Damp basements are a common problem for homeowners. Because they are underground, they are usually colder than the rest of the house. Without the right ventilation the cool, moist air gets trapped inside which leads to excessive humidity in the area. This makes your basement susceptible to mold and mildew, not to mention a musty basement smell.
If basement dampness is a problem for you, a good dehumidifier can make all the difference. The best dehumidifier for a basement application is one that can handle the size of your space, the levels of humidity, and the ambient temperature in your location.
Once you have these three factors down, the choice will depend on your preferences and portability needs. To learn more about dehumidifiers and which one is best for your basement, I’ve listed below my top seven picks and the most important features for your consideration.
Note: Several of the basement dehumidifier recommendations below are portable models that can also be used in other rooms of your house. However, if your basement is extremely damp throughout the year, make sure to consider installing a permanent basement dehumidifier or a continuous dehumidifier in your basement.
Basement Dehumidifiers Comparison Table
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It’s worth knowing that, without proper action, excessive humidity can cause serious harm to your health. It can also damage your belongings and even the very structure of your home (depending on construction methods and other factors).
If you notice dampness in your basement getting out of hand, a dehumidifier can help reduce the moisture and keep the humidity at an optimum level. Plus, it can benefit not just your basement but also for other parts of your house. Take a look below for a summary of the best basement dehumidifiers and their specifications.
Top 7 Best Basement Dehumidifiers
1. Best Overall: hOmeLabs 50 pint Dehumidifier (over 50,000 ratings!)
First place in our list of basement dehumidifiers goes to the hOmeLabs 50-pint dehumidifier. This top-rated product offers most any feature you would need in a dehumidifier for your basement. It extracts up to 50 pints of moisture from the air in very wet spaces or in large rooms 3000 to 4500 square feet in size. For me, it’s important that you get the best value out of your purchase—and you get exactly that with the hOmeLabs. It’s typically cheaper than most other top dehumidifiers, and it’s Energy Star certified, so you can be sure that you’re not sacrificing your monthly bills for a high performance device.
Operating this unit is made easy with its auto humidistat and intelligent control panel. It lets you set a target humidity level and maintain this for your desired period. You can choose from Comfort, Turbo, and Continuous modes with Timer settings of 0.5 hour increments up to 10 hours, then at 1 hour increments up to 24 hours. Turbo mode increases fan speed from Normal Air at 165 cubic feet per minute (CFM) to High Air at 188 CFM for maximum moisture removal and odor reduction. At this rate of airflow, noise levels shouldn’t be an issue as well. Auto defrost feature kicks in when the temperature drops as low as 41°F.
To prevent spills, the device shuts off automatically once the 1.8 gallon tank is nearly full. You will then need to empty it manually. Of course, not everyone has the time to sit in their basement and constantly check the water level. You can attach a standard garden hose into the designated outlet at the back of the unit to enable gravity drainage functionality. The hose is not included in your purchase.
The unit comes with a washable filter. The sleek and stylish look of this dehumidifier won’t stick out in your modern home. Built with wheels and handles, it can be dragged across the house with ease. However, it is important to take note of the size of your basement. Placing a large dehumidifier in a smaller room may cause too much heat. If you like this model, you can choose from the more compact units by the same brand. They offer pretty much the same functionality.
Overall, the efficiency and reliability of this hOmeLabs dehumidifier greatly outweigh any drawback. For its standard price, you can get the most high-performing and power efficient option.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Large coverage area
- Excellent dehumidification performance
- Built-in humidistat
- Intelligent control panel for customizable settings
- Continuous drain option
Cons
- Has to purchase hose separately
- Not suitable for small spaces under 3000 sq ft
2. Runner up: Frigidaire 50-pint Dehumidifier
Frigidaire is a well-known name in home appliances. This 50-pint dehumidifier is the strongest contender for our top pick. The hOmeLabs model ultimately won me over for its cheaper price and higher user ratings. Frigidaire’s dehumidifier stands out for its exceptional performance even in temperatures as low as 41°F. This model extracts moisture up to 50 pints per day up to 4500 square feet. It is also Energy Star rated for optimum energy efficiency and savings.
This unit has custom control and timer that allows you to set your preferred humidity level for a specific time. You can choose from three fan speeds: Low at 167 CFM, Med at 194 CFM, and High at 229 CFM. The noise level is highest at 51 decibels, which is considerably quiet for its performance. It also comes with an easy-to-access washable mesh filter and an indicator that lets you know when it’s time to clean it. Auto shut-off feature automatically turns off your device when the 16.9-pint container is nearly full. The full tank alert tells you when you need to drain the water. This task is made easier using the front loading bucket with handle and splash guard.
For Continuous Drain mode, just attach a standard garden hose into the drain outlet. Frigidaire’s SpaceWise design includes caster wheels and side handles to make dehumidifying your rooms a breeze. What I really like about Frigidaire is it’s designed to work in lower temperatures without the auto defrost functionality present in most dehumidifiers. If your basement often drops to temperatures in the low 40s, this might be the wisest choice for you.
Pros
- Works well in low temperatures
- Energy Star certified
- Custom humidity control
- SpaceWise design
- Continuous drain option
Cons
- Below average durability
- Higher price
3. Best Basement Dehumidifier with Pump: TaoTronics 50-pint Dehumidifier
Another outstanding 50-pint dehumidifier in this list is this model by TaoTronics. It is perfect for large rooms between 3000 and 4500 square feet in size. It is also Energy Star rated to help reduce your energy usage and lower your bills.
You can put it on preset mode to maintain humidity at your desired level or operate on continuous mode to dehumidify continuously. With a built-in humidity and temperature sensor, it intelligently tracks and maintains the relative humidity within optimum levels at 45% to 55% based on the ambient temperature.
You have three options for drainage. First is by manual emptying of the 6-liter tank. You can check the water level through the gauge or wait for the full tank indicator. Auto shut-off feature is also present. Your second option is by attaching a drain hose to the outlet port for continuous drainage via gravity. The hose is not included with the unit.
At a slightly higher retail price than our top pick, it already comes with an internal pump. Use the auto pump drain hose and you can rest easy knowing your dehumidifier works continuously even when you’re away. Just press the “Pump” button to push the water out into the sink or window.
This unit comes with all the features you may be looking for in a dehumidifier, plus the convenience of a built-in pump. Some critical reviews mention that it is not as durable as the other top products. It can also get very loud and annoying, though this may not be a big deal for basement use. If a built-in condensate pump is what you’re looking for, then TaoTronics may be your best choice.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Large coverage area
- Smart dehumidification
- Built-in pump
Cons
- High noise levels
- Below average durability
4. Best Budget Dehumidifier: Keystone 50 pint Dehumidifier
This full-featured Keystone dehumidifier earned its place as the best dehumidifier on a budget among this list as it offers nearly the same performance at the lowest price. It filters out up to 50 pints of moisture per day from 1000 to 3000 square feet.
The Keystone has a 0.8 gallon water tank with a transparent water level indicator to let you know when it’s full. It also comes with a removable, easy-cleaning dust filter. Being Energy Star rated, this unit helps you save the environment as well as your wallet.
In Normal mode, you can set your ideal humidity anywhere from 35-85% on the LCD panel. It cycles on and off to maintain your desired humidity level. For heavily damp basements, Turbo mode increases the fan speed to remove moisture more quickly. Turn on Continuous mode to let it run its 24-hour cycle regardless of the current humidity level.
This model also comes with common features we like such as the bucket full alert, clean filter alert, auto shut-off, auto restart, and auto defrost. The tank can hold up to 6 liters of water. Continuous draining is possible but you will need a low-level drain in your basement and a separate garden hose as it is not included in the unit. Moving from one room to another is not a problem since it is built with four caster wheels.
As some users noted, problems may arise when emptying the bucket. One thing I do not like is the quality of the control panel and digital display. It’s outdated and definitely looks like that of a budget dehumidifier. The unit is also considerably loud for its capacity. All things considered, Keystone is one of the best deals you can get.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Medium to large coverage area
- Continuous draining option
Cons
- High noise level
- Low quality display
5. Best Dehumidifier For Small Basements: Inofia 30-pint Dehumidifier
This 30-pint dehumidifier from Inofia is ideal for damp basements up to 1,500 square feet, as well as attics, garages, kitchens, bathrooms or laundry rooms. With a built-in humidistat, you can set a target humidity between 30% and 80% in the increment of 5%. It will automatically stop when your desired humidity level is reached and automatically restart when the humidity rises again.
You can choose between two fan speeds to maximize moisture removal. At 112 CFM air power, it operates at a peak noise level of 46 decibels, which is a lot quieter than most units. Most of the features we like are also present in this small dehumidifier. It has the full tank alert, auto shut-off, auto restart and auto defrost functions. The water reservoir can hold up to 4 pints. You can attach the 6.56-ft drain hose provided to allow continuous draining via gravity.
Small, portable, and quiet, you can bring this dehumidifier anywhere in your house. It is not as power efficient as the rest of our picks, but for its size and capacity, it will not be that heavy on your wallet.
Pros
- Small and portable
- Smart humidity control
- Low noise levels
- Continuous draining option
Cons
- Small capacity
- Low energy efficiency
6. Best Dehumidifier for Wet Basement: AlorAir Sentinel HDi90
Basements, especially if unfinished, can suffer from water leakage over time. If left untreated, severe moisture can damage the structure and foundation of your house. For this, you need a dehumidifier that is built to handle the most extreme conditions. The AlorAir Sentinel HDi90 is an ideal choice for this. It can pump out up to 198 pints of water at saturation, from an area of 2600 square feet. Being Energy Star rated, it is one of the most energy efficient dehumidifiers for this job.
It features the Hot Gas Valve defrosting system for quick and efficient defrosting even at temperatures as low as 36°F. This ensures that the unit works efficiently and continuously during colder seasons without having to stop periodically to defrost. It also comes with a heavy duty condensate pump for a hassle-free drainage solution. AlorAir’s advanced technology features the rare earth alloy tube evaporator that protects the coils from corrosion and prevents freon leakage. It is backed with a 5-year warranty.
Another feature that makes the Sentinel HDi90 an ideal choice for basements and crawl spaces is the optional remote control and monitoring function. You may purchase the remote control separately.
For a maximum airflow of 210 CFM, the corresponding noise level at 58 decibels can be considered high. Since it is built for heavy use, you can expect a higher price for this unit. Overall, with the high-end specifications and standard price, it is the best choice for water damaged basements.
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Highest capacity basement dehumidifier
- With built-in pump
- Works in low temperatures
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- High noise levels at 58 decibels
- Higher price
7. Best Portable Dehumidifier: Ivation 13-Pint Small-Area Desiccant Dehumidifier
Last but not least in our list of basement dehumidifiers, is this unique, portable desiccant dehumidifier by Ivation. Unlike the compressor types, this desiccant removes 13 pints of moisture in a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. It works quietly and efficiently even at temperatures as low as 33°F and as high as 104°F. The desiccant technology ensures a power efficient performance anywhere and anytime you need in a space up to 270 square feet.
This small device has an LCD display with touch buttons for easy control. You can adjust the humidity level from 35% to 85% in increments of 5%, or run it continuously. Once powered, the unit’s smart sensors will maintain set humidity and conserve energy. The auto stop function prevents damage by automatically shutting off the unit during threat of tilt or water overflow. Auto restart saves your preferred settings in the event of a power interruption.
This smart dehumidifier also features Sleep mode with low fan speed and dim screen. The timer lets you schedule operation duration and shut off between 1 and 12 hours. If you hang your laundry in the basement, you can also change the fan speed and adjust movement of the air vent to help clothes dry faster. It comes with a washable air filter and a 3.8-pint tank with transparent level indicator and built-in handle. You may connect the included drain hose for optional continuous drainage. This may be too small for a regular basement, but if you need a powerful dehumidifier you can easily bring anywhere, you can’t go wrong with this 13-pint desiccant unit.
Pros
- Quiet desiccant operation
- Works in a wide range of temperatures
- Small and portable
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Small capacity and coverage
How to Choose a Basement Dehumidifier
The best dehumidifier for the basement differs from one house to another. To save your time and money in the long run, consider the following specifications before making a purchase.
Capacity
This is the maximum amount of moisture that your dehumidifier can remove from the air in 24 hours. This is measured in pints per day or PPD. If your basement is extremely damp, even though small in size, you may need a device with a more powerful dehumidification performance. For a standard size basement with average humidity of 60-80%, a 50-pint model may be more than enough. If you do not have the time to check the water tank and manually drain it, you may choose a dehumidifier with a larger reservoir. You may also opt for continuous draining via gravity or get a dehumidifier with a built-in pump.
Coverage
The area of your basement plays a huge role in how efficient your dehumidifier will be. Standard 30- to 50-pint units have coverage areas between 1000 to 3000 square feet in size. The models we featured can reach up to 4500 square feet. Portable models can cover anywhere from 150 to 250 square feet. Depending on the area, height, and orientation of your basement, there is a dehumidifier that’s just right for you.
Drainage
You have three options for drainage. The first is through a water reservoir. Water is collected in the built-in tank for manual emptying. Some models come with a huge capacity of up to 16 pints. For a 50-pint unit, this means you have to empty the tank at least twice a day, depending on the dampness of your basement. I’d prefer to use the tank on regular days, but if I need to be away for a longer period, a drain hose will be more convenient.
All units listed above have the gravity drainage functionality. This allows you to continuously drain the moisture collected into a nearby sink or floor drain so you won’t need to check the water level every few hours. Just attach the appropriate hose onto the outlet, place the device above a low-level drain, and let gravity do the work for you.
The third option is through a built-in condensate pump. With this type of drainage, there is no need to rely on gravity. The pump will draw the water out instead. The drain hose may be positioned vertically up to a certain height and into a sink or window, or connected to your sump pump. A possible disadvantage to this is the drains might get frozen during really cold seasons. In this case, manual draining might be better.
Auto humidistat
Built-in sensors make it extra convenient to keep track of the temperature and relative humidity in your basement. Most dehumidifiers have this feature and more. Your dehumidifier will shut off automatically until optimum humidity is reached, thus reducing your energy consumption. Get a dehumidifier that gives you accurate real-time readouts. Without a humidistat, you may want to purchase a separate hygrometer.
Low temperature setting
Most modern dehumidifiers have the auto defrost function to prevent frost buildup inside the machine when the temperature reaches near freezing point. The unit defrosts automatically to melt the ice, and starts back up again. The standard dehumidifier can continue to operate at temperatures as low as 41F. Some are specially designed to run at even colder conditions.
Energy efficiency
An average 50-pint compressor type dehumidifier consumes at least 500 Watts, while the smaller 30-pint model needs about 300 Watts of energy. Mini portable units can go as low as 25 Watts. If you need a dehumidifier for 24/7 use, then calculate the possible cost of your electricity bills. Look for the Energy Star label to make sure you’re getting an energy efficient basement dehumidifier. You can find the energy efficiency information in the manual or on the unit itself.
Portability
To save on costs, look for a dehumidifier you can use in different parts of your house. For easy movement, you want a unit as small and compact as you can get. Most dehumidifiers are built with wheels and a handle for added portability. If your basement humidity issues aren’t that severe, a mini dehumidifier may be enough.
Noise level
Any machine of high capacity is bound to produce some noise. The large compressors that most standard home dehumidifiers use can be really loud and annoying. If you frequently use your basement or want a whole-home dehumidifier, look for a model that will not cause any disturbance to your home living, especially when you’re working or sleeping. The average size dehumidifiers produce anywhere from 48 to 56 decibels.
Other Features
All models we listed include features like auto shut-off and auto-restart for your convenience. You will also find it useful to have indicators for when the tank is full or when you need to wash the filter. Also consider the different fan speeds and operation modes that each model offers.
How Do Dehumidifiers Work?
Dehumidifiers use two main methods of collecting moisture from the air. The most common type of dehumidifier you can see in a house is the compressor type.
A compressor dehumidifier draws humid air from the room with a fan and passes it through refrigerant coils which collect excess moisture. The resulting water is then dumped into the tank or released through the drain hose or pump. The air is reheated to room temperature via a warm coil and released back into the room, which helps maintain the ambient temperature. This type of dehumidifier generally works best in warm climates at least 65F. Frost may build up in colder conditions, which can damage the machine.
The second type is the desiccant dehumidifier. Instead of pulling in the air itself, a desiccant works like a sponge to absorb moisture from the air. Since desiccant dehumidifiers use refrigerant coils, they remain efficient in temperatures much lower than a compressor type can handle. Without big, loud compressors, it is generally quieter and more compact. It is also easier to clean and maintain. The one downside is it’s not suitable for spaces larger than 500 square feet. For warmer climates and larger areas, a compressor dehumidifier may be best.
Do you need a dehumidifier for your basement?
The basement is naturally colder than the rest of your house since it is in the lowest location and cool air tends to sink. Without proper circulation in the room, the warmer air gets trapped in the middle and moisture accumulates. When moist air comes into contact with a colder surface, like your basement walls and floors, condensation occurs. For more discussion on this, check out our article here: Where to Place a Dehumidifier In a Basement
High humidity may also be caused by poor ventilation. Make sure that the air can circulate properly. The simplest solution is to keep a window open or install a fan. For more severe moisture issues, getting a dehumidifier is the answer. A dehumidifier reduces dampness in the room and maintains a healthy level of humidity. It can also help eliminate some of the common allergens such as mold, mildew and dust mites.
Check to see if your basement is showing early symptoms of excess moisture. Some common signs are the following:
- water stains on ceilings and walls
- walls feel wet to the touch
- peeling or flaking of paint or wallpaper
- a damp, “heavy” feeling in the air
- mold or mildew growth in furnitures or wall corners
- a musty or moldy smell
- condensation on windows or metallic surfaces in the room
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to invest in a good dehumidifier for your basement.
What Size Dehumidifier Do You Need For Your Basement?
When talking about size, it can pertain to the physical dimensions, the tank capacity, or the maximum amount of moisture the dehumidifier can extract from the air in 24 hours. Choosing the size of the basement dehumidifier you need depends on two main factors. One is the physical dimensions of your space. Naturally, a bigger basement needs a larger capacity than a small basement given a similar level of dampness.
That considered, another factor to weigh in is the typical amount of moisture trapped in your basement. For a smaller space with average dampness, a 30-pint model may be enough. For severely damp, large basements, a standard 50-pint may be best. For extremely wet basements with visible water damages in need of professional repairs, look into high capacity, heavy duty models specifically built for this purpose.
For more information, you may consult this sizing chart from Sylvane:
Benefits of Using Basement Dehumidifiers
Using a dehumidifier will not only benefit your basement but also the rest of your house. Reduced dampness lowers the risk of mold and mildew growth in your space. This protects your furniture and house structure from rapid, premature deterioration. Your walls and windows are especially susceptible to damages brought by an excessively humid environment.
A dehumidifier also helps improve the air quality in your home by removing mold spores, dust mites, and other common allergens from the air. This reduces the risk of allergies, sinus infections, and other respiratory conditions. Operating a dehumidifier also lessens the load on your air conditioner, thereby helping it work more efficiently.
Investing in the best basement dehumidifier ultimately helps you save money by minimizing house maintenance repairs and reducing possible health hazards caused by a damp environment. Choosing to install your dehumidifier in the basement instead of the ground level is also best for minimal noise output.
FAQ
What humidity should a basement dehumidifier be set?
Moisture-induced problems typically arise when the relative humidity reaches 60% or higher. Ideally, indoor humidity must be kept within 40-50%.
How long will my basement dehumidifier last?
It depends on the manufacturer and model, but the warranty period should give you some idea on the quality of the product. With proper care and maintenance, a good dehumidifier can last up to five years.
How much does a dehumidifier cost?
As of this writing, a single 50-pint unit costs anywhere from $200 to $500. All units we featured fall between this range, except for the commercial-grade AlorAir crawl space dehumidifier.
Can I leave my dehumidifier running?
Yes, but it’s not necessary for most conditions. Unless you’re working on water damage repairs, run your dehumidifier only until the target humidity is achieved.
Conclusion
High humidity and dampness can be truly unpleasant in the basement, crawl space, and other parts of your house. It can affect your health and the structural integrity of your house. A dehumidifier is a good investment for a healthier home environment.
The best dehumidifier for your basement depends primarily on its size and moisture level. Remember the important considerations you must take into account before you make a purchase. Review and compare the features of each unit and do not be afraid to ask questions so that you don’t regret your decision in the future.
