A Humidifier is not something that we go and randomly buy. We should know how it functions and the important factors that should be considered. It becomes even more important for those who are suffering from breathing or respiratory issues. This buying guide will help you buy the best dehumidifier for your home.
Table of Contents
1. Types of Dehumidifiers:
Depending on the amount of moisture it can remove in 24 hours, the dehumidifiers are categorized into three types.
-
Large-Capacity
The large-capacity models have the ability to remove around 28-33 liters of moisture in a day. They can handle a wide range of humidity levels with almost no or little noise. You can even run the device on low or quiet settings. If you want to buy a dehumidifier for large or wet spaces, you must buy the large-capacity models. Even though they are a bit costly, it is totally worth it.
-
Medium-Capacity
You can use these dehumidifiers in large or mid-sized spaces that are very damp. They claim to remove around 23 liters of moisture in a day. Even though there is not much difference between large-sized and medium-sized models, you will eventually pay a little less.
-
Small-Capacity
Small-sized dehumidifiers can effectively remove 15 liters of moisture per day and are perfect for small and damp rooms.
2. Dehumidifier Capacity:
Capacity is the most important factor that you must check for before buying a dehumidifier. Buying an incorrect model might not remove the moisture effectively from the room. The following table will help you in choosing the right mode land will help you understand the water extraction capacity (in liters) per 24 hours depending on the dampness level of the area.
| Dampness Level in the Area | 1000 sqft | 1500 sqft | 2000 sqft | 3000 sqft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderately Damp (50 – 60% Humidity) | 7 Litres | 8.5 Litres | 10.8 Litres | 13 Litres |
| Damp (60 – 70% Humidity) | 9 Litres | 10 Litres | 12.7 Litres | 15 Litres |
| Extremely Wet (70 – 80% Humidity) | 10 Litres | 12 Litres | 15 Litres | 17 Litres |
| Wet (80 -100% Humidity) | 11 Litres | 14 Litres | 17 Litres | 19 Litres |
3. Humidity Control Range:
HCR i.e. Humidity Control Range indicates the capability of a dehumidifier to control the humidity levels. HCR is measured in percentage and an ideal dehumidifier should be able to control at least 50% humidity in the air.
4. Collection Tank or Bucket:
The dehumidifiers have a collection tank that is used to hold the water that is pulled from the air. While extracting the moisture, the bucket starts filling and it needs to be emptied manually. To prevent it from overflowing, most of the dehumidifiers come with an automatic shut-off feature that turns the unit off automatically as the collection tank reaches its maximum capacity. It is better to check for models that have front-loading buckets. It is easier to empty the bucket in such cases. Also, the buckets should have comfortable handles so that you can remove the bucket properly, while it is full.
5. Hose Connection:
In damp or wet rooms, the dehumidifier collects a large amount of water. Thus, you will have to empty the bucket quite frequently. To help you with this situation, most units come with a direct drain feature. This helps in continuing the operation without even emptying the bucket. However, it requires a floor-level water drain. If you don’t have access to the floor-level drain, you can buy a unit with an internal pump feature. This can pump water vertically up to a sink and save you from the effort of emptying the bucket regularly.
6. Air Filter:
Many dehumidifier units come with an air filter. These units help in removing the contaminants as well as moisture from the air. They improve the quality of the air by removing allergens, mold, and mildew from the air. An air filter also helps in eliminating the musty smell that you generally get in wet or damp environments. It also helps in keeping the dust particles away and prevents them from entering the unit as they can affect its performance. Always check for a dehumidifier that comes with a washable air filter so that you can clean it on a regular basis.
7. Humidistat:
A humidistat is used to measure the humidity levels in the air and so that you can adjust the dehumidifier accordingly. It also lets you decide the desired humidity level and once the unit reaches this desired level, the machine shuts off automatically. When the humidity levels begin to climb up again, the humidistat alerts the unit and the dehumidifier starts working again. Because of this, the dehumidifier operates only when it is required. It also helps in increasing the lifespan of the machine.
8. Auto-Defrost:
In temperatures below 65° F, frost starts forming on the coils of the dehumidifier. An automatic defrost function helps in turning off the compressor until the unit defrosts completely to prevent further damage. If you are planning to run the unit at lower temperatures, you should buy a dehumidifier with an auto-defrost feature.
9. Fan Speed Settings:
Most of the dehumidifiers feature at least 2 fan speed settings. You can select the speed according to your requirements. The lower speed makes lesser noise while operating when compared to the higher speed setting. But, the unit draws out moisture slowly when it is set to lower fan speed.
10. Auto-Restart Feature:
If you face regular power-cuts in your area, we suggest you to buy a dehumidifier with an auto-restart feature. It allows you to restart the device automatically once the power is back. The best part about it is you will not have to change the settings again as when the unit restarts, it starts functioning with the previous settings only.
11. Energy Efficiency:
The energy efficiency of a humidifier is represented using stars. The units that are energy efficiency approved work efficiently when compared to the models with a no-energy star. If you live in areas where the humidity level is very high, you must select an energy rated model as it will function effectively without consuming much electricity. This way, you can save a lot of money on electricity bills.
12. Indicators:
Many dehumidifiers feature an LED indicator so that it is easier for the users to operate the device. The lights on the indicator blink as soon as an operation is carried out. Some units also indicate when the tank is full.
13. Clean-Filter Alert:
You need to clean the air filter present in the dehumidifier regularly. If it is dirty, the efficiency of the unit drops down automatically. Most models feature an indicator that reminds you to clean the filter.
14. Whisper Quiet Technology:
The new whisper-quiet technology in a dehumidifier helps you have a peaceful sleep. It reduces the amount of noise (decibels-dB) produced while the unit is working. It is a very important feature, especially if you are keeping it in your baby’s or parent’s room.
15. Timer:
If you want the device to run for a specific time, this timer feature can be very helpful. You can simply set the timer and the dehumidifier will turn off automatically as soon as the time is up.
16. Portability:
If you plan to move the device from one place to another frequently, you should look for a dehumidifier that is compact and light in weight. You can also look for models that have rolling casters or carrying handles so that it is easy to move it.
17. Low-Temperature Setting:
The models that feature low-temperature settings allow you to use the dehumidifier in even lower temperatures. It can even work below 41 degrees Fahrenheit or 5 degree Celsius.
18. Warranty:
You should always check for the warranty of the humidifier offered by the manufacturer. Generally, a good-quality humidifier lasts for several years with some minor or occasional malfunctions. However, most of the brands offer a warranty of 1 year. Some good brands even offer an extended warranty of 2 years on the humidifier.