A lot of us view conservation as an abstract idea. But in the HVAC space, buying an energy efficient dehumidifier could save you hundreds of dollars in utility bills.
It lowers your carbon footprint, and is good for your health as well. Devices that use minimal electricity have extended lifespans, because there’s less wear and tear, so you can go longer periods before replacement.
But just because it says ‘energy efficient’ on the box doesn’t mean it is. To be sure your dehumidifier works as advertised, you need intense research. Fortunately, we’ve done the tough part for you, generating a list of genuinely green gadgets. It’s not absolute, but it’s a good place to start, so let’s look through our selections together.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Most Energy Efficient Dehumidifiers
- OUR TOP PICK: Shinco SDZ1-50P
- RUNNER-UP: JHS D025B-25PT
- JHS D025B-35PT
Comparison of the Most Energy Efficient Dehumidifiers
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Characteristics of Our Favorite Models
Many experts say relative indoor humidity should be 40% to 60%. In the summer, your readings should approach the upper limit, while lower figures are preferable over winter. Dehumidifiers are essential for bathrooms, basements, crawl spaces, and other damp areas. And picking your favourite should be driven by practical criteria. Let’s explore some of those factors.
Temperature Settings
When it’s warm, the air can hold extra moisture, so relative humidity may be higher. At the other end of the spectrum, lower temperatures contain less liquid. It’s why the air feels drier during the winter. That said, there are parts of your home that are colder, like basements and unused stores. If temperatures in these spaces go below freezing, your dehumidifier may frost over and stop working. Look for a gadget with temperature sensors and auto-defrosters.
Humidity Gauges
Hygrometers, sometimes called humidistats, are devices that measure the relative humidity in your space. Some have an extra feature that allows them to influence your dehumidifier.
Instead of just giving you an accurate reading, it will take corrective measures. These humidistats can turn on the dehumidifier when the rooms gets too moist, and turn it off once it achieves optimal humidity. It saves you the hassle of manually programing your device.
Filter Maintenance
Dehumidifiers work by sucking moist air into themselves and drying it out before releasing it back into the room. This air has other components besides water.
Some of these ‘ingredients’ are harmful, so get a humidifier that has several filtration membranes. They’ll partially cleanse the air before returning it into circulation. If your filter can be washed, it reduces the cost of repair and replacement, so check that your filter can be cleaned without too much drama.
Tank Capacity
In humidifiers, the water tank decides how long the device can run before a refill. With humidifiers, all the collected moisture goes into a sump that can be emptied later. The bigger the tank, the longer it runs. But you have to balance capacity against weight, price, and other factors.
For example, side drainage can be handy. It lets you link a pipe to your tank, guiding water towards a sink, cistern, or potted plant. That way, you don’t have to empty it manually.
Review of the Most Energy Efficient Dehumidifiers
There are other elements that come into play when you’re picking humidifiers. The size of your room, for instance, and the amount of moisture you’re dealing with. We’ve considered all these, and put together a list of our preferences. Each one has its own strengths and flaws, so let’s take a deeper look at our top contenders.
Best Overall
Shinco SDZ1-50P
Product Ratings
Affordability:
Cost Efficiency:
Warranty:
Space Efficiency:
Portability:
How We Determined These Scores
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Quick Product Specs:
Pints (DOE): 50
Warranty Length: 1 year
Size & Weight: 13.5×9.4×20.1”; 33 lbs.
Tank Capacity: 4 Liters
Decibel Level: 48 dB
Review
If you’re searching for the most energy-efficient dehumidifier on the market today, look no further than the Shinco SDZ1-50P. Offering a 50-pint capacity, this unit is larger than some other energy-efficient dehumidifiers. This gives the unit a superb 5-star space efficiency rating and a 4.5-star rating for cost efficiency.
On top of that, it’s also Energy Star certified, which you’ll notice each month when you get the power bill. And with a quick-drying feature offered by few competitors, the Shinco is an ideal choice for RVs and camper vans or the avid outdoorsman.
Bottom Line
With quiet operation and a stellar capacity for removing water from the air, the Shinco SDZ1-50P performs as well as advertised. Furthermore, it has a 5-star portability rating thanks to its lightweight design, 360-degree turning wheels, and built-in handles. Though it only comes with a 1-year warranty, you should still consider this unit if you’re at the forefront of the “going green” revolution.
Pros
Energy Star certified
Has a 2- or 4-hour sleep timer
3,000 sq. ft. of dehumidifying power
Does an automatic restart after power outages
Offers a quick-dry feature ideal for clothes or an RV
Cons
Louder than advertised
Humidistat isn’t always accurate
Runner-up
JHS D025B-25PT
Product Ratings
Affordability:
Cost Efficiency:
Warranty:
Space Efficiency:
Portability:
How We Determined These Scores
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Quick Product Specs:
Pints (DOE): 35
Warranty Length: 1 year
Size & Weight: 10.2×13.8×19.7”; 32 lbs.
Tank Capacity: 4 Liters
Decibel Level: 53 dB
Review
Think of the JHS D025B-25PT as the Little Engine That Could. Despite only having a 35-pint capacity and an Energy Star rating, this little dehumidifier packs a punch, covering over 3,000 sq. ft., making it ideal for even larger homes. This leads to a 4.5-star rating in terms of cost-efficiency.
Furthermore, its continuous automatic draining feature allows you to run it without problems, whether you’re doing chores around the house or out on the town.
Bottom Line
With a low price point, the JHS D025B-25PT’s 5-star affordability rating might just be its coup de grace on top of its efficiency. But it’s also lightweight and has wheels and handles, providing excellent mobility and earning it a 4.5-star portability rating. While it lacks in space efficiency rating at only 3 stars, overall, this dehumidifying masterpiece earns the second spot on this list with good reason.
Pros
Auto shut-off
3,000 sq. ft. capacity
Continuous automatic draining
Costs 30% less to operate than similar units
Features Intelligent Humidity Control for improved dehumidifying
Cons
Louder than similar models
Fan can rattle at higher speeds
JHS D025B-35PT
Product Ratings
Affordability:
Cost Efficiency:
Warranty:
Space Efficiency:
Portability:
How We Determined These Scores
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Quick Product Specs:
Pints (DOE): 50
Warranty Length: 1 year
Size & Weight: 10.2×13.8×19.7”; 34.2 lbs.
Tank Capacity: 4 Liters
Decibel Level: 53 dB
Review
If you love everything about the JHS D025B-25PT but you need a bit more coverage and power, the JHS D025B-35PT is your hero. Offering an additional 15 pints of moisture removal, this unit covers up to 4,500 sq. ft., giving it a 4.5-star rating for both space efficiency and cost-efficiency.
Proprietary Intelligent Humidity Control also ensures that you get the best humidity levels for your home, whether you place this unit in the bathroom, the kitchen, or the closet.
Bottom Line
While little changes between this unit and its 35-pint sibling, it’s a great choice if you have a larger home, a three- or four-car garage, or a huge basement. It also brings a 4.5-star portability rating courtesy of built-in handles and casters so you can roll the JHS around to your heart’s content.
Pros
Easy-to-use interface
Full bucket indicator light
Thermal overload and fuse protection
Auto-restart, shutoff, and defrost features
Proprietary Intelligent Humidity Control technology keeps your rooms at the ideal humidity
Cons
Low tank capacity requires frequent changes
Noisy operation can make it a poor choice for the bedroom
Hisense DH7019KP1WG
Product Ratings
Affordability:
Cost Efficiency:
Warranty:
Space Efficiency:
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How We Determined These Scores
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Quick Product Specs:
Pints (DOE): 70
Warranty Length: 2 years
Size & Weight: 16x12x25”; 43 lbs.
Tank Capacity: 6.62 Liters
Decibel Level: 47 dB
Review
For buyers that want a true beast that’s capable of removing 70 pints of water in just 24 hours, the Hisense DH7019KP1WG is an exceptional option. Yet despite its huge capacity, it’s surprisingly efficient, delivering a 5-star cost-efficiency rating and a 3.5-star space efficiency rating. Plus, it adds a 2-year warranty, giving it the most peace of mind of any other dehumidifier on this list.
Bottom Line
With an included drain hose and internal pump, the Hisense DH7019KP1WG provides some of the easiest operation in the energy-efficient dehumidifier space. A major downside is its 1.5-star portability ranking due to its bulkier size, heavier weight, and lack of wheels or handles. But if you only need this unit in one location, it’s a great investment.
Pros
Programmable timer
Washable and reusable filter
Internal pump for ease of use
Drain hose for easy automatic draining
Cold-weather operation in temperatures as low as 38 degrees
Cons
Pump has issues regarding longevity and durability
Instructions aren’t easy to read, requiring some trial and error
JHS D026B-50PT
Product Ratings
Affordability:
Cost Efficiency:
Warranty:
Space Efficiency:
Portability:
How We Determined These Scores
We may earn commission from purchases made from our links, at no additional cost to you
Quick Product Specs:
Pints (DOE): 70
Warranty Length: 1 year
Size & Weight: 11.3×15.4×24.4”; 39.7 lbs.
Tank Capacity: 8 Liters
Decibel Level: 53 dB
Review
A 70-pint dehumidifier isn’t often synonymous with energy efficiency, but the JHS D026B-50PT does it with a touch of style and added pizzazz. Offering fully customizable settings that cover up to 4,500 sq. ft., this unit is perfect for an office, commercial garage, or a larger-sized home.
A 5-star cost-efficiency rating and a 4-star space efficiency rating are the results of this amazingly efficient dehumidifier. And with a lighter weight than other 70-pint options, the JHS D026B-50PT gets the job done with a 3-star portability rating.
Bottom Line
Easy to move and surprisingly (yet pleasantly efficient), the JHS D026B-50PT is a top choice for a 70-pint dehumidifying solution. While it might be a bit oversized for some buyers, you can’t argue with the amount of power it provides. Add in a 4-star affordability rank, and this unit gets the job done in an amazing fashion.
Pros
Anti-frost and freeze protection
Automatic restart post-power outage
Wheels and handles for excellent portability
Fully customizable allows settings for different rooms
Small and lightweight compared to other 70-pint models
Cons
Higher fan speeds can create excess noise
Inconsistent dehumidifying in various temperatures
Why is it Better to Invest in an Energy Efficient Dehumidifier?
Dehumidifiers work by correcting excess moisture in your home or office. Without one, your space can get mouldy and damp. You painted surfaces could blister and peel, pipes could leak from condensation, wood could warp, electronics could fry, and allergies could get more aggravated. Too much humidity has also been associated with asthma. So you definitely need a humidifier, but what’s so special about energy efficient models? What’s their actual benefit?
Noise Control
In bikes, cars, and other automotives, power announces itself. Higher horsepower means louder engines. Dehumidifiers and other HVAC devices are similar.
The more power it takes to run your device, the more noise it will emit. There are other factors, like the technique used to lower moisture (e.g. suction, heat, vibration). Energy-efficient devices are generally quieter and safer.
Improved Hygiene
If your space is consistently humid, you’ll be uncomfortable. You’ll be nagged by that persistent damp smell, your skin may feel clammy, your hair will be a limp bedraggled mess, and you’ll have to spend a lot on professional upholsterers and carpet cleaners.
A good dehumidifier lowers routine household cleaning costs. It can also minimize pricey refurbishments to repair your foundations, walls, floors, door frames, and other areas with moisture damage.
Health Concerns
Our respiratory passages are sensitive to humidity. When the air is too dry, our nasal lining and throat cells can become irritated, causing dry coughs and nosebleeds.
At the other extreme, excessively moist air can encourage bacteria, mould spores, and germs to thrive, causing infections and triggering asthma. A dehumidifier (especially one paired with an air purifier) can lower your medical bills. It makes your air fresher and your residents happier.
Environmental Compliance
Some of us are really concerned with greenhouse gases and climate change. Certain countries are politically behind it, signing the Paris Climate Accord and actively switching to renewable energy.
While the US has pulled out of the deal, you may still want to do your individual part to conserve our surroundings. Using an Energy Star rated dehumidifier means you’re consuming between 10% and 20% less power than your friends and neighbors.
What Size Dehumidifier for Energy Efficiency?
Dehumidifiers come in different sizes. Which one you choose is determined by how big the room is and its relative humidity levels. According to the Department of Energy, dehumidifiers are sized as follows:
30-pint Dehumidifiers
A 30-pint dehumidifier can remove 30 pints of moisture per day. These devices can efficiently serve areas up to 3,000 square feet with relative humidity between 50% and 60%.
50-pint Dehumidifiers
50-pint dehumidifiers are suitable for mid-sized rooms with extremely humid conditions. They can collect up to 50 pints of moisture per day. These dehumidifiers can efficiently serve 3,000-square foot areas with relative humidity levels higher than 85%.
70-pint Dehumidifiers
70-pint dehumidifiers are considered the largest for domestic use. They work well for areas up to 3,000 square feet with relative humidity more than 85%.
Dehumidifier Running Cost Calculator
You may be wondering just how much a dehumidifier will raise your electric bill. Here is a calculator to help you:
Aspects to Consider Before Buying an Energy-efficient Dehumidifier
There are several considerations you should make before buying a dehumidifier. These factors affect the type and size of the device you must buy. They include:
Room Size
For smaller residential areas, 30-pint dehumidifiers, are the most efficient. Larger dehumidifiers can be used in larger areas.
Relative Humidity Levels
For humid and wet rooms, you need large dehumidifiers for efficiency. In areas where the moisture collection rate is high, you need self-draining dehumidifiers to avoid regularly emptying the bucket.
The Number of People in the Room
A crowded room equates to a higher amount of moisture being released into the air. Therefore, you need larger dehumidifiers for areas with many people.
Cost of the Dehumidifier
The dehumidifier you buy should be affordable. You should meet the maintenance costs without straining your finances. If you can’t afford one that suits your needs, you can consider hiring.
Tips on Increasing Energy Efficiency in Dehumidifiers
To increase your dehumidifier’s energy efficiency, here are some tips you should consider:
Use the Dehumidifier for the Right Room Size as Specified
You spend more energy and time when you use smaller dehumidifiers for large rooms. Using big dehumidifiers for smaller areas is also inefficient, as they consume more energy than required.
Turn Off the Dehumidifier When Not in Use
Once you achieve the required humidity levels, turn off the dehumidifier to save energy. Some devices have automatic on/off systems that help conserve energy. However, you might need to key in certain settings to achieve this mode.
Use Portable Dehumidifiers
Use a portable dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from several rooms. You can dehumidify them one after another based on priority.
Keep Doors and Windows Closed When Necessary
The location of your windows and doors determines how much one-way humidity enters your house. If you have a running humidifier, keep them locked to minimize the amount of incoming moisture.
Conclusion
Danby’s 70 Pint Dehumidifier may look dull and uninspiring, but it has a leg-up over all the other humidifiers on our list. It uses minimal energy and has maximal drainage space. It retains its settings despite unplanned shut-offs, and it can be directly emptied using a standard sized hose. It can run for 24 hours at a time, ensuring your home retains optimal relative humidity.
For all these reasons, the Danby dehumidifier remains our firm favorite. A lot of us view conservation as an abstract idea. But in the HVAC space, buying an energy efficient dehumidifier could save you hundreds of dollars in utility bills. It lowers your carbon footprint, and is good for your health as well. Devices that use minimal electricity have extended lifespans, because there’s less wear and tear, so you can go longer periods before replacement.
People Also Ask
Here are our answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding energy efficient dehumidifiers:
Energy Star dehumidifiers use up to 15% less energy than other devices.
Both dehumidifiers and air conditioners are energy efficient, but they perform different functions.
Yes, when they’re used for large rooms. They’re inefficient when used in smaller rooms.
It depends on their capacity. However, most of them use between 120 and 240 volts.
An Energy Star rating is an indication of the dehumidifier’s energy efficiency.
