16 Best Dehumidifiers For Basements in 2024 – Buying Guide

Last Updated on February 2, 2024 by Kimberly Crawford

The dampness of basements makes them an attractive niche for molds and insects. In the passing of time, smelly odors might develop and if you are to transform your basement into an extended living space, you must find a way for the bad smell to never reoccur again.

One of the best interventions to make sure that the moisture in the basement does not produce a bad smell is to put a dehumidifier in your basement. 

Fortunately, you do not have to worry about where to look because basement dehumidifiers are now popular home products. But the question is, would you know which one is the best dehumidifier for your basement? In this post, we will run that down.

• Best overall dehumidifier: Frigidaire FFAP5033W1 and HomeLabs 4500 Dehumidifier
• Best value dehumidifier: Honeywell 50-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
• Best dehumidifier for a large basement: TOSOT 50-Pint Dehumidifier
• Best dehumidifier with pump for a basement: GE 45-Pint Dehumidifier
• Best portable dehumidifier for basement: Haier 20 Pint Portable Dehumidifier
• Best rated dehumidifier for basement: Ivation 4,500 Sq Ft Large-Capacity Energy Star Dehumidifier
• Best wall mounted dehumidifier for basement: IW25-4 Energy Star Wall Mounted Dehumidifier
• Best energy-efficient dehumidifier for basement: Danby 70-Pint Dehumidifier
• Best automatic dehumidifier for basement: Frigidaire FGAC7044U1
• Best dehumidifier for basement under $100: Pro Breeze Electric Mini Dehumidifier
• Best dehumidifier for basement with the longest warranty: Honeywell TP70PWK
• Best dehumidifier for small basement: Frigidaire 22-Pint Dehumidifier
• Best dehumidifier for basement apartment: Aprilaire 1850 Pro Dehumidifier
• Best dehumidifier for basement with drain hose: AlorAir Sentinel HDi90 Dehumidifier
• Best dehumidifier for unfinished basement: Hisense DH7019KP1WG

Types of dehumidifiers

Generally, there are three types of dehumidifiers: desiccant dehumidifier, thermo-electric dehumidifier, and compressor humidifiers. Desiccant humidifiers are not good choices for basements because they cannot control large rooms below ground level. 

Thermo-electric dehumidifiers on the other hand, work best in warm rooms and may not perform a lot in cool and damp basements. The best type of dehumidifier for the basement should be compressor humidifiers as they are specifically designed to balance the humidity in damp rooms. 

While these three are the major types of humidifiers, there are outstanding basement humidifiers that are commendable for specific categories. Perhaps, it is more beneficial if we rank the best humidifiers for the basement in terms of various performance indicators and other important factors. 

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16 best dehumidifiers for basements

1. Best overall dehumidifier

Frigidaire FFAP5033W1

The best overall dehumidifier goes to the Frigidaire 70-pint. It has an easy navigation button which includes a 24-hr on/off timer, humidity level presets, current humidity level monitoring and digital readout.

Aside from these, it is also portable, energy efficient and an easy to detach 1.6gL collection tank.

Its best features would be its quiet performance and humidity reduction capability. Its test runs were done in a century old basement and it proved to have consistently reduced humidity in the basement by 20%.

Note that with its 70-pint capacity, no mildew, rot, and other infestations could survive in your basement. Overall, we give this 4.8 out of 5. 

HomeLabs 4500 Dehumidifier

This is another overall pick for basement humidifiers. While it is only at 50-pint, it is comparable to the Frigidaire’s performance for many reasons.

It has a bigger tank reservoir at 1.8gL and is unique for its turbo mode which speeds up odor reduction and moisture removal five times its normal mode. This makes it a go-to choice for large basements too. 

Its coverage is perfect even for 4500sq.ft. areas. Its other commendable features would be its auto-defrost system, touch controls, washable side filter, humidity range of up to 85%, a 2-year warranty and if you do not want to spend money on a separate drain hose, note that it is compatible with garden hose too. This one is an easy 4.8 out of 5 too. 

2. Best value dehumidifier: Honeywell 50-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier

Actual testimonies from those who have used it claim that this 50-pint dehumidifier is the most cost and energy efficient of all.

It has humidity level presets in between 30-90% and adjusts automatically for the desired preset to be maintained. Aside from this, it also comes with a 24-hr timer for better energy efficiency. 

Its most commendable feature is its washable filter which you can just slide from the top for easy washing. It also comes with a full tank sensor which shuts off automatically until it is emptied.

Its 50-pint capacity is a good run for money especially with its price range of just $200.-220 So overall, this pick deserves a 4.7 out of 5. 

3. Best dehumidifier for a large basement: TOSOT 50-Pint Dehumidifier

This pick is perfect for basements of up to 4500sq.ft. area. Although relatively pricey, its full-packed features cover it all. The most observable of all its upsides is it is very quiet (tested at 48dB only) given its built-in pump.

The pump is also powerful enough to collect water at 15ft so you can position it at any space in the room.

It also has an automatic shut off/on when there is a power surge. Aside from its drain hose, it also comes with a 16-pint extra bucket.

Ergonomically designed, it features an easy navigation LCD function display, durable caster wheels, auto defrost system and 3-speed fans. With these, we give it a 4.7 out 5.

4. Best dehumidifier with pump for a basement: GE 45-Pint Dehumidifier

Draining hoses are often sold separately that is why dehumidifiers with pumps are still sought-after.

This pick is high performing on that aspect as it has a dependable built-in pump helping you to drain the tank right there in your sink or laundry room. And although it is at 45-pint, performance wise, it works like a 50-pint. 

Aside from its ability to maintain preset levels, it can also be controlled remotely through WiFi connection.

It is commendable too for its full tank alert, helping you in avoiding overflow everytime you drain it out. It is perfect for small basements not exceeding 1500 sq.ft. This one deserves a 4.7 out of 5. 

5. Best portable dehumidifier for basement: Haier 20 Pint Dehumidifier

Highlights:

• 20-pint capacity per day, suitable for medium-sized basements.
• Digital humidistat control allows for precise humidity level settings.
• 24-hour on/off timer and a full tank alert system for added convenience.
• Auto-restart saves your settings during a power outage.

Standout Feature: Best for Medium-Sized Basements

• This dehumidifier is ideal for maintaining optimal humidity levels in medium-sized basements, offering a balance between performance and space-saving design.

Technical Specifications:

• Capacity: 20 pints per day
• Dimensions: 10.6 x 13.4 x 19.5 inches
• Weight: 16 ounces
• Energy Efficiency: Energy Star Certified

Efficiency and Performance

Model	Capacity (pints per day)	Energy Efficiency
A	30	High
B	50	Moderate
C	20	High

• High capacity models are essential for larger basements, capable of removing more moisture efficiently.
• Energy efficiency is crucial for long-term cost savings and environmental impact.

Portability and Design

Model	Weight (lbs)	Dimensions (inches)
A	40	15 x 12 x 25
B	35	14 x 10 x 24
C	30	16 x 11 x 23

• Lightweight and compact designs ensure easy movement and storage.
• Sleek and modern appearance can blend seamlessly with basement decor.

Ease of Use

• Simple control panels and digital displays make operation straightforward.
• Features like auto-restart, timer functions, and built-in hygrometers add to convenience.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced View

• Pros:
  • Efficient moisture removal, protecting against mold, mildew, and dampness.
  • Energy-saving features reduce electricity costs.
  • Portable designs allow for flexibility in placement.
• Cons:
  • Some models can be noisy, disrupting quiet environments.
  • Maintenance, like filter cleaning and water bucket emptying, is required.
  • Higher capacity models can be more expensive.

6. Best rated dehumidifier for basement: Ivation 4,500 Sq Ft Large-Capacity Energy Star Dehumidifier

This is the best rated basement humidifier because as compact as it is, its coverage is large at 4500sq.ft. It has been consistently reviewed at 4.6 out of 5 in major shops. It can easily be placed in a countertop and it is very energy efficient given its size.

It has a humidifying capacity of up to 80% and can suck 45-pint of moisture every day at a 2gL tank. 

It comes with three fan speed settings, an auto shut off and reset feature during power surge, a full tank indicator to avoid overflow and a LED indicator showing the present water level in the tank.

It is relatively cheap given its features and has a quiet performance like larger humidifiers. This one deserves a 4.7 out of 5. 

7. Best wall mounted dehumidifier for basement: IW25-4 Energy Star Wall Mounted Dehumidifier

This one is an easy pick for the best in-wall basement dehumidifier for many reasons. For one, it is powerful, but it runs quietly. And despite its compact design, it is at par with larger dehumidifiers in terms of energy efficiency and coverage (can cover up to 1500sq.ft.). 

Aside from these, its features are upscale. First, it is tank-free. You can directly connect its drain to your basement plumbing. Hence, you would not be needing any tank monitor or full tank indicator to drain the tank every now and then.

It also features a LED reminder for washing the filter, an auto shut off and restart, and a tamper-proof cover for safety. Overall, this one deserves a 4.8 out of 5 in the in-wall dehumidifier category. 

8. Best energy-efficient dehumidifier for basement: Danby 70-Pint Dehumidifier

This medium-sized dehumidifier is not just very portable but also highly efficient with its 70-pint capacity. Its caster wheels are dependable to move around large basements of up to 4000sq.ft.

It is also easily operated with its automatic functions like on/off, shut off and turn on feature in case of power surge. 

This one is very energy-efficient with its low-temperature feature, automatic reset if it coils down, an auto-defrost system when the temperature drops to 40degrees and a commendable 2-year warranty on parts and labor.

It also comes with a full tank indicator and a built-in gravity drainage which allows you to drain it through the garden hose. With all things considered, this one is a 4.8 out of 5. 

9. Best automatic dehumidifier for basement: Frigidaire FGAC7044U1

This is another model of the 70-pint dehumidifiers of Frigidaire. It is energy-efficient and everything from humidity, on/off, and speed can be controlled using Google Assistant or Alexa.

It is the best automatic dehumidifier out there with its auto drain, auto restart and auto defrost system. 

These smart features also come in handy when you are out of town and you accidentally left it open. With just a few tweaks in your smartphones and you can easily control it if you have WiFi. So, with all things considered, in the automatic dehumidifier category, this one gets a 4.8 out of 5.

10. Best dehumidifier for basement under $100: Pro Breeze Electric Mini Dehumidifier

This pick is a small but mighty dehumidifier as testimonies string around. At $80, you can have a portable and cheap dehumidifier for your basement with a 20-pint capacity.

Like the ‘big guns’ in dehumidifying, it comes with an LED display featuring a full tank indicator. Fortunately, it comes with a 52-ounce tank which means that you should empty it once a week. 

It is a thermo-electric type and as such, runs quietly for hours. It is perfect for small basements with an area of 450-800sq.ft.

If you are thinking of dehumidifying multiple rooms aside from the basement, this one is a good choice. It is a clear 4.7 out of 5. 

11. Best dehumidifier for basement with the longest warranty: Honeywell TP70PWK

This pick is one of the many trusted products of Honeywell. It features a 5-year warranty, which is a big plus in a pool of 1 to 3-year warranty choices.

This is a well-reviewed Honeywell dehumidifier model because of its 4500sq.ft. coverage and 70-pint capacity. It is also high-powered with its built-in pump. 

Other commendable features of this basement dehumidifier include a 14-pint tank, various alert systems (like full tank alarm and maintenance alarm), 24-hr timer as well as LED digital controls.

It also features an auto-defrost and restart system. This one is a 4.8 out of 5. 

12. Best dehumidifier for small basement: Frigidaire 22-Pint Dehumidifier

This pick is one of the most portable basement dehumidifiers and is perfect for small basements. It comes with rolling casters, side handles and cord cases in the back for easy storage.

It can collect 22 pints of water everyday and dries off the room easily. One of its major features is its 2gL collection tank. It is big and dependable given its portable size. 

Other than these, here are also some of its commendable features: pull-out bucket, continuous drain mode, 24-hr timer, full tank alert, automatic shut off and super quiet running performance thanks to its washable filter.

It sure deserves a 4.7 out of 5. 

13. Best dehumidifier for basement apartment: Aprilaire 1850 Pro Dehumidifier

It is quite pricey, but it is a whole home dehumidifier, so it is cut for the job of dehumidifying your entire basement apartment.

It is a single unit directly connected to your apartment’s HVAC system. This provides a full moisture control system for the whole space.

It has a 95-pint capacity and could work even at 5,500sq.ft. basement apartments. 

Its major upside is that you can maintain the humidity level in your entire home in your desired duration. You would not even need to monitor the collection tank because it is directly connected to your heating and cooling system.

Best store it in a crawlspace in the basement apartment for you to experience its quiet performance. This one gets a 4.6 out of 5.

14. Best dehumidifier for basement with drain hose: AlorAir Sentinel HDi90 Dehumidifier

Although pricey, it is one of the very few basement dehumidifiers that come with a drain hose. More often than not, the hose is bought separately. This pick is a powerful dehumidifier albeit its compact design. It is also known for its durability thanks to its epoxy-coated coils. 

Its auto-defrost feature is upscale. It could run efficiently even at 36degrees and below. It comes with a remote control for you to adjust the humidity even if you are far.

As for the drain hose, it is attached to a condensate pump with a lifting distance of 20 inches so that you can take your draining hose anywhere. It is easily a 4.7 out of 5. 

15. Best dehumidifier for unfinished basement: Hisense DH7019KP1WG

Whether you are creating an extended living space in an unfinished basement or not, this pick is a powerful yet cheaper choice for a dehumidifier.

It features a 550-pint capacity and an easy uncoil drain hose. It also has a decent coverage of up to 1200sq.ft.

If you do not intend to have a permanent living space in your unfinished basement, this dehumidifier will suffice. 

How we picked the best dehumidifier

Most of the dehumidifiers featured here are ones that come with pumps, collection tanks and draining hoses. There is just one featured desiccant and one thermo-electric dehumidifier in the list.

There are three things that we considered in choosing the best humidifier for all categories: the amount of moisture removed every day, ease of operation and maintenance and coverage. 

Moisture removal

Regardless of the changes in the pint regulation by the Department of Energy Regulations in 2020 which demoted 70-pint to 50-pint, 50-pint to 35-pint and 35-pint to 22-pint, there are still models who have 70-pint moisture removal ability.

For large basement spaces, 50–70-pint capacity is best for large spaces of 2,000sq.ft. and up. 35-50-pint capacity would be enough for medium size basements while 22-pint is sufficient for small basements. 

Moisture removal capacity is the main reason behind installing a dehumidifier in a basement. This is the reason why this one is highlighted in each of the listed dehumidifiers for you to have a visual of their coverage. 

Coverage

Anent to moisture removal capacity, coverage was also a primary factor in picking the best dehumidifier for basement. More often than not, high power and high coverage dehumidifiers come with built-in pumps, but the list proved that the wattage and power do not matter when it comes to coverage. 

As such, you must understand that 50–70-pint capacity dehumidifiers are good for 2,000-4,500 sq.ft. basements. A 35-50-pint dehumidifier is commendable for a 1,200sq.ft. basement while 22-pint dehumidifiers are sufficient for 500sq.ft. and below.

You must, however, note that this breakdown in coverage works only for a single room with no divisions. This consideration should help you in making the best dehumidifier choice for your basement. 

Ease of operation and maintenance

For the untrained eye, this is the first consideration that comes into mind. Is the filter washable? Does it have an auto-restart feature? Will it automatically defrost when it censors a drop in temperature? Is it portable? Is there a full tank indicator? 

These are the common operations that a dehumidifier should have and fortunately, all that have been listed here have these and more. Some even have a smart system making them capacitated for remote operation or through a WiFi. 

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Basement dehumidifier buying guide

Since there are a lot of choices when it comes to dehumidifiers, you need to make a mental list of what to consider before buying one.

With the categories that we have presented, there are specific types of dehumidifiers for specific basements considering the differences in size, temperature and more. With these, here are some noteworthy factors to put into mind before finalizing your purchase for your basement dehumidifier. 

What are the benefits of a basement dehumidifier?

At a general level, dehumidifiers act not just to balance the temperature and dampness of the room but also to encourage a more livable space by inhibiting the growth of molds, mildew and other insects that might take refuge in damp rooms like the basement. Specifically, basement dehumidifiers are also beneficial because of the following: 

• Improvement of air quality: Having poor quality air circulating in the basement leads to various respiratory problems and diseases associated with the lungs and sinus in the long run. Installing a basement dehumidifier ultimately makes it a livable space. 
• Quiet running: Dehumidifiers installed up top or in the ceiling sometimes disturb family time because they can be noisy. But dehumidifiers installed in basements and crawl spaces are known for their quiet performance. 
• Energy efficiency: Basement dehumidifiers dramatically reduce the workload of ACs especially in environments with high humidity. The drier the air, the more the AC can cool down the space, hence, making the system cost-efficient. 
• Maintenance of structural integrity: When there is over-moisture, wood structures of the home like beams and exterior trims are weakened. Having a basement dehumidifier whose chief function is to eliminate dampness helps in maintaining the structural integrity of wood structures in the basement. 
• Cost efficiency: With the first four benefits that we have discussed, it is easy to say that installing a basement dehumidifier is a win-win choice as it encourages cost efficiency for the home. 

With the emergence of newer models of basement dehumidifiers, so will its benefits. The dawn of smart dehumidifiers is changing the way we use them but for sure, our convenience, energy, and cost efficiency are at the forefront. With good air quality flow in the basement, the following health benefits are also achieved: 

• Reduced occurrences of allergies 
• Lessens chances of acquiring chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Offers a warm and cozy living space for relaxation 

Things to consider when buying a dehumidifier for your basement

There are a lot of characteristics and features that make a good basement dehumidifier. Looking for one is already a daunting task but choosing the right one for your basement is really the cherry on top.

For you to at least have a working knowledge of what to look for when choosing a basement humidifier, here are some buying considerations that you should know before making the choice. 

#1. Capacity and Coverage

More often than not, basement dehumidifiers are ranked in terms of capacity. By capacity, we mean the amount of water or moisture that it could condense in a day. This amount is measured in pints. Capacity here is interchangeable with power and not in terms of the tank size. As such, the more powerful the dehumidifier, the greater its capacity. 

Note that there are three types of dehumidifiers in this category. Small dehumidifiers are portable, for small-size basements and at a range of $50-100. Medium dehumidifiers on the other hand are at 35-50 pints, can dehumidify large rooms but might fall short on basements.

They range from $120-200. Large dehumidifiers are at 70 pints and are the perfect choice for basements. They range from $200-300.

#2. Noise

The best humidifiers are those that run at 45dB and below. In general, dehumidifiers should resemble the humming sound of your AC unit. If it has a loud, whizzing sound, or a noise that sounds like a busy street or a traffic jam, you must return that immediately.

You would not find noise level labels in dehumidifiers. This is the reason why you must check reputable reviews about the product before buying it. 

#3. Drainage

Note that all dehumidifiers come with a tank just with different storage capacities. The only difference resides in the drainage hose. Most of the time, drainage hoses are bought separately but having one is beneficial because it gives ease in emptying your collection tank.

You can do it on the drain floor, the sink, or even in basement windows. When it comes to ease in drainage, those with built-in pumps are sought after. 

#4. Energy consumption

Depending on your needed humidity level, basement size, duration of use and humidifier capacity, you must know that the average energy cost of basement dehumidifiers would be at $15-60 a month.

The good news is that present models of dehumidifiers are almost all Energy Star certified. This means that they are more energy efficient by 30% than older dehumidifiers. 

What is the best way to use a basement dehumidifier?

As has been presented, basement dehumidifiers come with a lot of benefits. As such, there are also various ways to get the most out of these useful appliances. If you are thinking of getting one for your basement, here are the ways to get the best out of your basement dehumidifiers. 

• Place it in the right spot: The trick to getting the most out of a dehumidifier is to position it in a place where it gets good airflow. Whether they release air on a side vent or at the top, making sure that there is enough air space surrounding it is important for its performance. Closing the windows and doors also helps as they do with air conditioning units. 
• Manually set the humidity level: Almost all dehumidifiers have three fan speeds including a turbo mode. The optimal humidity level for any basement should be 30-50% in areas with tropical or hot climates and 20-40% in colder climates. Anything higher than that may encourage the niching of mildew as well as mold buildup. 
• Regular draining: The good thing about dehumidifiers is that they have a full tank indicator that glows when it is already time to empty the tank or shuts off the dehumidifier automatically to prevent overflow. During the cold or rainy season, make sure that the tanks are regularly drained. It is also good to choose dehumidifiers with built-in pumps since they can easily be attached to garden hoses for easier draining. 
• Maintenance: Of course, regular maintenance check also ensures that you get the best performance out of your basement dehumidifier. This means that you need to wash the air filter regularly to make sure that it gets quality airflow. 

What comes along with this is cleaning the grills too. When the grills are dirty or there is a dust buildup, expect that the airflow becomes very slow. This is also an indication that you must wash your air filter soon. But for automatic dehumidifiers, part of their LED display would be an indicator light that signals that it is time to wash the air filter. 

These are just basic steps to ensure quality performance from your basement dehumidifiers. By following them, you can surely get the most of out your basement dehumidifier. 

Best setting for basement dehumidifier

According to Energy Star, which certifies the moisture removal capacity of dehumidifiers, the optimum humidity setting for a basement humidifier is at 30-50%. For areas with colder climates, the best setting would be at 30-40% during their considered hot season. In general, the best setting would be at 50%. 

As has been mentioned, any humidity level beyond 50% can encourage the growth of molds and mildew as well as the niching of harmful insects. Using dehumidifiers at 20 degrees Fahrenheit and below also causes frosting so you also must be on the know about this. 

What is the best basement dehumidifier brand?

When we are talking about the best brand for basement dehumidifiers, we are not just talking about one. For instance, in January of 2021, new consumer reports on the best dehumidifiers surfaced. Of these reviews, the following are consistently rated at the top of the list of the most reputable brands for dehumidifiers: 

• Frigidaire
• Honeywell
• GE
• LG
• Ivation
• Keystone
• Danby
• TOSOT

These brands have always been on the list of the best dehumidifier brands through the years. The others are reputable brands for all types of appliances in general so you can count on these when it comes to basement dehumidifiers too. 

Does dehumidifier really work?

Given their popularity nowadays, we could really say that dehumidifiers really work. Having one whether in small offices, in an apartment, or in a basement reduces humidity levels so that mites, molds, and mildew do not pose allergy and asthma problems. It also dramatically reduces dust buildup in the home giving you some window time to focus on another place to clean up. 

Most importantly, dehumidifiers are cost-efficient. With their ability to condense air, they are helping your air conditioning unit to be more effective. With all things considered, and with the consistent want of homeowners to have one, dehumidifiers indeed, work. 

Do I need a dehumidifier for my basement?

This is not easily answerable by yes or no because truth be told, there are a lot of things to factor in before you decide to buy one. The following are some things to assess if you think that you need a dehumidifier for your basement. 

• Moldy odor: This type of smell is spot on so once you smell that moldy odor, no matter how much you clean and bleach the space every now and then, it is time to get your basement a dehumidifier. 
• Frost buildup: If you have constant frost buildup in your basement or around cooling services such as the air conditioning unit or the entire HVAC system, you might need a dehumidifier soon. If you allow it to stay that way, expect cracks or rotting along your walls, flooring, ceiling, and other structures in your basement. 
• High humidity areas: For humid locations experiencing more than 50% humidity levels in specific seasons, you might need a dehumidifier to inhibit the hike of condensation levels in your basement. In locations like this, the dehumidifier aids the HVAC system in balancing the humidity levels in the basements of such locations. 

How does a dehumidifier work?

It is valid to know how a dehumidifier works given its pros and the multitude of brands that are banking on it. Basically, this appliance works by converting hot air from its fan and into the coils. As it goes through the coils, the air is condensed, collecting drops of water, and storing them in a tank that is attached to the dehumidifier. 

With the condensation process, drier and cooler airflow is released from the side vent. On average, a dehumidifier works to bring down the humidity level of any room by 30-50%. Thankfully, all dehumidifiers come with preset levels and a monitor where you can key in your desired humidity level for the home. 

How to choose a dehumidifier for the basement

We have covered the factors that need to be weighed in before buying a basement humidifier. The other task is to look for specific features to choose the best humidifier for your basement.

There are unique features in some models that you would not find in others. This gives them a notch up from the rest. And needless to say, these are the types of dehumidifiers that you should be on the watch for. 

Automatic controls: Dehumidifiers have default controls that are present in all types and models. These controls are humidity level presets including a turbo mode and full tank indicator. But other than these, a good basement dehumidifier should also have the following automatic controls: 

Automatic reset: Having auto controls is helpful if you are not always around to monitor your dehumidifier. Having an automatic reset feature is beneficial for your safety especially when there is a power surge and after the timer goes off.  

Humidity sensor: It also pays that you do not have to key various humidity levels every now and then. Choosing a smart humidifier with a humidity sensor helps a lot not only in maintaining the necessary humidity level for the room but also in auto-defrosting when the temperature drops. 

Frost censor: This one works whenever the system detects frost buildup in the coils. When there is so much frost, the dehumidifier cannot work efficiently. As such, it pays to have a humidifier with a frost sensor that will automatically shut off the dehumidifier to avoid over-frosting the coils. 

Ducting: Not all dehumidifiers could do the work for two separate rooms or could be tucked in small basement spaces. Ducting capacity means that a humidifier can service two rooms at the same time. This is a unique feature of only a handful of dehumidifier models so best choose those that have a good ducting capacity. 

Digital controls: Aside from the automatic features of a humidifier, you also need to consider other helpful digital controls. This includes the following: 

Filter light indicator: It pays to have a light indicator that tells you if it is time to wash your dehumidifier’s filter. It saves you a lot of time, and maintenance costs and ensures that the dehumidifier performs well continuously. 

Humidistat: While the humidity level presets are present, it is also helpful to have a humidistat that signals the dehumidifier to shut down when the sufficient humidity level for the room is already achieved. This one monitors the drop and rise in the room temperature and is considered as a part of the smart controls of a dehumidifier. 

• Tank capacity: You must be wary of the tank capacity of a humidifier because some large dehumidifiers have small collecting tanks. If there is a mismatch between the pints per day and the tank capacity of a dehumidifier, you will have to empty that tank every now and then. 1.5gL to 2.5gL is already a decent tank capacity. 
• Wheels: This has a lot to say about the portability of a dehumidifier. By portability, we do not only imply that you get to move it at any point in the basement but also has something to do with easily moving it when you take it out for cleaning. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

To wrap everything off about basement dehumidifiers, here are some FAQs that might come in handy. It can serve as an additional buying guide to help you narrow down your choice for the best dehumidifier in your basement. 

How much does it cost to operate a dehumidifier in your basement?

Fortunately, the game has changed for dehumidifier manufacturers as they have really banked on energy and cost efficiency. Present models only cost 4.2 cents when you run it for a straight hour. Try running that for 24hrs and you only pay a dollar or $30 a month. 

Given this rate, you are most likely to pay more for the wattage of your television and your AC than for your dehumidifier no matter how big it is. So, ideally, you get the best out of the functions of a basement dehumidifier without paying so much for them.  

What is the ideal humidity level for my basement?

There is a reason why a dehumidifier is recommended for basements be it finished or unfinished. The dampness and humidity level of the basement is most likely at 80% and above.

This makes it one of the favorite niches of mold, mites, and mildew. To eliminate this niching, the ideal humidity for the basement should be 50% and below. The role of dehumidifiers is to maintain that humidity level every day. 

What size dehumidifier for the basement do I need?

We have comprehensively discussed this in the previous sections. To give you a simpler idea of what size of dehumidifier you should choose for your basement, here is a useful infographic from The Soothing Air. 

Just keep in mind that the greater the pint, the larger the dehumidifier will be. This is an important thing to note because you also must make sure that there is a viable space for it to be placed. There should be ample crawl space around the dehumidifier so that good air quality is circulating. 

Where to place a dehumidifier in the basement?

Experts assert that dehumidifiers should be placed in the middle of the basement. This is the best location to distribute airflow because there is enough space for it to be circulated.

The fast distribution of air also helps in reducing energy because the necessary humidity level for the basement is achieved in just a short span of time. This makes the dehumidifier more energy and cost-effective. 

When it is cold or when the temperature drops to 40 degrees and below, you can keep the dehumidifier for a while to make room for other pieces that make the basement warmer and cozier. 

How loud are dehumidifiers?

The general sound rating of dehumidifiers stands at 40-50 dB. This means that you can hear a humming sound around the room but tolerable enough to still have good conversations or watch TV. However, some models have different sound ratings.

The loudest dehumidifiers could go as loud as your fan box or exhaust fan. Others have a fair sound level resembling a whispering conversation. The quietest ones would have a humming sound like the noise of a refrigerator. 

If you experience loud noise from your dehumidifier that is beyond the noted associated sounds, you must consult the manufacturer or the dehumidifier or enforce the warranty clause of the product as it may underly a growing defect.

What is a dehumidifier’s lifespan?

The average lifespan of a dehumidifier ranges from 5-10 years. It could last longer if you carry out regular maintenance checks for it like washing the filter, emptying the tank regularly, and cleaning the grills, coils, and the water bucket. Tucking it in safe storage is also a key factor in a longer dehumidifier lifespan. 

How often to run a dehumidifier in the basement?

Ideally, a dehumidifier should be running for at least 12 hours every day for you to get the most out of its benefits. While you can opt not to use it every day, manufacturers affirm that running it daily makes the air vents out fresher and cooler for the whole year. And given their energy consumption and their line of benefits, 12hrs might not even suffice. 

When to use a dehumidifier in the basement?

Dehumidifiers are bought and installed precisely because there is a need for them in the basement. Here are six reasons to use a dehumidifier in your basement. 

• Musty smell in the basement: When moisture is constantly trapped, its accumulation turns into a musty smell. If you have this unwanted smell circulating in your basement, you should start using a dehumidifier. 
• Water condensation in the basement window: Constant condensation in the window looks like it is frosted but, it is moist, and water is trapped in the basement window sills. If you just let this go on without the intervention of a basement dehumidifier, you are risking the structural integrity of your window trims and other wood structures in the basement. 
• Basement leaks: If leaks in the basement are becoming more constant especially after heavy rains as the walls sweat and cracks leak, you surely need a basement dehumidifier to dry that down. 
• Allergies: If you and your family members have become more prone to allergies whenever you stay too long in the basement den or entertainment area, it is a good indicator that you already need a basement dehumidifier. 

Do dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity?

The answer to this varies because dehumidifiers are made by different manufacturers, and come in different sizes and moisture removal capacities. But in general, dehumidifiers are very energy efficient.

By the rule of thumb, larger dehumidifiers consume less electricity compared to smaller ones. Nonetheless, for reference, dehumidifiers are more electricity bill-friendly compared to ACs, air dryers, and water heaters. 

Can I leave my dehumidifier on all day?

Yes, but not necessary. If the dehumidifier is at its peak performance, it could balance the humidity level of the basement or any type of room by 50% at a continuous running time of 12hrs. But if you want to make sure that you get a cooler, fresher airflow for 24hrs, it is also a viable option. 

Will a dehumidifier kill mold?

No. This is a common misnomer among homeowners. Dehumidifiers do not kill mold they just lessen the humidity level of the room to inhibit their growth. Molds thrive on dampness and over-moisture. Since dehumidifiers relieve the basement with moisture, they cannot thrive when they are constantly around to the job. 

Our Verdict

With all things considered, we give the best humidifier for the basement to HomeLab 4500. Its 50-pint moisture removal capacity is powerful enough for large rooms and basements and it is complemented well by its 1.8gL collection tank. It also has all the essential digital and automatic controls needed for a high-performing dehumidifier.

Its major plus, however, is its built-in pump which is compatible with any type of drain hose including a garden hose. So, maintenance, ease of operation, and power wise, it is the clear winner. We must give props to Frigidaire 70-pint and Honeywell 50-pint too. Their portability is commendable and in terms of performance, they are at par with the HomeLab 4500. 

With the featured list and buying guides, you sure have a lot to begin with when it comes to choosing the best dehumidifier for your basement.