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The Best 7 Dehumidifiers for Basement Rooms

Whether it’s a luxurious family living space or an unfinished storage area, it’s on the underground level of the house, and it can have issues with moisture. Basements are notorious for being damp and often have a musty smell that can be caused by harmful mold.

Dehumidifiers for Basement Rooms

One of the easiest ways to combat the dampness in any type of basement is to use a dehumidifier. Of course, how do you know if you need one? What kind should you get, and how and when should you use it?

We’ve got the facts on humidifiers so that you can go shopping, knowing exactly what you need and why. Plus, we’ve got a list of the best dehumidifiers for basement rooms that you can buy.

Amazon's Choice
TOSOT 4,500 Sq. Ft. 70 Pint Dehumidifier - Energy Star
TOSOT 4,500 Sq. Ft. 70 Pint Dehumidifier - Energy Star

A peak sound level of 48 decibels means you'll barely notice the dehumidifier is there.

View Deal
Prevent Mold
Vremi 4,500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier Energy Star Rated for Large Basements
Vremi 4,500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier Energy Star Rated for Large Basements

For convenience, if you need to move the unit, it has wheels attached making it easy to roll to another room or area of the basement.

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saves energy
Frigidaire 70 Pint White Dehumidifier for Basement
Frigidaire 70 Pint White Dehumidifier for Basement

Energy Star 70 pints per day dehumidifier protects your home from mold and mildew caused by excess moisture

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Efficiently Removes Moisture
hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier for Extra Large Basements
hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier for Extra Large Basements

Durability is key, too, which is why we offer a 2-year warranty, plus an extra 6 months if you register on our website.

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Auto Shutoff
Ivation 70 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump
Ivation 70 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump

A washable air filter keeps the unit clean and functioning optimally.

View Deal
HGV Defrosting
AlorAir Basement Dehumidifiers 90 Pints
AlorAir Basement Dehumidifiers 90 Pints

Even better, the unit comes with a five-year warranty and after-sales service.

View Deal
pro system
Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier, 70 Pint-Commercial
Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier, 70 Pint-Commercial

It can be attached to a hose or set over a drain for easy, continuous operation.

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Why is the basement damp?

According to HVAC.com, basements usually have more dampness than the rest of the house because moisture can enter the interior through the walls of the foundation. In addition, leaks from plumbing or any minor flooding or water seepage add to the moisture in the basement environment. Also, if you live in an area with high humidity, the basement level can also be damp.

All this moisture can encourage the growth of mold, says the Basement Health Association, especially if the humidity level rises to anything above 80 percent. The association says that keeping humidity under 50 percent is ideal. Mold is something to avoid at all costs because not only does it cause the stereotypical “musty” smell in the basement, but mold spores in the air are a health hazard. Moreover, if you ignore moisture in the basement, it can cause damage not only to belongings stored there, but also to the structure of your home.

How do I know I need a dehumidifier?

A musty smell is often the first clue that you need a dehumidifier. Aside from that, Sylvane air products says that these are some of the other signs that you need to install a basement dehumidifier.

  • Visible mold or mildew
  • Condensation is collecting on windows
  • Walls and ceilings have wet stains or feel damp
  • Floor boards are uneven
  • The space feels warm or clammy
  • Things that you store on the floor feel damp or take on a musty smell.

How does a dehumidifier work?

A dehumidifier takes in damp air, then cools it with a condenser to remove the moisture and then re-releases the drier air back into the room. Air conditioners do this too, it’s just that they also cool the air.  HVAC.com notes that the ideal humidity for your home is about 45 to 50 percent. As we already mentioned, anything higher can encourage the growth of mold spores, dust mites or bacteria. Pests like cockroaches also thrive in more humid environments. On the other hand, the website also notes that very low humidity is also inadvisable because it can cause cracks in ceilings or wood, irritate skin and boost cold and flu viruses.

Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier

  • Eliminate common allergy triggers. A humid environment is a perfect breeding ground for allergens like mold, mildew and dust mites. By decreasing the humidity in your home, you make it less attractive for these indoor air pollutants.
  • Get rid of the musty smell. The stereotypical musty smell of a basement means that there’s molds or mildew growing somewhere.  Eliminate the moisture and the smell will go away.
  • Breathe easier. A comfortably dry environment will make it easier to breath and keep your family more comfortable.
  • Safeguard foods and equipment. Lower helps keep dry foods fresh longer and deter corrosion on electronics and metal items.
  • Make it easy on your AC. When there’s a lot of humidity ion the house, the air conditioner has to work harder to cool it. Keep the humidity level low is lighten the load on your AC, reducing the maintenance needed.
  • Protect your home. A humid environment can take a toll on the structure of a home. Wooden frames and beams can warp or crack over time. Mold and mildew can grow inside the walls.  Eliminating moisture and maintaining a good level of humidity quite literally prolongs the life of your home.

Choosing a Basement Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are one of the most widely used small appliances in American homes, according to the Huffington Post. Today’s models have come a long way and are far quieter than they used to be. There are. Of course, a few key things to keep in mind when choosing among the best dehumidifiers for the basement.

  • Pick one Made for the Basement

While you might have a whole-house dehumidifier, it may not help with moisture in the basement. Sylvane notes that these types of dehumidifiers are generally effective at indoor temperatures above 65 degrees. Because basements are often cooler (the ground around your home 55 degrees all year round) so regular whole-home models don’t work for removing moisture from the basement. A true basement dehumidifier is designed to work efficiently at cooler temperatures.

  • Opt for a Model that Drains Automatically

Depending on how much time you actually spend in the basement area, for convenience you may want to consider a model that drains automatically. This is especially true if you don’t go down there very often. This eliminates the bother of emptying the reservoir in the dehumidifier when it is full.

  • What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need?

Options abound when it comes to the best humidifiers for the basement, and you can choose one based on the type of room or based on the size of the space where you will be using it.

Sylvane Air Products says that there are four types of humidifiers based on capacity, which is how many pints of moisture they remove from the air per day.

  • Small Capacity dehumidifiers meant for less than 40 pints, which are best for smaller areas such as bedrooms, offices or small basements.
  • Medium Capacity units for up to 60 pints, ideal medium- to large-sized spaces or crawl spaces.
  • Large Capacity models that handle up to 90 pints for larger spaces. These are good different types of issues such as very wet to damp locations.
  • Whole-House Capacity units that can be integrated with your existing HVAC system.

Ready to shop for one of the best dehumidifiers for the basement?  Check out this list of top-rated and top-selling models:

1. TOSOT 4,500 Sq. Ft. 70 Pint Dehumidifier – Energy Star

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

Ninety percent of the reviews on Amazon give this TOSOT dehumidifier four or five stars, making it one of the best dehumidifiers for the basement. It is designed to handle a space as big as 4500 square feet and it can remove up to 70 pints of moisture per day. This model gives you the option of using a continuous gravity drain so you don’t have to constantly be emptying the reservoir. This can be done by attaching a regular garden hose to the humidifier and having it empty into a floor drain or a sump pump.

TOSOT’s dehumidifier is UL-approved, Energy Star rated and quiet, marking a maximum of 48 decibels, which the company says is like light rainfall. An added bonus is the power outage restart, which resets the unit to the latest settings that were selected before the power went out. The dehumidifier also incorporates a filter, which needs to be cleaned after every 250 hours of operation. There’s even an indicator to remind you that it needs cleaning.

Amazon's Choice
TOSOT 4,500 Sq. Ft. 70 Pint Dehumidifier - Energy Star
TOSOT 4,500 Sq. Ft. 70 Pint Dehumidifier - Energy Star

A peak sound level of 48 decibels means you'll barely notice the dehumidifier is there.

View Deal

Pros:

  • Buyers say that it’s compact but super effective at removing moisture from the air.
  • Reviewers say this unit is very quiet.

Cons:

  • A number of consumers said it stopped function after a period of time due to a coolant leak causing an FO code.
  • A few reviewers noted issues with poor customer service.

2. Vremi 4,500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier Energy Star Rated for Large Basements

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

Very highly rated by Amazon reviewers, the Vremi calls its dehumidifier the “Moisture Maniac” because it can remove 50 pints (70 Pint 2012 DOE Rating Standard) of moisture per day spaces that range from 3,000 to 4,500 square feet. Stylishly designed, this dehumidifier unit is easy to use because you turn it on and it runs until the tank is filled. It even has a water level window so that you can easily see how much water has been collected. Or, if you don’t want the hassle of emptying the tank periodically, use a hose on the optional outlet for continuous draining. The Vremi also features a turbo mode with a faster fan speed to get rid of odors faster.

A number of other features make the Vremi a good choice for a dehumidifier for the basement. You can actually set the level of humidity you would like to maintain. Since air circulates through the unit, it includes a permanent filter that is easily washed once a month to help keep the air cleaner and the dehumidifier operating at optimum levels.

Prevent Mold
Vremi 4,500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier Energy Star Rated for Large Basements
Vremi 4,500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier Energy Star Rated for Large Basements

For convenience, if you need to move the unit, it has wheels attached making it easy to roll to another room or area of the basement.

View Deal

Pros:

  • Amazon reviewers rave about the efficiency and power of this dehumidifier.
  • The hose attachment is a handy option.

Cons:

  • This unit works well but is loud, according to some reviews.
  • Some buyers cited issues with leaks when using the continuous draining option.
  • No information is available about energy or other certifications.

3. Frigidaire 70 Pint White Dehumidifier for Basement

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

Frigidaire says that this Energy Star rated dehumidifier will remove 70 pints of moisture from a space, helping to protect it from the formation of mold and mildew. The unit features a handle on the tank – which holds 13.1 pints – on the front for easy access. An auto shut-off and alert for a full tank make this extra convenient. If you have a floor drain, a hose can be attached to the dehumidifier for continuous drainage, which is much more fuss-free.

Other handy features of this unit include ready-select electronic controls, a digital humidity readout, 24-hour on/off timer and a control lock. It also has a low temperature operation that saves energy and money. Its SpaceWise portable design has both a top handle, integrated side handles and wheels to make it super easy to move.

saves energy
Frigidaire 70 Pint White Dehumidifier for Basement
Frigidaire 70 Pint White Dehumidifier for Basement

Energy Star 70 pints per day dehumidifier protects your home from mold and mildew caused by excess moisture

View Deal

Pros:

  • Buyer feedback praises the quiet operation of this model.
  • This Frigidaire dehumidifier does a very efficient job pulling water from the air.
  • An extended warranty is available for purchase.

Cons:

  • A number of buyers said their units did not last very long and stopped working for a variety of reasons.
  • The humidity gauge was problematic for some customers and may not detect levels accurately.

4. hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier for Extra Large Basements

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

The hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier is a winner based on the more than 6,000 four- and five-star reviews It has received on Amazon. Designed for extra-large rooms and basements, this model pulls up to 50 pints of moisture from the air per day and is ideal for very wet spaces. It features a 1.8 gallon water tank, but if you’re not into constantly emptying the reservoir, it also has a drain hose outlet where you can attach a standard garden hose and let gravity empty it into any floor drain.

The modern, stylish design has built-in wheels and handles. Operation is quiet and simple too. You can set the unit to your desired humidity and then allow the dehumidifier to run the continuous 24-hour cycle until the tank is full or the air reaches the proper humidity level. A Turbo mode revs the fan speed from the normal 165 cubic feet per minute to 188, letting you quickly eliminate moisture and musty odors. The unit has a touch panel with an auto shut-off along with defrost and restart settings.

Efficiently Removes Moisture
hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier for Extra Large Basements
hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier for Extra Large Basements

Durability is key, too, which is why we offer a 2-year warranty, plus an extra 6 months if you register on our website.

View Deal

Pros:

  • Free returns within 30 days, a two-year warranty and a bonus extension of 6 months for online registration comes with this dehumidifier.
  • Buyers love how quiet and efficient this dehumidifier is.

Cons:

  • Those who were unhappy with this model cited defective units or problems with the unit not working after a short time.
  • A few people noted that the unit became noisy.

5. Ivation 70 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

Ivation’s 70 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier is different from many of the other models because it has a built-in pump, meaning that you don’t have to rely on gravity or dumping by hand to empty the water tank. The 16-watt pump can move water as high as 16.4 feet upwards so that it can be drained into a sink or out a basement window.

This is a large capacity, Energy Star certified dehumidifier for spaces up to 4,500 square feet that pulls as much as 70 pints of water out of the air each day. The compact 45-pound dehumidifier has wheels for easier movement and a high-capacity 2.25-gallon reservoir. Control of the unit is via a simple LCD interface that allows you to set your desired humidity level and fan speed, program the timer and get alerts about the filter and water reservoir. Even better, it features a safety auto shut-off function along with an auto-restart that restores your latest settings after a power outage.

Auto Shutoff
Ivation 70 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump
Ivation 70 Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier with Pump

A washable air filter keeps the unit clean and functioning optimally.

View Deal

Pros:

  • Buyers love the pump so they don’t have to empty the reservoir constantly.
  • Customer service was noted as very responsive and helpful.

Cons:

  • The few reviewers who had problems with the dehumidifier cited leaks and poor operation.
  • Although the dehumidifier can be returned to Amazon within 30 days, no other warranty information is available.

6. AlorAir Basement Dehumidifiers 90 Pints

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

Perhaps the Cadillac model of dehumidifiers, the AlorAir Basement/Crawlspace Dehumidifier with 198PPD Saturation does the job in any space but many of its features make it ideal for spots like crawlspaces. The AHAM Verifide unit pulls up to 90 pints of moisture from the air daily and includes a pump. Because the dehumidifier is made for use in crawl spaces, it has a Hot Gas Valve Defrosting System that allows it to work at temperatures as low 36 degrees Fahrenheit. The AlorAir has a remote monitoring function and a remote control can be purchased separately, which is very helpful when the unit is used in a location that is difficult to reach, sigh as a crawlspace.

Many dehumidifiers fail because they start leaking freon and this cannot be repaired. The AloAir dehumidifier features coils that are coated in epoxy, which extends their life and prevents corrosion.

HGV Defrosting
AlorAir Basement Dehumidifiers 90 Pints
AlorAir Basement Dehumidifiers 90 Pints

Even better, the unit comes with a five-year warranty and after-sales service.

View Deal

Pros:

  • The AlorAir comes with an impressive 5-year warranty.
  • Happy buyers say this dehumidifier has tackled some serious moisture problems in their crawlspaces.

Cons:

  • Reviewers who had problems with this model cited inconsistent customer service as a downside.
  • Some unit stopped working after several months.

7. Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier, 70 Pint-Commercial

Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier 70 Pint Commercial Dehumidifier 150x150

Another high-end, heavy duty model, the Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier is a commercial grade product that pulls up to 70 pints of water from the atmosphere daily. It’s big enough to handle a space of up to 3,800 square feet. Its super convenient control panel can be mounted on the top or side for easy access no matter where you need to place it. Even better, it’s a low-maintenance model with no tank to empty.

An interactive display makes it easy to set up the dehumidifier and the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced once a year. For durability, the Aprilaire has corrosion-resistant aluminum coils for durability. It also comes with a filter, duct collars, and a drain tube connection.

pro system
Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier, 70 Pint-Commercial
Aprilaire 1830 Pro Basement Dehumidifier, 70 Pint-Commercial

It can be attached to a hose or set over a drain for easy, continuous operation.

View Deal

Pros:

  • This model can be used as a whole house dehumidifier when professionally installed.
  • Buyers love how powerful and effective it is.

Cons:

  • Some reviewers received units that did not operate longer than a few months.
  • Customer experience with the five-year warranty is mixed.

Conclusion

If you have a moisture problem in your basement or crawlspace, you don’t have to live with musty odors, mildew or the risk of damage to your home. There are numerous models of the best  dehumidifiers for basements available at all price points and any one of them can help you be more comfortable in your home and preserve its integrity at the same time.

Dehumidifier FAQ

What should the humidity level be?

Most experts agree that you want to aim for a level of 45 to 50 percent humidity. That’s the right level for deterring allergens along with human comfort. Just don’t go below 30 percent, which is too dry and can be damaging to your health as well as the health of your home.

Where should I put the dehumidifier?

For basement and crawlspace dehumidifiers, most products recommend positioning the unit at least 6 inches away from the wall. Otherwise, locating near a problem area or in the middle of the space is most effective.

What size dehumidifier do I need?

The only way to pick the right size is to consider the space and conditions where you want to use the dehumidifier. Where in the house will it be used?  How damp is it in the space and are there any specific moisture problems? How big is the space? Finally, budget is a consideration because prices can vary widely. The smaller the space or the milder the moisture problem, the smaller your dehumidifier can be. For large basements or crawlspaces or those that have a very wet environment, a heavy duty, hence a costlier, model is the best bet.

What does “Pints per Day” mean?

The term “pints per day” indicates the maximum amount of water a specific model will remove from the air in one 24-hour day. Also referred to as PPD or the capacity of a dehumidifier, it is a rating determined under set conditions of 60% Relative Humidity @ 80° F. Depending on your specific situation, the actual amount of moisture removed can vary. If it’s hotter and wetter than that in your basement, it could pull more water from the air, and less if conditions are cooler or drier.

What does CFM mean?

CFM is a term often used for air purifiers and it stands for cubic feet per minute. The CFM number indicates how much air the fan inside the unit moves every minute. Heavy duty, more powerful units will have a higher CFM than others do.

Do I want one continual drainage?

Most home dehumidifiers have a tank to collect the water that is pulled from the air and these vary in size. If you have a very wet environment or you don’t want to empty the reservoir frequently – perhaps multiple times per day – then a model that has a port for attaching a drain hose is ideal. These models rely on gravity for the water to drain, so it must empty into a floor drain or other receptable that site below the level of the dehumidifier.

Do I need a dehumidifier with a pump?

If you want to use continuous drainage but need to discharge water out a window or into a sink, for example, you’ll need a pump to move the water out of the unit and upward. Some dehumidifiers have a built-in pump, but purchasing a separate condensate pump is also an option, as long as your specific dehumidifier has a port for a hose.

How long should I let the dehumidifier run?

How long each day you let the unit run depends on the humidity level of the indoor air and the location where you are using it. In a living room or bedroom, you may not want it running constantly because it does emit some hear. In a basement or crawlspace, you might need to run it for longer periods to remove the moisture. Many models allow you to set a desired humidity percentage and will shut off when the tank is full or the air has reached the optimum level.

How long should my dehumidifier last?

The longevity of your dehumidifier depends not only on the model, but also how much it runs each day and the conditions in the space where it is being used. Good dehumidifiers can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Running the unit constantly or using it in freezing temperatures, which can cause coils to freeze, can shorten its lifespan.

How loud is a typical dehumidifier?

Like other appliances with fans, the higher the setting the louder the noise. Models made for living rooms and bedrooms tend to run more quietly because they typically do not need to be so robust. For the basement or crawlspace, a heavy-duty dehumidifier will likely be louder, but not disruptively so. Modern dehumidifiers are generally quieter than old-fashioned models.

Does a dehumidifier require any special maintenance?

Most dehumidifiers do not require much special maintenance except emptying the water tank. You’ll want to keep the inside of the water tank clean so that nothing grows along the sides. They typically have a permanent filter that you can rinse off or vacuum whenever it looks dirty. About once a year, it’s a good idea to clean off the coils, just as you would for your refrigerator.