Buying Guide for the Best Dehumidifier Honeywell
Choosing the right dehumidifier is essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment. Dehumidifiers help reduce humidity levels, preventing mold growth, dust mites, and other allergens. When selecting a dehumidifier, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider and how to navigate them.CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of moisture a dehumidifier can remove from the air in a 24-hour period, usually measured in pints. This is important because it determines how effective the dehumidifier will be in your space. Small capacity units (20-30 pints) are suitable for small rooms or areas with mild humidity. Medium capacity units (30-50 pints) are ideal for medium-sized rooms or areas with moderate humidity. Large capacity units (50-70 pints) are best for large rooms, basements, or areas with high humidity. Choose a capacity based on the size of the room and the level of humidity you need to control.
Coverage AreaCoverage area indicates the maximum square footage the dehumidifier can effectively handle. This is crucial because using a dehumidifier that is too small for your space will not be effective, while one that is too large may be unnecessarily costly. Small units typically cover up to 300 square feet, medium units cover 300-700 square feet, and large units can cover over 700 square feet. Measure the area you need to dehumidify and select a unit that matches or exceeds this size.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is measured by the Energy Factor (EF), which indicates how much moisture is removed per kilowatt-hour of electricity used. This is important for reducing energy costs and environmental impact. Look for units with an Energy Star certification, as they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. Higher EF values mean better efficiency. Choose a dehumidifier with a good balance of capacity and energy efficiency to save on long-term operating costs.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the dehumidifier will be during operation. This is important if you plan to use the dehumidifier in a living space or bedroom where noise could be disruptive. Lower noise levels (below 50 dB) are ideal for quiet environments, while higher noise levels (above 50 dB) may be acceptable for basements or areas where noise is less of a concern. Consider where you will place the dehumidifier and choose a model with an appropriate noise level for that setting.
Drainage OptionsDrainage options refer to how the dehumidifier disposes of the collected water. This is important for convenience and maintenance. Manual drainage requires you to empty the water tank regularly, which is suitable for occasional use or smaller units. Continuous drainage involves attaching a hose to the unit to direct water to a drain, which is ideal for continuous operation and larger units. Pump drainage includes a built-in pump to move water to a higher drain or out a window, offering the most convenience. Choose a drainage option based on how often you plan to use the dehumidifier and your willingness to manage water disposal.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the usability and convenience of a dehumidifier. These may include a built-in humidistat to maintain a set humidity level, auto-restart to resume operation after a power outage, a timer to schedule operation, and air filters to improve air quality. These features can make the dehumidifier more user-friendly and efficient. Consider which additional features are important to you based on your specific needs and preferences.