Dehumidifier Buying Guide

We test dehumidifiers in three categories based on their capacity, which is the claimed measurement of the amount of water each model can remove from the air. Here’s how we categorize the models in our current dehumidifier ratings.

• Small: Claimed to remove less than 30 pints of moisture per day.

• Medium: Claimed to remove 30 pints to less than 40 pints per day.

• Large: Claimed to remove 40 or more pints per day.

Our water-removal tests measure a dehumidifier’s ability to remove moisture from the air (the number of pints of water per day, as claimed by the manufacturer) in our test chamber set at 65° F and 60 percent relative humidity. The humidistat accuracy test determines how closely each dehumidifier can reach and maintain a set humidity level.

For energy efficiency, our engineers calculate the amount of energy it takes to remove 1 pint of water from the air. For our convenience rating, we evaluate how often you’ll have to empty the tank. We also measure and judge noise levels.

These lab-test results, along with brand reliability and owner satisfaction data from our CR member survey, are incorporated into an Overall Score for each dehumidifier. 

Labels and packaging of dehumidifiers sold since the beginning of 2020 typically claim the units can remove 20, 30, or 45 pints in 24 hours. That’s a change from the packaging of earlier dehumidifiers, which claimed removal rates of 30, 50, or 70 pints per day.

The lower figures don’t mean these new models remove less water, though. Rather, in accordance with new, more realistic government standards that went into effect in 2019, they were tested by the manufacturer in a condition where less moisture needs to be removed.

Dehumidifiers are typically used in basements, and the Department of Energy changed its test standard by lowering the room temperature by 15° F to 65° F, to better reflect basement conditions. There’s less water to remove in cooler air, which is why the number of pints of water drops. The relative humidity level in both the old and new test is 60 percent. CR uses the new standard in its tests as well. 

Fix Existing Problems
Even the best dehumidifier might not work effectively if too much outside moisture seeps into your home. Unclogging gutters and making sure downspouts are directing rainwater at least 5 feet from the house can help. For more tips, check out “How to Get the Most From Your Dehumidifier.”

Consider Where It Will Go 
Noise can be a concern in living spaces. Our noise measurements taken from 3 feet away range from 58 decibels to 67 decibels for the dehumidifiers in our current ratings. 

Normal conversation is around 60 decibels, and a clothes washer is about 70 decibels, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Focus on Models Meeting the 2019 Standard
The more realistic claims should be closer to the dehumidifier’s true performance in your basement, says Misha Kollontai, who oversees CR’s dehumidifier testing. If you can’t find mention of the 2019 standard on the packaging or product information guide, check the model page on the manufacturer’s website. The retailer’s page may also display the information in the product details.