If you need a dehumidifier for your crawl space, buying and installing one isn’t quite as easy as a typical portable home dehumidifier for your living room. However, they can make a big difference on your home air quality, and in some situations help your house last longer. But it’s important to consider the specific area and level of moisture in your space to make sure your needs are fully covered.
There are other factors you need to take into account, such as the temperature and drainage setup. If you’re in a hurry, I’ll share my top overall picks first, but keep reading if you want to learn more about what I’ve learned from doing a lot of research on this topic.
You might not think of the crawl space as your first priority in house maintenance, but it is just as important as any part of the house. Due to its location near the ground, the crawl space is especially vulnerable to excess moisture and dampness. This kind of environment inhibits the growth of mold and mildew. If not prevented or treated right away, it can even cause serious damage to the structure of your house.
The air from your crawlspace also finds its way upwards to your living area. If you notice a moldy smell or often get a clammy feeling in your home, dampness and humidity in your crawl space could be a big contributor.
A specially designed dehumidifier for crawl spaces can be a great solution for these problems. To learn more about them and which one may be best for your home, take a look at the current best crawl space dehumidifier options below.
Best Dehumidifier for Crawl Space Comparison Table
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Editor's Choice  |
| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
Runner-up  |
| View On Sylvane →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Amazon →Read Our Review |
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| View On Sylvane →Read Our Review |
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| View On Sylvane →Read Our Review |
1. Best Crawlspace Dehumidifier with Pump: AlorAir Sentinel HDi90 Dehumidifier
Capacity: 90 PPD
Coverage: 2,600 sq. ft.
Drainage: Continuous via built-in pump
Dimensions: 17.7” H x 15.2” W x 23.2” D
Weight: 57.2 lbs.
AlorAir offers a range of high efficiency commercial dehumidifiers. One of them is my top choice for a dehumidifier in a crawl space, the AlorAir Sentinel HDi90. SInce you rarely visit your crawl space to monitor operation, energy efficiency is important for me. This affordable and cost-effective crawl space dehumidifier with pump is Energy Star certified with an impressive energy factor of 2.69L/kWh. It has a capacity of 90 PPD on average conditions (80F, 60% RH), and a maximum of 198 PPD at saturation, from a 2,600 square feet area.
The unit features the Hot Gas Valve system for quick and efficient defrosting, allowing it to run at temperatures as low as 36°F. This ensures continuous operation without having to stop periodically to defrost. It also comes with a heavy duty condensate pump that pushes water out continuously. AlorAir uses epoxy-coated coils and a rare earth alloy tube evaporator which protects the unit from corrosion and freon leakage. This high quality device comes with a 5-year warranty.
Another feature that makes the AlorAir Sentinel HDi90 my top choice in crawl space dehumidifiers is the optional remote control. This is great for monitoring conditions in particularly shallow spaces. It uses a MERV-8 filter that can be easily accessed and cleaned. Although considering the maximum airflow of 210 CFM, the unit can be quite loud at 58 decibels. Overall, with its high-end specifications and standard price, it is one of the best choices for crawl space dehumidifiers.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- With built-in humidistat
- Works in low temperatures
- With internal condensate pump
- High capacity for its size
Cons
- High noise levels
2. Runner-up: Santa Fe Compact70 Crawl Space Dehumidifier
With an onboard humidistat, you can easily set your ideal humidity level between 20% and 80% using the adjustable knob. This unit processes air at 150 CFM and operates in temperatures down to 49F. You may run the fan continuously or only when the unit is dehumidifying. To protect the internal components and clean the processed air, it features a pre-filter and a MERV-13 filter. Although not as effective, a MERV-11 filter may also be used as a replacement.
The unit comes with a drain hose for continuous gravity drainage. Unlike the AlorAir Sentinel HDi90, the Santa Fe Compact70 doesn’t have an internal condensate pump. You can, however, purchase the separate condensate pump with a 20-ft drain hose you can position up to 15 feet above the unit. There are also a ducting kit and accessories available if you want to duct multiple rooms or operate outside the controlled space. With these specifications, you can see why this unit comes second to the AlorAir model.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- With built-in humidistat
- High capacity for its size
Cons
- No built-in pump
3. Best Crawl Space Dehumidifier for Small Houses: AlorAir Sentinel HD55 Dehumidifier
Another entry from AlorAir is the small and compact Sentinel HD55. With its Energy Star certification and affordable price, you can be sure of high performance without racking your monthly bills. This compact dehumidifier extracts up to 55 PPD at AHAM conditions, and a maximum of 120 PPD at saturation. With an airflow rate of 130 CFM, it covers up to 1,300 square feet.
It has an onboard humidistat that monitors and maintains humidity in any enclosed space. Set your desired humidity level from 35% to 90% and the unit will work until this is reached. It is also equipped with the HGV defrosting system and operates in temperatures as low as 36F. Once frost is detected on the coils, the unit defrosts to prevent damages. AlorAir uses epoxy-coated coils to protect the internal components against corrosion and freon leakage. The five-year warranty also applies for this model.
You have the option to use a remote control with this unit, which makes it perfect for narrow or hard to reach areas. It also comes with duct flanges for the option to connect it to your existing ducting system. Due to its size and capacity, the Sentinel HD55 is ideal for small and tightly enclosed crawl spaces. One downside is there is no internal condensate pump, which means you need to attach the drain hose provided and rely on gravity for drainage.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Small and compact
- With built-in humidistat
- Most affordable model with its capacity
Cons
- No built-in pump
4. Best 70-pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier: Aprilaire 1820 Pro Dehumidifier
Capacity: 70 PPD
Coverage: 2,800 sq. ft.
Drainage: Continuous via gravity
Dimensions: 12.5” H x 12.5” W x 25” L
Weight: 56 lbs.
The Aprilaire 1820 Pro is one of the best mid-sized dehumidifiers for residential and commercial use. If you want a commercial grade dehumidifier for your crawlspace it’s a solid choice.
It extracts up to 70 pints of moisture per day and processes the air at a rate of 200 CFM. With a coverage area of up to 2,800 square feet, it is great for crawl spaces and whole-home dehumidification.
This 70 pint dehumidifier features a simple, interactive display that is easy to set up and use. For your convenience, the control panel is mounted on the front of the unit. It starts dehumidifying when humidity is above your desired level and shuts off automatically. Like most dehumidifiers of its capacity, the Aprilaire 1820 Crawl Space Dehumidifier drains water continuously via gravity so that you don’t need to check water levels or stop operation. Just attach the included hose to the outlet or place the dehumidifier over a drain and leave it to work.
It is built to last with corrosion-resistant aluminum coils, and a five-year warranty from the manufacturer. For an improved air quality, the unit comes with a filter that needs at least a yearly cleaning or replacement. One downside is it doesn’t come with an internal condensate pump, which limits your drainage options. Some users have also noted that this model gives inaccurate readings. If necessary, you may use a separate hygrometer.
Pros
- High durability
- With built-in humidistat
Cons
- No built-in pump
5. Best for Large Crawl Spaces: Dri-Eaz F413 Revolution LGR Compact Dehumidifier
Capacity: 80 PPD
Coverage: 7,000 sq. ft.
Drainage: Continuous via built-in pump
Dimensions: 17.6” H x 12.5” W x 21.5” L
Weight: 65 lbs.
The Dri-Eaz F413 Revolution is one of the most powerful commercial dehumidifiers with its compact, rugged design. To my knowledge, you’ll rarely need a dehumidifier of this capacity, unless you have serious moisture issues in your crawl space. In that case, I suggest you check if you have any problems with your pipes, drainage, or house construction before installing crawlspace dehumidifiers.
This commercial grade dehumidifier for crawl space applications extracts up to 80 pints a day under AHAM conditions and a maximum of 134 pints or 17 gallons a day at saturation. It has the largest coverage area of 7,000 square feet and an airflow rate of 180 CFM.
The onboard humidistat displays real-time inlet and outlet temperature as well as the relative humidity controls. Simply set a target humidity level and leave the device to work. The Dri-Eaz F413 Revolution is powered by LGR technology for quick and efficient moisture removal. The rugged rotomolded housing can handle tough conditions in temperatures from 33F to 100F. It is guaranteed with a one-year warranty on parts and labor and a six-year warranty on internal components.
For added convenience, the unit includes a 40 ft. (12 m) drain hose that can pump water out vertically at least 20 ft. above. It also comes with a 25 ft. (7.6 m) detachable power cord to easily access the power supply across large spaces. Note that it is more pricey than other models of the same size and capacity. Being a commercial dehumidifier specializing in water restoration, it is most ideal for huge spaces with extreme moisture problems.
Pros
- High quality and durability
- With built-in pump
- Large coverage area
Cons
- Higher price than other models of the same size
6. Best Crawl Space Dehumidifier for Low Temperatures: Ecor Pro DryFan Desiccant Dehumidifier
Capacity: 95 PPD
Coverage: 2,000 sq.ft.
Drainage: N/A
Dimensions: 13.58” H x 13.86” W x 24.82” L
Weight: 45.2 lbs.
The Ecor Pro DryFan line is my favorite desiccant dehumidifier for the crawl space or whole house. I like that they are light and compact and operate in a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -4°F to as high as 104°F. This particular model removes up to 95 pints of moisture per day from an area of 2,000 square feet. It has an airflow rate of 309 CFM.
It uses the four hole system with two separate inlets and outlets for the process air and regeneration air stream. Since the DryFan is a desiccant model, there is no need for draining. You also have the option for ducting in case you want to use it in another room. With its simple, compact design, one person can easily carry and install the unit. The stainless steel interior and exterior can handle harsh conditions and last for a long time.
It self-regulates to maximize energy efficiency at any temperature and humidity level. It also features auto restart in the event of a power interruption. You may connect the Ecor Pro EPHUM220 humidistat for remote operation and control. If you get extremely cold winters in your area, this is a great investment for your crawl space. Although, be reminded that desiccant dehumidifiers come at a higher price than refrigerant models.
Pros
- Light and small compared to other models of its capacity
- Operates in temperatures down to -4F
- High durability
Cons
- No humidistat
- Higher price
How to Find the Best Dehumidifier for Crawl Space
The perfect crawl space dehumidifier for your house depends on many factors. After hours of research, I’ve found that the following specifications are most important in order to get the best out of your investment.
Size
One of the first things you must consider before buying any appliance is its size. This is specially important in narrow or low clearance areas like a crawl space. Manufacturers design compact, horizontal crawl space dehumidifiers for this purpose. Measure the dimensions of your space and make sure the dehumidifier you choose can fit perfectly with enough room to move around.
Capacity
Another consideration you must make is the amount of moisture present in the environment. Crawl space dehumidifiers have a moisture removal capacity of at least 50 pints up to 200 pints per day. To know which pint capacity is best, one thing you can do is measure the humidity level with a hygrometer. An easier way would be to look for signs of dampness in the area. The damper the space, the higher capacity you need. For best results, choose the next bigger capacity. This helps lessen the work for your dehumidifier and make it last longer.
Coverage Area
It is essential to get a dehumidifier that can cover as much space as you have. The wattage you need in order to run your dehumidifier depends on the product’s energy efficiency and the amount of space that it has to cover. The airflow, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), is the rate in which the unit can process the surrounding air. Typically, a higher airflow rate means a larger coverage area, but it can vary greatly between different brands and models. If you already know the dimensions of your crawl space, it is easier to compare and choose which dehumidifier you need.
Drainage
Most any commercial dehumidifier has the option for continuous draining via gravity. Simply attach the hose onto the outlet and let gravity do the work for you. Some heavy duty dehumidifiers for crawl space also come with a condensate pump. This allows for automatic draining in any orientation. Just observe the height limit indicated if you need to position the hose vertically.
Low Temperature Operation
Low-lying areas in your home can get extremely cold during the winter season. Even the best crawl space dehumidifiers may have some trouble working at low temperatures. Make sure you look for a unit that can continue operation when temperatures fall to 41°F or below. A commercial dehumidifier is typically built to handle tougher conditions than the standard home dehumidifier. Desiccant dehumidifiers are specially known for their ability to work in lower temperatures down to -4°F.
Humidistat
A built-in humidistat keeps track of the temperature and humidity level in the area. Set a target level and the unit will shut off automatically once this is reached, thus reducing your energy consumption. When humidity rises, it will start dehumidifying again. This can be very convenient or even necessary if you don’t have the time to check on the unit regularly.
Build Quality
The best crawl space dehumidifiers are built with steel or heavy-duty plastic, instead of the lightweight plastic present in standard home units. This makes them more durable and likely to survive in harsh conditions. Look for a model which offers reliable warranty and service in case the need for repairs or other issues arise. I think we can both agree that a longer warranty period indicates better quality and durability of the product.
Extra Features
Some extra features like the auto restart can be really convenient in a crawl space dehumidifier. In the event of a power interruption, the auto restart function returns the dehumidifier to operation at your desired settings once power is restored. Some dehumidifiers like the AlorAir units also give you an option for remote control and monitoring. This can be extra useful in narrow spaces.
Why you need a crawl space dehumidifier
The crawl space is especially prone to damp or moist due to leaks or other water damage. Excess moisture and dampness can cause mold infestation, health issues, and structural damage to your house. Since most homeowners rarely check up on their crawl spaces, you may not notice that you have humidity problems until it’s too late. Watch out for some of these signs that you need a dehumidifier in your crawl space.
A strong, musty odor is a common indication of mold or mildew growth. If you cannot find the source inside your house, it is most likely in your crawl space. Air rises from the crawl space since it is the lowest point of your house. The air carries mold spores, dust, and other airborne particles from the crawl space. This decreases the quality of air in your living area and may cause allergies and discomfort.
If you have water pipes, HVAC system, or other ductwork installed in the crawl space, moisture can accumulate and form condensation in the area. Leaky pipes and other water damage issues can add even more humidity to the space. You may notice moisture on your windows or damp spots on the floor.
Creaking, sagging, or sloping floors may be a sign of structural damage caused by severe dampness in the crawl space. Excess moisture can lead to rotten wood and termite infestation. If you notice cracks in drywall and gaps between the floor and baseboard, this may also be signs of an underlying humidity problem.
Before looking for a solution, I highly recommend that you find the root of the problem first and take the appropriate measures. While using a standard consumer grade dehumidifier in the living area helps, most crawl spaces require dehumidifiers specifically built for this purpose.
Benefits of using a crawl space dehumidifier
Using a crawl space dehumidifier benefits your entire home and family. Lowering the humidity decreases moisture and improves air quality. This removes mold spores, dust, and other common allergens in the air to prevent allergies and other respiratory issues.
Reduced dampness also lowers the risk of mold and mildew growth. This preserves the structural integrity of your house. Drywalls and floors are especially susceptible to damages due to high humidity. Lower humidity also protects your furniture and other belongings from rapid destruction caused by mold or pests.
Installing a dehumidifier in the crawl space gives you more control over the humidity level and temperature in your home. High humidity can bring discomfort, causing a muggy or sticky feeling. Instead of turning up your air conditioner, you can use a dehumidifier to maintain a comfortable humidity level, thereby saving more energy.
Investing in a good dehumidifier for your crawl space ultimately helps save money by minimizing the risk of structural damage and reducing possible health hazards caused by a damp environment.
Proper Usage, Maintenance and Storage of Crawlspace Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers for crawl spaces usually require little maintenance, but it causes no harm to take extra care for your appliance. The easiest way is to simply follow the manual. The manufacturer gives you all the specifications and instructions for installing, using, and maintaining the unit. Warranty information is also included.
For optimum results, find the best place to install your dehumidifier. Keep it a few inches away from any blockage. Make sure the space is as tightly enclosed as you can make it. The more outside air is getting into the area, the harder the unit has to work. Most dehumidifiers work best at room temperature of 65°F, unless it’s specifically designed for colder conditions.
Dehumidifiers purify the air through filtration. This protects the machine and its components from dust, bacteria, and other allergens present in the air. For every model there is a recommended period after which the filter must be cleaned or replaced. More information and detailed instructions are found in the manual.
When the temperature drops to a nearly freezing level, check the coils for frost. Operating your dehumidifier in cool conditions may sometimes cause ice to build up inside the machine. This can compromise the unit’s performance and even cause permanent damage. Some models feature auto defrost. Desiccant models, in particular, can handle temperatures down to subzero levels.
When your dehumidifier is not in use, place it in a designated storage until it is needed. First, turn it off and allow it to dry completely. Ensure that the power cord and drain hose are wrapped neatly. Store the unit in a clean dry space.
FAQ
Do I need a dehumidifier for my crawl space?
Yes. A dehumidifier prevents mold growth and improves the quality of indoor air. A poorly maintained crawl space can lead to serious structural damage and health issues.
Where should I place the dehumidifier in my crawl space?
Your dehumidifier must be placed where there are no obstacles for the inlet and outlet valves. There should also be enough space between the bottom of the unit and the ground.
Can I use a regular dehumidifier in my crawl space?
It is highly recommended to use a dehumidifier specifically designed for crawl spaces. Not only do they have the right physical dimensions for it, they can also handle tougher conditions present in your crawl space (moisture, temperature swings, more potential for dirt and insects).
Should I keep my crawl space vents open or closed?
Your crawl space vents must be kept closed to prevent moisture and dust from settling into the area. Seal off your vents or install foam insulation to keep outdoor air from entering.
Conclusion
Keeping your crawl space dry and properly insulated is important in maintaining a healthy home. Not only will this protect your property from mold or pest infestation but also ensure that you are breathing clean air. Remove standing water and fix any leaks to reduce the dampness. If you still have moisture problems, it is time to invest in a crawl space dehumidifier.
A good dehumidifier can go a long way in preserving the structure of your house and improving the air quality. Consider the specifications of each unit when you purchase and choose the one that best meets your needs.
