Last Updated: February 26, 2024
A whole-house dehumidifier can be a great addition to your home, especially if you live in a humid climate. It will make your home more comfortable and help reduce the amount of moisture in the air. In addition, whole-house dehumidifiers are a great way to improve the air quality in your home and reduce allergens like dust mites and mold spores. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of whole-house dehumidifiers and help you find the best one for your home!
What is a Ducted Whole-Home Dehumidifier?
A ducted whole-home dehumidifier is installed in your ductwork and works with your HVAC system to remove moisture from the air as it is circulated throughout your home. Ducted dehumidifiers are an excellent option for whole-house dehumidification because they are out of sight and do not take up any additional space in your home.
How Does a Ducted Dehumidifier Work?
A ducted dehumidifier works by pulling air from your home through the unit, where it then passes over a series of cold coils. As the air cools, its moisture turns back into liquid water and drips downward off the pipes coils into a collection tank. Finally, the now-dehumidified air is reheated and sent back into your home through ductwork.
Difference between a Ducted Dehumidifier and a Portable Whole House Dehumidifier?
There are two main types of whole house dehumidifiers: ducted and portable. Ducted dehumidifiers are installed in your home’s HVAC system and work to remove moisture from the air as it is circulated throughout your home. Portable dehumidifiers are standalone units that can be placed in any room of your choice.
The ducted dehumidifier has its own blower and removes the moisture from the air as it passes through the unit. On the other hand, a portable dehumidifier does not come with a blower. You must place it near an open window so that the moist air can be drawn into the unit and expelled outside.
Another difference is that a ducted dehumidifier is more expensive but is equipped with additional features such as automatic drainage and a humidistat. Ducted dehumidifiers are best for larger homes, while portable units are best for smaller spaces.
Advantages of a Ducted Dehumidifier?
A ducted dehumidifier is an excellent option if you’re looking for a whole-house dehumidifier. But there are a few things to keep in mind before purchasing one. First, make sure you understand the pros and cons of ducted dehumidifiers to decide if this type of dehumidifier is right for your home:
- Ducted dehumidifiers are out of sight and do not take up any additional space in your home.
- Ducted dehumidifiers work with your HVAC system to remove moisture from the air as it is circulated throughout your home.
- Ducted dehumidifiers can be controlled by a whole-house humidistat so that you can set and forget it
- They dehumidify the whole house evenly and prevent damage from mold, mildew, pest infestation, bugs, indoor air pollution, and musty odors.
- You can use ducted dehumidifiers in conjunction with a whole-house air purifier for even better indoor air quality.
Disadvantages of a Ducted Dehumidifier?
- Ducted dehumidifiers require professional installation and should be installed by a qualified HVAC contractor.
- Ducted dehumidifiers can be more expensive to operate than other types of dehumidifiers.
- Ducted dehumidifiers require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent mold and mildew buildup in the ductwork.
- A Ducted Dehumidifier unit can freeze up in cold weather
Things we considered while selecting these Ducted dehumidifiers
Some of the things you’ll want to keep in mind are, while choosing the best whole house ducted dehumidifier:
The size of you home:
Whole house dehumidifiers are available in a variety of sizes. You’ll need to choose a dehumidifier that is powerful enough to handle the square footage of your home. If you choose a unit that is too small, it won’t be effective at removing moisture from the air. If you choose a too-large unit, it will use more energy than necessary and may not operate efficiently.
The climate you live in:
If you live in a humid climate, you’ll need a more powerful dehumidifier than if you live in an area with lower humidity or encounter higher humidity for only a limited period each year. The best whole house dehumidifier for someone living in a hot, humid climate will differ from the best option for someone living in a cooler, drier climate
Your home’s insulation:
If your home is well insulated, you may be able to get away with a less powerful dehumidifier.
The number of people in the house:
The more people there are in your home, the greater the moisture load on your dehumidifier.
Energy efficiency:
Another important factor to consider when choosing a whole-house dehumidifier is its energy efficiency. Choose a unit with an Energy Star rating to ensure that it uses less energy and costs less to operate.
Capacity:
The capacity of the dehumidifier is also an important consideration. Choose a unit that’s large enough to handle the amount of moisture in your home.
Price:
Consider a ducted dehumidifier that fits your budget and needs. Higher-priced units may have more features or be more energy-efficient, but they’re not necessarily the best choice for everyone.
Features:
Some dehumidifiers come with a built-in humidistat, which allows you to set the desired humidity level. Other units have filters that remove the water from the air, helping to improve indoor air quality. Some units may have features that are more important to you than others, so be sure to choose a model that has the features you want.
Installation:
Some dehumidifiers must be hardwired into your electrical system, while others can be plugged into a standard outlet. Consider the installation process before making your final decision.
Warranty:
The warranty is another essential factor when selecting the best whole-house dehumidifier. Some manufacturers offer a longer warranty than others, so ensure to read the fine print before purchasing. You’ll want to make sure you’re covered if something goes wrong with your new appliance.
Humidity control:
Most whole-house dehumidifiers come with built-in humidistats that allow you to set the desired humidity range. When the humidity falls below that level, the device will automatically stop the dehumidification process so that you can live comfortably under optimal humidity conditions.
There are many different brands and models of ducted whole-house dehumidifiers on the market, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. But, one of the best ways to select the best unit for your home is to read online reviews from other customers. Look for a dehumidifier with high marks for performance and customer satisfaction. Also, be sure to find a unit that is Energy Star certified. This will ensure you’re getting a quality appliance that will save you money on your energy bills.
The best whole house dehumidifier for your home is the one that meets your needs and budget. Be sure to do your research before making your purchase to be sure you are getting the best unit for your money. There are many options on the market, so take your time and find the perfect one for your home.
Our Pick – Best Ducted Whole-House Dehumidifiers
Still not sure which is the best whole house dehumidifier for your home?
While there are many whole-house dehumidifiers on the market, not all of them are created equal. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure you select a high-quality unit that is sized appropriately for your home and climate. To help you find the best whole house dehumidifier for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the best options on the market.
1. AlorAir Duct-able Dehumidifier –
Duct-able Version Basement/Crawl Space Dehumidifiers 198 PPD Commercial Industrial Dehumidifier with Pump & Drain Hose
The Sentinel HDi90 dehumidifier can effectively remove moisture with less energy than conventional dehumidifiers without racking up your energy bill. The dehumidifier can remove 90 pints per day at AHAM condition, 198 Pint at saturation, up to 2,600 sq. ft., and is ideal for residential work and suitable for households, crawl space, basements, warehouses, garages, offices, industrial institutions, etc.
The Sentinel HDi90 Dehumidifier comes with a heavy-duty condensate pump that keeps the dehumidifier running smoothly and efficiently by continuously pushing collected water out of the area while removing a large amount of moisture. With a 19.6′ lifting distance, the condensate pump gives you the freedom to drain anywhere. This whole house dehumidifier is constructed with premium materials and can be tied into a forced-air duct system, ducted with separate ducting, or used in a freestanding application.
The Sentinel HDi90 Dehumidifier features automatic defrost that enables the machine to run effectively even at low temperatures (36 degrees Fahrenheit). If frost is detected on the coils, an automatic defrost cycle runs to avoid frost build-up and issues associated with that build-up without frequent stopping during the defrosting process, saving energy and making the unit last longer. This professional dehumidifier is designed with the remote monitoring function (sold separately), making this unit ideal for places where remote sense and control, and also allows sound insulation and optimum space usage.
The Sentinel HDi90 dehumidifier is energy star certified and is fully compliant with the electrical safety ETL. Furthermore, sentinel HDi90 is much smaller and more compact than the conventional basement-size dehumidifiers on the market. Measuring at only 23.2″ (W) x 15.2″ (D) x 17.7″ (H), it allows for more flexibility with transportation, placement, and storage. In addition, every AlorAir Dehumidifier comes with a 5-year warranty.
Pros
- Heavy Duty Condensate Pump
- Remote controller
- Auto Defrost
- Compact Design
- High Coverage
Cons
- Fan always runs either if the condenser needs to run or not
2. Waykar Commercial Dehumidifier –
155 Pints Commercial Dehumidifier Industrial Dehumidifier for Crawl Spaces, Basements, Whole Homes
The Waykar commercial-grade dehumidifier 2.5D features a powerful compressor and efficient fan system that moves the air at high speed of 175 CFM. It is capable of removing up to 155 pints of moisture per day. The strong airflow and heavy-duty function enable it to efficiently dry air for large indoor spaces up to 6500 sq. ft., such as commercial areas, basements, crawlspaces, warehouses, grow rooms, cellars, libraries, etc.
The Waykar dehumidifier features a removable controller and a humidity sensor, making it a breeze for remote control and monitoring in ample space. You can duct the dehumidifier or place it anywhere you want. In addition, the industrial-grade dehumidifier comes with an auto-defrost function that eliminates maintenance and allows the machine to be used in a cold environment reaching as low as 41°F. This basement dehumidifier is also designed to restart automatically when power becomes available.
The Waykar dehumidifier comes with humidity auto control. Adjust the moisture to the requisite level, it will smartly sense room humidity and control dehumidification to maintain pre-set humidity levels. The machine also comes with automatic shut-off/on that shuts off automatically when the room humidity reaches the set humidity and restarts when the humidity is above the desired level.
The Waykar Industrial Commercial Dehumidifier is covered with 30-Days’ Money Back if you are not satisfied with the product, one year warranty, 2nd-year warranty extension, and lifetime expert tech support. The machine comes with washable air filters. Simply remove the air filter and clean it. In order to ensure your machine work efficiently and help prevent air quality issues, please clean and maintain the dehumidifier regularly. It is recommended to wipe the water tank every two weeks and wash the air filter once a month using a soft cloth and water. Please make sure the filter is completely dry before reinstalling.
Pros
- 155 PPD Dehumidifying Capacity
- Wide Range of Application
- Advanced Touch Control Panel
- Updated Compact Design
- Reusable & Washable Air Filter
Cons
- Some users have complained about packaging, and receiving broken parts
3. Aprilaire E100 Pro –
100 Pint Dehumidifier for Crawl Spaces, Basements, Whole Homes, Commercial up to 5,500 sq. ft
The Aprilaire E100 is ideal for dehumidifying your whole home, basement, or sealed crawl space. The dehumidifier is capable of removing up to 100 pints of water per to help prevent damp carpeting and furnishings mold, mildew, termites, structural wood rot, and odors.
The Aprilaire E100 Dehumidifier can be ducted to your HVAC system. You can mount the control panel on the top or front of the unit, making it easily accessible in any location and has leveling feet. The dehumidifier has an easy-to-use interactive display, making set-up and use a breeze. In addition, the Aprilaire E100 is low maintenance with no messy water tray to empty and simple once-a-year filter cleaning or replacement.
The Aprilaire E100 Dehumidifier comes with a smart sensing technology that automatically starts dehumidification when it senses humidity above the pre-set levels. The dehumidifier doesn’t require you to empty water tanks. Instead, just place a hose or place the dehumidifier over a floor drain. The machine is energy-star rated for optimal moisture removal using less energy, reducing the impact on your energy bill and the environment.
The Aprilaire E100 is designed and manufactured in the U.S and uses corrosion-resistant aluminum coils; and also boasts of quality manufacturing processes to prevent leaks and robust packaging for damage-free shipment. In addition, the dehumidifier is backed by a 5-year warranty.
Pros
- Easy to follow instructions
- Long Warranty
- High Capacity Moisture Removal
- Easy operations
Cons
- A Bit noisy
Frequently asked questions
Q: How to decide if a whole-house dehumidifier is right for you?
A: Size of Home: The size of your home is the first thing to consider when shopping for a dehumidifier. You’ll want to make sure you get a unit that’s powerful enough to handle the square footage of your house.
Allergies or Respiratory Problems: If you have allergies or respiratory problems, a whole-house dehumidifier can make a big difference in your symptoms. Talk to your doctor about whether a whole-house dehumidifier is right for you.
Dampness and Humidity Levels: Another factor to consider is the dampness and humidity levels in your home. If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need a more powerful unit.
Q: What is the cost of installing a ducted whole-house dehumidifier?
A: The cost of installing a ducted whole-house dehumidifier will vary depending on the size of your home and the unit you choose. A larger, more powerful unit will be more expensive to install than a smaller unit. The cost is also dependent on the type of dehumidifier you choose. The average cost of installing a whole-house dehumidifier is about $500 to $2000.
It would help if you also considered labor costs when selecting a unit. Some units are easier to install than others, so be sure to check the installation instructions before making your purchase.
Q: How much square footage will the dehumidifier cover?
A: Some of the best whole house dehumidifiers can cover homes up to 6000 square feet and remove up to 95 pints of moisture from the air per day.
Q: How often will I need to empty the water tank?
A: It depends on the model of dehumidifier you select, but most whole-house dehumidifiers have a tank that needs to be emptied every few days. Some higher-end models even come with a hose connection so you can drain the water directly out of the unit.
Q: What is the best way to control humidity in my home?
A: There are a few different ways to control humidity in your home, but using a whole-house dehumidifier is one of the most effective methods. Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, which can help reduce mold and mildew growth, and musty odors.
To sum it up, ducted dehumidifiers are a great option for whole-home humidity control. If you have any questions about choosing the right unit for your home, please get in touch with us.
Happy Shopping!