Best Dehumidifier Between $50 and $100

Dehumidifiers of the right size that are suitable for specific conditions can reduce moisture levels in homes and help eliminate mold and dust mites.

I. Basic Facts About Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers of the proper size that are appropriately suited for specified conditions and locations will reduce moisture levels in a room or home which is fundamental to the elimination of mold, mildew and the escalation of dust mites. The humidity levels in homes also affect respiration in that too much or too little moisture in the air can result in respiratory problems such as asthma and certain allergies. Typically, if a room or home maintains a humidity level of 55 - 60% and higher, the chance for mildew, mold and dust mites to develop is highly probable. Under these conditions, a dehumidifier could be useful. However, another significant factor is the temperature of the area since most dehumidifiers are constructed to work well in temperatures of 68 degrees and above. It becomes more difficult to remove humidity from the air in cooler temperatures that are 65 degrees and lower so under these conditions, it would be necessary to purchase a special low temperature model.

Factors that will determine the type and size of the humidifier needed are:

• the size of the area a person intends to dehumidify (i.e., basement, room, office); and

• the climate of the location surrounding the area (i.e., northern, eastern, southern or western part of country).

Not every home requires a dehumidifier. An area of the home where they are most needed is usually in basements and this is because basements typically have the problem of poor ventilation (circulation of air). The more the dehumidifier will be used will also dictate the recommended size, quality and design of the unit chosen.

II. The Bottom Line Regarding Dehumidifiers in the Price Range of $50 - $100

When all else has been considered, the most vital point regarding dehumidifiers is the amount of moisture it's capable of extracting. Depending on the size and structure, dehumidifiers can remove from a couple of pints of water to as much as 150 pints of water per day. The more moisture removed, the larger and more expensive the unit will be. When discussing dehumidifiers within the price range of $50 to $100, consumers will be looking for units suitable for small to mid-sized areas and rooms like bathrooms, closets and nurseries and they will usually be described as "mini" or "petite" units. Decibel levels wouldn't be a problem with one of these and they'll have reservoirs or tanks with light indicators to remind owners to empty the water. The units shut off automatically when maximum water levels have been reached.

Following are some comparisons of dehumidifiers in the price range of up to $100 (all with one- to two-year warranties):

1. EDV-1100 - Eva-Dry Electric Petite Dehumidifier

- absorbs up to 16 oz of moisture

- weight: 3.6 lbs

- dimensions: 8.5"H x 6"W x 4.5"D (depth)

- color: white

2. Bionaire BDQ01-UC Mini Dehumidifier

- absorbs up to 300 ml of moisture per 24 hrs

- weight: 5.4 lbs

- dimensions: 9.8"H x 6.5"W x 17.7"D

- color: silver/blue combination

- extra long power cord

3. Amcor MD250 Dehumidifier

- absorbs 5.4 pints of water per 24hrs

- weight: 2.2 lbs

- dimensions: 10"H x 7"W x 6"D

- color: silver

4. SD-652TI - Sunpentown Mini Dehumidifier with Ti02 and UV Light:

- absorbs up to 2.2 liters of water

- weight: 4.85 lbs

- dimensions: 14.17"H x 8.05"W x 5.5"D

- color: silver

- UV Light and TiO2 mesh: feature that removes germs and bacteria from the air

All of the above units boast super quiet operation and low energy consumption. Although the consumer ratings ranged between three to five stars (in a five-star survey), at the time of their reviews, most had been using their units for less than one year and therefore couldn't verify durability or how long the units would last.

Other features that are important when choosing a dehumidifier are as follows:

• The decibel or sound level of the unit is important. The instant that sound turns into noise, it becomes a noticeable distraction and possibly even harmful to hearing. Therefore, when purchasing dehumidifiers, consumers should be aware that decibel levels higher than 60 - 70dB, which is the level of a normal conversation between people who are 3 - 5' away, might prove to be an annoyance that could become difficult to bear. Of course it also depends on whether the unit is set up in a room that's not utilized often verses a room that houses people on a regular basis. No matter what the case, decibel levels of a dehumidifier are an important consideration so it should be discussed with the vendor before purchasing the unit;

• Air Conditioner or Dehumidifier? This is a significant question because depending on the location, an air conditioner may suffice. It depends totally on the amount of moisture in the air and knowing that the air conditioner only cools the air while removing very little moisture from the air. If someone lives in an area that experience heavy rainfall and high humidity on a continual basis, then a dehumidifier would be the better choice because the air conditioner would be comparatively useless under these conditions.

• Choose a dehumidifier that has a drain hose attachment. When purchasing larger units, most people will find it much more convenient to have a unit that automatically drains itself rather than having to remove the container and empty the water themselves; and

• Having a defrost feature necessary for larger units. An automatic defrosting mechanism will increase the working capacity of the unit in the same way that automatic defrosting was a welcome function in refrigerators.

Conclusion

It should be noted that dehumidifiers not only improve the surrounding environment but it also reduces heating costs because it costs less to heat dry air. Consumers should also keep in mind how important it is to change dehumidifier filters regularly to prevent the accumulation of dirt and dust forming on the condenser coils since clogged condenser coils can result in abrupt motor failure.