Is the air in your home feeling damp or heavy? A portable dehumidifier can help reduce humidity, improve your comfort, and protect your home from moisture problems like mould. But how do you choose the right model and use it effectively day to day? Capacity, placement, maintenance, ideal humidity levels—here’s what you need to know.
What dehumidifier capacity do you need for your space?
A portable dehumidifier’s capacity refers to the amount of water it can remove from the air in a single day. It is expressed in litres or pints (1 US pint equals approximately 0.5 litres) and depends primarily on room size and humidity level.
Plan for approximately 0.5 litres (1 pint) per 150sq. ft., for a home of roughly 2000sq. ft. with 8-foot ceilings. If the moisture level is very high or the room is cooler, you may need a more powerful unit. Ideally, aim for a humidity level between 45% and 55% for the best balance.
What dehumidifier capacity do you need for a damp basement?
For a basement, the ideal dehumidifier is one capable of removing between 12 and 35 litres of water per day (28 to 72 pints).
What should you consider before buying a portable dehumidifier?
Price: Varies depending on capacity and features.
Energy efficiency: Look for an Energy Star-certified model (ideally with a minimum integrated energy factor of 1.3 to 2.8 litres/kWh). Check the EnerGuide label for energy consumption information.
Useful features:
Simple controls and an electronic hygrometer.
Automatic shut-off in case of overflow.
Option to connect to a drain for continuous drainage without having to empty the water tank.
Warranty: Typically 5 to 10 years depending on the manufacturer.
Pro tip
“If you are torn between two dehumidifier sizes, go with the larger one. A larger dehumidifier will reach the target humidity level more quickly and shut off automatically. A smaller model, by contrast, will run continuously, consuming more electricity and wearing out sooner.”
Dehumidifier with a built-in pump: Is it a good choice?
Yes, if you want a self-sufficient unit that requires minimal monitoring. That said, this type of dehumidifier costs more. It is often noisier, and the pump may wear out before the rest of the unit.
If you opt for this type of portable model, follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully.
How does a dehumidifier work in your home?
A dehumidifier works similarly to an air conditioner.
The fan draws air in from the room.
The air is then cooled and dried as it passes over a cold coil.
The collected water drains into a tank.
The dried air is reheated and returned to the room.
Where should you place a dehumidifier for best results?
For best results:
Place the portable dehumidifier in the centre of the room.
Leave space around the unit to allow for proper air flow.
How to use and maintain your dehumidifier effectively
To keep your dehumidifier running efficiently:
Clean the filters regularly: every two weeks at first, then as needed.
Vacuum the coils: at least twice a year, ideally in spring and fall.
Keep windows closed to limit the intake of outdoor air, especially when the humidex is high or when it is raining.
Good to know: A well-maintained dehumidifier can last up to 10 years. A poorly maintained unit may break down after about 4 years, often due to compressor overheating.
