A Consumer Reports humidifier can reduce humidity in your home. Dehumidifiers come in handy when there is moisture problems or a damp basement. Dehumidifiers also help keep humidity between 30 and 50 percent, which is the optimal level for people with asthma or allergies. They can also be used to control mildew or mold.
Dehumidifiers come in several different sizes and styles, including stand-alone models, whole-home units, and portable residential dehumidifiers. They are classified by the capacity (or amount of water that the unit can remove). Larger units use less energy and are easier to maintain. Large-capacity units are also more economical per pint of water. According to Consumer Reports, a smaller dehumidifier may cost more and be less efficient.
Energy Star certification has existed for several years. Dehumidifier manufacturers have been testing their products under different conditions since then. However, there are some differences between the DOE energy efficiency requirements and those in the Energy Star program.
For example, the Energy Star program requires testing at different temperatures. Energy Star version 5.0 requirements call for testing at 60 degrees F and 60% RH. However, the Department of Energy requires testing at 80°F and 60% RH. Manufacturers have to make adjustments because of this difference in test conditions.
Consumer Reports' dehumidifiers were tested and produced impressive results. The unit that was capable of extracting 70 pints of water in just 24 hours was the most impressive. The unit's programmable humidistat helps you maintain the desired humidity level in your home. You can also see the performance of the unit with the digital readout.
Most dehumidifiers have an air filter that removes large particles from the air. Some models include a pump that moves the water to a sink. It is easier to move the dehumidifier around your house by using caster wheels.
It is important to have a large tank (e.g. 70 pint) and that they are energy efficient. A smaller dehumidifier is more efficient if you do not have moisture issues. Consider purchasing a dehumidifier that has hose connections for draining the water to a laundry sink or floor drain if you have a moisture problem.
A few neat features are also included in the best consumer reports dehumidifiers. For example, a unit's auto-restart feature helps keep the unit running when it's left off for a prolonged period. The dehumidifiers that use ultra-quiet compressor technology are another notable feature. They run at very low dB noise levels. It's a smart decision to invest in a dehumidifier equipped with a remote controller, as it is easy to forget how to shut the device off when you're not there.
The most notable features of a dehumidifier are the ones that make it stand out, but there are some other things you need to check such as the unit's energy efficiency. High CFM fans are the best, as they draw more air from a wider area. A high CFM fan can make noise so it might be worth looking for a quieter option.