A dehumidifier can turn air from clammy to comfortable or keep a damp basement dry. Opt for a high-capacity model for speed and efficiency>.

Dehumidifiers are ideal for cool, damp basements or crawl spaces. They work this way: A fan pulls room air over two sets of refrigerant-filled coils, one cool and the other warm, wringing out moisture along the way. The water that condenses out of the air typically drips into a bucket inside the dehumidifier.

WHAT’S AVAILABLE

You’ll find brands including GE, LG, Sears, and Whirlpool. There are few real differences among brands, so concentrate on dehumidifying capacity, measured in pints per day. A small-capacity unit can handle roughly 25 pints daily, while a large one can reach 50 pints or more. Price range: $100 to $200 or more, although most sell for less than $200.

IMPORTANT FEATURES

Look for a bucket that is easy to empty, with comfortable handles and a cover that allow for convenient removal and carrying when full. A plus is a hose connection, which allows you to divert the condensed water directly to a floor drain, saving you the hassle of emptying the bucket. Also look for an on/off switch, which is more convenient than adjusting the humidistat to turn the unit on or off. Electronic humidistats make selecting a humidity level easier. Controls that are easy to read are also important; several models now use electronic controls, some with digital displays.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Buy the largest-capacity dehumidifier you can afford. Although a large-capacity dehumidifier costs a little more, we think it’s worth the premium. A larger-capacity unit will work more quickly and efficiently than a smaller unit, and it will be able to handle a greater range of humidity levels.

Know when to shop. New models appear in late spring and early summer, with most sales occurring June through September; look for in-season promotions. You may find close-out deals in the fall and early winter.

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