Dehumidifiers come in a wide variety of sizes and a slew of features. However, these modern dehumidifiers can be very expensive, so you endure hot and humid weather. The good news is, there are many cheap dehumidifiers you can find that will not give up on you after only a few days. If you need something compact and portable, then a low-cost Peltier or thermoelectric dehumidifier may be good for you. This type is particularly popular for its whisper-quiet operation and inexpensive price.
If you need a larger dehumidifier, there are also compressor-based dehumidifiers that are highly effective yet affordable. Before you buy any of these dehumidifiers, it’s important to consider the size of your space and the levels of humidity, or your dehumidifier may not work at all. We listed below the six best cheap dehumidifiers you can get for less than $200 today. Then, we have a buying guide to help you look for the right dehumidifier for you.
Top 6 Best Cheap Dehumidifiers
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Pro Breeze Thermo-Electric Dehumidifier
When talking about small and cheap dehumidifiers, Pro Breeze is among the top choices for many homeowners. This mini dehumidifier removes up to 18 ounces (500 ml) of excess moisture per day with a tank capacity of 52 ounces (1500 ml). This means you only have to empty the water tank at least every two days up to a week. This model is perfect for any small space up to 250 square feet.
Pro Breeze uses Peltier technology or the thermoelectric cooling effect to extract moisture from the air. This guarantees low consumption and whisper-quiet operation. Unlike the more popular compressor-based dehumidifiers, a thermoelectric unit simply consists of a Peltier module, heat sinks, and a small fan, along with a tank to collect water.
The simple design of this Pro Breeze dehumidifier comes with a single button on the top part for the on and off switch. It is also equipped with the standard automatic shut-off feature to stop operation when the water tank is almost full, along with a “FULL” indicator light to alert you when this happens. Emptying the tank is also very convenient. Just slide the tank along the front of the dehumidifier, pull the plug out, then pour the water into the sink or drain, or collect the water in a bigger container if you want to use it elsewhere.
A few things to note about Peltier dehumidifiers like Pro Breeze is that the optimal operating temperature is from 59°F to 86°F and they will not work below 41°F. Additionally, since they are small in capacity, you will not notice a significant change in humidity if used in rooms larger than the recommended area.
Pros
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use one-button control
• Low energy consumption
• Quiet operation
Cons
• Small capacity and coverage
• Very limited operating temperature
Seavon Thermo-Electric Dehumidifier
Another brand offering a range of cheap and small dehumidifiers is Seavon. One of the best Seavon mid-sized Peltier dehumidifiers is this unit with a 16 oz (450ml) daily capacity and a 35 oz (1000ml) water tank. It is recommended for small rooms within 2600 cubic feet or 285 square feet, including bathrooms, laundry rooms, and bedrooms.
It uses the same Peltier technology for quiet and energy efficient dehumidification of small, enclosed spaces. This Seavon dehumidifier has two working modes: high or low speed, which runs at 30 to 39 decibels. An additional feature that we like is the seven-color LED light. The colors alternate or you can lock one color or turn off the lights completely. These features make this unit ideal for a bedroom or a child’s room.
Like any other thermoelectric dehumidifier, this Seavon unit is built with a simple design and easy-to-use controls. The exhaust can be found on the top along with two buttons for the power switch and to control the fan speed and LED light. When the water tank is full, the unit will shut off automatically and the red light will flash.
Since this model is on the larger side of “small” dehumidifiers, it has a pocket handle on the back for portability. To ensure clean air, another extra feature is the removable and washable dust filter behind the air intake on the back of the unit. Make sure to clean it every few weeks to maintain efficiency.
PROS
• Compact and portable
• Easy to use controls
• Low energy consumption
• Seven-color night light
• With air filter
CONS
• Small capacity and coverage
• Limited operating temperature
Tenergy Sorbi Dehumidifier with Air Purifier
You can save even more with a device that combines the functions of two in a single machine. While a regular dehumidifier does a good job to reduce moisture and odors, an additional air purifier also eliminates dust, mold spores, pollen, and other airborne allergens. The Tenergy Sorbi Dehumidifier with Air Purifier can remove up to 750ml of moisture from the air in a single day and hold one liter in its large water tank. This small and affordable dehumidifier can cover rooms up to 200 square feet.
The Tenergy Sorbi features a front air inlet with a removable True HEPA filter which captures 99.97% of particulates (with a CADR of 22 CFM). To dehumidify the air, it also utilizes the Peltier technology. The unit is designed with a top exhaust with soft-touch buttons to control the dehumidifier and air purifier functions. You can also choose between two fan speeds: Low and High, with noise levels ranging from 35 to 42 decibels. It has LED lights to indicate the power status and fan speed, as well as a full tank alert. The auto shut off feature will shut off the unit automatically when the water tank is full. Pull the tank from the back of the unit, remove the plug, and pour out the water.
It is recommended to replace the HEPA filter every six months. The filter can be easily accessed by pulling out from behind the air inlet. You can buy ahead the three-pack replacement filters to save on operating costs. The dehumidifier comes with a one-year warranty and an extended two-year coverage if you register your unit with Tenergy Life. Although, just like any Peltier dehumidifier, it has a limited operating temperature range. It also has a higher consumption than similar-sized units without an air purifier.
PROS
• Dehumidifier and air purifier in one
• Slightly higher capacity
• With True HEPA filter
• Easy to use controls
• Quiet operation
CONS
• Small coverage
• Higher power consumption
Waykar PD160B Dehumidifier
If you’re looking for affordable dehumidifiers for larger spaces in your home, Waykar is a good choice for its portability and ease of use. The PD160B dehumidifier can remove a maximum of 34 pints of moisture per day. It’s ideal for any room up to 2,000 square feet, such as a small basement, laundry room, bathroom, and even a bedroom due to its low noise levels. Waykar is more compact than the standard dehumidifier in the market today, although it’s important to note that it’s not certified by Energy Star.
Unlike in Peltier models, you can set the humidity from 30% to 80% and the unit will work to maintain your desired level. If you set the humidity to 30%, the unit will run continuously. The control panel features four buttons including the power, humidity setting, timer, and adjustable fan speeds. The Timer allows you to program the unit to turn on or off automatically after one to 24 hours. The digital display will show the current humidity, the remaining time, as well as indicator lights to determine the working status.
This Waykar unit has a small 0.66 gallon or 2.5 L water tank with a transparent water level window. When the tank is full, the unit will shut off automatically and the “Full” indicator light will illuminate. If you want your dehumidifier to continuously drain water, simply attach the included drain hose to the outlet on the back of the unit to enable automatic draining. Make sure that the unit is higher than the drain and the hose is directed downwards with no kinks or knots to allow gravity to pull the water down.
Like most compressor dehumidifiers, this Waykar unit operates in temperatures between 41°F and 95°F (5°C and 35°C). In low temperatures, it will go into auto defrost mode to melt the ice inside the machine. Additionally, this unit comes with a reusable and washable filter to protect the internal components. It has an extendable top handle and four smooth-gliding wheels for easy movement. The air outlet on top can be adjusted to direct the airflow. It’s a great, affordable alternative to high-end dehumidifiers, but note that this Waykar unit is not the best in energy efficiency.
Pros
• Light and portable
• Quick moisture removal
• Quiet operation
• Continuous draining with hose included
Cons
• Small tank
• No Energy Star certification
Vremi VRM01036N9N
Vremi’s flagship Moisture Maniac dehumidifier series is available in 22-pint, 35-pint, and 50-pint units, all of which are sold as reasonable prices. The standard price for the 35-pint unit is around the $200 range and it’s Energy Star certified like other Vremi dehumidifiers so you can further save money on operating costs.
Vremi features a sleek and modern design that comes with built-in wheels and two side handles for easy movement. This 35-pint dehumidifier can cover any damp space from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, such as a small to medium basement, garage, living room, or bathroom. Although small enough, you may not want to use it in your bedroom since it’s not the quietest.
The 35-pint has the same dimensions as the 50-pint model, but a smaller water tank that can hold 1.6 gallons. This is around average for a 35-pint, since most 30-pint or 35-pint units from other brands have the same dimensions as their 50-pint counterpart. During hot and humid days, you might need to empty the tank a few times per day. You can also use the automatic drainage function to avoid the need to drain water manually by connecting a normal garden hose (purchased separately) to the outlet port and directing it to a floor drain.
Most people report that this dehumidifier is relatively quiet even though it’s a compressor unit with side exhaust. If you aren’t using it in an office or bedroom, the noise should not be a big deal. So, if you need an efficient dehumidifier for extremely humid spaces, then this 35-pint Vremi is a good, affordable choice.
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
Keystone KSTAD504D
The Keystone KSTAD504D, previously KSTAD70C 70-pint dehumidifier, is rated to remove 50 pints of moisture per day under the current DOE testing standards. It is ideal for spaces within 3,000 to 4,500 square feet. 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%).
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 electronic controls. Keystone features a basic two-digit display that shows the humidity or the number of hours while you set the timer. The small digital display shows the current humidity and the preferred humidity level from 35% to 85% RH. It has the basic normal and Turbo fan speed, Continuous mode, and 24-hour on/off timer.
It 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. But the downside is you will have to empty the tank more frequently, at least two to three times on a hot and humid day. If you want your dehumidifier to run continuously without having to empty the tank, you can use the gravity drainage option. Although, the drawback is Keystone requires an adapter and screws to attach the hose. You can connect a standard 0.5-inch hose (not included) to the outlet port.
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.
One common complaint is the loud operation of Keystone dehumidifiers. This is common in units with side exhaust. Keystone claims to make a maximum of 55 decibels, but actual operation may produce higher noise levels. Overall, this Energy Star dehumidifier is good for your budget and performs well in average conditions. Unsurprisingly, the affordable price comes with some drawbacks. If you can live with these drawbacks, then Keystone is a good choice for you.
Pros
• Cheapest 50-pint dehumidifier
• Energy Star rated
• Light and portable
• Easy to use controls
Cons
• Not the best quality
• Small tank capacity
Buying Guide for Cheap Dehumidifier
Cheap dehumidifiers can work just as well as most high-end units, but you must still manage your expectations to avoid disappointments. Take the following factors into mind to find the best cheap dehumidifier for your specific needs.
Moisture Removal Capacity
Most low-cost dehumidifiers are small in moisture removal capacity. However, this doesn’t mean they aren’t as effective and efficient. The amount of moisture a dehumidifier can remove depends on a lot of factors, including the type of dehumidifier you use. Peltier or thermoelectric units can have a daily capacity that typically ranges from 9 oz to 18 oz or 25 oz for larger models. Compressor-based dehumidifiers are rated according to DOE standards, where current units range from 20 to 50 pints. Usually, a larger space will require a larger capacity, but other factors can affect the total moisture removal capacity of your dehumidifier in actual use.
Tank Capacity
Dehumidifiers collect water in an internal tank by default. When the tank is full, you have to empty it to resume operation. In general, smaller dehumidifiers have smaller tanks, but they can vary from brand to brand. Peltier units have tanks large enough to hold up to a few days’ worth of dehumidification, but compressor dehumidifiers usually need to be emptied at least once up to a few times in 24 hours.
Coverage
Small dehumidifiers can usually cover around 100 to 200 square feet, while the performance decline in larger spaces. Manufacturers indicate the recommended area each unit can operate on, either in square feet or cubic feet. Measure the length, width, and height of the space to ensure that your dehumidifier can cover all corners. For large bedrooms with high humidity levels, you may need more than one unit or one large unit for the whole space. Compressor-based dehumidifier models can cover up to 3,000 square feet or 4,500 square feet for the largest models. The coverage area recommended is for spaces with tight insulation, so make sure to close all windows and doors to maximize coverage.
Energy Efficiency
You’re looking for a cheap dehumidifier to save money, so it only makes sense to consider its energy efficiency to be sure that you’ll still save money when it’s running. Mini Peltier units consume a small amount of power, normally around 20 to 30 Watts, so you’ll hardly notice them as long as they’re used appropriately. Meanwhile, a large capacity unit can consume up to 700 Watts or more, depending on the capacity. Look for the Energy Star to make sure the unit has passed energy efficiency requirements.
Design and Ease of Use
Cheaper dehumidifiers are typically made of lower quality materials and have higher risks of malfunctioning after a shorter period. However, in the case of Peltier units, the components used are already cheap. They have no other moving parts except the small fan which can easily be replaced for a very low cost. They are also very easy to use since the design usually includes just a simple control button.
Compressor dehumidifiers, on the other hand, are more complicated. Lower quality materials may indicate a less durable construction, but there are still many good-quality dehumidifiers available at a low cost. Lower price means fewer features, so the more affordable dehumidifiers are simple to use with only the most basic and necessary functions.
Conclusion
No matter the price you buy, always make sure to use the right dehumidifier for the room. While you may have bought it cheap, your dehumidifier may cost more when running if you don’t use it and maintain it properly. Make sure you use the correct size dehumidifier for the room and keep a few inches of distance from other objects to promote airflow. Clean the unit regularly to ensure efficiency and proper functioning for a long time. Do not let standing water stay in the tank for days. Empty and clean the tank as soon as you can and remember to wash and dry the filter at least every few weeks or replace it when necessary. The best dehumidifiers for your home don’t need to be expensive. A cheap dehumidifier can be just as effective if you know how to use it.
