. They appreciate the efficient delivery, the unit’s performance, and the straightforward warranty registration process.
Best for Large Spaces
Color | Gray |
Tank Capacity | 70 Pints |
Dimensions | 12.5″D x 25″W x 12.5″H |
Weight | 56 lbs |
Wattage | N/A |
Dehumidification Capacity | 70 pints per Day |
Sound Level | N/A |
Coverage Areas | 2200 Square Feet |
- you want ease of use.
- you appreciate quick results
- You prefer low maintenance
- you’re on a tight budget
- you’re looing for a portable unit
- you have a small space
The Moiswell M145 dehumidifier, with its sleek and compact design of 22.51414.7 inches, fits well in tight spaces. Whether on the floor or hanging overhead, it improves air quality and helps reduce humidity levels within confined spaces.
This Energy Star-rated dehumidifier operates at 265 CFM and can remove up to 145 pints of moisture per day, making it suitable for large rooms up to 6,000 square feet. It is easy to use: just plug it in, set your desired humidity level, and let it cycle automatically.
It features a 24-hour timer, auto-drain, auto-defrost, and auto-restart after power outages. Backed by a 5-year limited warranty, the Moiswell M145 ensures quality and reliability.
Moiswell Commercial Dehumidifier Reviews
- Quiet and efficient performance: This dehumidifier is incredibly quiet and works quickly, reducing humidity in a crawlspace from 66% to 53% in just a few minutes. Users appreciate how it rapidly removes moisture and eliminates damp odors from the home.
- Convenient design: The model without a pump is convenient for those who install their own drain. The display is clear, and the controls are easy to use.
Most User-Friendly
Color | Gray |
Tank Capacity | 70 Pints |
Dimensions | 12.5″D x 25″W x 12.5″H |
Weight | 56 lbs |
Wattage | N/A |
Dehumidification Capacity | 70 pints per Day |
Sound Level | N/A |
Coverage Areas | 2200 Square Feet |
- you want a budget-friendly option
- you want it for large spaces
- you want one with easy maintenance
- you live in a cold climate
- you need a full unit warranty, not just parts.
The AprilAire E070 dehumidifier is designed for those people living in highly humid areas and in homes, especially within older waterfront houses.
Immediately upon powering the unit, the water begins to drain, running clear through the drain pipe provided, within minutes.
The AprilAire E070 does its work fast, with an evident reduction in humidity. The 10% drop that was instantly recorded happened in just a couple of hours of operation.
The unit has been designed to operate with great ease and efficiency. Dehumidify up to 70 pints of water per day. Ideal for sealed crawl spaces or basements. Front-mounted control and leveling feet allow hassle-free access and setup in different locations.
Interactive display. Therefore, it is user-friendly, with easier setup and day-to-day operation. Maintenance is also very simple. There is no water tray to empty or mess with, and the filter only needs to be cleaned or replaced once a year.
It is electrically rated to operate on a power source of 110-120 VAC single-phase 60 Hz but not on 50 Hz.
The AprilAire E070 PRO is a compact yet powerful in-duct dehumidifier designed to manage relative humidity for tight-sealed homes up to 2,200 square feet. All this can, however, be mounted either hanging or standing on flat ground.
To sum it all up, the AprilAire E070 is an excellent dehumidifier for crawl spaces. It is quite strong, but easy to install and doesn’t require much maintenance.
This dehumidifier will ensure your space is always dry, without any other issue with dampness.
If you wish to take control of the air quality in your home and protect it from damage due to moisture, the AprilAire E070 is a wise purchase.
AprilAire Crawl Space Dehumidifier Reviews
- Easy installation: Users find the installation process straightforward, often positioning the dehumidifier on top of an air handler in the attic and tapping into the AC drain pipe for condensation drainage. Flushing the pipe first is recommended to ensure proper draining and flow.
- Cost-effectiveness: The AprilAire E070 offers substantial financial savings. While professional quotes for similar setups can reach up to $5,000, users report an all-in cost of around $1,300 for this system, including installation and additional materials.
Most Useful Features
Color | White |
Tank Capacity | 198 Pints |
Dimensions | 23.5″D x 15.2″W x 17.7″H |
Weight | 70.5 lbs |
Wattage | 639.4 Watt-hours |
Dehumidification Capacity | 90 Pints per Day |
Sound Level | N/A |
Coverage Areas | 1300 square feet |
- you want a reliable, efficient dehumidifier
- you need it for a large crawl space
- you want one with a big tank to avoid frequent emptying.
- you want a more compact unit
- you need one that consumes less energy
It covers up to 1,300 sq. ft. and removes up to 55 pints per day (120 pints at saturation), making it perfect for basements, crawl spaces, storage areas, or commercial use.
Setting it up is easy, and it operates with very low noise. In one day, it can reduce humidity from 65% to under 50%. The automatic defrost system allows it to work efficiently at low temperatures (down to 36°F), preventing frost build-up and ensuring continuous operation.
Internal corrosion protection minimizes corrosion and freon leakage, extending the life of the coils. Designed with the modern home in mind, it features an optional remote control, MERV-1 filter, low-temperature operation, and is C-ETL listed.
Keep in mind, it doesn’t have a built-in moisture container. You’ll need to place it near a drain, with the discharge tube gravity-fed, so it should be higher than the drain or container.
Backed by a 5-year warranty and professional customer support, this dehumidifier promises reliability and peace of mind.
AlorAir 90-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier Reviews
- Effective performance: This dehumidifier performs as described, effectively reducing humidity in an unfinished basement from 80% or higher to around 45%. The difference is noticeable even in the upstairs living space, making it more comfortable.
- Weight: The unit is very heavy, weighing 70 lbs, and requires two men for delivery and considerable effort to move to the basement. Installing it in a crawl space would be particularly challenging due to its weight.
- Package: Despite its heaviness, the dehumidifier was well-packed and received without any damage.
Most Power-Efficient
Color | Gray |
Tank Capacity | 70 Pints |
Dimensions | 15.35″D x 11.2″W x 11.4″H |
Weight | 47.2 lbs |
Wattage | 331 watts |
Dehumidification Capacity | 70 Pints per Day |
Sound Level | <50 dBA |
Coverage Areas | 1000 square feet |
- you need a compact crawl space dehumidifier
- you want a unit with low energy consumption
- you want one with a simpler operation
- leakage is a big concern to you
The Energy Star certified crawl space dehumidifier is a real powerhouse, sucking up to 70 pints of moisture daily and covering a whopping 1000 sq. ft.
That’s 35% better than your average dehumidifier! Perfect for basements, crawlspaces, and industrial spaces, it saves energy and money—what a combo!
With a built-in humidity sensor and digital control panel, this bad boy makes setting your ideal humidity a breeze. It cycles on and off automatically, handles draining by itself, and even defrosts when needed.
Power outage? No problem—it restarts on its own. Talk about low maintenance!
BaseAire Crawl Space Dehumidifier Reviews
- Initial performance: Customer reports indicate that the BaseAir dehumidifier performs well initially. It includes a built-in pump that effectively pushes the drain line up five feet to a drain. The unit is much quieter than smaller consumer units and is effective at reducing humidity.
- Reliability issues: Despite its initial performance, the dehumidifier has reliability issues. A temperature sensor-probe failed after three months.
- Customer service: BaseAir’s excellent customer service provided a quick replacement for the failed sensor-probe and clear instructions for installation.
- Efficient and quiet operation: The built-in pump effectively drains water through a hose periodically, and the unit operates quietly compared to smaller consumer models.
Crawl Space Dehumidifier Reviews
Crawl space dehumidifiers have received significant attention from users who appreciate their ability to control humidity and improve air quality in damp, enclosed areas.
Based on crawl space dehumidifier reviews, the common benefits highlighted by users include mold prevention, pest control, and better overall home comfort.
People love how these dehumidifiers prevent mold growth, which not only protects their health but also preserves the structural integrity of their homes.
Users frequently mention that managing humidity with the best crawl space dehumidifiers reduces musty odors and deters pests like termites and cockroaches, making their homes safer and more comfortable.
Overall, the sentiment from crawl space dehumidifier reviews is overwhelmingly positive. Users often describe how these devices have made a noticeable difference in their living environments, leading to improved air quality and fewer allergy issues.
This solid user satisfaction stems from the consistent and effective moisture control these dehumidifiers offer, ensuring homes stay dry and healthy.
When considering purchasing one of the best crawl space dehumidifiers, here are four key factors to keep in mind:
Size and coverage: Ensure the dehumidifier can effectively cover the square footage of your crawl space. A unit that’s too small may struggle to manage moisture, while an oversized one could waste energy.
Humidity levels: Choose a dehumidifier based on the specific humidity levels of your area. Higher humidity may require a more powerful unit that can handle excessive moisture consistently.
Energy efficiency: Look for features like auto-shutoff or built-in humidistats to help maintain humidity levels without inflating your energy bills. Energy-efficient models can provide long-term savings.
Maintenance requirements: Consider how easy it is to maintain the dehumidifier. Some units require frequent cleaning or filter changes, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your maintenance preferences.
These factors will guide you in selecting the best crawl space dehumidifier for your specific needs.
Crawl spaces are often out of sight and out of mind, but they play a vital role in your home’s health. Extra moisture in them may lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage, together with pests.
The crawl space dehumidifier can effectively deal with these issues, but is it really worth the investment? Let’s find out.
Moisture in crawl spaces is a breeding ground for mold and mildew, causing bad odors, health problems, and damage to wood and insulation. Mold spores can even infiltrate your living areas, leading to allergies and respiratory issues.
A dehumidifier decreases moisture, limiting mold spores and moisture from entering your house for safer habitation. Moist conditions often attract pests like termites and rodents, but a dehumidifier makes your crawl space less attractive to them.
Let’s face it. These are expensive crawl space dehumidifiers. They tend to run in the $500-$2,000 range with installation. Add to this cost the electricity they use, which goes on your utility bills, and regular maintenance, like cleaning the filters.
Nevertheless, the costs are high but are justified by the advantages if the house is located in a humid climate or has existing moisture issues.
A crawl space dehumidifier is indeed a very good investment, especially for homes in areas with humid conditions and those with evident problems with moisture. It ensures that living spaces remain healthy, dry, and free from molds.
This greatly improves air quality and prevents pests. It will also help you weigh the options to see if indeed it is the right remedy for your special needs.
Choosing the right dehumidifier for your crawl space is crucial for effectively managing moisture. Here are key factors to consider:
- Size and Capacity
Match the dehumidifier’s capacity to your crawl space’s size and humidity levels. Larger or very damp spaces need higher capacity units.
- Energy Efficiency
Go for an Energy Star-certified model to save on electricity bills.
- Built-in Pump
A dehumidifier with a built-in pump ensures continuous operation by automatically draining collected water.
- Low Temperature Operation
Select a unit designed to work in low temperatures to prevent coil freezing.
- Durability
Choose a durable, reliable dehumidifier that can withstand harsh crawl space conditions.
- Automatic Controls
Features like a humidistat and auto-restart enhance convenience and efficiency.
- Ease of Maintenance
Look for units with washable filters and accessible components for simpler maintenance.
Before we get to the business of picking through the solutions, it can become very beneficial to understand why crawl spaces get humid.
Crawl spaces usually lack proper ventilation and fall very vulnerable to moisture accumulation because of groundwater seepage, condensation, and humid outdoor air. This excess moisture can lead to a host of problems, including:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Wood rot and structural damage
- Increased pest activity
- Poor indoor air quality affecting respiratory health
Step-by-Step Dehumidification Process
Assess the situation
- Inspect for Moisture Sources: Identify where the moisture comes from. Look for plumbing leaks, groundwater seepage, or condensation problems.
- Check Ventilation: Ensure that the crawl space is well-ventilated. Caution: sometimes too much ventilation can suck in humid air.
Fix moisture problems
- Seal Leaks: Repair any leaks in plumbing or walls to avoid water penetration.
- Improve Drainage: Ensure the ground surrounding your home slopes away from the house. Consider making improvements that include the provision of gutters and downspouts to direct water away.
Encapsulation
- Install a Vapor Barrier: Heavy-duty polyethylene vapor barrier on the ground and walls of the crawl space. It ensures the moisture on the ground is not transferred to the crawl space.
- Seal Vents: In some cases, it might be appropriate to close crawl space vents to keep outdoor humid air from getting inside. Consult a professional first to see if it may be appropriate for your situation.
Install a dehumidifier
- Choose the Right Dehumidifier: Go for a crawl space dehumidifier that is constructed to serve such a confined space. They are usually more heavy-duty and can handle the specific conditions of a crawl space.
- Proper Placement: The place for the installation is the central point at your crawl space. It should be above the ground to protect itself from water and drained properly. Make sure the device has regular cleaning and checks done as intended.
Additional measures
- Insulate: Insulate the crawl space walls and floor to help regulate temperature and reduce condensation.
Monitor Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to monitor consistently lower humidity levels in the crawlspace. Keep it under 60%.
The amount of electricity a crawl space dehumidifier uses depends on a few factors, including its size, efficiency, and how often it’s running. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Wattage: Most crawl space dehumidifiers use between 300 to 700 watts per hour.
- Daily use: Let’s say your dehumidifier runs for 10 hours a day (which is pretty average). If your unit uses 500 watts, that’s 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per day.
To put that in perspective:
- Monthly use: 5 kWh per day x 30 days = 150 kWh per month.
- Cost: If electricity costs about $0.13 per kWh (average in the US), that’s roughly $19.50 a month.
Factors affecting energy use
- Size of the dehumidifier: The larger the room, the more dehumidifiers it will need, leading to higher electricity consumption. Be sure to use the right size so you are not using extra energy for no reason.
- Humidity levels: When the crawl space is super-humid, the dehumidifier will work harder and longer, using more electricity. More modern models have a higher efficiency rating.
- Energy efficiency Rating: Look for Energy Star-rated dehumidifiers. They use less energy and can save you money in the long run.
Tips to save on energy costs
Want to keep those energy costs in check? Here are some handy tips:
- Choose the right size: Don’t go overboard with a super powerful dehumidifier if you don’t need it. Match the size of the unit to your crawl space.
- Maintain your dehumidifier: Clean the filters regularly and make sure it’s in good working order. A well-maintained dehumidifier runs more efficiently.
- Optimize your crawl space: Seal up leaks and improve drainage to reduce the overall moisture level. The less work your dehumidifier has to do, the less electricity it will use.
- Use a timer: If your dehumidifier doesn’t need to run all the time, use a timer to control its operation hours. Running it during the most humid parts of the day can be more efficient.
Crawl space dehumidifiers can vary widely in price depending on their capacity, features, and brand. Here’s a quick snapshot of what you might expect to pay:
- Basic models: $200 – $500
- Mid-range models: $500 – $1,000
- High-end models: $1,000 – $2,000+
Factors Affecting Cost
- Capacity: The dehumidifier’s capacity, measured in pints per day (ppd), is a big factor in its price. Higher capacity models, which can remove more moisture, tend to be more expensive.
- Energy efficiency: Energy Star-rated models might cost a bit more upfront but can save you money on electricity in the long run.
- Special features: Extra features like built-in pumps for automatic drainage, digital controls, and Wi-Fi connectivity can increase the price.
- Brand: Established and trusted brands often come with a higher price tag due to their reliability and warranty coverage.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Installation: Depending on the complexity, professional installation can cost an additional $100 – $500.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and servicing the unit, will also add to the overall cost.
- Electricity: Don’t forget to factor in the ongoing electricity cost, which varies based on how much the dehumidifier runs.
So, when selecting a dehumidifier, plan your budget on the basis of your crawl space requirement.
Opting for an average model, which will have satisfactory capacity and features, will give you the best value for your money, rather than being one of the high-end models with a high price.
Of course, if your crawl space is very large or extremely damp, it may be wise to make the investment in a high-end unit to get the best long-term effectiveness and energy savings.
The extent to which one single dehumidifier can control an entire house all depends on the size and layout of your home.
For a high-capacity dehumidifier, 50-70 pints/day, it will usually be sufficient to hold a normal-size house up to 1,500 square feet in order to keep the house comfortable and free from mold.
Medium-sized homes ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet will need two or more units to control humidity. This way, moisture problems can be easily and promptly solved all over the house —basements and bathrooms alike.
Large homes over 3000 square feet usually require dehumidifiers or a whole-house dehumidification system incorporated into your HVAC system.
On the other hand, in terms of costs, the whole-house systems are decidedly more expensive up front than any single-pane unit, with costs ranging between $1000 and $3000 plus installation costs.
In return, they provide whole-house comprehensive moisture management in a very energy-efficient manner.
Placement is also key. One dehumidifier placed in the middle can result in balanced air distribution, but for most areas, consider the inclusion of more machinery to attain a fair balance in moisture content.