Crawl spaces are notorious for harboring moisture, leading to the growth of mold, mildew, and wood rot. Not only can this damage your foundation and belongings, but can also worsen allergies and respiratory problems. If you’re tired of battling these issues, a crawl space dehumidifier can save your day.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best crawl space dehumidifiers and how they can protect your house, reduce moisture, and improve quality of living.
Key features to consider:
- Capacity: Choose a dehumidifier based on crawl space. Aim for around 30-50 ppd (pints per day) for smaller spaces (up to 1,000 sq ft), and higher ones for larger areas.
- Humidity Control: Opt for models with adjustable humidity settings. Ideally, it should maintain relative humidity levels between 30% to 50%, optimal for preventing mold and mildew growth.
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient dehumidifiers can save electric bills over time. So, look for 3 to 5 Star-rated models to ensure efficient operation.
- Build Quality: Look for models with sturdy construction and long-lasting components to endure crawl space environments.
Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers – Comparison Table
| Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers | Floor Area | Removal Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| AlorAir Crawl Space Dehumidifier | 1,300 Square Feet | 120 Pints | Check On Amazon |
| Ivation Crawl Space Dehumidifier | 270 Square Feet | 13 Pints | Check On Amazon |
| Waykar Crawl Space Dehumidifier | 6500 Square Feet | 158 Pints | Check On Amazon |
| BASEAIRE CRAWL SPACE Dehumidifier | 1000 Square Feet | 70 Pints | Check On Amazon |
| Aprilaire Crawl Space Dehumidifier | 4400 Square Feet | 80 Pints | Check On Amazon |
Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers: Reviews
1. ALORAIR Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Why it Made the Cut: Energy-efficient, Auto Defrost, Corrosion Protection
Renowned for its effective moisture elimination capabilities in basements and crawlspaces, ALORAIR stands out in the market. These dehumidifiers hold an Energy Star certification, ensuring not only efficient moisture extraction but also energy conservation. This dual benefit translates to reduced energy expenses while maintaining optimal humidity levels. With a remarkable capacity to remove up to 120 pints of moisture daily and cover areas spanning 1300 square feet, they prove suitable for various spaces, including large rooms, basements, crawl spaces, and commercial environments.
The Automatic Defrost function is quite an interesting feature that enables users to operate efficiently even in chilly conditions as low as 36 degrees Fahrenheit. By preventing frost accumulation on coils, it guarantees uninterrupted operation in colder climates. Moreover, an internal corrosion protection coating enhances the unit’s lifespan by reducing corrosion and minimizing freon leakage. This feature ensures long-lasting durability and reliability, making ALORAIR dehumidifiers a dependable choice.
Specifications
- Energy Star Certified
- Capacity: 120 Pints
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 1300 Square Feet
- Automatic Defrost
- Internal Corrosion Protection
- 5-Year Warranty
Pros
- Energy-efficient operation saves money on energy bills.
- The Automatic Defrost function ensures continuous operation in low temperatures.
- Internal corrosion protection extends the lifespan of the unit.
- Modern design with optional remote control and MERV-1 filter.
Cons
- Requires periodic maintenance for optimal performance.
2. Ivation Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Why it Made the cut: Efficient Desiccant Rotor, Whisper Quiet Operation
The Ivation 13-Pint Dehumidifier is specifically engineered to address moisture concerns in smaller areas such as bathrooms, attics, crawl spaces, and closets. Utilizing advanced desiccant rotor technology, it effectively eliminates moisture, eradicates odors, and hinders mold growth while gently warming the air, making it ideal for colder climates. Despite its formidable capabilities, it operates quietly to minimize household disturbances.
Designed for ease of use, this dehumidifier boasts an intuitive LCD for effortless control over power settings, humidity levels, fan speed, timers, sleep mode activation, vent swing adjustment, and screen brightness adjustment with a simple touch. Its compact and lightweight build facilitates easy relocation and placement wherever moisture control is needed. Additionally, it offers various drainage options including a sizable reservoir and a connection hose for continuous drainage, reducing the frequency of emptying. The washable filter efficiently traps dust and airborne particles, ensuring cleaner and healthier indoor air quality.
Specifications
- Capacity: 13 Pints
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 270 Square Feet
- Desiccant Rotor Technology
- Continuous Drain Hose
- Digital Display with Adjustable Settings
Pros
- Highly efficient desiccant rotor technology for effective moisture removal.
- Whisper-quiet operation for minimal disturbance.
- User-friendly LCD for easy control and customization.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability and placement.
Cons
- Limited coverage area of up to 270 square feet.
3. Waykar Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Why it Made the Cut: Efficient Moisture Removal, Dual Duct HVAC System
Waykar’s crawl space dehumidifier is crafted to effectively regulate humidity in expansive areas such as crawl spaces, basements, and spaces spanning up to 6,500 square feet. With the capacity to remove a maximum of 158 pints of moisture daily, it facilitates the maintenance of a comfortable, dry environment while keeping energy expenses in check. Its dual duct HVAC system ensures thorough dehumidification across the entire area.
This heavy-duty dehumidifier boasts user-friendly features including automatic defrost, overload protection, and a separate control panel and sensors, ensuring easy operation and precise management of humidity levels. Its internal coating for corrosion protection enhances durability, safeguarding metal parts from deterioration due to high humidity levels. With a wired control panel and sensor, monitoring and adjusting humidity levels is straightforward, even in cramped crawl spaces. The auto-defrost function prevents ice accumulation on evaporative coils, extending the unit’s lifespan and making it suitable for colder climates.
Specifications
- Capacity: 158 Pints
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 6,500 Square Feet
- Dual Duct HVAC System
- Automatic Defrost
- Overload Protection
- Independent Control Panel and Sensors
Pros
- High capacity for efficient moisture removal in large spaces.
- Dual duct HVAC system ensures comprehensive dehumidification.
- Advanced features like automatic defrost and overload protection for hassle-free operation.
- Internal corrosion protection coating enhances durability and longevity.
- Compared to others, a 6-year warranty makes users more confident toward buying this product.
Cons
- Requires ample space for installation.
4. BASEAIRE CRAWL SPACE Dehumidifier
Why it Made the Cut: Energy Star Certified, Compact & Portable Design
The BaseAire dehumidifier is a trustworthy and effective solution for controlling moisture levels in both commercial and residential areas. With a capacity of 70 pints and Energy Star certification, it efficiently removes excess moisture from spaces of up to 1000 square feet, preventing issues like dampness, mold, and mildew. Its small and portable design makes it adaptable for various spaces, including crawl spaces and basements, ensuring a dry and comfortable environment wherever it’s placed.
Engineered for convenience, this dehumidifier includes a built-in pump and hose for effortless drainage, eliminating the need for manual water tray emptying. Its auto-defrost function ensures optimal performance even in colder climates, extending its functionality to chilly environments. Additionally, GLGR (Great Lakes Great Rivers) technology enhances energy efficiency, reducing both energy consumption and environmental impact, leading to savings on utility bills. It comes with a comprehensive 5-year warranty and expert technical support.
Specifications
- Capacity: 70 Pints
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 1000 Square Feet
- Built-in Pump & Hose
- Auto Defrost
- Energy Star Certified
- GLGR Technology
Pros
- Energy Star certified for efficient operation and reduced energy consumption.
- Compact and portable design for versatile placement and easy transportation.
- Built-in pump and hose for convenient drainage without manual intervention.
- Auto defrost feature ensures optimal performance in low temperatures.
Cons
- Hose length may be limited for certain installation scenarios.
5. Aprilaire Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Why it Made the Cut: Commercial-Grade Quality, Energy Star Certified Efficiency
AprilAire emerges as a top choice for controlling humidity in large spaces like homes or workplaces, making it an ideal crawl space dehumidifier. With a capacity to remove 80 pints of moisture daily and cover areas up to 4,400 square feet, it’s perfect for basements, crawl spaces, or entire buildings. Endorsed by Energy Star, it operates efficiently, cutting down on energy usage and costs.
Packed with convenient features such as continuous drainage, customizable humidity control, automated defrosting, and protection against overheating, the AprilAire E080 Pro ensures easy management of moisture levels, instilling confidence in users. Its digital interface allows for simple monitoring and adjustment of settings, while the auto-shutdown feature prevents water overflow and potential damage. Additionally, its washable filter traps airborne particles effectively, promoting the circulation of clean and healthy air.
Specifications
- Capacity: 80 Pints
- Floor Area Coverage: Up to 4,400 Square Feet
- Energy Star Certified
- Continuous Draining
- Adjustable Humidity Control
- Automatic Defrost
- Automatic Moisture Removal
- Overheat Protection
- Washable Filter
Pros
- Commercial-grade quality construction ensures durability and longevity.
- Energy Star certified for efficient operation and reduced energy costs.
- Suitable for whole-house dehumidification in large residential or commercial spaces.
- Advanced features like continuous draining and automatic defrost for hassle-free operation.
Cons
- Requires professional installation for optimal performance.
Key Features to Look for Crawl Space Dehumidifiers
When selecting a dehumidifier for your home or business crawl space, it’s crucial to take into account specific important characteristics. Having a grasp of these attributes will enable you to make an informed choice and pick a dehumidifier that meets your requirements.
1. Moisture Removal Capacity
Typically, this is quantified using units such as pints per day (PPD) or gallons per day (GPD). When deciding on the appropriate dehumidifier capacity for your crawl space, take into account its dimensions and level of humidity. Larger areas or those with elevated humidity levels will necessitate dehumidifiers with higher moisture extraction capacities.
2. Size and Coverage Area
The size of the dehumidifier and its coverage area are also important considerations. It’s crucial to select a dehumidifier that fits the size of your crawl space appropriately. Also, evaluate the dehumidifier’s coverage capacity to ensure it can efficiently extract moisture from the entire area.
3. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is crucial, especially for those planning to run the dehumidifier non-stop. It’s best to choose models that have Energy Star certification, indicating they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Selecting energy-efficient dehumidifiers helps reduce energy costs and ensures effective moisture removal from your crawl space.
4. Automatic Defrost Function
In areas with cold weather or during winter, frost gathering on a dehumidifier’s coils can hinder its performance. It’s recommended to opt for a dehumidifier that has an automatic defrost feature. This function helps prevent frost buildup, ensuring continuous operation even in chilly environments.
5. Continuous Draining Option
Choosing a dehumidifier with a continuous draining feature simplifies upkeep by removing the need for manual emptying of the water tank. This option allows for direct drainage into a nearby floor drain or sump pump, making operation more convenient.
6. Durability and Warranty
It’s crucial to evaluate the longevity of the dehumidifier and consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Give preference to models made from high-quality materials known for their durability. Additionally, choose units with a longer warranty period to ensure confidence and protection against potential issues.
Crawl Space Dehumidifiers – FAQs
Ans: Yes, many crawl space dehumidifiers are versatile and can be used in basements, garages, or other areas where moisture is a concern.
Ans: It depends on the humidity level in your crawl space. In general, running it continuously or intermittently to maintain a consistent humidity level is recommended.
Ans: Energy consumption varies depending on the model and usage, but many modern dehumidifiers are designed to be energy-efficient.
Ans: Most crawl space dehumidifiers can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet. However, ensure that the outlet is grounded for safety.
Ans: The ideal humidity level for a crawl space is typically between 30% and 50%. Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and adjust the dehumidifier accordingly.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal dehumidifier for a crawl space requires careful consideration of key factors such as moisture extraction capability, size, energy efficiency, automatic defrost function, options for continuous drainage, longevity, and warranty coverage. Make sure you prioritize these factors discussed above to get the right dehumidifier that effectively controls moisture. Investing wisely in a suitable crawl space dehumidifier not only protects the property from moisture issues but also enhances overall comfort and well-being. To help you, we give you a round-up of the top recommendations.
- The ALORAIR Crawl Space Dehumidifier offers an excellent solution for eliminating moisture in crawl spaces, basements, and commercial areas. With a capacity to extract up to 120 pints of moisture daily, it operates efficiently, saving energy. Equipped with an automatic defrost feature and corrosion-resistant design, it guarantees durable performance. Its contemporary appearance and a 5-year warranty further enhance its appeal, making it the ideal option for controlling humidity levels effectively.
- The Waykar Crawl Space Dehumidifier excels in eliminating moisture, boasting exceptional power and effectiveness in various environments such as crawl spaces, basements, and large commercial spaces. Equipped with functions like auto-defrost and corrosion resistance, along with a wire-connectable control panel, it ensures precise humidity control and longevity. Backed by a 5-year warranty, it stands as a reliable option for maintaining dry environments.
