Testing the Best Dehumidifiers for Basements

If you are dealing with a damp, musty downstairs space, a basement dehumidifier is the fix. The right model will remove the excess humidity from the air, eliminating dank smells along with mold and mildew. Lower humidity also allows the heating and air conditioning system to work more efficiently, which reduces energy consumption while making the air healthier and more comfortable. We tested a range of portable dehumidifiers, including 12 great options for basements, and included the top six in this guide. 

Our favorite, the Honeywell 25-Pint Dehumidifier, is equipped with WiFi connectivity, an Energy Star “most efficient” certification, and a drain pump for versatile placement. It covers areas up to 1,500 square feet. But your basement may require greater capacity, a smaller footprint, or the ability to operate in cold conditions, so we have included several other high performers from the test group. In this guide, we’ll explain how these models performed in our hands-on tests, and cover how to choose the best dehumidifiers for basements.

1. BEST OVERALL: Honeywell 25-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier With Pump
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Midea Cube 20-Pint Smart Control Dehumidifier
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3. BEST FOR SMALL BASEMENTS:Ivation Large-Capacity Dehumidifier With Pump
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4. BEST FOR LARGE BASEMENTS:hOmeLabs HME020030N 22-Pint Dehumidifier
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5. BEST SMART: Frigidaire Gallery 2-in-1 50-Pint Dehumidifier
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6. BEST COMPACT: Eva-Dry EDV-4000 Rotary Desiccant Dehumidifier
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Dehumidifiers for Basements Comparison

Our Top Picks

Each of these basement dehumidifiers received high customer reviews and performed well in our independent testing. Whether you’re looking for a small, medium, or large basement dehumidifier, one of these powerful machines could be a great choice.

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 5/5; Performance 5/5; Value 5/5

Basement dehumidifiers are nothing new, but this Honeywell 25-pint model shows why continued improvement and integration of current technology is a winning strategy. We chose this model for the top spot because it packs enough capacity to dry out a midsize basement with settings and features that make it more convenient for residents.

Like many dehumidifiers, this one includes a 24-hour timer and it automatically shuts off when the collection bucket is full. For a more hands-free experience, we utilized the built-in hose connection for a “constant drain” configuration. The drain hose ran to a nearby floor drain. The smart features on this unit make all the difference. After initial setup and connecting to WiFi, users can monitor air quality and control the settings from anywhere via mobile app or Amazon Alexa or Google Home voice assistants. There’s no need for multiple trips to the basement to check on it.

The Honeywell did a good job in our 2,000 square foot basement, even though it was technically undersized for the space. It reached the targeted 50 percent humidity level in about 18 hours, and held that level consistently through the remainder of the 3-day test. In operation it was very quiet. For wet basements or those larger than 1,500 square feet, consider going with Honeywell’s larger capacity model.

What our tester says: “The Honeywell model was not the biggest unit we tested, but it did a great job without much noise. The best part was that it worked virtually hands-free. Remote control was the big game changer because it eliminated trips up and down stairs several times a day for monitoring.” —Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Honeywell dehumidifier for basements at Amazon or Georgia Power Marketplace.

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Performance 3/5; Value 5/5

The compact Midea Cube dehumidifier’s standout feature is its small size when the compressor is detached. The 13.5-inch cube fits well in a variety of small spaces. While in use, the compressor unit attaches to the bucket, resulting in a height of 27 inches. This allows the bucket to be a surprisingly capacious 3.2 gallons, so it can be left unattended for long periods. For those who require full-time use, the upper unit could sit on the side of a sink, draining continuously with the use of the included hose.

The Midea Cube can be paired with a smartphone app, providing real-time monitoring of humidity and water levels and offering full-bucket alerts. It can also be controlled with voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant.

The Midea Cube dehumidifier was the slowest in our test group when it came to removing humidity from the air, performing at a rate of just under 1 pint per hour. But its generous bucket size allowed it to operate for over 40 hours without tripping the full-bucket alert. For continuous draining, we simply attached the hose and sat the unit on its base with the hose draining into a sump pump. The smart-control features make it a good crawl space dehumidifier​ or for basement storage rooms and other out-of-the-way areas.

Get the Midea dehumidifier for basements at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Walmart.

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Performance 4.5/5; Value 4/5 

With an adjustable fan speed, an easy-to-program LCD interface, and the ability to maintain preselected humidity levels in large areas, the Ivation dehumidifier is a top-rated option for basements.

With its capacity of 50 pints per day, this is an especially great choice for large basements that might serve as a whole-home dehumidifier for smaller dwellings. Users can monitor the current humidity level and program the unit to turn on at preset times. The Ivation comes equipped with an easy-empty 2.25-gallon tank and an optional hose connection. It features a 16-watt built-in pump capable of pumping water as high as 16.4 vertical feet. It also has an automatic shutoff and a restart sensor that detects frost buildup and turns the unit off to allow the frost to melt before turning back on.

The Ivation dehumidifier provided similar moisture removal results to the other 50-pint models in our test group, but it stood out for its versatility. Thanks to its large 2.25-gallon bucket, it was capable of providing the longest operational time before needing to be emptied—a little more than 8.5 hours. It was well balanced and easy to empty when full. The onboard condensate pump allowed us to pump the water to a sink drain for effortless disposal. We also liked that it came with an auto-restart feature in case of power failure and a defrost feature for use in cool-weather operation.

Get the Ivation dehumidifier for basements at Amazon.

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 5/5; Performance 4/5; Value 4/5 

This 22-pint dehumidifier from hOmeLabs is right sized for smaller spaces. This budget-friendly model is Energy Star certified for low power consumption, so it can also help save on utility bills. A 24-hour timer helps further optimize its usage, which can be controlled by Wi-Fi connection.

With a maximum coverage of 1,500 square feet, this unit is sufficient for basement bedrooms, and even smaller full basements. The tank’s capacity is only 0.8 gallons, but it is designed to automatically shut off when full. Continuous draining is an option as well, but there is no built-in pump, so it requires a low drain to utilize that feature. The Turbo mode speeds up the rate at which the air is dehumidified, but also results in the tank filling up faster, so it’s preferable to use the drain hose if you plan to run the Turbo setting frequently. 

The hOmeLabs 22-pint dehumidifier draws in humid air at the rear of the unit and discharges dry air to the side. This configuration helps keep the heavier dry air closer to bedding, furniture, and other moisture-sensitive items. 

In our test, operating this unit was simple, even with the fully manual controls. It took about 7 hours for the bucket to fill. The good news is that the noise level was low, so sleeping with the machine running should be doable. For continuous-drain mode, we had to add our own hose since the manufacturer did not include one.

Get the hOmeLabs dehumidifier for basements at Walmart or Wayfair.

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 5/5; Performance 5/5; Value 4.7/5

Smart features like WiFi connectivity and automatic comfort settings boost the functionality and convenience factors of dehumidifiers. Frigidaire takes it a step further by adding advanced air filtration for 2-in-1 purification and dehumidification with remote monitoring and control, and easy hands-free operation. This is a great option for basement bedrooms or apartments, where improved air quality is most important. It has enough air handling capacity to cover 4,500 square feet. 

The Fridigaire Gallery 2-in-1 unit has a removable collection bucket and auto shutoff, but we used the hose attachment to set it up for continuous draining into our basement sump pump. It ran quietly, hit our target humidity level within 12 hours, and kept the basement air clean and dry throughout the remainder of the test. We especially liked having remote access, since it eliminated extra trips to the basement for monitoring and emptying the collection tank.

Get the Frigidaire dehumidifier for basements at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Frigidaire.

Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 5/5; Performance 4/5; Value 4.7/5

The Eva-Dry EDV-4000 was the only desiccant dehumidifier we tested, and it showcased both the benefits and drawbacks of the type. Designed to operate in temperatures close to freezing with no need for a defrost cycle, it is the perfect solution for cold, unheated basements. But it puts out a significant amount of heat as an operational byproduct, so using it in an air conditioned space in the summertime is less efficient (although it does a fine job of removing moisture from warm air too). 

This compact unit covers up to 444 square feet, with a dehumidification capacity of just under 15 pints per day. It is the smallest and most lightweight model we tested. Weighing in at about 13 pounds, it’s very easy to transport anywhere, or store when not in use. The condensate collection bucket is very small, so the constant drain feature comes in handy. In addition to small basements or unheated basement rooms, this could be a great option for boats, RVs, garages, and other cold damp places. 

What our tester says: “The Eva-Dry dehumidifier is not for everyone, but it is a great option for cool, wet regions where the warming side effect will be beneficial. It dries the air in warm temps too, but the added heat works against the air conditioning.” —Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Eva-Dry dehumidifier for basements at Amazon or Eva-Dry.

What to Consider When Choosing a Basement Dehumidifier

After researching more than 20 appliance brands and 30 dehumidifiers, we selected our top 12 choices for testing. These picks represent a wide range of options suited for different budgets and specific needs, such as large, small, and unheated basements. We tested each of these models in an unfinished basement that shares a wall with a crawl space. While testing, the basement temperature varied from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity levels ranged between 40 and 70 percent. After measuring the weight and dimensions of each unit and noting the manufacturer’s moisture removal specs, we ran each unit for 3 days. Then we evaluated and rated them for ease of operating, noise, overall performance, and perceived value. After testing we compiled our notes on a scoring rubric to determine the overall top pick.

What to Consider When Choosing a Basement Dehumidifier

When determining which dehumidifier is best for a basement, shoppers will want to focus on certain qualities. Options for the best dehumidifier for basements will vary greatly in each product’s features, type, capacity, and ease of use. Before selecting a dehumidifier for your needs, consider the size of the space as well as the features required to achieve the desired results.

Type

Different dehumidifiers operate in different ways, and some methods are better suited than others for the high humidity levels found in basements. Here are a few of the most common types of basement dehumidifiers: 

• Compressor dehumidifiers: The majority of dehumidifiers for basements use a compressor to operate a fan that draws air over cold coils, causing moisture to condense like droplets on the outside of a cold drink. The droplets then run into a tank, which must be emptied regularly, or to a floor drain via a drain hose. For basements or crawl spaces with high humidity, a compressor dehumidifier may be the best option. 
• Desiccant dehumidifiers: With this type of dehumidifier, moist air is drawn through a filter made of a desiccant material (a chemical drying agent). The desiccant traps the moisture, which then drips into a collection tank. Desiccant dehumidifiers can control moisture levels in small rooms above-ground, but they may not be powerful enough for basements.
• Thermo-electric dehumidifiers: Also known as “Peltier dehumidifiers” after physicist Jean Charles Peltier, who discovered the thermoelectric method of extracting moisture from the air, these units work by drawing moist air along the surface of small heated surfaces (called “sinks”) where moisture collects and then drips into a collection tank. Thermoelectric dehumidifiers operate best in warm rooms, and they’re often on the small side. Though they may be the best basement dehumidifiers for small spaces, they aren’t always a good choice for a large or cool basement.

Capacity and Cost

Choosing the right size dehumidifier is key to effectively and efficiently controlling moisture. Portable dehumidifiers are categorized by capacity (how much water they can remove from the air per day). Though labeled “small, medium, and large,” this sizing refers to their power, not to the capacity of their collection tank. Collection tanks typically hold between 1 and 3 gallons, and as a general rule, the more powerful the dehumidifier, the greater its capacity to draw moisture out of the air. To remove the high level of humidity present in many basements, a large-capacity dehumidifier is often necessary.

• Small capacity: These lightweight, affordable, and portable dehumidifiers collect an average of 15 to 30 pints of moisture per day. These models are well suited to small rooms or closets and typically cost less than $150.
• Medium capacity: Capable of collecting 30 to 50 pints of moisture per day, medium-capacity dehumidifiers work well in medium to large rooms but may not be powerful enough for a basement. They generally cost up to $250.
• Large capacity: With the ability to remove up to 70 pints of moisture per day, a large-capacity dehumidifier is the best option for basement mold. Expect to pay between $250 and $350 for one of these units.

Depending on one’s utility rates, the size of the basement, and the humidity level, it costs an average of $25 to $50 per month to operate a large-capacity dehumidifier. While today’s dehumidifiers are more energy efficient than those made a decade ago, it’s wise to look for Energy Star certification when shopping. These models are the most efficient, and they could save up to 30 percent on electricity compared to a standard machine.

Drainage

All dehumidifiers come with collection tanks, but a self-draining dehumidifier offers the option to attach a drainage hose to direct condensed moisture into a floor drain or sink. Most basement dehumidifiers will automatically shut off when the collection tank is full, so if the user won’t be able to manually empty the dehumidifier on a regular basis, they’ll probably want to purchase a dehumidifier with drain hose attachments​. 

Keep in mind that a pint weighs approximately 1 pound, so while a large-capacity dehumidifier can pull out up to 75 pints a day, collection tanks generally only hold up to 3 gallons to allow for easy, frequent emptying. Only the mightiest of bodybuilders would want to haul a 75-pound collection tank around; if the tank is filling too quickly, consider other drainage options.

Additional Features

Most dehumidifiers let the user select a humidity level: normal, dry, or very dry. Aside from this basic function, the top dehumidifiers for basements have additional features that users might find useful.

• Digital controls allow the user to select the desired humidity level by percentages, such as 35 percent or 45 percent humidity. The unit will shut off automatically when the moisture in the room meets the preset level and then turn back on as necessary.
• Timers allow the user to program and turn the dehumidifier on/off automatically at a preset time.
• Memory or auto restart: Many of the most humid months bring thunderstorms with them, which often knock out the power. Some models with auto-restart or memory functions will remember their settings prior to the power outage and continue working where they left off. 
• Easy-carry collection tanks with comfortable handles and a well-designed spout allow the user to dump water without spilling.
• Frost sensors detect frost buildup and turn the machine off to save energy. When a compressor unit runs for long periods of time or the air temperature is cool, frost can develop on the coils, which reduces the dehumidifier’s effectiveness. While a unit with frost buildup will continue to run, it won’t remove moisture from the air as effectively. Some models also come with a restart feature that turns the unit back on after the coils have defrosted.
• Water-level sensors alert the user when the water level in the tank is approaching or has reached max capacity. Though most produce an auditory alarm, some models will also alert the user via smartphone. 
• Humidistats, also known as “hygrostats,” measure the humidity in the air to control excess moisture. Once a humidity level is programmed into the dehumidifier, the humidistat will automatically adjust its operation to keep the room at the desired moisture level. 
• Wheels are usually attached to portable units, allowing the user to move the dehumidifier with ease. 
• Energy Star certification is available for any energy-efficient dehumidifier that meets United States Department of Energy standards. Look for the blue Energy Star logo.

Noise Level

Dehumidifiers generate a noise similar to the hum of a window air conditioner, and the larger the capacity, the louder the device tends to be. Most dehumidifiers produce between 53 decibels (comparable to a normal conversation) and 65 decibels (comparable to the sound of street traffic), but manufacturers aren’t required to list the noise levels on their units. 

Reading customer reviews is the best way to determine how noisy a dehumidifier will be. Placing the unit on a level surface can also help reduce noise. 

FAQs

Choosing the best dehumidifiers for basements can be a complex process. While we hope our guide has answered many buyers’ questions about basement dehumidifiers, there are a number of other issues that crop up frequently. We’ve provided answers to those questions below.

Meet the Tester

A writer with an extensive background in the green industry, Mark Wolfe is an avid DIYer who lives in an older home. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his home, yard, and garden. He tests and writes reviews about hand tools, lawn-care and home-repair products, and outdoor-living goods.

Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor and Bob Beacham. 

 

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