How to Choose a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are an important addition to every home, creating a more balanced and comfortable environment, as well as preventing mold and mildew. Buying a dehumidifier could help you save repair costs for damages done by a wet basement. Choosing a dehumidifier requires careful consideration of many factors, but can be easy enough for any homeowner.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• consumer magazine
• dehumidifier

1. Research various dehumidifier manufacturers and models online or in consumer magazines. See which ones are dependable and within your price range.

2. Determine the size of the house. Many manufactures have charts that will match house size with the proper dehumidifier size.

3. Determine how much you plan to spend. Figure in the cost of the dehumidifier, energy cost and extra features that may come with the dehumidifier.

4. Research the Efficiency Factor (EF). EF is the amount of water and electricity that is used.

5. Notice how the dehumidifier is maintained. Some dehumidifiers drain themselves, while others require a person to empty them.

6. Listen for noise at different speeds. Determine if the noise will be a nuisance.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy a dehumidifier with an automatic defrost feature.

• Buy a dehumidifier in the spring. This is the season when many dehumidifiers are on sale.