Excess moisture and humidity can cause all sorts of problems in your home. Besides basic discomfort, excess humidity can exacerbate allergic reactions, and in some cases even result in permanent damage to your house structure and furniture. This is because high humidity lowers the quality of your indoor air, making your home a breeding ground for allergens such as mold, dust mites, mildew, and bacteria.
In my opinion, the best value 50-pint dehumidifier right now is made by hOmeLabs (model HME020031N). It has a modern, compact style and can cover a large space with excellent energy efficiency.
The recommended range of indoor humidity levels for human comfort and safety is from 30% to 55% RH. While there are multiple ways you can achieve this, the most effective solution to maintain the right humidity in an excessively humid home is by using a dehumidifier. While dehumidifiers come in a wide range of sizes, the most commonly used moveable household units are 50-pint models.
Finding the best dehumidifier for your home helps prevent problems caused by excess moisture and mold. Aside from the pint capacity for moisture removal, you will need to consider the water tank, drainage capability, and energy efficiency of the unit before you make a purchase. Below you’ll find our top seven picks and why they stand out among other 50-pint units today.
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Review of the Best 50-Pint Dehumidifiers
Best Overall: Frigidaire FFAP5033W1
First on our list of 50-pint dehumidifiers is this unit from Frigidaire, a well-known brand of quality home appliances. Keep your home mold and moisture-free throughout the seasons with this powerful dehumidifier. Besides its reliable performance, its stylish design stands out from the cheap-looking plastic found in most other brands. Although there are no exact values for the recommended coverage area, it can handle most rooms from medium to large size. Like most Frigidaire models, it is Energy Star certified to ensure less energy waste.
This Frigidaire dehumidifier forgoes complicated operation with simple controls, a digital display, and LED indicator lights. It features easy-to-use automatic humidity control so you can select your desired humidity level from 35% to 85% RH and let the unit maintain your setting. With the built-in timer, you can also delay start or stop operation after one to 24 hours. For maximum moisture and odor removal, this unit has an option for three fan speeds: Low at 167 CFM, Med at 194 CFM, and High at 229 CFM. Designed with a top exhaust, this powerful dehumidifier is also quiet, at an average noise level from 49 to 51 decibels.
Frigidaire has a 16.9-pint (2 gallons) water bucket, bigger than the average 14-pint capacity for the 50-pint. It has the standard auto shutoff feature that automatically stops operation when the container is almost full, as well as a bucket full alert to notify you when this happens. Manual draining is more convenient with the front-loading bucket with handle and splash guard. For those rooms with no floor drain, you can use the built-in condensate pump to automatically drain the water. You can direct the hose up into a sink or out a window or anywhere suitable up to 15 feet vertically. In contrast to other brands, Frigidaire’s built-in pumps are considerably more durable.
Frigidaire’s SpaceWise design includes rolling casters and a top handle for added portability. The unit also comes with a washable mesh filter and an indicator light that will remind you to check the filter. Frigidaire dehumidifiers stand out for their exceptional performance even when the temperature drops as low as 41°F. Unlike other compressor dehumidifiers, they work continuously in lower temperatures without an auto defrost mode that turns off the unit periodically to melt ice.
One downside is that Frigidaire comes with the usual one-year warranty. Frigidaire is also at the high end in terms of cost, but you can be sure of its quality and reliability.
Pros
• High Energy efficiency
• Custom humidity control
• Quick and efficient moisture removal
• SpaceWise portable design
• Works well in low temperatures
• With built-in pump
CONS
• Higher price
• 1-year warranty
Best Value: hOmeLabs HME020031N
One of Frigidaire’s strongest competitors in the market is the hOmeLabs dehumidifier. This unit offers almost anything you need in a dehumidifier but at a more affordable price. This high-capacity unit removes up to 50 pints of moisture in large spaces from 3,000 to 4,500 square feet. It is also Energy Star rated so you can be sure of its energy efficiency along with high performance.
The hOmeLabs unit also features an adjustable digital humidistat that allows you to select the humidity level from 35% to 90% RH and maintains this setting without supervision. You can set the timer to automatically turn off or turn on the unit in 0.5-hour increments up to 10 hours, then in one-hour increments up to 24 hours. On the top control panel, you can choose from Comfort, Turbo, and Continuous modes. Comfort mode sets the humidity level automatically based on the ambient temperature. In Continuous mode, the dehumidifier will run on its max setting for a full 24-hour cycle or until the timer is up. Meanwhile, Turbo mode increases the fan speed from 165 CFM to 188 CFM airflow.
To prevent water overflow, the unit will shut off automatically when the 1.8-gallon tank is full. For continuous drainage, attach a standard garden hose (not included) into the drain outlet port at the back of the unit. Built with four wheels and a recessed handle on each side, the unit can be moved from room to room with ease. This dehumidifier operates in temperatures as low as 41°F, and the auto defrost feature shuts off the unit when frost forms.
Overall, hOmeLabs offers all the necessary features and functionality for a great price value. On the downside, it is made of light and flimsy plastic which could break easily with repeated use. However, the efficiency and affordability of the hOmeLabs dehumidifier greatly outweigh the disadvantages. hOmeLabs also comes with a longer warranty of two years.
PROS
• Energy Star certified
• High moisture removal rate
• Custom humidity control
• Continuous draining option
• Budget price
• 2-year warranty
CONS
• Lower quality materials
• Not suitable for small spaces under 3,000 sq ft
Also Great for Large Rooms: Vremi VRM010184N
Vremi’s flagship “Moisture Maniac” 50-pint dehumidifier is a great choice for large spaces 3,000 to 4,500 square feet area. It also has an Energy Star certification like the rest of our picks, along with standard features like the adjustable humidistat, 24-hour timer, and multiple operation modes you can choose on the control panel. It actually has a similar design as hOmeLabs. They have almost the exact same buttons on the control panel, as well as the side exhaust and recessed handles.
Vremi features Comfort, Continuous, and Turbo modes that work similarly to hOmeLabs. The standard auto shut-off, auto restart, and auto defrost functions are also present. This 50-pint dehumidifier comes with an average-sized 1.8-gallon water tank. When operating continuously at maximum capacity, you may have to empty the tank up to four times a day. If you don’t want to manually drain water, you can use the automatic drainage functionality. Attach a standard garden hose (not included) to the outlet port and direct the other end to a low-level drain or sink.
Similar to hOmeLabs, the Vremi dehumidifier is relatively quiet considering they both have a side exhaust. If you’re not using it in a bedroom or office, the noise will be almost unnoticeable. So, if you need an efficient dehumidifier for large spaces, then this 50-pint Vremi is a good alternative to our top two choices. It also comes with convenient built-in wheels and two side handles for easy movement. This high-capacity dehumidifier is great for a damp basement, garage, attic, or large living room.
PROS
• Energy Star certified
• Large coverage area
• High moisture removal rate
• Easy-to-use controls
• Continuous draining option
CONS
• Has to purchase drain hose separately
• Not suitable for small spaces
Smart 50-pint Dehumidifier: Honeywell TP70AWKN
Another great option to keep your home mold-free is the Honeywell dehumidifier. This unit effectively removes up to 50 pints of moisture in large rooms up to 4,000 square feet. With an Energy Star rating, it can help save on your monthly bills without compromising on performance. Like most modern dehumidifiers, Honeywell features a digital humidistat to automatically control the humidity from 30% to 90% RH using soft-touch buttons and a digital display. One of the best things about Honeywell is the mirage display on the front of the unit. This makes monitoring humidity levels a lot easier from across the room.
This 50-pint dehumidifier comes with a 14-pint tank and the standard tank full alert and auto-shutoff function. The removable water tank is easy to empty with a comfort-grip handle and anti-spill splash guards. The unit comes with a drain cap attachment and a 3.28 ft (1 meter) drain hose. If you lose either one, you can simply use a standard garden hose.
Honeywell dehumidifiers also include a 24-hour timer for Auto Off or Auto On, and Sleep mode for a quiet operation. The unit operates from 41°F to 90°F with automatic defrost (but no defrost light indicator). It also comes with a durable washable air filter and a corresponding Filter Clean alert to remind you to check the filter. One problem with Honeywell is the lack of text labels on the control panel. It may take a while to get used to the control buttons and indicator lights, especially if you’re not that knowledgeable on dehumidifiers.
Additionally, this model enables Wi-Fi connection so you can control operation on your smartphone. It is also compatible with Amazon Alexa for voice commands. Lastly, Honeywell has an extendable top handle, power cord storage, and four wheels to allow mobility. Most dehumidifiers (even Frigidaire) come with an industry-standard one-year warranty, but Honeywell guarantees an additional two- to five-year warranty on internal components including labor.
PROS
• Energy Star certified
• Custom humidity control
• Continuous drain with hose
• Mirage display
• 5-year warranty
CONS
• No defrost light
• Unclear control buttons
Easy to Use: Ivation IVADH50PW
Ivation brand offers a wide range of dehumidifiers of different types and sizes. This Energy Star unit is rated to remove up to 50 pints per day in areas up to 4,500 square feet. It’s incredibly easy to use with a built-in humidistat and control buttons on the top control panel. The control panel doesn’t have any text labels for the buttons and indicator lights, but they are easily understood by most homeowners.
Select the optimal humidity from 30% to 90% and the dehumidifier will work to maintain this level. You can also set the timer to enable auto-start or stop after 0.5 to 24 hours. You’ll find the fan speed button with lights to indicate whether the unit is in Low or High speed. This Ivation dehumidifier particularly stands out for the added temperature sensor and display that not a lot of dehumidifiers have today. You have the option to view the temperature in degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius. This is also where the timer is shown when you are setting.
This 50-pint dehumidifier is as compact and portable as any standard 50-pint dehumidifier but inside it includes a large 2.25-gallon tank. When the tank is full, the unit will shut off automatically and the Full Tank indicator will light up until you remove and empty the tank. Alternatively, this model comes with a drain hose you can use to direct the water to a low-level drain. One common issue that users have is the length of the hose. However, it will be difficult to replace it with a standard garden hose due to the outlet size.
The unit operates efficiently between 41°F and 100°F with an auto-defrost mode to prevent damages from ice buildup. The unit also comes with a washable filter you can access by removing the tank and pulling it down from behind the front intake grille. One common issue with Ivation dehumidifiers is the noise output. This 50-pint unit, in particular, can be louder than most other 50-pint dehumidifiers.
PROS
• Energy Star certified
• High moisture removal rate
• Custom humidity control
• Large water tank
• Continuous draining with hose included
• Temperature display
CONS
• Average quality and durability
• Loud operation
Best Design: LG PuriCare UD501KOG5
LG is another popular brand of high-quality home appliances. Compared to the rest of our top picks, this LG model is newer to the market and it definitely shows in its modern and stylish design. At 26 inches, it stands taller than most 50-pint dehumidifiers and features an elegant black casing made from steel. Perhaps the only other model that can rival the LG in terms of build quality is the top-rated Frigidaire. With its Energy Star rating, this LG product is guaranteed to save you money and energy in the long run.
The LG has a highly accurate built-in humidistat where you can set your preferred humidity level. The LED display shows the current humidity level from 25% to 90%, and the humidity setting from 30% to 85%, both in 5% increments. The unit has no continuous mode but has two fan speeds: Low speed, at 158.9 cubic feet per minute (CFM), and High speed, at 194.2 CFM. You can set a timer from one to 12 hours in one-hour increments. Most other 50-pint dehumidifiers have timers that can be set for up to 24 hours.
One of the best features of the LG is the removable water bucket that is mounted on the side of the unit. It is completely clear and has the capacity to hold 1.7 gallons or 13.3 pints. Although it is on the smaller side, it’s intelligently designed with a splash guard lid and solid handle for convenient and spill-free removal and emptying. You also have an optional gravity drain functionality. Just attach a standard drain hose into the outlet found at the back and place the unit near a suitable drain. One downside is the drainage port requires an adapter to connect to the hose.
The LG dehumidifier is designed with some new and unique features that ensure your safety and protect the device. It has a non-flammable metal frame and an external metal case, as well as heat-resistant glass fiber and silicone wire enclosures. This unit is designed with the Airflow Blockage alarm and a Safety Standby mode that shuts off the unit for one hour after 23 hours of continuous operation to prevent overheating. The pump version (UD501KOJ5) also has an additional ability to connect to your Wi-Fi network through the SmarThinQ app or control operation with voice commands.
LG is on the higher end in terms of price, but for those who trust the brand and have a few dollars to spare, this portable dehumidifier is a great addition to your modern home.
Pros
• Energy Star certified
• Easy-to-use controls
• Automatic humidity control
• Convenient bucket design
• Continuous draining options
• Safety Standby mode
• Low noise levels
Cons
• Small tank capacity
• No continuous mode
• Requires adapter for gravity drainage
Cheapest 50-Pint: Keystone KSTAD504D
The Keystone KSTAD504D is ideal for spaces within 3,000 to 4,500 square feet. In terms of build quality, you can clearly see that Keystone is of a lower value than top-rated dehumidifiers. First, it features a bright white finish that may easily become dirty with use. Another thing most users do not like is the LED display and touch buttons.
Keystone features a basic two-digit display that shows the humidity or the number of hours while you set the timer. You can select the desired humidity level from 35% to 85% in 5% increments and set the dehumidifier to turn on or turn off automatically. Keystone operates from 41°F to 99°F, which is the standard for home dehumidifiers. Like any dehumidifier, it performs well in warmer temperatures (60°F and above) and average humidity levels (50% to 60%).
This unit has a 12.8-pint (1.6-gallon) water tank which is smaller than the average tank capacity of 14 pints (1.8 gallons) for a 50-pint dehumidifier. On the upside, this makes the Keystone lighter and more portable. However, you will have to empty the tank more frequently. The water tank can be removed by sliding it out from the lower front of the unit. It has a handle but no splash guard or lid to prevent spillage when removing the tank or dumping the water. Keystone dehumidifiers give you a continuous draining option. The drawback is Keystone requires an adapter to attach the hose. The unit comes with this adapter and two screws for installation. To use the gravity drainage functionality, attach the adapter to the outlet port and connect a standard 0.5-inch hose (not included).
The air intake is on the front while the exhaust is on the side of the unit. The air filter can be removed from behind the intake grille by simply pulling it up. This is a big plus for Keystone. Other dehumidifiers may require you to remove the tank or intake grille and get under the unit just to access the filter.
Overall, Keystone scores below average in terms of build quality. It’s undeniably an inexpensive appliance with quite an outdated design. If you’re a tech-savvy person then you might not like this about Keystone.
Pros
• Energy Star certified
• Programmable 24-hour timer
• Continuous draining option
• Easy-to-use controls
• Budget price
Cons
• Low-quality display and controls
• Requires adapter for gravity drainage
When to Use a 50-Pint Dehumidifier
The US Department of Energy sets the testing standards to determine dehumidifier pint ratings and energy efficiency. From 2012, dehumidifiers were tested at 80°F and 60% humidity. SAs of early 2020, the DOE has changed the testing conditions to 65°F and 60% humidity, 15° lower than the 2012 standard. This new condition is designed to be a more accurate representation of the dehumidifier’s performance in a basement setting. Because of this new standard, previously 30-pint, 50-pint, and 70-pint rated dehumidifiers are now labeled 20 or 22-pint, 30 or 35-pint, and 50-pint, respectively.
Each model has a coverage area recommended by the manufacturer as a guide. The best pint capacity for your space will depend on its total area and dampness level. For an area within 1,500 sq ft or smaller, a 20-pint unit may be enough in a damp or slightly damp environment. For a 2,000 sq ft area, start with a 30-pint. In spaces 3,000 square feet or larger and areas of the house prone to high humidity, such as a basement or garage, then a 50-pint model is a perfect choice. It’s also useful for whole-home coverage in small apartments.
Benefits of Using a 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Reduces Allergies
Excess humidity promotes an environment susceptible to the growth of mold, mildew, dust mites, and other potentially harmful microorganisms. Touching mold or inhaling mold spores may cause allergic reactions, allergy-induced asthma attacks, and other respiratory conditions. Dust mites also thrive in humid conditions and may trigger allergy symptoms similar to hay fever. These airborne allergens cannot survive when the relative humidity drops to 50 percent or below.
Improves Air Quality
Finding the best dehumidifier can make all the difference in your indoor environment. It removes excess moisture and unpleasant room odors. High humidity levels decrease comfort in your own home. You are also at a higher risk of dehydration in humid conditions. The more humidity in the air the more it becomes difficult to breathe. This is because the air contains high amounts of water vapor and lower oxygen molecules. Using a dehumidifier keeps out excess moisture and unpleasant odors, greatly improving indoor air quality for everyone’s health and comfort.
Saves your Air Conditioner
During extremely humid summers, an air conditioner may not be enough to keep your living and sleeping spaces comfortable throughout the day and night. While an air conditioner can help lower humidity as it cools down the air, excessive moisture will make the job even tougher, equating to larger cooling bills and an uncomfortable home environment.
Preserves Hardwood Floors and Other House Structures
When exposed to dampness for extended periods, mold will start to grow and spread rapidly, eating away your house structure. Dry air lowers the chances of mold and mildew growth, metal rusting, or wood rotting. Moisture itself can weaken the structure of your house. Maintaining the humidity level within optimal range helps prevent rapid destruction caused by condensation, rust, corrosion, or pest infestation, and save money on house repairs.
Features to Consider When Choosing a 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Tank Capacity
Dehumidifiers collect the moisture in an internal tank. Once the tank is full, you will need to remove it from the unit and empty the water manually. For 50-pint units, you may have to do this at least once up to a couple of times a day or a week depending on room conditions and the tank capacity. The average capacity we found for a 50-pint is around 14 pints or 1.75 gallons. Most dehumidifiers also offer optional continuous drainage through a hose (may not be included with the unit).
Coverage Area
You want to use a dehumidifier that can cover the entire room. The efficiency of the dehumidifier will also depend on the amount of space that it has to cover. Obviously, a dehumidifier can accomplish its task more quickly in a smaller area than a larger one with equal humidity levels, but again it depends on the current condition of the room. Standard 50-pint units have recommended coverage areas between 3,000 to 4,500 square feet.
Energy Efficiency
Some dehumidifiers are more efficient than others. The energy efficiency of dehumidifiers is measured in Liters per kilowatt-hour. Look for the Energy Star label to make sure you’re getting an energy-efficient unit per the EPA’s requirements. They are about 20% more energy efficient than a non-Energy Star model. You can find the energy efficiency information in the manual, on the unit itself, or on the Energy Star website.
Portability
The 50-pint is usually the largest dehumidifier from a lot of home appliance brands, making them less compact and light. However, they are still portable enough to move by yourself. If portability is a big factor for you, most dehumidifiers come with handles, caster wheels, and cord storage for easy movement across different rooms.
Noise Level
This is important if you want to use your dehumidifier near your living and sleeping spaces. Noise is subjective, but residential dehumidifiers are considered quiet if they produce around 56 decibels or lower. What some of the quietest dehumidifiers have in common is a top exhaust. Since the fans make a pleasant white noise as opposed to the loud buzzing of compressors, a higher fan speed masks compressor noise well.
Additional Features
Dehumidifiers usually include the standard auto-shutoff feature and indicator lights for easy operation and monitoring. They also feature a built-in humidistat as well as an on/off timer, multiple fan speeds, and different operation modes depending on your needs. Some also allow you to operate the unit from your smartphone or through voice commands. However, more features doesn’t always mean a better dehumidifier. Consider all the functions and whether you’ll have use for them.
Proper Usage and Maintenance of 50-Pint Dehumidifiers
Even the best dehumidifiers have a limited lifespan until natural wear and tear takes over. It’s important to observe proper maintenance to get optimum performance and help your dehumidifier last longer. First, you need to be sure you’re using the correct size for your space.
Once you find the right size dehumidifier, find the best location in the room. Make sure that the air isn’t blocked on its way in and out of the unit. If possible, place the unit in a central location to maximize its coverage. It is recommended to maintain about 12 inches distance from walls, furniture, or any obstruction.
Select the right humidity settings. The ideal indoor humidity range is around 30% to 50% RH. Most compressor dehumidifiers feature an onboard humidistat to automatically adjust the room humidity to your setting. It’s important that you pick the correct settings for the location and application. Turn off the dehumidifier at night unless absolutely needed. This way there’s less noise and you’re also saving energy.
Any appliance needs frequent cleaning to maintain proper functioning and prolong its life. A dehumidifier collects dust, lint, and all sorts of impurities in the air. These may accumulate inside the unit and affect operation. To ensure your health and comfort and keep your dehumidifier in excellent condition, clean the unit at least every few weeks. Use a damp cloth with soapy water to wipe the exterior, then vacuum the inside to remove any remaining dirt.
If you’re using the tank, remember to empty it as soon as possible to avoid letting the water sit inside for too long. Also, don’t forget to rinse it every time you dump the water. Disinfect the tank with mild soap or a vinegar solution every week or two. If you’re using a drain hose, still wash the tank in case water gets inside. Flush the same solution into the hose to disinfect it.
Clean or replace the filter when needed. Dehumidifiers come with at least one filter to catch impurities in the air. Dirt and bacteria may collect in the filter and eventually get in the air. Most filters are easily washable and each dehumidifier has a recommended period in which you need to change out the filters. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on filter cleaning and replacement to be sure.
Conclusion
High humidity can lead to health problems and serious damage to your home when overlooked. It’s essential to maintain healthy humidity levels between 30% and 50% RH throughout your home. If you have severe humidity issues, you must first find the source and remove it. One effective solution to keep the air in your home clean from mold spores and dust mites is by using a dehumidifier. Home dehumidifiers range from 20 to 50 pint in moisture removal capacity. For large rooms that need maximum moisture and odor reduction, we have a list of the best 50-pint dehumidifiers today. You can use our reviews above to pick what’s right for your home or use our buying guide to help you choose your own 50-pint dehumidifier.
