A Consumer Reports-designed dehumidifier is a great way to reduce moisture levels in your home. A dehumidifier is a good tool if you have a damp basement. The humidity level in a dehumidifier is between 30 to 50 percent. This is the ideal level for those with allergies or asthma. They can also be used to control mildew or mold.
There are many types of dehumidifiers, such as whole-home units, stand-alone models and portable residential ones. They are classified according to their capacity or ability to remove water. Larger units use less energy and are easier to maintain. A large capacity unit often costs less per pint. Consumer Reports says that a dehumidifier of smaller capacity might be more costly and less energy-efficient.
Energy Star certification is a standard for dehumidifiers. It has been in existence for many years. However, there are differences between the requirements in the Energy Star program and the DOE's energy efficiency requirements.
Energy Star program, for instance, requires testing at different temperatures. Energy Star version 5.0 requirements require testing at 60°F and 60% RH. In contrast, the Department of Energy (DOE) requires testing at 80degF and 60% RH. Manufacturers must adjust their recommendations to account for the difference in test conditions.
Consumer Reports tested many dehumidifiers and found impressive results. The best unit could remove 70 pints in less than 24 hours. The unit's programmable humidistat helps you maintain the desired humidity level in your home. A digital display shows the performance of your device.
A majority of dehumidifiers also have a programmable humidistat. An air filter filters out large particles in air. Some models have a pump to move water to the sink. A dehumidifier that has caster wheels makes it much easier to move the unit about the house.
The best dehumidifiers are those that come with a large capacity, such as a 70-pint tank, and are also energy efficient. However, if you don't have a problem with moisture, a smaller dehumidifier might be more efficient. Consider purchasing a dehumidifier that has hose connections for draining the water to a laundry sink or floor drain if you have a moisture problem.
Some of the best consumer reviews dehumidifiers come with some cool features. The unit's auto start feature keeps it running even after it's stopped for a time. Another feature that is notable is the ultra-quiet compressor technology used by dehumidifiers to operate at low dB levels. It's also a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier that has a remote control, as it's easy to forget to shut off the device when you're out of the room.
A dehumidifier's best features are not the only things to be looking for. You also need to consider its energy efficiency and fan speed. The best dehumidifiers have a high CFM fan, which helps pull more air from a larger area. However, noise can be an issue with high CFM fans so you might consider a quieter one.