9 Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers of 2023

To address dampness in your crawl space, a dehumidifier designed specifically for this purpose is the most effective solution. These devices reduce excess moisture from the air and regulate humidity levels, preventing moisture from damaging your crawl space and the wooden structures within it.

Enclosed crawl spaces often lack proper ventilation, allowing mold, mildew, and bacteria to accumulate quickly and potentially spread throughout your home. Homeowners frequently use dehumidifiers in their living spaces to control moisture levels, and crawl spaces require the same attention. Installing the best crawl space dehumidifier for your home can enhance the living environment for you and your loved ones.

9 Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers of 2023：Our choice

BEST OVERALL	AprilAire E100 Pro 100 Pint Dehumidifier
BEST BUDGET	Dri-Eaz Revolution LGR Commercial Dehumidifier AirWerx55 Dehumidifier
UPGRADE PICK	ALORAIR Commercial Dehumidifier 113 Pint
BEST FOR LARGE SPACES	ALORAIR Commercial Dehumidifier
BEST FOR SMALL SPACES	ALORAIR Basement/Crawl Space Dehumidifiers
BEST PORTABLE	hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq
HONORABLE MENTION	Dri-Eaz Revolution LGR Commercial Dehumidifier
BEST WITH PUMP	Tenergy Sorbi 1000ml
BEST DIY OPTION	Vremi 50 Pint 4,500 Sq

In order to prevent a range of issues, it’s important to dehumidify your crawl space. To assist the public in selecting the best crawl space dehumidifier for maintaining a dry, clean, termite-free, and mold-free crawl space, I have compiled a list of recommendations. Rather than allowing mold and bacteria to proliferate in this area, investing in the optimal crawl space dehumidifier can provide a solution. These machines are suspended from the floor joists in a crawl space and work by extracting humid air, eliminating excess moisture, and then releasing fresh, dry air.

1.AprilAire E100 Pro 100 Pint Dehumidifier

Pros

• Removes up to 12-gallons a day (100-pints)
• Rust-resistant aluminum coils for a long life
• Rated for homes up to 5,200-sf

Cons

• Does not come with condensate pump (uses gravity draining)

AprilAire’s E-series line of professional dehumidifiers has become the first to receive the Energy Star rating from its manufacturer. These dehumidifiers are equipped with rust-resistant aluminum coils and a washable filter that only requires maintenance once a year. If you require a lower or higher capacity and coverage area, there are other models in the E-series, such as the E80, E70, or E130. However, one drawback of the AprilAire E100 model is that it does not include a condensate pump, so if gravity drainage is not possible, an additional pump will be needed.

2.Dri-Eaz Revolution LGR Commercial Dehumidifier AirWerx55 Dehumidifier

Advantages:

• Protective heat transferability.
• Runs smoothly in low temperatures
• Cleaning process through a filter

Disadvantages:

• A bit heavy

For those seeking a reliable solution in hot and humid climates, the Baseaire AIRWERX55 is worth considering. This unique commercial dehumidifier not only removes moisture from the air but also controls humidity levels. With its ability to regulate small to medium-sized rooms, such as bedrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms, the AIRWERX55 comes equipped with automatic defrost and an adjustable humidistat featuring a memory saver function. Once the desired humidity level is achieved, this dehumidifier automatically shuts off.

One of the AIRWERX55’s standout features is its tube evaporator, which is constructed from rare earth alloy. Additionally, it contains an auto-defrost function, allowing it to operate efficiently in extremely cold temperatures. The dehumidifier’s filter prevents the entry of small particles, and it can be easily replaced after a specific period. Overall, the Baseaire AIRWERX55 is a high-quality dehumidifier that provides reliable and efficient moisture control.

3.ALORAIR Commercial Dehumidifier 113 Pint

Pros

• Built-in filter
• Gravity-draining design
• Automatic defrost setting

Cons

• Remote control sold separately
• Pricey

If you’re looking for a medium-capacity dehumidifier to resolve crawl space moisture issues, the AlorAir Commercial Dehumidifier is worth considering. With a 113 PPD capacity in saturation conditions and 53 PPD AHAM conditions, this model can effectively handle spaces up to 1,300 square feet, making it suitable for most residential crawl spaces. Its filter is conveniently located on the side of the machine, prolonging the unit’s lifespan.

Aside from its capacity, this gravity-draining unit boasts numerous desirable features. These include an automatic defrost setting that protects the coils from freezing and a memory restart function that enables the unit to resume operation after a power outage. Additionally, the AlorAir model is compatible with a remote control, which can be purchased separately, for convenient settings and readings.

4.ALORAIR Commercial Dehumidifier

What We Like

• Innovative Waterproof Design
• Easy to Replace the Filter
• Built-In Pump
• Leak-Free Protects Coils
• User-Friendly Display

What We Don’t Like

• Heavy at 78 Pounds
• Not Durable Enough
• Coils Freeze Over

If excess moisture is a problem in your crawl space, the AlorAir LGR is an excellent heavy-duty dehumidifier for you. This model is specifically designed to remove high amounts of water and is incredibly effective at doing so.

Equipped with a built-in condensate pump, the AlorAir LGR is helpful in drainage and can extract up to 85 pints of water every day. Moreover, the unit comes in several colors and is covered by an impressive five-year warranty. Overall, the AlorAir LGR is a reliable and efficient solution for eliminating excessive moisture in your crawl space.

5.ALORAIR Basement/Crawl Space Dehumidifiers

Pros

• Removes up to 8-gallons or 55 pints a day
• Hot gas valve defrosting system for cold weather
• Rated for crawlspaces up to 1,300-sf

Cons

• Shorter lifespan than AprilAire
• More frequent breakdowns

The AlorAir Sentinel HD55 is a sturdy, top-of-the-line dehumidifier suitable for crawlspaces, basements, garages, and other areas.

This Energy Star certified model is equipped with a special epoxy coating that helps to reduce corrosion and maintain optimal dehumidification. Additionally, the Sentinel features a defrosting system that enables it to keep running even when temperatures drop to 36°F.However, some users have reported that the Sentinel is prone to breaking down, and it may not have as long a lifespan as the AprilAire E-series. Overall, the AlorAir Sentinel HD55 is a dependable and effective option for eliminating excess moisture from your space.

6.hOmeLabs 4,500 Sq

Pros

• Digital control panel
• Removable tank and filter
• Hands-free tank emptying with drainage hose
• Turns on automatically after power outages

Cons

• Drainage hose not included

The hOmeLabs Energy Star Dehumidifier is a powerful solution for maintaining dryness and comfort in large crawl spaces. Boasting a capacity of 50 PPD and a removable 1.6-gallon collection tank, it is an effective tool for reducing humidity. However, for optimal convenience, it is recommended to use the unit with a drain hose (not provided) for effortless emptying.

Capable of handling areas up to 4,500 square feet, the hOmeLabs dehumidifier is a versatile and user-friendly machine. The digital control panel allows for timed or continuous operation, with the latter running for up to 24 hours until either the machine is manually turned off or the tank is full. In the event of a power outage, the dehumidifier will automatically resume its previous settings once power is restored.For added convenience, the filter is both removable and reusable, and can be washed and re-inserted.

7.Dri-Eaz Revolution LGR Commercial Dehumidifier

Pros

• Ultra compact & portable
• Highly durable housing (rotomold)
• Automatic restart if power goes out

Cons

• Internal condensate pump is prone to breaking

The Dri-Eaz F413 is an ultra-compact and portable dehumidifier designed for use in small and tight areas such as crawl spaces or garages. Despite its size, it can effectively remove up to 12 gallons of water per day from the surrounding air, making it a powerful tool for reducing humidity.

The F413 features a 4-stage filtration system that effectively captures harmful particles like mold spores, ensuring that the air in your space remains clean and healthy. Additionally, in the event of a power outage, the dehumidifier has an automatic restart function, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Built with durable, rotomolded housing, the F413 is designed to withstand wear and tear over time. Furthermore, the unit is made in the USA, ensuring its high quality and reliability. To facilitate the removal of condensate, the F413 comes with a 40-ft drain hose.For those who require a temporary solution, some home depots offer rental options for the Dri-Eaz F413.

8.Tenergy Sorbi 1000ml

Pros

• Suitable for very small spaces
• HEPA filtration system
• Automatic shutoff
• Quiet operation

Cons

• Short power cord
• Small tank may require frequent emptying

By limiting musty odors, mold, and mildew, a standard dehumidifier can significantly improve the air quality of your space. But when combined with an air purifier, you can also directly reduce dust mites, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. With Tenergy’s hybrid model, you can enjoy double the benefits from a single unit.

This compact dehumidifier can remove up to 750 milliliters of moisture per day in environments with 80 percent humidity levels at 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The 33-ounce/1-liter water tank includes an automatic shutoff feature to prevent overflow when full. The dehumidifier also boasts a true HEPA filtration system, capable of removing up to 99.97 percent of microparticles and allergens from the environment simultaneously.

Although it may cost more than a standard small dehumidifier, the added benefits of an air purifier in the same unit can save both space and money over time. This small dehumidifier is ideal for spaces up to 200 square feet, and operates at a quiet 35 to 42 decibels.

9.Vremi 50 Pint 4,500 Sq

Pros

• Easily installed
• Remove up to 7.5-gallons or 50-pints of water each day
• Quiet
• Best for temporary dehumidification

Cons

• Will have to run extension cord into crawl space
• Not for heavy moisture removal and it isn’t a permanent solution
• Won’t be able to handle harsh environment for long

Consider the Vremi portable dehumidifier if you require a dehumidifier for your crawl space or large area. This portable and quiet dehumidifier is ideal for temporary use or if the level of moisture is minimal.

Capable of eliminating up to 50-pints of moisture per day, it can cover an area of up to 4,500-sf. Additionally, homeowners can choose to connect a drain hose for continuous drainage, just like with other dehumidifiers.

How We Chose the Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers

Using a dehumidifier in your crawl space ensures that mold, mildew, and moisture are removed, stored items within are safe, and the humidity level in your home is regulated. Our curated list represents some of the best dehumidifier brands and key factors including coverage area, air flow, pint capacity, and special features.

The top picks are made for a variety of crawl spaces of 200 to 6,500 square feet and come with powerful 22 to 200 CFM ratings. Many units come with high pint capacities of up to 198 PPD, so you don’t have to worry about emptying the unit frequently. Some also have self-emptying tanks to limit dehumidifier maintenance. As for special features, several dehumidifiers we selected come with automatic shutoff and defrosting, as well as removable and reusable filters.

What Are Dehumidifiers For Crawlspaces?

A crawl space dehumidifier is a home appliance that automatically controls humidity levels and drains water to the outside.

Besides crawlspaces, it can also be installed in garages, basements, or other areas where dehumidification is desired. Crawl space dehumidifiers tend to be more rugged than your average dehumidifier and can remove up to around 7-14 gallons of water per day.

Crawl space dehumidifiers are also designed to be hung by the floor joists with straps but they can also be installed on the floor with wood or masonry blocks.

Why Use Crawl Space Dehumidifiers?

The crawl space is a notoriously damp or moist area that will eventually damage the structure of your house. Mold and mildew are also more likely to grow when the conditions become damp.

If mold begins to grow in your crawl space, it can quickly spread to your home.

Mold can cause various symptoms and reactions, depending on your sensitivity. The most common effects are allergic symptoms and respiratory issues like asthma (1).

A dehumidifier is the best way to keep the crawl space dry. However, you must fix leaks or puddles first. No matter how strong your dehumidifier is, it won’t fix a leaking pipe or remove standing water.After fixing what is causing the high levels of humidity, you can find a good dehumidifier and install it within your crawl space.

Buying Guide

Crawl space is considered the dirtiest space due to its low-quality air presence. With the increase in humidity levels, different issues such as mold and mildew also increase. To save your crawl spaces from such issues, crawl space dehumidifiers are the best solutions.

Although you have read about several best crawl space dehumidifiers, it can be difficult for you to choose the right. If you are a beginner to buy dehumidifiers then you should read these buying guidelines. Basically, this part of the article sheds light on important aspects that one should consider when buying a dehumidifier.

1. Energy Star

A dehumidifier that is energy star certified uses high-quality compressors, efficient refrigeration coils, and fans. Such kind of dehumidifier saves almost 15% energy. Make sure the dehumidifier you are buying contains an Energy Star label.

2. Dehumidification capacity

Dehumidification capacity is the most important aspect to consider when buying a dehumidifier. It will determine whether a certain Dehumidifier is perfect for your place or not. For example, you can’t use a dehumidifier having 52.7 pints per day capacity, in your basements. This dehumidification capacity isn’t enough to cover a large area.

3. Coverage area

The area of coverage is the second most important aspect to consider. You have to check whether a dehumidifier is capable of performing well in your area or not. It tells you the size of the area that your dehumidifier can clean. For example, if you buy a dehumidifier having a coverage area of 1000 square feet but you use it in 2000sq.ft, then it will not work.

4. Temperature range

Dehumidifiers work perfectly only in favorable temperature conditions. This is something that creates a difference between different dehumidifiers. Based on the temperature range, you get heavy-duty crawl space dehumidifiers very expensive. You should pick a dehumidifier based on your climate’s temperature.

5. Condensate pump drain

The best dehumidifiers come with a condensation pump to get rid of the collected excessive moisture. The pump drains the moisture through the drain hose. On the other hand, dehumidifiers have to pump drain system work through a continuous drain that depends on gravity. You shouldn’t choose a Continuous drain system when buying a dehumidifier for the basement.

5. Noise level

Another important aspect is to check the noise level of your dehumidifier. Basically, the noise level is directly relevant to the fan speed of your dehumidifier. Most brands don’t mention the fan speed but it is important to check this aspect. If you want to run your dehumidifier 24 hours a day then you should choose the quieter one.

How Do Commercial Crawl Space Dehumidifiers Work?

Humidistat

A crawl space dehumidifier humidistat will automatically turn the dehumidifier on and off in order to reach a target humidity level.

Typically there is a control panel on the side of the unit with up and down arrows so you can pick which humidity level you prefer.

Most homeowners should set the humidistat to between 50% and 60% in order to minimize the chances for mold growth and wood damage. Some crawl space dehumidifiers even have optional remote controls so that you can adjust the humidity level without having to go into the crawl space.

Condensate Pump

The condensate pump of a dehumidifier will mechanically pump the water to the exterior of the home.

Most crawl space dehumidifiers don’t come with condensate pumps and they are drained by gravity. If you need a pump, it will need to be installed separately onto the side of the machine. A hose or pipe will need to be routed to the outside of the home or to a floor drain.

Filtration

Virtually all crawl space dehumidifiers have a filtration system to prevent damage to the unit. The filter system may be just one filter, or it may have a 2-3 filter layer.

Since most crawl spaces are a hassle to get into, homeowners shouldn’t buy a dehumidifier that has to have regular filter changes. A once a year filter change or cleaning is best.

Control Panel

Crawl space dehumidifiers will have some type of digital or analog control panel on the side of the unit. It will allow you to at minimum control the set humidity level of the crawl space.

You simply push the buttons to reach your desired humidity such as 55%, and then the dehumidifier will turn on and off in order to reach that humidity level.

Some under house dehumidifiers also have remote control systems (usually purchased separately) so you can control the unit without going into the crawl space.

What Are The Risks Of Dehumidifiers For Crawlspaces?

The main risk of a crawl space dehumidifier is that homeowners don’t address the actual cause of water in the crawl space.

As a home inspector, finding exterior defects that lead to water intrusion is a daily exercise.

Before even installing a crawl space dehumidifier, we recommend that homeowners fix the underlying moisture problems such as.

• Poor Grading: If any of the ground next to the home is sloping towards the home, or even if it is just flat, then it can lead to water problems. The ground next to the home should slope away from the foundation. The next time there is heavy rain, observe how the water reacts near the foundation.
• Gutters And Downspouts: Downspouts need to have extensions so that they don’t drain right next to the house. Downspouts should drain several feet away from the foundation. Homeowners should also make sure that the gutters are working properly.
• Sprinkler Issues: If you have landscape sprinklers, they should not be discharging water right next to the foundation.

What Is The Purpose Of Crawl Space Dehumidifiers?

The purpose of a crawl space dehumidifier is to prevent hidden mold growth, wood deterioration, and insulation damage from high humidity.

High moisture can damage the wood subfloor, joists, band joists, and other wood framing. Moisture will also damage and lower the R-value of fiberglass insulation that is installed above the crawl space.

Are Dehumidifiers Effective In Crawl Spaces?

Industrial dehumidifiers are highly effective in crawl spaces and can remove 50 to 100 pints of water per day.

Crawl space dehumidifiers have attached drain lines so that the moisture removal is automatic and homeowners don’t have to manually remove the water.

What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need For My Crawl Space?

The size of your dehumidifier depends on the floor space of your crawl space.

Homeowners will need to calculate the dimensions and match it up with the rated ‘coverage area’ of the crawl space dehumidifier.And if there is a lot of moisture, homeowners should pick a dehumidifier with a higher PPD (pints per day) water removal capacity.

What Is The Best Way To Dehumidify A Crawl Space?

The best way to dehumidify a crawl space is to make sure that the ground around the house slopes away from the home.

It is also essential that homeowners verify that their gutters and downspouts are working properly. Downspouts should drain the water several feet away from the home’s foundation.After solving these basic problems, a crawl space dehumidifier can remove additional moisture.

How Much Does it Cost to Run a Crawl Space Dehumidifier?

Dehumidifiers remove the moist air crawl space and replace it with dry air. These dehumidifiers only consume 4 to 5 cents of electricity per hour. A dehumidifier operating on 280 to 300 watts of electricity will cost approximately $150 annually if they run for 9-10 hours each day.

Dehumidifiers with the Energy Star rating use less energy than other models. They use about 15% less energy than old dehumidifiers without an Energy Star rating.

It would be best to consider how long the dehumidifier will last. A longer life expectancy means you may have to spend more money in the long run.

Because crawl spaces are humid and harsh environments, dehumidifiers often malfunction for homeowners. For less expensive models, the life span can be as little as 12-24 months. A higher quality dehumidifier should last much longer than that. Check the warranty the company offers. A dehumidifier warranty can vary from 1-year to 3-years.

Why is a Crawl Space Dehumidifier Important?

Crawl spaces are often damp and musty places. You can have a damp crawl space even in a dry climate. If you don’t manage moisture in crawl spaces, the structure of your house becomes damaged, costing thousands to repair.

When it’s damp, mold and mildew are more likely to grow. If you have mold in your crawl space, it can quickly spread throughout your home and even affect your health. For example, sensitive people may experience allergic symptoms or respiratory issues like asthma.

A commercial dehumidifier in a crawl space reduces the humidity that causes damp crawl space conditions.

If you have plumbing leaks in your crawl space, you must fix them before getting a dehumidifier for it to be effective. Dehumidifiers can’t fix plumbing leaks or remove standing water caused by poor drainage. You need to fix these problems first.

What does a Crawl Space Dehumidifier do?

A humid crawlspace can damage your home’s structure and cause health problems. A dehumidifier will help protect your home from structural damage to wood framing caused by wood rot and wood-destroying organisms (like termites). It also prevents mold growth, negatively affecting indoor air quality.

A commercial crawl space dehumidifier will manage humidity by removing moisture in the crawl space that causes mold and musty odors. Depending on the model, a crawlspace dehumidifier can remove 40 to 100 pints of water per day. It also circulates the air inside your crawl space and keeps the wood and insulation dry.

Should You Put a Dehumidifier in a Crawl Space?

A crawl space dehumidifier is needed if you have chronic damp crawl space conditions or live in an area that is warm and humid. Chronic wet conditions are caused by poor drainage, high groundwater content, sweating ductwork, or a humid climate.

Can any Dehumidifier Work in a Crawl Space?

Not all dehumidifiers are suitable for use in a crawl space. For example, a portable dehumidifier has a collection bucket that will need emptying daily. In contrast, a stationary heavy-duty commercial dehumidifier discharges moisture directly outside either from a condensate pump or a sump pump.

Where to Place a Dehumidifier in a Crawl Space?

It’s best to place a crawl space dehumidifier in the center of the crawl space about 4 to 6 inches off the crawl space floor by suspending it from the joists or setting it on a raised platform. You may need multiple dehumidifiers in a large or segmented crawl space to maintain 45% to 55% humidity levels and dry the crawl space.

Can You Use a Regular Dehumidifier in a Crawl Space?

A regular dehumidifier is not made for use in a crawl space. A regular dehumidifier has a limited collection capacity and requires daily emptying of a collection bucket. If the dehumidifier collection bin is full, it will not work until you empty it. This would be a daily chore that most people would not want to do.

Can I use a regular dehumidifier in a crawl space?

Technically, you could, but they aren’t built for the rigors of crawl space life. Regular dehumidifiers’ coils aren’t durable, they rarely feature defrost functions, and most have tanks that require emptying. Also, crawl space dust is sure to limit an indoor unit’s lifespan.

What kind of dehumidifier do I need for a crawl space?

As crawl spaces are likely to be very damp, a dehumidifier with a 50 pint tank or more is recommended to allow for ample drying.

At what temperature should I set my dehumidifier in a crawl space?

You shouldn’t set a crawl space dehumidifier to a temperature, but rather a moisture level. As a general rule, you want to keep that space under 55 percent humidity, so setting the unit to 50 percent should do the trick.

Where should I place my dehumidifier in a crawl space?

You’ll want to set up the dehumidifier in an area where it can draw in moist air and push out dry air without obstruction. It’s best to set it up in the center of the crawl space.

How long will it take to dehumidify a crawl space?

The average dehumidifier will reduce the humidity in a crawl space in 8 to 10 hours depending upon the size of the space and the current moisture levels.

How do you clean a dehumidifier?

Cleaning a dehumidifier should be relatively straightforward, most parts just needing to be wiped down with a damp cloth. It’s possible the reservoir may have a build up of limescale, which can usually be removed with white vinegar or lemon juice. An air filter usually needs a quick rinse once a month. To ensure the longevity of your machine it is vital you follow manufacturer’s instructions.

How long will my crawl space dehumidifier last?

Dehumidifiers don’t require much maintenance other than cleaning or changing the filter every 6 to 12 months. If maintained properly, you can expect your dehumidifier to last around 5 years.