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8 Best Whole House Dehumidifiers

Last updated April 7, 2022

Danny as been writing about air purifiers for 10+ years. He is a major fan of home technology, which makes him the perfect person to test and evaluate products for HouseFresh

If you’ve owned a dehumidifier before, you may know the difficulty of dragging it around the house from room to room to eradicate the build-up of moisture. It’s time to invest in a unit that can take care of the whole house and give your legs some much-needed rest.

Whether it’s the steaming shower in your bathroom, the leaky pipe in your basement, or even the simmering pots and pans in the kitchen, the excess moisture caused by everyday household activities can result in a damp disaster. 

When water vapor builds up in the air, not only will your home be a hot and humid environment, but as the air comes into contact with cool surfaces, it leaves behind condensation. If left unchecked, this moisture can wreak havoc on furnishings, cause harmful mold spores, and even affect the structural integrity of the building. 

Fortunately, excess moisture in the air can be controlled, helping put a stop to the adverse effects on your health and home. The most effective way of controlling moisture is to invest in a whole house dehumidifier. By drawing vast amounts of humid air through its fan, the dehumidifier then cools the air causing it to condense and leave condensation inside the machine, resulting in cool, dry air to be recirculated into the home.

As each of you will live in varying-sized homes, we’ve included a range of dehumidifiers suitable for different-sized spaces. For those of you in smaller houses or apartments, a large coverage area portable dehumidifier such as this option from Keystone will work wonders without breaking the bank. While larger homes with inbuilt HVAC systems will benefit from inbuilt dehumidifiers, such as the Aprilaire 1850Z.

By utilizing Consumer Reports and analyzing product reviews through Fakespot, we were able to determine the best dehumidifiers that work effectively throughout your whole home, verified by the genuine users who use them day in, day out.

Dehumidifier
Best for Smaller Homes
Best for Larger Homes
Waykar 130 Pints Commercial Dehumidifier with Drain Hose and Washable Filter for Space up to 6000 Sq. Ft - Ideal for Large Basements, Industrial or Commercial Spaces, Flood Restoration and Job Sites
Keystone 50 Pint Portable Dehumidifier, Moisture Absorber for Bathroom, Basement, Garage, and Large Spaces up to 3,000 Sq.Ft. with Continuous Drain Option, Wheels, and Auto-Shutoff
Aprilaire - 1850Z 1850 Pro Dehumidifier, 95 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier for Crawl Spaces, Basements, Whole Homes up to 5,200 sq. ft.
Pros
Includes a filter to catch and remove dust that enters the unit
The filter is removable
Exceptionally quiet
Cons
The user is unable to adjust or turn off the bright display light
Does produce a noticeable amount of noise
Doesn't have wheels
Room Size Suitability
6000 sq ft
3000 sq ft
5200 sq ft
Features
Intelligent humidity control | child lock
Programmable timer | low-level drain | electronic controls
No water reservoir | corrosion-resistant aluminum coils
Weight
67.2 lbs
36.3 lbs
75 lbs
Price
$379.16
$334.66
Price not available
Our #1 Choice
Waykar 130 Pints Commercial Dehumidifier with Drain Hose and Washable Filter for Space up to 6000 Sq. Ft - Ideal for Large Basements, Industrial or Commercial Spaces, Flood Restoration and Job Sites
Pros
Includes a filter to catch and remove dust that enters the unit
Cons
The user is unable to adjust or turn off the bright display light
Room Size Suitability
6000 sq ft
Features
Intelligent humidity control | child lock
Weight
67.2 lbs
More information
Price
$379.16
Best for Smaller Homes
Keystone 50 Pint Portable Dehumidifier, Moisture Absorber for Bathroom, Basement, Garage, and Large Spaces up to 3,000 Sq.Ft. with Continuous Drain Option, Wheels, and Auto-Shutoff
Pros
The filter is removable
Cons
Does produce a noticeable amount of noise
Room Size Suitability
3000 sq ft
Features
Programmable timer | low-level drain | electronic controls
Weight
36.3 lbs
More information
Price
$334.66
Best for Larger Homes
Aprilaire - 1850Z 1850 Pro Dehumidifier, 95 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier for Crawl Spaces, Basements, Whole Homes up to 5,200 sq. ft.
Pros
Exceptionally quiet
Cons
Doesn't have wheels
Room Size Suitability
5200 sq ft
Features
No water reservoir | corrosion-resistant aluminum coils
Weight
75 lbs
More information
Price
Price not available

Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. Waykar 130 Pints Dehumidifier

If you have high humidity in your home, then the highly efficient, commercial-grade dehumidifier from Waykar is here to help you, handling areas up to 6,000 square feet, and humidity levels approaching 85%. It can remove 130 pints of moisture per day using its energy-efficient compressor and condenser.

Designed with functionality in mind, this dehumidifier has four caster wheels plus two conveniently positioned handles for easy movement. The top of the unit features a digital display that shows the relative humidity, fan speed, power indicator, and timer icon. Below the display are the control buttons comprising the on/off button, timer button, fan speed button, and up and down arrow buttons to increase or decrease the desired humidity setting.

The Waykar Commercial Dehumidifier also features auto humidity control. Select your ideal humidity percentage, and the unit will sample the air in the room, switching the system on and off as necessary to maintain your chosen humidity level.

Two drainage methods are available: continuous and manual. Included with the dehumidifier is a 6.5ft drain hose, which if connected, will drain continuously by gravity. Manual drainage involves the excess moisture draining into the water tank, automatically switching off when the tank reaches capacity.

  • Moisture removed: 130 pints
  • Room Size: Suitability: 6,000 sq ft
  • Weight: 67.2lbs

Special Features: Intelligent humidity control | child lock

What we love

  • Operates quietly with intuitive controls
  • The initial setup is straightforward and can be achieved within five minutes
  • Includes a filter to catch and remove dust that enters the unit

We don't like this as much

  • We’d like to see a longer power cord on this unit for ease of setup
  • The user is unable to adjust or turn off the bright display light

2. TOSOT 50 Pint with Internal Pump 4,500 Sq Ft Dehumidifier

The Tosot 50-pint dehumidifier will extract up to 50 pints of unwanted moisture from your home every 24 hours. It has an internal pump that will automatically empty the tank when the water level is almost at capacity, but the dehumidifier continues to run, so there’s no waiting for the unit to switch back on. The water can be pumped either to the side or vertically.

The intelligent control panel on the top has a digital display plus six buttons, power, filter alter, fan speed, timer, and two for setting the humidity level. Once the level of humidity has been set, the unit will switch off when it reaches that number, cycling on and off to maintain the desired level.

Although it is not a small unit, measuring 14.8 x 11.4 x 24 inches, the noise is exceptionally low, with a top decibel level of 51 when the fan is on high speed, and at low speed, it operates at 48 decibels, almost silent. A washable filter is easily removed for cleaning, and after 250 hours, you will be reminded by the filter alert light when it is time to clean it.

  • Moisture removed: 50 pints
  • Room Size Suitability: 4,500 sq ft
  • Weight: 48lbs

Special Features: Automatic drain pump | automatic defrost

What we love

  • When first switched on, the unit operates automatically in continuous mode
  • It has a front water tank with a see-through indicator
  • Features easy access to the various options for draining the tank

We don't like this as much

  • The wheels under the unit aren’t great on carpet
  • We’d love to see the option to use a remote control to operate the unit

3. Aprilaire - 1850 Pro Dehumidifier

The Aprilaire 1850 dehumidifier is ideal for those who live in areas of particularly high humidity and require an extra hand to remove moisture from their home. Designed to be installed and integrated with your existing A/C system, this unit will pull moisture-laden air from each room in your home via the return ductwork. After removing the moisture, dry air is then sent back to every room. However, it can function as a stand-alone dehumidifier if you decide not to use it with your A/C system.

This model measures 27.5 x 14.5 x 12.5 inches with a simple digital control panel that can be located either on the top or the front of the unit. It has an on/off button, up and down arrow buttons to adjust the desired relative humidity level (RH), plus a display screen. When switched on, it will sample the air for a few minutes before displaying the RH% allowing you to adjust it up or down to suit your comfort level.

Because there is no water reservoir, this unit must have a hose connected to it allowing the extracted moisture to flow downhill to a drain. The only maintenance required is to keep the drain line clear and clean or replace the Merv 8 filter once a year.

  • Moisture removed: 95 pints
  • Room Size Suitability: 5,200 sq ft
  • Weight: 75 lbs
  • Special Features: No water reservoir | corrosion-resistant aluminum coils

What we love

  • It is easy to set up as a standalone unit
  • Exceptionally quiet, you’ll barely notice it’s running
  • The option to connect to your A/C system helps provide greater coverage around your home, improving air quality and smell

We don't like this as much

  • The five-year warranty is valid only if it’s professionally installed
  • We wish there were wheels on the unit to help transport it if necessary

4. Vremi 50 Pint 4,500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier

Stylish and convenient are two words that instantly come to mind when describing the portable Vremi 50-pint dehumidifier. It has a clean, sleek look that makes it suitable for any area in your home. Handles and wheels make for easy relocation, and the air filter, accessed at the rear of the unit, is simple to remove and replace. An alert light will illuminate when it is time to clean the washable filter.

In addition to the standard user buttons, the control panel has a “Comfort” button. When this is selected the humidity level can’t be manually changed but is automatically set to recommended levels based on the ambient temperature. If the temperature is below 65 ̊F, the humidity level is set to 55%, between 65 -77 ̊F; 50%, and above 77 ̊F; 45%.

The water collection tank has a see-through indicator to let you see how full it is without pulling it out. When it is time to empty, the unit will automatically shut off and beeps to alert you. If you prefer, you can attach a garden hose to the continuous drain valve, located at the back. 

  • Moisture removed: 50 pints
  • Room Size Suitability: 4,500 sq ft
  • Weight: 41.6lbs

Special Features: Auto shut-off | comfort function | turbo mode

What we love

  • Can remove up to 50 gallons of water per day, fantastic for high humidity areas
  • The turbo fan is perfect for when you need to quickly adjust humidity levels
  • The unit’s control buttons are very intuitive and effective

We don't like this as much

  • While it is very stylish in white, we’d love to see other color options available
  • As the reservoir fills up completely when full, a little care must be taken to avoid spills when draining

5. Keystone 35 Pint Dehumidifier with Electronic Controls

Drawing up to 35 pints of moisture per day in an area covering up to 3,000 square feet, the Keystone dehumidifier will keep your home feeling dry and comfortable all year round. Three modes and several programmable features are available and make this dehumidifier the perfect choice for avoiding mildew and mold.

Compact in size, measuring 23.2 x 15.4 x 10.8 inches, it is easily moved from room to room on the four castor wheels. The electronic control panel on the top of the unit is easy to understand with four buttons, up and down arrows, a timer, and a digital readout display. The digital display shows the target relative humidity (RH) you have set and when it is running, the current RH%. You can take advantage of the 24-hour programmable timer to have the unit switch on and off to suit your schedule and lifestyle.

The water tank has a see-through water level indicator, and when it reaches capacity, the unit automatically switches off. As an alternative, you can use the continuous draining option using a standard garden hose to alleviate emptying the tank. There is an easy-to-clean, removable dust filter with a “clean filter” alert.

  • Moisture removed: 35 pints
  • Room Size Suitability: 3,000 sq ft
  • Weight: 36.3lbs

Special Features: Programmable timer | low-level drain | electronic controls

More units: 8 Best 35 Pint Dehumidifiers

 

What we love

  • The folding water tank handle makes it very easy to carry
  • Once you replace the water container, the unit automatically restarts
  • The filter is removable from the top of the dehumidifier

We don't like this as much

  • Does produce a noticeable amount of noise, so best not to set up in bedrooms
  • We’d love to see an official instructional video from the company to aid initial setup and maintenance

6. Ivation 6,000 Sq Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump

This dehumidifier from Ivation is capable of removing 60 pints of moisture per day in a 4,500 square foot area. It is small but powerful, measuring 14.2 x 18.8 x 24.6 inches, and stands on four concealed wheels for ease of movement. A control panel on the top of the unit allows you to adjust the power, fan speed, and target moisture levels, as well as to program the timer. This unit even has filter and water level alert indicators for ease of use.

To remove the water collected by the unit, you can manually remove the tank and empty it, or you can choose one of the automatic methods. Water can be removed continually by connecting a hose to a connector on the back and allowing the water to drain through gravity. The other method is to connect a hose to the built-in pump drain outlet. Using this method means you can pump the water out of the dehumidifier vertically and not have to rely on gravity.

With its user-friendly display, two-speed fan, a built-in humidity meter, safety shut-off, and washable filter, this Ivation dehumidifier can help solve any moisture problems in your whole house. A 24-hour timer can be set to meet your lifestyle and lower energy costs.

  • Moisture removed: 60 Pints
  • Room Size: Suitability: 4,500 sq ft
  • Weight: 39.7 lbs

Special Features: Built-in water pump | frost sensor | washable filter

What we love

  • Very easy to move around thanks to its four wheels
  • Features an advanced timer, able to run programs such as 4 hours on, 4 off, then restart
  • The easy-to-clean, washable filter means there’s no need to purchase replacements

We don't like this as much

  • When using a pump to drain, it takes roughly 20 minutes to complete
  • The compressor stops momentarily while the pump drains the tank

7. TECCPO 3000 Sq.Ft Dehumidifier

This compact, portable dehumidifier from Teccpo is capable of removing 30 pints of moisture per 24 hours from a home up to 3,000 square feet. It is lightweight, measures only 19.88 x 13.19 x 9.65 inches and with 360-degree swivel castor wheels, it is easily maneuverable from room to room. There are also two discretely hidden handles should you feel the need to pick it up to move it.

Draining the water can be done in one of two ways. Manual draining into the eight-pint collection tank, which when full, the unit will switch off, switching back on when the empty tank is put back in. Automatic draining by connecting a hose to the drain plug will allow the water to flow out by gravity.

With accurate temperature and humidity sensors, this dehumidifier will keep any room’s humidity within 35% to 55% for ultimate comfort. “Set it and forget it” with an onboard 24-hour timer that allows you to program when it should start and stop for auto-dehumidification.

The simple control panel comprises a fan speed (high or low), filter check, timer, power, and plus and minus buttons to set the humidity level, and a digital display that indicates the current level of humidity.

  • Moisture removed: 30 pints
  • Room Size Suitability: 3,000 sq ft
  • Weight: 32.67lbs

Special Features: AI Dehumidification

What we love

  • Powerful for its size, and moves easily on the functional wheels
  • Rapidly brings down the RH in your household, bringing you peace of mind quickly and efficiently
  • Very compact, making it easy to tuck away while retaining functionality

We don't like this as much

  • We’d like to see the inclusion of a hose for auto draining
  • We wish the tank was a little larger to reduce trips spent draining it

8. Waykar 155 Pints Dehumidifier

This exceptional dehumidifier pulls in air at a rate of 175 cubic feet per minute and can remove up to 155 pints (19 gallons) of moisture per day in any large indoor area up to 6,500 sq ft. Measuring 25.6 x 18.1 x 14.1 inches, this unit is compact and weighs in at 66 lbs. It is designed to be placed in a position where it can drain automatically by gravity via the included 39-inch drain hose.

By connecting the unit to flex ductwork, you can have it installed in the attic, with dedicated air registers in the living area, and it will dehumidify the whole house. It has an external humidity sensor with a 16-foot cable and a display controller that has a 32-foot cable for remote control and monitoring.

The display panel has intelligent touch controls for automatic dehumidification. Set your desired humidity level and the unit will cycle on and off to keep the level constant. The display also shows the ambient temperature, running status, and current humidity level. A programmable timer can be set from one to 24 hours to suit your situation.

  • Moisture removed: 155 pints
  • Room Size Suitability: 6,500 sq ft
  • Weight: 66lbs

Special Features: External humidity sensor | and controller display

What we love

  • The remote sensor humidity readings are exceptionally accurate
  • The built-in brackets make it easy to suspend from joists
  • The washable filter is easily removed, cleaned, and put back

We don't like this as much

  • A built-in pump would make it perfect for any area
  • We’d love to see the addition of wheels for easier portability

FAQs about Whole House Dehumidifiers

How Do Whole House Dehumidifiers Work?

A dehumidifier is similar in a sense to a vacuum cleaner, except it is designed to suck in humid air instead of dirt and debris. A fan draws moist, warm air into the unit then the air passes over pipes that are freezing cold. As the warm air passes over these pipes it cools. Any moisture that exists will revert to water and drip down from the freezing pipes into a reservoir. The air is now moisture-free and is passed over a hot compressor warming it up before blowing it back into the room.

How Noisy is a Whole House Dehumidifier Unit?

Every dehumidifier will make some level of noise (dB), but just how much noise they make depends on different factors. The size of the unit, how many pints or gallons of moisture it can extract, and whether or not it has a compressor. A dehumidifier that is capable of extracting 60 pints per day will be noisier than one that only extracts 20. This is due to the bigger unit requiring a faster and/or larger fan, and if the unit has a compressor or pump, they may be factors that will add to the noise level.

Where is mold most common in a house?

Mold, or to be more accurate, black mold, can appear anywhere that is dark, warm, and damp. Kitchens, bathrooms, and basements are predominantly prone to mold growth because of all the moisture present. The bathroom is probably the most commonplace in your home that may have mold growing, especially if the tiles in the bathroom allow water to penetrate the grout lines and seep into the void behind. If the bathroom/shower walls have been constructed using drywall instead of “cement board” then water penetration will occur and the drywall will become a breeding ground for mold.

Which Dehumidifier is best for you?

You may have noticed your house is feeling warmer than normal, yet the air conditioning system is running. The problem could be high humidity causing the A/C to run more often. A whole-house dehumidifier should help alleviate the problem, but what type is best for you? If you notice that one or two rooms feel “moist”, (bathrooms are particularly prone to moisture or high humidity because of the lack of good ventilation, or not using the extractor fan when someone is taking a shower), then a portable whole house dehumidifier can resolve the high humidity in those rooms. However, if you want to ensure your whole house is free of excess moisture. The air is cooled within the dehumidifier resulting in the moisture being condensed, the water collected is piped outside via a condensate line, and you may notice your A/C system runs less often because of the cooler, drier air being circulated. Check out our top dehumidifier picks for budget/smaller houses, mid-range houses, and larger houses. Budget/Smaller Houses - Keystone 35 Pint Dehumidifier Mid-range Houses - Waykar 130 Pints Commercial Dehumidifier Larger Houses - Aprilaire - 1850Z 1850 Pro Dehumidifier