Danby Dehumidifiers - Where are they made?
by Anon
Where are the dehumidifiers made. It would be helpful to have that information on all the products you review as some people try very hard to "Buy American Made".
Answer
Danby models are made in The People's Republic of China. This is also the case with other leading brands such as Alen, Frigidaire and GE. Other portable models, such as Winix, are manufactured in the Republic of Korea.
All of the above, except Winix, are US companies but source their portable models from Asia.
Some "US" brands have been acquired by other companies; an example is Amana. The brand name Amana, as applied to dehumidifiers, is now owned by Haier, a Chinese company. "Amana" models are, therefore, Haier units made in China.
House brands are also available of which the most widely known is Kenmore, sold by Sears. Sears source their dehumidifiers from different suppliers from time to time but these too are Asian companies.
The unpalatable truth is that US buyers looking for a dehumidifier made in the USA are out of luck if their need is for a straigtforward portable unit. Only "high end" brands for basements, crawl spaces and whole homes, such as Santa Fe and Aprilaire, are made in the USA. In addition some commercial units commonly used in the home are made in the US, such as most of the Dri-Eaz range.
Your comment about making this more explicit is a fair one. There has been no attempt to hide these facts as you will easily see as you browss through pages on this site. Nevertheless I have noted your comment and will ensure that the point is made on any relevant review from which it is absent as I revise those pages in coming weeks.
Thank you for your question and for alerting me to the fact that the origin of some of the models reviewed here is not yet as clear as it could and should be.
Tom.
Which is the Best Basement Dehumidifier - Danby or Frigidaire?
by Anon.
(Canada)
I am considering the Fridgidaire or the Danby for my basement. It is a small basement. It does have one partition but with an open door. I need it because I see mold and mildew. Sometimes we have water come in through the foundation but for the most part we are able to avoid that situation. We are going to have to attach a pump to pump the water into the sink. So given the circumstances, I am leaning towards the Danby.
Any advice?
Answer
Hello and thank you for your question.
There is little to choose between the Danby and the Frigidaire dehumidifiers. Either of these two brands should work equally well in your basement.
The Frigidaire range has been replaced with new models this year and initially the larger, 50 and 70 pint models had problems with the continuous drainage feature. This problem has been addressed by Frigidaire with a new drainage kit which has, by all accounts, solved the problem.
My view is that continuous drainage from the Frigidaire is still a little "temperamental". You may prefer to go with the Danby as this model in unchanged and has no such problem. As you are already leaning in this direction perhaps this extra "nudge" will help you to decide.
I hope this is helpful.
Tom (Webmaster)
Aprilaire 1750A
by Joseph D
(Charlotte, NC)
This unit is identical to the 1710A according to Aprilaire. I do not own this unit yet but am making comparisons. I do like the features of this unit.
What I find disturbing is that this unit is about 35% less efficient that the Santa Fe Advance. Aprilaire told me this unit is new and has been redesigned.
My question is why would it have an efficiency of 3.6 p/KWh compared to the Santa FE Adv spec of 5.5 p/KWh. I am a retired engineer with years experience in refrigeration and find that the discrepancy is a little hard to believe.
Thanks for any help you may give. If this difference is true please consider posting it on your web site.
Answer
Hello Joseph, thank you for your contribution.
The Santa Fe Advance has an Energy Factor of 2.65 L/Kwh. which equates to about 5.6 p/Kwh. This can be confirmed by referring to the latest Energy Star list of certified dehumidifiers which is available at this url:
http://downloads.energystar.gov/bi/qplist/dehumid_prod_list.pdf
It is in PDF format which means you need Adobe Reader to open it.
The Dehumidifiers are listed alphabetically by Manufacturer (far left column) so you will need to scroll down to "Therma-Stor" to see the entry for the Santa Fe Advance.
I cannot independently confirm the Energy Factor of the Aprilaire 1750A but it is given as 3.6 p/Kwh on websites such as dehumidifierexperts.com:
http://www.dehumidifierexperts.com/search.php?script=filtered&brand=Aprilaire
The 1750A is not Energy Star certified, which can be confirmed by visiting the Aprilaire blog entry on this page:
http://blog.aprilaire.com/blog/cleaner-indoor-air/aprilaire-dehumidifiers-energy-star-rated
This entry is dated May 25 2010 and explains that when Energy Star raised the qualifying Energy Factor ratings existing Aprilaire dehumidifiers, with the exception of the 1730A, no longer qualified. The qualifying standard for a dehumidifier with an extraction capacity of 75-185 pints per day is 2.5 L/Kwh which equates to about 5.3 p/Kwh.
The Aprilaire 1710A has an Energy Factor, of 4.1 p/Kwh (1.94L), as quoted on the dehumidifierexperts.com site (same page as given above).
The 1750A is designed for ducted operation, using existing HVAC ducting in most cases. The 1710A is designed for stand alone applications. If the two models are identical this must refer to the internal components only as the external configurations are very different.
Ducted operation causes some loss of air flow volume and this may account for the difference in Energy Factor between the two Aprilaire units.
The Aprilaire dehumidifiers are controlled by a humidistat which cycles the unit on and off according to temperature and dew point measurements. The Santa Fe models are controlled by a humidistat which responds solely to relative humidity.
As the Santa Fe Advance is also a stand alone dehumidifier, although configured for ducting if required, the two factors combined (type of humidistat and ducted/non-ducted operation) are the most likely explanation for the difference in energy factor to which you refer.
The Aprilaire system of humidity control is more sophisticated and their dehumidifiers are highly regarded by users. A straightforward comparison of the respective energy factors is probably not the sole criterion which should govern consumer choice.
If you prefer Therma-Stor products you may wish to consider their Ultra-Aire range which is Energy Star qualified. These dehumidifiers cannot be bought "off the shelf" and must be installed by licensed contractors. If you prefer to do your own installation, or to select a contractor you know and trust, you can buy Honeywell whole home dehumidifiers directly from stores and online. These units are also made by Therma-Stor and are essentially identical to the Ultra-Aire models.
I hope this is helpful.
Tom (Webmaster)
Basement Dehumidifier
Danby or Frigidaire?
by Francis
(West cornwall, VT)
Advantage or disadvantage with the Frigidare 70 pint or the Danby 70?
Answer
There is little to choose between the Danby and Frigidaire brands in terms of their track record and the levels of customer satisfaction expressed in dehumidifier reviews. Their features are virtually identical and they are both Energy Star qualified.
The only difference worth noting is that the range of settings available on the humidistat of the Danby is greater, 30-90% than that of the Frigidaire, 35-85%. The higher setting is largely irrelevant and the lower ones are way below the 45-50% relative humidity necessary for comfort and protection from moisture damage. The only exception would be during winter in areas where the outdoor temperature drops well below freezing, -10C/22F or lower. In any event a portable home dehumidifier will have difficulty reducing relative humidity to a level as low as 30%.
Participants in our on-going portable dehumidifier survey have rated these two brands first and second out of those we rate as the best portable models with 38.2% voting for Frigidaire and 26.5% for Danby.
If your choice was between the Danby DDR7009REE and the Frigidaire FAD704TDP I would suggest you simply opt for the cheaper of the two but matters have been complicated by the recent introduction of the FAD704DUD which replaces the FAD704TDP.
The FAD704DUD has a problem with the continuous drainage feature which requires the unit to be tilted backward slightly to allow the condensate to drain. Frigidaire has introduced a new drainage kit to solve this problem but I am still waiting for reports from users of this dehumidifier to see whether they find it effective and simple to use. If you cannot find a FAD704TDP you may prefer to choose the Danby rather than the FAD704DUD.
My final comment is about portable home dehumidifiers in general. These units are not designed for use in areas where the temperature is typically below 65F/18C. As Vermont is one of the colder states (7th coldest in the Union I believe) you may find a portable is not up to the job if your basement is cool.
If this is a finished basement and is heated to a comfortable temperature for you and your family you may ignore this comment. If it is on the cool side, at times when you need a dehumidifier, you may like to take a look at this page for a fuller explanation.
Tom (Webmaster)
Basement Dehumidifier Selection
by Alan
(Beverly Hills, MI, USA)
My basement is approx 1300-1400 sq ft, with a large finished room in the center, and smaller unfinished/partially finished rooms at each end (with floor drains). Foundation is cinder block, which has had seepage problems, tho I just had a "waterproofing" system installed (weep holes drilled in the blocks, drain channel underfloor along footer, and sump pump). Basement temperature is chilly most of the year - probably below 60F in the winter, and likely below 70F in the summer. Mold/mildew growth occurs, especially where there is limited air movement. An old low-capacity dehumidifier is in use. Basement is primarily used for storage, and not as daily living space.
I am going to buy a new dehumidifier, but am struggling with the decision between $250 for a conventional room dehumidifier (such as the Danby 70 pint model), or $1400+ for basement dehumidifier (such as the Santa Fe Classic). I've read and understand all the specs, efficiency ratings, etc., but the price difference is obviously significant. If it were your house, what would you do/recommend? Start with the Danby and then upgrade if still necessary?
Answer
Hi Alan,
First let me say I understand your dilemma. A Santa Fe Classic is a heap of money compared with a portable home dehumidifier and I would not spend $1000+ without being sure that I was making a wise investment. The simple answer to your question is that I would make that investment and go with the Santa Fe. It takes much longer to explain why I would do that but, if you'll bear with me, I'll explain my reasoning.
There are a number of issues arising from your question. You have a cool basement, by dehumidifier standards. The floor area of your basement is broadly in the middle-size range as basements go. You have a problem with excessive humidity; the mold would not grow otherwise. Your basement is partitioned and your reference to "limited air movement" as contributory factor in the mold growth in some areas has also to be taken into account.
Let's take the 70 pint Danby, or any other large capacity portable, and consider how well that might work. Dehumidifiers work best at temperatures of 65F or above. Below that temperature ice forms on the evaporator coils and acts as an insulator, preventing further condensation of water vapor. Ice can also damage the dehumidifier if it continues running after the ice has formed.
Home dehumidifiers have "auto-defrost". This is not as hi-tech as it sounds. A sensor detects the formation of ice and switches off the compressor. The fan continues to run and the flow of air from the room passes over the evaporator coils and the heat in that air melts the ice. Obviously, the cooler that air the more quickly the ice forms. The more quickly it forms the more frequently the dehumidifier switches to defrost mode. Also, the less heat there is in the air from the room, the longer each defrosting cycle will last. The net effect is that as the ambient temperature falls, to 60F and below, the dehumidifier spends a lot more time defrosting that it does dehumidifying.
Below 60F the dehumidifier is not extracting much water and its energy efficiency is reduced. Worst of all, it will probably run all the time because it will never reach the level of relative humidity you programmed with the humidistat. The upshot is that you may find you need two 70 pint dehumidifiers rather than one. Even then the two units may not cope well in the winter and run most if not all of the time. It is impossible to estimate the energy costs accurately but for a ball park figure I've taken the information published by The Madison Gas and Electric Company of Wisconsin who estimate the monthly cost of running a dehumidifier at between $21.19 and $24.45 per month, depending on the cost per kWh, and that is based on using the dehumidifier for only ten hours per day.
So far then it has cost $500 for the two dehumidifiers and at least another $500 per year to run them. A further cost is replacing the dehumidifiers. Portable home dehumidifiers are notorious for their short working lives. If they run more or less continuously they wear our more quickly, as they say "it's not the years it's the mileage". Over a period of five years I would expect both dehumidifiers to have been replaced at least once, another $500. Altogether 4 units at $250 + five years at $500 per annum = $3500.
Let's look now at the Santa Fe Classic. It is a basement dehumidifier built to commercial standards. That is why it weighs 110lb compared with the Danby's 44lb. The quality of its component parts is quite obviously much higher, you can see just by looking inside. The higher quality components give this unit two advantages. First, they allow it to work effectively at temperatures in the 50s; second, they make the dehumidifier much more durable, such that a single unit should last for at least five years. This kind of dehumidifier is optimized for low temperature operation and can be up to three times more effective, in terms of water removal, than a home dehumidifier. If you look at the power consumption, the Santa Fe draws 6.4 amps and consumes 720 watts, compared with the Danby's 7amps and 770 watts. Once the humidity level is under control, in between two days and two weeks, the Santa Fe will not run all the time, saving energy and extending its life.
On the assumption that the Santa Fe uses roughly the same amount of energy as one Danby (it will almost certainly be less) the sum over five years is 1 unit at $1500 + 5 years at $250 per annum = $2750. Even if the Danby units lasted five years and did not need replacement the Santa Fe would still be cheaper, over five years, by $250.
My assumption that you will need two home dehumidifiers for your basement is reinforced by the fact that the area is partitioned. With one Danby only you would certainly need two or more fans to move the air around the basement and between the partitioned areas. Fans, of course, cost yet more money to buy and to run. Even with fans I suspect that you would still need two units rather than one.
The effectiveness of the Santa Fe, especially in a partitioned area, is enhanced by using the optional ducting kit. It is more effective than fans and although it involves extra initial expense there are no recurring energy costs. The Danby cannot be ducted.
I hope this information makes it a little easier to see your way through the problem. Ultimately the decision has to be yours alone. To return to my opening remarks this decision is not easy and although I am confident about the information and advice I have offered I would encourage you to seek a second opinion.
My recommendation would be Sylvane who you can find at sylvane.com. You can call them on 1-800-934-9194 and speak to one of their sales people. Their knowledge and professionalism is of the highest standard and they sell both the Santa Fe and the Danby models within the restricted range of quality dehumidifiers they stock. This company is not the cheapest supplier and it is for the second opinion that I am referring you. By the way, I have no commercial relationship with this company; I doubt they are even aware of this site, so far at least.
Basement Dehumidifying
by Tony
(Canada)
Hello,
We have a 1500 SQ FT basement, but only finishing 950 SQ FT of it. It's all open with no rooms a planned rec room and tv area (storage room is in the back corner) the stairway is curved in the middle of the basement and open to the upstairs.
We would like to place a dehumidifier in the middle of basement by the stairwell on the finished side, drill a small hole on the bottom of the drywall and run a drainage hose through there to the floor drain in the storage room (8-10 ft total)
In terms of placement, would this be an ideal choice? We were looking at the Danby 70 pint, and the Kenmore 70 pint, but were concerned with the noise as the fans run continuously. We also looked at the SaniDry for placing in the main area until we leared the incredibly high cost. Sante Fe is a little less expensive but harder to locate in Canada.
Would a standard 70 pint (Danby - Kenmore) perform well for a basement of this size? we ruled out the DeLonghi 50 pint as we didn't believe it would be effective enough.
Thanks.
Answer
Hi Tony, thanks for your question.
There are a number of issues here.
You are quite right to rule out the DeLonghi 50 Pint Dehumidifier. Most dehumidifiers sold in North America are rated for water extraction at 80°F (27°C) and 60% relative humidity. Under those conditions the Danby 70 Pint Dehumidifier will extract 70 pints in 24 hours. DeLonghi rate their dehumidifiers at the European standard of 90°F and 90% relative humidity. At the North American standard the DeLonghi extracts only 25 pints so is far too small for your needs.
Your 1500 square foot basement is about the limit for a 70 pint dehumidifier, depending on the conditions. This size will cope with a basement of this area provided that the temperature is usually above 60-65°F (16-18°C). In lower temperatures a portable home dehumidifier will spend a great deal of time in "de-frost mode" and will be relatively inefficient. It will be running most of the time, will struggle to maintain relative humidity at the typically chosen 50% level and will wear out quickly.
If your basement is typically cooler than this you will certainly get better results and, almost certainly, spend less money by using a basement dehumidifier such as the Santa Fe. The Santa Fe Classic and the SaniDry XP are almost identical machines, both manufactured by Therma-Stor. Whereas you can buy a Santa Fe online or in a store the SaniDry can only be obtained through an installer licensed by "Basement Systems". The SaniDry cost includes installation charges but there is no reason for most people to pay for installation since for stand-alone use (i.e. without ducting) installation consists of setting up the drainage hose and plugging the power cable into an electrical socket. If you were looking at the SaniDry CSB the same applies, it is identical to the Santa Fe Advance.
Although the Santa Fe dehumidifiers are much more expensive than portable home dehumidifiers they are much more energy efficient, removing, in the case of the Classic, nearly 50% more water per energy dollar spent. As energy costs are usually greater than the purchase price of a dehumidifier over its life time this difference is significant. A Santa is better is better built, and will run for less hours per day, and should last much longer than a portable, a further saving.
A central location in the basement is fine. The drainage arrangement you describe will only be effective if the hose is angled downwards over its entire length. If this is not possible you will need a condensate pump to force the water through the hose. As the basement is open to the upper storeys of the house humidity will pass from those storeys to the basement if the air in those storeys is more humid than that in the basement. If you do not have a humidity problem in the rest of the house, and you are only seeking to maintain the basement at 50% relative humidity, this should not be a serious problem.
If having read this you decide to purchase a portable home dehumidifier my recommendation would be in favor of the Danby rather than the Kenmore. Kenmore dehumidifiers have a generally poor reputation for reliability.
I hope this is helpful.
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Buying a SaniDry basement dehumidifier
by Ann
Can I purchase the SaniDry unit from a store?
Answer
Hi Ann, thank you for your question.
The short answer to your question is "no, you cannot buy a SaniDry dehumidifier from a store, or even online". But you can buy a virtually identical model from a store under a different brand label.
The SaniDry Dehumidifier range consists of two models, the SaniDry XP Basement Dehumidifier and the SaniDry CSB Crawl Space Dehumidifier. Although only the CSB is configured for the low clearance found in a crawl space either of these two dehumidifiers may be used in a basement.
The SaniDry brand, as you obviously are aware, is supplied through "Basement Systems". Basement Systems licenses basement improvement contractors across the USA, Canada and the UK to sell and install SaniDry Dehumidifiers. The installation of the dehumidifier may be undertaken as a one-off job or as part of a larger basement improvement or waterproofing project.
I can confirm that Basement Systems, and their licensed contractors, are the sole suppliers of SaniDry Dehumidifiers and that you will only be able to obtain a SaniDry unit if you have that unit installed by the supplier.
SaniDry Dehumidifiers are not manufactured by Basement Systems but are supplied by Therma-Stor. Therma-Stor are well known for their Phoenix brand of water damage restoration dehumidifiers, their Ultra-Aire range of whole home dehumidifiers and, most important here, their Santa Fe range of basement and crawl space dehumidifiers.
The SaniDry CSB is identical to the Santa Fe Advance Dehumidifier and the SaniDry XP is virtually the same as the Santa Fe Classic Basement Dehumidifier. If you buy a SaniDry Dehumidifier your source of support for the warranty on that dehumidifier is not Basement Systems but Therma-Stor.
Santa Fe Dehumidifiers may be bought from retailers "off the shelf" and are also readily available from online suppliers. When you buy a Therma-Stor Dehumidifier you are buying the same dehumidifier as if you bought a SaniDry model but; you can compare prices from a range of suppliers, you can choose your own installer or you can install the dehumidifier yourself. If the dehumidifier is for your basement the chances are that installation will require nothing more than setting up the drainage hose and plugging the unit into a power socket.
In my view there is nothing to be gained by choosing a SaniDry unit in preference to a Santa Fe Dehumidifier and there is almost certainly a financial saving available by buying from a store rather than through an exclusive supplier/contractor.
I hope this information is helpful.
ComfortAire dehumidifier for a basement?
by Lucy
(Virginia)
I have been researching basement dehumidifiers and have locked into the Comfort-Aire BHD-651-G. The last one we bought was a Kenmore and that was complete junk. Has anyone bought this Comfort-Aire model and if so, what do you think? I hate buying over the internet especially from websites I am not familiar with. Thanks for any comments.
Hi Lucy, thanks for your question.
Your question will be published on our blog so I am hopeful that you will get responses from other visitors who have used the Comfort-Aire BHD-651-G Dehumidifier.
In my opinion this is an entirely competent portable home dehumidifier and well worth considering for use in a basement subject to the following conditions.
- The basement should be within the capacity of this unit, ideally around 1000 to 1500 square feet. The manufacturer recommends up to 1200 square feet however I know of users who have been able to maintain a relative humidity of 45% in basements up to 1700 square feet with this model so there is some flexibility here.
- The temperature of your basement should be above 60-65°F at most times. If the dehumidifier is for summer use you should have no problem in Virginia, particularly if you live in the South or South East of the State. At lower temperatures portable home dehumidifiers of all brands are relatively ineffective, notwithstanding their ability to operate at temperatures as low as 41°F. This is the lowest temperature at which they can operate without risk of damage, not the lowest temperature at which they can work effectively.
Subject to these conditions the Comfort-Aire BHD-651-G is a sound choice. I understand your reluctance to choose another Kenmore Dehumidifier, this brand is not one we recommend.
Dehumidifier reviews of the Comfort-Aire BHD-651-G written by consumers are generally positive with many five star ratings. There will always be the odd occasion when an individual unit is faulty but the brand and model are well regarded by users.
Tom (Webmaster - Best Dehumidifier Choice.)
Crawl Space/Basement Dehumidifiers
by Rich
(Iron River Michigan)
Do you have a "TOP FIVE" list of crawlspace dehumidifiers for a space less than 1000 sq feet?
Thank you.
Rich
Answer
Hi Rich, thank you for your question
The short answer to your question is no, we do not publish such a list as the number of crawl space dehumidifiers available in the USA is too few to justify a "short list".
From your question I guess you are looking for some suggestions so I'll do my best to help you.
To begin with my advice is to look at purpose designed crawl space dehumidifiers and other dehumidifiers which similar characteristics and performance. The three characteristics that are important are:
- Low temperature operating capability
- Robust construction
- Low height (to fit into the crawl space)
You live in one of the cooler States and, if I'm not mistaken, in one of the cooler parts of that State. A portable home dehumidifier is not designed to work in temperatures below 65F and given the climate in your neck of the woods a low temperature dehumidifier is a must.
Robust construction and low height are part of the package provided by all the dehumidifiers I will mention and the advantages of these two characteristics are obvious.
You could use a dehumidifier located inside the house to control the humidity, with ducting to and from the crawl space, but this would still require a specialized dehumidifier as portable units are not configured for ducted installation. Given the size of the area, below 1000 square feet, you will not need one of the larger capacity basement/crawl space dehumidifiers on the market and the lower capacity models are all of the "low height" variety so I will restrict my comments to these models.
Dehumidifiers labelled as "crawl space dehumidifiers" are restricted to a handful of models. Among these models is the Santa Fe Compact crawl space dehumidifier with a capacity of 65 pints per day. This model is rated for areas of up to 1600 square feet and will operate effectively at temperatures as low as 40F.
This unit is near to ideal for the area of your crawl space. Its capacity is more than enough for your needs while not being excessive. The "surplus" capacity means that the unit will cope easily and will not run all of the time, reducing the noise nuisance and extending its working life. The energy efficiency of a larger capacity dehumidifier is always greater than that of a lower capacity model and this unit is Energy Star qualified with an Energy Factor of 1.9 (litres of water removed per kilowatt hour of energy consumed). This unit is also US made.
The alternatives include the Oscar Air Dri-CrawlSpace range. The range includes two models of 35 pints and 50 pints respectively. The units are not yet Energy Star qualified although an application is pending. The 35 pint model will be too small for your needs and the 50 pint just big enough. The 50 pint is will be less energy efficient than the Santa Fe Compact (the qualifying standard for 50 pint units is an Energy Factor of 1.6). These units are supplied through licensed installers whose pricing will also include the cost of installation.
A more comparable dehumidifier is the Dri-Eaz CMC100 crawl space dehumidifier. This unit has a capacity of 70 pints per day. This unit is Energy Star qualified and comes at a similar price to the Santa Fe Compact and has an Energy Factor of 2.1. It is rated by the manufacturer for use in temperatures as low as 33F although its defrosting arrangements are similar to those provided on the Santa Fe Compact so, from the user's point of view, the performance of the two in low temperatures will be almost identical.
Unlike most Dri-Eaz dehumidifiers this unit is not manufactured in the USA. Dehumidifier reviews of this unit by consumers include a significant number of negative comments and we offer only a qualified recommendation for this dehumidifier, despite its greater energy efficiency.
If the conditions in your crawl space demand a dehumidifier which can operate at even lower temperatures, down to 33F, you will need a dehumidifier with "hot gas defrost". Dehumidifiers with this feature are rare in the USA and it is only found in units designed primarily for use in industrial and commercial applications.
If you need a dehumidifier in this class I would suggest the Ebac CS60 which is sold by retailers as a "crawl space dehumidifier" although it was originally designed for use in extreme conditions, on oil rigs and aboard ships for example. The unit has a capacity of 56 pints per day and will be adequate for your crawl space. It is not Energy Star qualified and is not built in the USA.
To summarize:
If a minimum operating temperature of 40F is sufficient for your crawl space I would recommend the Santa Fe Compact Crawl Space Dehumidifier as first choice with the Dri-Eaz CMC100 Crawlspace Dehumidifier in second place. If you need a dehumidifier that will operate at even lower temperatures there is really no alternative to the Ebac CS60.
I hope this helps. Please come back to me if you wish to raise other points; I know this is a difficult decision, these units are not cheap!
Tom (Webmaster)
Dehumidifiers for Basements - Alternatives to Frigidaire
by Joanne
(Rockland Co NY)
I just bought and returned to Lowe's, a 50 pint Frigidaire dehumidifier because it didn't work. I took it out of the box, let it stand for about an hour and 1/2 and all it did was light up briefly, beep, and turn off. I tried to turn on the on button but to no avail. I also noticed that it's made in China, not the US.?
Now I don't know what to buy. I have a 900ish sq ft finished basement to dehumidify. Please advise. Thanks!
Answer
Hi Joanne, thank you for your question.
I am sorry to hear of your problem with the Frigidaire Dehumidifier. These units are generally well thought of by users and, if your defective unit was replaced with one in working order, it would work as well as any.
If you have lost confidence in the Frigidaire brand I would suggest any of the other four brands we recommend. Responses to our portable dehumidifiers survey suggest that the most popular alternatives are Danby and Alen models.
I would also suggest that you choose a larger capacity model, in the 65 to 75 pint range for your basement. While a 50 pint unit will cope adequately with 900 square feet a larger model will be more energy efficient - removing about 12% more water per energy dollar spent. A larger unit will also operate for fewer hours per day which reduces the noise nuisance and increases the working life time of the dehumidifier.
Most dehumidifiers purchased in the USA are used during the summer when temperatures are moderately or very warm. If you need the dehumidifier to operate effectively during the winter months it is important to be aware that the minimum room temperature in which a portable home dehumidifier will operate effectively and efficiently is 65F/18C. If your basement is heated this should not pose a problem but if not you will get more effective service from a low temperature dehumidifier, one specifically designed for use in basements and crawl spaces.
This type of dehumidifier is much more expensive to buy than a portable model but is built to much higher quality standards and typically comes with a 5 year warranty. This type of dehumidifier is also more energy efficient, especially at lower temperatures and this, combined with its longer working life time, will almost certainly make it a less expensive option in the long term.
If you were to consider this option my recommendation would be the Santa Fe Compact Crawl Space dehumidifier with a water extraction rate of 65 pints per day. The description "crawl space" dehumidifier is applied because the unit is of low height, to fit into the limited headroom available in a typical crawl space. This unit is equally suitable for a basement.
Santa Fe Dehumidifiers are manufactured, in the USA, by Therma-Stor which has one of the best reputations among makers of dehumidifiers.
I hope this is helpful.
Tom (Webmaster)
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Frigidaire Dehumidifier Models
What are the Differences?
by Anon.
What are the differences in the 4 model #'s of Frigidaire 70 pint dehumidifier:
LAD704DUL, FAD704DUD, FDF70S1, FAD704TDP.
Which model had continuous drain problem that had to be fixed with kit?
Where are intake and exhaust vents on these models?
Answer
The Frigidaire LAD704DUL is the Frigidaire FAD704DUD as supplied by Lowes. The "L" substituted for the "F" at the beginning and the "D" at the end is simply to indicate that this unit is supplied by Lowes. In the words of Frigidaire this unit is "Lowe's Exclusive Frigidaire 70 Pint Capacity Dehumidifier".
The Frigidaire FDF70S1 is the model that preceded the FAD704TDP. A few examples of this model are still being offered for sale.
The principal differences between the FDF70S1 and the FAD704TDP are that the FDF70S1 is slightly smaller overall and has a much lower air flow volume; 175CFM vs. 275CFM. It also uses marginally less energy.
The Frigidaire FAD704DUD is the current Frigidaire 70 pint dehumidifier model. The FAD704DUD is slightly smaller in size than the FAD704TDP. It offers a further increase in air flow volume, to 330CFM, at the higher of its two fan speeds. In most other respects it is similar in performance, energy efficiency and features to the FAD704TDP.
The other differences are the position of the vents, as you have mentioned, and the location of the port for continuous drainage. The FAD704TDP has the exhaust vent on the right side along with the drainage port. The FAD704DUD has the exhaust vent on the top and the drainage port at the rear. The intake vent is at the front on both models.
It is the latest model, the FAD704DUD (a.k.a. the LAD704DUL) which has the drainage problem. I suspect that the relocation of the drainage port was partly or wholly responsible for this difficulty. I am still waiting to hear how effective the Frigidaire drainage kit has proven in practice.
I hope this will clarify a confusing situation. The logic behind the designation of dehumidifier models by manufacturers and distributors is obscure if not invisible :).
Tom (Webmaster)
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Home Dehumidifiers
by Ellen
(NY)
On the black dehumidifier, does it come in any other capacity other than 65 pints. we need one about 35 pints so it would be smaller to fit in a space already cut out in a wall.
Thanks.
Answer
I am assuming that you are referring to the LG 65 Pint Dehumidifier. There is a 45 pint model in this range but it is finished in silver. I am not aware of any smaller dehumidifier currently available in black.
From your question it sounds like the space in your wall will be pretty tight. It is important to ensure that a dehumidifier has enough space around it for the free flow of air, especially around the air input and output vents.
Without adequate air flow the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit is reduced and there is a risk of over-heating, even fire in extreme cases.
I don't have the details of the space to which you refer so this cautionary note may be unnecessary.
Portable Dehumidifiers
by Dan
(Bloomington, IN)
I am vacillating between the Danby 70 pint and the the Frigidaire 70 pt. dehumidifiers for a finished basement of approximately 600 sq. ft.
I noticed that Frigidaire just changed its model to FAD704DUD from the TDP. what I find both good and bad is that the price point is quite a bit lower. The new model is smaller with a change in cabinet design. My concern is when a price point falls, to me it usually indicates a cheapening of quality materials.
The price point between the Frigidaire and the Danby are slightly different. the Frigidaire being slightly less expensive.
The older models of the Frigidaire are still available. Is is worth going for the older model, which is slightlty larger the newer model or the Danby 7009REE?
Thank you for your help
Dan
Answer
Hi Dan.
Thank you for your interesting question. Let me begin by saying that we will be publishing reviews of the three new models in the Frigidaire Dehumidifier range very soon. As you will appreciate these reviews will be limited to a technical description only as there are few, if any, genuine consumer reviews of these very new products from which to assess key factors which can not be evaluated at this early stage. Two examples are the typical working life time of the new products and the proportion of newly bought units which are faulty at the time of purchase.
Improvements and changes incorporated in the new range appear to be limited to the increase in capacity of the smallest unit from 25 to 30 pints, improvement to the hose connection and a re-design of the bucket to make it easier to handle. In all other significant respects the new range is virtually identical to the older dehumidifiers it replaces.
With respect to the size of the casing there is a certain lack of clarity. Merchant sites are quoting external dimensions which suggest that the new models are smaller, particularly in depth, but the Frigidaire web site is stating dimensions identical to the older models.
To answer your question directly the "safe" choice, if you prefer the Frigidaire, is to pick up a FAD704TDP while these are still available. This is a proven machine with a good reputation for which parts and service will be readily available, regardless of its having been replaced by a newer model. I have no reason to believe that the new model will perform any differently but any changes carry a small risk of making a product worse rather than better. A reduction in the casing size, for example, requires some rearrangement of the interior components which could conceivably have a negative effect on performance or reliability.
There is little to choose between the Danby and the Frigidaire which is why we recommend them both without ranking one above the other. The only feature "missing" from the Frigidaire is auto-restart. This is relatively unimportant if the dehumidifier is for your sole or main residence unless your area is subject to frequent power outages.
With regard to prices these vary widely from one retailer to another. I am not inclined to think that there is any significance in the price difference, real or apparent, between the old and the new Frigidaire models other than encouraging consumers to try a new model without the reassurance of positive reviews by other users.
I hope these thoughts are helpful. If you do decide to purchase the new model you may like to share your experiences with future visitors to this site by writing a review which we will be glad to publish.
What about Lennox?
by Marc
One HVAC contractor recommended the Lennox HCWH-065. How does it compare to Aprilaire and Santa-Fe/Ultra-Aire?
Answer
Hi Marc, thanks for your question.
The Lennox HCWH-065 is the newest addition to the "Healthy Climate" range of whole home dehumidifiers from Lennox. Technically it is comparable to other 65/70 pint whole home dehumidifiers sold under different brand names.
Your question does not make it entirely clear what type of humidity problem you are trying to manage so I'll try to cover all the bases in my answer.
The Lennox HCWH-065 is a whole home dehumidifier and is designed to be integrated with existing HVAC ducting to manage humidity throughout the home. As whole home dehumidifiers go 65 pints is the smallest capacity available and is suitable for smaller homes; apartments, condos and small houses only.
If you are looking for this type of dehumidifier and your home is of a smaller type you may choose from the Ultra-Aire 70H (Therma-Stor), the Honeywell DH65 (also made by Therma-Stor), the Aprilaire 1730A or the Lennox HCWH-065. Technically I favor the new Ultra-Aire 70H for its much improved energy efficiency but there is another issue which may affect your choice.
Aprilaire and Honeywell dehumidifiers can be bought "off the shelf" and online at the quoted ticket price. Ultra-Aire and Lennox dehumidifiers can only be bought from licensed installers who will quote you a price, inclusive of installation, on application. If you can undertake the installation yourself, or have a HVAC contractor you know and trust to quote a fair price, you may prefer to buy an Aprilaire or Honeywell model.
All four brands come in larger sizes so if you need a bigger model you have the same choices to make.
If your need is for a dehumidifier in your basement or crawl space I must say that, if I was in your shoes, I would only buy online or "off the shelf" as installation is minimal. That rules out Lennox, and also Sani-Dry. Sani-Dry dehumidifiers are made by Therma-Stor and are Santa Fe clones but Basement Systems who market them under their own Sani-Dry brand will only supply though licensed contractors.
For basements and crawl spaces your best choices are Santa Fe and Aprilaire, both of which can be bought from stores or online. They are both established brands with a good track record and I would recommend either to you.
Just to return to your original question I have no reason to doubt the technical merits of the Lennox HCWH-065. My point is simply that with such technically similar products your choice may be governed mainly by price and that the different arrangements by which these products are distributed may play a great part in determining that price.
Evolution LGR Dehumidifier - Daily Energy Cost
by MIke
(Peterborough, Ontario, Canada)
What is the cost per day to run the DriEaz Evolution LGR Dehumidifier?
Answer
Hi Mike and thank you for your question.
The Dri-Eaz Evolution LGR Dehumidifier consumes approximately 650 watts of energy per hour. Your electricity bill is calculated at X cents per kilowatt hour.
To calculate the daily cost multiply 650 watts by the number of hours per day during which the dehumidifier will be running and divide the result by 1000. Take this figure and multiply it by the price of a kilowatt hour to arive at the cost.
In this example I will assume that the unit operates for 24 hours per day and that your electricity is charged at 13 cents per kilowatt hour.
24 x 650 = 15,600
15600/1000 = 15.6 (kilowatt hours)
15.6 x 13 = 202.8 (cents) = $2.03
Running the same calculation but substituting the number of hours you expect to run the dehumidifier and the cost, in cents, of a kilowatt hour of energy from your supplier will provide you with your answer.
Tom (Webmaster)
Basement Dehumidifier vs WAVE Ventilator
by Doug
(Columbus, OH, USA)
I saw a website from Wave Home Solutions about their Wave Ventilator claiming that it removes moisture and pollutants better than any dehumidifier.
Do you know anything about the wave ventilator? They do not really explain how it removes the moisture or pollutants, so it makes me suspect. Also I do not know if they are comparing their unit to store bought smaller dehumidifiers or against the high capacity ones like the Santa Fe Classic.
I do see a link to their website on this website, so I hope you are familiar with them and able to give me some valuable advise about it.
Thanks,
Doug
Answer
Hi (again) Doug and thank for your second question of the day :)
This must seem like "Deja Vue" but I have answered a similar question before! :)
This time I think my previous answer says it all so, if you will bear with me a second time, I will give you a link to this page for the information you need.
Please feel free to come back to me if I am wrong and my previous answer does not fully meet your needs.
Tom (Webmaster)
Compare Santa Fe Compact 2 and Dri-Eaz CMC 100
by Ying
(Memphis, TN)
What is the difference between the Santa Fe Compact 2 Dehumidifier and the Dri-Eaz CMC100? We want one of them for a crawlspace of about 1700 square feet.
Please give me an answer. Thanks.
Answer
Hello Ying and thank you for your question.
The CMC100 and the Compact 2 are directly equivalent units and either would be suitable for your 1700 square foot crawl space although that area is about the largest either could cover effectively.
The most obvious difference is the price; the Santa Fe is around $200 more expensive. We could spend half a day discussing the relatively minor differences between their technical specifications but, to my mind, there are only two issues that would significantly guide my choice.
1) The Santa Fe has a considerably longer warranty than the Dri-Eaz - 1 year parts and labor + 4 years on the sealed refrigeration system for the Compact 2 compared with 1 year parts and labor + only 1 year on the refrigeration system for the CMC100.
2) The Compact 2 is made in the USA; the CMC100, unlike the bulk of the Dri-Eaz range, is made in Asia.
For many people the "made in the USA" label alone would sway their decision. A superior warranty is, however, a more certain indication of the confidence a manufacturer has in its product and provides some of the evidence for my assessment that the Compact 2 is a better built appliance.
At the risk of making your decision more complicated I would suggest that you look at the new Santa Fe Impact as a possible alternative to either of the two models you are considering.
The Impact is a good $600-700 more expensive to buy but is dramatically more energy efficient than either of the others.
In addition the Impact is rated for crawl spaces of up to 2500 square feet so will have a margin of capacity that will allow it to work less hard than either the Compact or the CMC100 which consequently should extend its working life.
I hope this is helpful.
Tom (Webmaster)
Dehumidifier Reliability/Longevity
by Anon.
My experience with dehumidifiers over the last 10 years is that they have an extraordinarily short lifespan (1-2 years). Usually the refrigeration component in the units fails, so that little or no condensation occurs (my experience comes from 3 different manufacturers).
Is there a reliable manufacturer whose dehumidifiers have a history of functioning properly for 10+ years (as quality refrigerators do routinely)?
Answer
Hello and thank you for your question.
I assume that your question refers to portable domestic models. If so the answer is no.
Most portables sold in the USA are made in Asia, principally China (PRC). This includes Alen, Comfort-Aire, Danby, Frigidaire and GE models amongst others. US companies source "their" appliances from China because they can have them manufactured at a much lower cost than if they were made in the USA.
If models of comparable quality were manufactured in the USA they would certainly be more expensive. If these hypothetical US made units had instead a designed life of 10 years my best estimate is that they would retail for anything between $500 and $800. My perception is that relatively few would be sold but, of course, I could be wrong about that.
The models actually built in the USA are at the "high end" of the market; basement and commercial models. Such units do have a longer working life although even these sometimes fail short of the 10 year mark. As an example the Santa Fe Compact 2, a 70 pint crawl space model, retails at around $1150.
The most reliable portables of which I am aware are manufactured in Japan, by Mitsubishi Electric. These lower capacity (around 25 pint) units are not sold in the USA but are available in Australia and the UK. In the UK these models are sold for the equivalent of about $500.
I am sorry I cannot give you better news. I guess so long as most people keep expecting a dehumidifier to cost around $250 to $350 nothing will change.
Tom (Webmaster)
Crawlspace Dehumidifer Filters
by Anon
Where can I get a replacement filter for a crawlspace CSB dehumidifier.
Answer
I assume that your question refers to the SaniDry CSB. This model is simply a re-labelled Santa Fe Advance and the filters sold are identical, whether labelled for the SaniDry or the Santa Fe.
They are not difficult to obtain and are stocked by amazon.com and iaqliving.com for example.
Tom (Webmaster)
Crosley dehumidifiers and availability
I have inquired about Crosley dehumidifiers and warranties but you still don't list them on the Brand list, review them, and I can't find them in any store or how to order one. Please advise and I would like to find one that seems to last more than 1 or 2 yrs under seasonal average use. Thanks
Answer
You will find my review of the Crosley models here.
You should find the answers to your questions on the page.
Tom
Quality plus noise.
by phil
(huntley, IL)
How is the model ADEH50LQ?
Answer
GE change the numbers of their models every year. The change in number reflects little or no change in the specification. For this reason you may rely on reviews of earlier models for guidance.
Like most other US companies (Alen, Comfort-Aire, Danby and Frigidaire for example) GE imports its domestic dehumidifiers from China. There is relatively little to choose between the different brands with regard to noise and quality.
To reduce noise it is best to operate any unit at the lower or lowest fan speed setting available. This means that the unit you choose should be rated for a floor area a little larger than the room in which you will be using it.
As far as quality goes most of the current units have a very short life span; 1 to 2 years is typical. I wish I could be more up-beat but that is the simple truth.
Having a larger model than you "need" will reduce the operating stress and may make it last longer, but I can't guarantee that.
I hope this is helpful.
Tom
Danby 45 Pint Model - Various Questions
by Ron
(Clearwater, Fl.)
Is there any power consumption when desired level reached?
What is the warranty; on compressor, other parts and labor?
Does it vent from the top or other?
This will be put in a clothes closet - 7x7 - OK ?
How long is power cord ?
Answers
My answers refer to the current DDR45A1GP model.
1) When the desired humidity level is reached the compressor (the power hog) switches off but the fan continues to run. The fan consumes power at around the same rate as a domestic light bulb.
2) The manufacturer warranty is two years parts and labor. This warranty applies to the appliance in its entirety with the exception of plastic parts which are covered for 30 days only.
3) The unit draws air in through two front mounted appertures and vents dried air through the top of the casing.
4) The 45 pint unit is "over-kill" for a 50 square foot closet but this would be truly said of any room sized appliance, even a 30 pint model.
5) So far as the power cord is concerned I am unable to be precise but such cords are typically between five and eight feet long and always too short! :)
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Basement Dehumidifiers - Santa Fe RX?
My basement is approx. 1800sf, 1100 unfinished storage and 700 finished. In the past I have run two portable dehumidifiers, one in each section. The unfinished side has a sump pump. The basement is dry.
I'm going to replace the portables with a better unit as they simply won't last. Just had one that frosted over and I had water under the carpet before I realized it. Will one unit handle the whole basement? Should it be ducted? If so, how does that work, is it ducted through the wall or ceiling? The unit will be on the unfinished side by the sump pump and this is directly below the master bedroom upstairs so low noise is very important. Because of that I'm looking at the Santa Fe Rx.
Answer
The RX is rated for 2,200 square feet so it will handle your basement area comfortably. Ducting will improve performance but is not strictly necessary provided that there is an adequate air flow between the two areas of your basement. Ducting will require a ducting kit plus the ducting itself. It can be through the wall or the ceiling depending on the construction of your basement.
In my view the RX is an expensive option; you may read my review for the details. Just click on Santa Fe in the vertical menu on the left of the page and then scroll down to the RX where you will find a link to the review.
As an alternative you may wish to consider the Santa Fe Classic. It is rated for 2,500 square feet and is hundreds of dollars less expensive; at least $500 dollars depending on the package.
The low noise level of the RX is achieved using sound deadening materials inside the casing. To achieve similar noise reduction the Classic, if ducted, could be enclosed in a "cabinet" and the cabinet itself lined with sound absorbing materials. The cabinet, most likely a wooden "box", could be constructed by a competent handy-man. A vent for the ducting would need to be included.
An incidental advantage is that, since the Classic is a little more powerful, it will run for fewer hours each day thus reducing the noise nuisance still further.
Please take the Classic idea as a suggestion for you to ponder. The RX will be entirely satisfactory if you are prepared to pay the price.
Tom.
Basement humidity and the "Wave Ventilation" system
by Anna
(Beach Park, Il.)
How much does the Wave Ventilation system cost? Who installs this?
Answer
This system is installed by "Wave Home Solutions". You can find their web site at:
www.wavehomesolutions.com
You would have to seek a quotation to obtain an exact price but a "ball-park" figure would be around $2,000.
Tom.
Santa Fe Impact XT vs Santa Fe Classic
by Bruce Fenster
(Baldwinsville, NY USA)
Two questions:
1. I know this unit is quiet but compared to what? For example I have the GE ADER65LN. How would it compare for noise?
2. Any new thoughts on the Impact XT dependability. It sounds like a great unit but I'm torn between it and the Classic for my 70ft long 2400 sq ft basement.
Thanks so much,
Bruce
Answer
Q1. You will find any crawl space or basement dehumidifier noisier than a large portable. There is no published noise level for the Impact but the Classic is rated at 62dB compared with 55dB for the ADER65LN. The difference is greater than it appears because the dB scale is logarithmic (like the Richter Scale for measuring earthquakes) not linear.
The reason they are noisier is because they are more powerful and more robust. As you have noted most reviewers do not find the noise level of the Impact excessive.
Q2. No one will know how dependable the Impact is until several more years have elapsed. Therma-Stor seldom, if ever, produces a "lemon" but there can always be a first time I guess.
The main advantage of the Impact is its exceptional energy efficiency although it is more expensive to buy than the Classic.
Either unit will do the job in a 2400 square foot basement but I'm afraid I'm in no better a position than you to judge whether an Impact will last as long as a Classic.
Tom.
Is a 30 pint model enough for 630 square feet?
What do you think about the GE 30-Pint ADEW30LQ. Is this model big enough for a 630 sq ft basement that is wet with some slight seepage in the corners? thank you.
Answer
I can be very clear and say that a 30 pint model will not be powerful enough for any area of over 400 square feet. The minimum I recommend for 630 square feet is a 45 pint unit; 50 would be preferable.
Tom
Compact Air Plus™ crawl space dehumidifier thoughts?
by Brett
(Atlanta, GA, USA)
Any thoughts on the "Compact Air Plus™ crawl space dehumidifier" mentioned here:
"http://crawlspacedehumidifier.com/"
It appears to be built by Santa Fe, and to be a step up in performance to their Compact2, but at a slightly lower price $999 if you follow the "Shop Now" button link to:
http://www.crawlspacevaporbarrier.net/Compact-Air-Plus-Crawl-Space-Dehumidifier_p_139.html
Answer
As you say, this model is manufactured by Therma-Stor (the company name; Santa Fe being the brand name). It is not a larger capacity Compact 2.
The Compact 2 has 10% higher capacity (70 pints per day), is suitable for areas of up to 1800 square feet rather than 1600 square feet and is more energy efficient. Currently the Compact 2 is available at $1,089 with free shipping although the hanging kit would cost extra.
As the Compact Air Plus is a Therma-Stor product I have no problem in recommending it but, in my view, the Compact 2 is better value for money.
I hope this helps.
Tom.
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AIR PURIFIERS
by Dennis Gallagher
(Easley,SC)
I found your information on dehumidifiers very helpful. Can you help me with an air purifier ?
Dennis Gallagher
drgallagher@charter.net
Answer
Thank you for your positive comment on our site.
While I would love to be of help I am unwilling to broaden the scope of this site at present and must regretfully decline. Perhaps when time permits I may include reviews of other products but, for now, that is not possible.
Tom.
Honeywell portable dehumidifier HDK 070
by Beth
(Wellesley On Canada)
Does this product come on automatically at any time of the day or night or must it be programmed for certain time periods?
Answer
You decide on the level of humidity that you want to maintain and set the humidistat to that level, typically 50%. A sensor in the unit monitors the humidity and cycles the compressor on when it rises above your programmed setting and off when that level is restored. There is nothing left for you to do but empty the bucket.
This model does have a timer so you can set the unit to operate at times more suitable for you but the timer is merely for your convenience; to avoid the noise at certain times for example.
Tom.
Aprilaire 1710 vs Santa Fe Compact 2
by Chuck
Can you give any evaluation on the Aprilaire 1710 crawl space dehumidifier? How does this compare to the Santa Fe Compact 2?
Thanks,
Chuck.
Answer
The most important difference between the two is their water extraction capacity. The 1710 removes up to 90 pints per day and can handle an area of 2,000 square feet while the 70 pints per day Compact 2 is rated for up to 1,800 square feet.
This difference is reflected in the price. The 1710 will cost you $150-$200 more.
If your crawl space area is greater than 1800 square feet there is obviously no contest although you may then wish to look at one of the higher capacity Santa Fe models, such as the 90 pint Advance.
In a straight competition between the two it's a close race; both are worthy machines and both are built in the USA.
The 1710 is not Energy Star qualified. This is because Energy Star tightened the requirements after the 1710 had been introduced and although previously it was qualified the 1710 no longer reaches the current standard.
The Compact 2 is a recently introduced model so it, of course, is Energy Star qualified.
The 1710 is considerably quieter than the Compact 2 while the Compact 2 provides the option of hanging it from a suitable elevated spot, usually between the floor joists, which the 1710 does not.
In other respects the two models are pretty much on a par. It's a difficult call, and one which I'll have to leave you to make for yourself, but I hope these few points will help with a difficult decision.
Tom.
Danby DDR5009REE compared with DDR50A1GP
by Ken
Is there any real difference between the Danby DDR5009REE and the DDR50A1GP?
Thank you for your website.
Ken.
Answer
The two models are very similar. The most significant external difference is that the DDR50A1GP is a little larger; about one inch deeper (from front to back).
The most important, but less obvious, difference is that the DDR50A1GP is more energy efficient than its predecessor.
New standards developed by Energy Star now require smaller capacity dehumidifiers, those with a water extraction rate of less than 70 pints per day, to achieve an "Energy Factor" (amount of water removed per kilowatt hour of energy consumed) equal to the largest models. This has forced manufacturers to introduce new models which reach the revised standard.
For this reason buyers should seriously consider buying the latest model of any Energy Star certified brand if they are looking for a unit with a capacity of 50 pints per day or less. Independent testing has already confirmed that the new, lower capacity models are achieving the required standard.
I hope this helps.
Tom.
Arctic Aire Dehumidifiers - What Area do they Cover?
by Bill
(Lowell, MA)
A friend of mine told me about an Arctic Aire 30 pint model that claims it will do up to 2000 SF. However, everything I've read on this website seems to recommend a 70 pint unit? My basement is 832 SF.
Answer
The ArcticAire brand is supplied by Danby. I say supplied rather than manufactured because, like all other major US brands, Danby portable dehumidifiers are imported from China.
When describing the area for which any given model is suitable Danby claims a far higher figure than any other supplier. In the case of the current 70 pint Danby unit the company claims that it is sufficient for an area of 3,800 square feet; for its own 70 pint model Frigidaire, for example, claims only 1300 square feet. All other well known suppliers make claims that match, or nearly match, those of Frigidaire.
Most web publishers simply repeat the data supplied by the supplier. I am aware of only one, highly reputable, retailer which provides its own estimates; estimates more in line with claims made for comparable units from suppliers other than Danby. For the 30 pint model this estimate is 400 square feet.
The only independent review site which makes its own estimates in the same way, to the best of my knowledge, is the one on which you are reading this page.
I will leave you to draw your own conclusions. My recommendation is that for a basement of 832 square feet the most appropriate choice is a unit with a capacity of at least 50 pints per day. 50 pints will be adequate although a 70 pint unit would not be "over the top" for such an area.
I hope this helps.
Tom.
Dehumidifier(s) for two crawl spaces
by Chuck Sagona
(Midlothian, Virginia, USA.)
My main crawl space area is dehumidified by a crawl space dehumidifier - no problem. However, I have an adjoining, smaller crawl space about 225 square feet that's connected to, but separated from, the main footprint of the rest of the house. It is not getting sufficient treatment from the main dehumidifier, so I want to add a small unit there. However, it's too small for a crawl space unit, and too cold for a portable unit. Any advice?
Thanks
Answer
If your existing crawl space unit has sufficient water removal capacity to control humidity in the combined area of your two crawl spaces, if it is configured for ducting (as all Santa Fe models are for example) and if the layout of the two spaces allows, you may be able to solve the problem by using ducting to control moisture in both areas. This would certainly be the least expensive solution.
If ducting is not possible the only alternative is to purchase an Oasis D-165-HG GST commercial grade model. This model looks like a portable but is designed for the cooler conditions found in basements and crawl spaces. It has a 35 pints per day capacity so will be suitable for the area of your problem crawl space. This unit is currently retailing at a little over $600. Yes I know that's a lot of money, sorry, but I know of no cheaper alternative.
I hope this helps.
Tom.
Who makes Whirlpool dehumidifiers?
by Anon.
I have looked at your Amana Dehumidifier page:
http://www.best-dehumidifier-choice.com/amana-dehumidifier.html
I live in Canada and they still sell "Whirlpool" dehumidifiers. Would these also be Haier dehumidifiers?
An example of a model number is: AD50GUSX.
Answer
The AD50GUSX is a product of the "Guangdong Kelon Air Conditioner Co. Ltd." located in the People's Republic of China.
The brand names assigned to dehumidifiers can be very confusing. Brands may be bought or licensed for use by third parties but, thereafter, have little or no other relationship to the company that originated that brand name. Such brand names may become the property of yet another company, further confusing the issue.
It is fair to assume that all portable models sold in North America are manufactured in Asia, the majority in China.
I hope this goes a step toward making this complex "mess" a little clearer.
Tom
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