The right dehumidifier can make a huge difference to the comfort of your home environment. But you need to be sure the model you choose is sized for your space.

Energy efficiency is important because it will reduce your operating costs. Look for a dehumidifier that has been tested to Energy Star version 5.0 requirements.
Size

If you live in a humid climate, you should look for a dehumidifier with a high moisture-removal capacity to prevent musty odors, warped wood and other issues that result from excess humidity. To determine what size dehumidifier you need, measure the length and width of the space to find its square footage and then multiply that number by 2.

A 30-pint dehumidifier will remove enough moisture to make a difference in most residential basements. It’s also the size we recommend for areas that feel damp and smell mildly musty occasionally, such as laundry rooms and bedrooms.

Some models feature a hose connection and can automatically drain water so you don’t have to empty them on a regular basis. Others have a collection bucket that you’ll need to empty manually. During our testing, we took note of how easy each dehumidifier was to pull from its box and to carry to the sink or other drain for drainage. We also evaluated how easy it was to clean the collection bucket, air filters and other components of each model.
Power

Dehumidifiers require a certain amount of power to operate. The type of power needed depends on the size and capacity of the unit. Small units typically consume 20 to 70 watts and extract 30 or fewer pints of water daily, suitable for smaller rooms.

Larger dehumidifiers can have a tank that holds one or two gallons of water. Depending on the model, you may need to empty it several times a day. Some models have an indicator that lets you know when the tank is full.

You can also look for a dehumidifier with a low energy factor (EF). This rating indicates how many liters of moisture the appliance can remove per kilowatt-hour of electricity used. For more information, visit the Energy Star website. You can also save on your energy bills with community solar, even without rooftop panels. Let us match you to a local provider.
Noise

Dehumidifiers produce two types of noise – compressor buzz and fan noise. Compressor buzz is unpleasant, while fan noise is more pleasant. The type of noise produced also depends on the unit’s CFM. Dehumidifiers with higher CFM tend to mask compressor noise better than units with lower CFM.

All dehumidifiers intake air and exhaust air – that is, they have to draw in air from the outside through an air intake grille (usually on the back). This also generates noise, but it’s generally a less unpleasant sound than compressor noise.

Smaller capacity dehumidifiers can be very quiet and operate via built-in interfaces that are easy to understand. Some have a bucket that you empty on a regular basis and others offer continuous drainage by fitting a hose to a drain outlet. These models tend to be Energy Star rated and use less power than larger units that have to pump water out continuously. They’re also cheaper than a whole-home dehumidifier, which requires ducting and a permanent installation.
Warranty

A warranty is a key factor to look for in a large dehumidifier. It protects you from mechanical and electrical issues that may arise with the device.

A good warranty is one that covers the product for 12 months. If something goes wrong with the dehumidifier within that time, it should be repaired or replaced free of charge. Be sure to keep proof of purchase and the receipt in case you need to make a claim.

Choosing a large dehumidifier is important because it can help prevent moisture damage to your furniture, paintings, and antiques. It can also keep your home feeling comfortable and healthy. Be sure to choose a model with a built-in pump, a programmable humidistat, and an automatic defrost. You should also consider buying a model that can be controlled via voice commands, an Alexa device, or Google Assistant. This will allow you to easily control the device and save energy by reducing usage.