Cool And Damp? Choosing A Low Temperature Dehumidifier
Even if your usual dehumidifier is the best on the market right now, you probably have difficulties with it running when it’s really cold.
Don’t panic, though, this doesn’t mean that your dehumidifier is broken.
Most regular dehumidifiers won’t run at their best in the cold. For this, you’ll need a special, low temperature dehumidifier.
These are made to run well in environments in which your regular dehumidifier may not.
In addition, finding them doesn’t have to be a difficult task either.
With our guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a product and the best product you can buy today.
Criteria
So, what do you need to look for in a low temperature dehumidifier?
Well, first comes the most basic question that you should ask yourself when buying any type of dehumidifier.
How big is the area you need it for?
Aim to keep indoor humidity below 60%, ideally 30% to 50%, as the EPA recommends to help prevent mold.
Even the best dehumidifier for a small space won’t be able to keep up with your needs. Of course, in this case, you’ll need something that operates at low temperatures.
ENERGY STAR suggests a model rated for lower temperatures if the space usually falls below 65°F, because frost can form on the coils. Look for a unit rated to run at around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
A good plus for these machines is an auto-defrost feature.
This allows them to not freeze or have issues with frost build-up even if they’re being run at their lowest possible temperatures.
This feature is worth having even if your space only drops to about 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Auto-reset is another good, “just in case” feature. It allows the dehumidifier to reset itself in the case of a power outage, rather than you having to remember to set it up again.
It would also be ideal if the dehumidifier could run quietly, so no matter where it is in your home or office, it won’t prove itself a nuisance.
Other features, such as internal pumps, direct drains, and filter indicators are all helpful features that are up to you on how important you think they’ll be in your situation.
Product Overview
Now that you know what to look for in a product, let’s look at your best choice.
We’ve found that the Whynter RPD-621EW Energy Star Portable Dehumidifier is the best low temperature dehumidifier.
The manufacturer rates it to remove up to 60 pints (28.3 liters) of moisture per day, and it has a 14.5 pint (6.86 liter) removable water bucket.
The water bucket also includes handles and caster wheels, making life a little easier for you when you have to move it around.
Now, what about that low temperature operation you were promised?
Well, this dehumidifier can handle as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so it suits cool basements and garages. It isn’t meant for freezing spaces.
It also features an auto-restart and auto-shut off as well as a 24-hour timer, dual fan speed, and an auto-defrosting capability.
When looking for temperatures for low dehumidifiers, this auto-defrosting capability is extremely important. It will prevent the build-up of frost in the machine.
This dehumidifier is also convenient since it’s portable and features two drainage options- manual drain and gravity drain. You can choose what works for you.
Don’t let the fact that it’s portable scare you off, though. The manufacturer says it can handle enclosed areas of about 2,500 to 3,500 square feet, though very damp spaces may need more capacity.
Pros and Cons
Well, this dehumidifier seems to have a little bit of everything we asked for and extra.
It works at 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so it qualifies for low temperature use and it features an auto-defrost to improve its lifespan as a low temperature dehumidifier.
It also features many extra features, such as; dual fan speed, two types of draining options, a 24-hour timer, auto-restart, auto-shut off, and more.
Unfortunately, as we well know, nothing’s perfect. As for this product, there aren’t many prices to pay for a great product, but we need to go over them all the same.
While this dehumidifier works well, it isn’t always the quietest.
Some people only complained of minimal noise, but some did say it was an unfortunate amount.
Other complained that the durability of the machine was less than desirable.
Conclusion
So, all in all, this product is an excellent choice, even with a handful of complaints against it.
However, there are of course other options out there.
As we mentioned, there are variable elements to shopping for a dehumidifier such as the space you need the appliance to operate in.
Either way, finding a dehumidifier to work in low temperatures should now be far easier.
Sources
- A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home, US EPA
- Dehumidifiers, ENERGY STAR
