
Choosing the right energy star rated dehumidifier can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. With so many options available, it's essential to consider factors such as capacity, moisture removal rate, and noise level.
A dehumidifier's capacity is measured in pints per day, and it's crucial to choose one that can handle the moisture levels in your home. For example, a dehumidifier with a 50-pint capacity is suitable for small to medium-sized spaces, while a 70-pint capacity is better suited for larger areas.
Noise level is also an important consideration, especially if you plan to run the dehumidifier in a bedroom or living room. Look for models with a low decibel rating, such as 35 decibels or lower, for a more peaceful environment.
Energy efficiency is, of course, a top priority with energy star rated dehumidifiers, and the US Department of Energy recommends checking the EnergyGuide label to compare energy consumption.
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Why Choose Energy Star Rated Dehumidifiers
Choosing an ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifier can deliver savings on energy bills without sacrificing performance, features, and comfort, while protecting the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Dehumidifiers that have earned the ENERGY STAR label use more efficient refrigeration coils, compressors, and fans to remove the same amount of moisture as a similarly sized conventional unit but use 14% less energy.
The annual energy saved by one of these models could power your ENERGY STAR certified refrigerator for nearly two months.
Dehumidifiers originally qualified for the ENERGY STAR label in January, 2001.
Dehumidifiers that have earned the ENERGY STAR are 13% more efficient than non-certified models.
To help you choose the right ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifier, here are some key product criteria to consider:
Dehumidifiers come in two main types: portable and whole-home. Portable room dehumidifiers are typically used to dehumidify a single room or space and can be easily moved where they are needed.
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Dehumidifier Features and Options
Certified models from top brands like Black+Decker, Danby, and Honeywell are available from major retailers. These models meet energy performance standards and come with various operating and convenience features.
A key feature to look for is the type of water removal option. Most portable dehumidifiers use a removable plastic bucket with warning lights to indicate when it's full, while some come with a hose fitting for direct drainage into a floor drain or sump pump.
Here are some common features to consider:
- Refrigeration coils, compressors, and fans that are more efficient than conventional models.
- A built-in humidistat to set your desired relative humidity (RH) level.
- A fitting for direct drainage into a floor drain or sump pump.
Portable room dehumidifiers are easy to move around, making them convenient for use in different areas of your home.
Capacity
A dehumidifier's capacity is crucial to its effectiveness. It's measured in pints per 24 hours, and the right size depends on the space's size and conditions.
The capacity you need depends on two factors: the size of the space and the conditions without dehumidification. If you're replacing an existing dehumidifier, use the amount of water you empty each day as a gauge.
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It's better to oversize than undersize a dehumidifier, so don't be afraid to go for a slightly larger model. This ensures you'll get the desired results and avoid having to empty the tank too often.
To estimate the minimum capacity for your portable dehumidifier, refer to the charts below:
For whole-home dehumidifiers, only models with capacities less than or equal to 155 U.S. pints/day are eligible for ENERGY STAR.
Water Removal Options
Dehumidifiers come with various water removal options to make your life easier. Some portable dehumidifiers use a removable plastic bucket with warning lights to indicate when the bucket is full. This way, you won't have to worry about the bucket overflowing.
A convenient feature of some dehumidifiers is a fitting that allows you to hook a hose directly to the bucket, directing it into a floor drain or sump pump. This eliminates the need to empty the bucket altogether.
Most whole-home dehumidifiers are equipped with a drain that should be routed to a floor drain or condensate pump during installation by an HVAC professional. This ensures efficient water removal and prevents any potential issues.
Here are the different types of water removal options available:
Overall, understanding your dehumidifier's water removal options can help you maintain it properly and enjoy a more comfortable living space.
Operating Temperature
If the space being dehumidified has temperatures that typically fall below 65 degrees (F), you may want to consider buying a product that is specified for use at lower temperatures.
Frost can form on the condensing coils if the air temperature drops below 65 degrees, causing the compressor to cycle on and off repeatedly without removing moisture from the air.
Some dehumidifiers come with an anti-frost sensor, which will automatically turn the unit off if the air temperature drops below a certain point.
Models qualifying for the ENERGY STAR label are available that are rated for use at temperatures as low as 42 degrees.
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Reduce Excess Moisture in Your Home
Reducing excess moisture in your home is crucial for maintaining a healthy and comfortable living space. Certified models from top brands like Black+Decker, Danby, and Honeywell are available, offering various features to consider.
To find the right dehumidifier for your space, you'll want to consider its capacity, which is usually measured in pints per 24 hours. The chart below can help you estimate the minimum capacity needed for your portable dehumidifier:
Remember, it's better to oversize than undersize your dehumidifier, so consider the space's size and conditions when making your decision.
GE Portable Dehumidifier
The GE Portable Dehumidifier is a great option for small to medium-sized spaces. It's compact design makes it perfect for apartments, bathrooms, and basements.
This dehumidifier has a 1.6 pint water tank capacity, which means you'll need to empty it every 24-48 hours, depending on the humidity level.
It's also Energy Star certified, which means it's designed to use less energy than other dehumidifiers on the market.
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Energy Efficiency and Certification
Energy efficiency is a top priority when shopping for a dehumidifier, and the ENERGY STAR label is a great indicator of a product's eco-friendliness.
Dehumidifiers that earn the ENERGY STAR label are 13% more efficient than non-certified models, according to the ENERGY STAR website. This means you can expect to save energy and reduce your environmental impact.
The ENERGY STAR label is awarded to products that meet specific energy efficiency criteria, which vary depending on the type of dehumidifier. For example, portable dehumidifiers must have an Integrated Energy Factor of at least 1.57 under test conditions, while whole-home dehumidifiers must have an Integrated Energy Factor of at least 2.09 under test conditions.
Here are the ENERGY STAR efficiency criteria for certified portable dehumidifiers:
Whole-home dehumidifiers, on the other hand, must meet different criteria, including a maximum product case volume of 8.0 cubic feet and an Integrated Energy Factor of at least 2.09 under test conditions.
Installation and Maintenance
If you live in a humid climate, a whole-home dehumidifier can save you energy, increase indoor comfort, and prevent mildew and bacterial growth.
These systems can be expensive, but they carry significant benefits for relatively well-sealed homes with central air systems that see humidity readings above 55% consistently throughout the house.
To get the most out of your whole-home dehumidifier, it's essential to hire a contractor who knows how to size and correctly install your unit.
Proper installation will help you save energy and maintain the quality of the air you breathe.
Regular maintenance of your dehumidification system, as well as your heating and cooling system, is also crucial to prevent future problems and maintain performance.
Locate your portable dehumidifier away from walls and furniture to ensure proper air circulation, which will result in better operation of the product.
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Best Practices
To get the most out of your portable dehumidifier, it's essential to follow some best practices.
Place it away from walls and furniture to ensure good airflow around the unit. This will help it operate efficiently.
Close doors and windows to the space being dehumidified while the unit is running. This will help the dehumidifier work as efficiently as possible.
Keep it away from sources of dust and dirt, like woodworking equipment, which can clog coils and grills.
Observe all manufacturer warnings regarding electrical safety, and never set up water drainage or disposal near electrical circuits or devices.
Make sure the dehumidifier is connected to a properly grounded outlet, and keep drain hoses away from electrical cords and connections.
If you're using a hose to drain the dehumidifier's water bucket, locate it near enough to the floor drain or sump to avoid a long and unwieldy hose.
Whole-Home Dehumidifier Installation
If you decide to install a whole-home dehumidifier, it's essential to hire a contractor who can help you size and correctly install your unit.
A contractor will ensure that the system is sized properly for your home, which is crucial for its performance and energy efficiency.
Whole-home dehumidifiers can be expensive, but they can save you energy and increase indoor comfort.
To get the most out of your dehumidifier, consider regular maintenance of your dehumidification system, as well as your heating and cooling system.
Regular maintenance will help prevent future problems and maintain performance.
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Product Selection and Labeling
When shopping for a dehumidifier, look for the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates that the product is 13% more efficient than non-certified models.
The ENERGY STAR label was first introduced for dehumidifiers in January 2001.
Dehumidifiers that have earned the ENERGY STAR label are designed to remove moisture from the air, which can slightly warm the space around the unit.
A dehumidifier is a self-contained, electrically operated, and mechanically encased assembly that consists of a refrigerated surface, a refrigerating system, an air-circulating fan, and means for collecting or disposing of the condensate.
There are three types of ENERGY STAR dehumidifiers: Dehumidifier, Portable Dehumidifier, and Whole-Home Dehumidifier.
Here are the key product types and descriptions:
To be eligible for ENERGY STAR, portable dehumidifiers must have an Integrated Energy Factor of at least 1.57, while whole-home dehumidifiers must have an Integrated Energy Factor of at least 2.09 for units with a case volume of 8.0 ft or less.
All ENERGY STAR dehumidifiers come equipped with a built-in humidistat, which allows you to set the desired relative humidity level and automatically cycles the dehumidifier on and off to maintain that level.
Some ENERGY STAR dehumidifiers also come equipped with a fitting that allows you to hook a hose directly to your floor drain or sump pump, avoiding the need to empty the water reservoir.
Regulations and Standards
Dehumidifiers are subject to regulations that set a minimum performance standard for their energy efficiency.
Canada's Energy Efficiency Regulations require dehumidifiers to meet certain standards.
Dehumidifiers must meet the minimum performance standard set by these regulations.
You can find more information about these regulations in the Guide to the Regulations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is ENERGY STAR dehumidifier worth it?
An ENERGY STAR dehumidifier saves you money in the long run, despite a higher upfront cost, by using 13% less energy than comparable models
Do dehumidifiers have energy ratings?
Yes, dehumidifiers have energy ratings, typically displayed in Watts (W) or Kilowatts (kW) on the back of the machine. Check your dehumidifier's energy rating to estimate its operating costs with our energy calculator.
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