Do I Even Need a Dehumidifier? Doesn't Encapsulation Work?

If you’re working to improve your crawl space’s humidity level and searching for the best crawl space dehumidifier, we have some tips. With over 15 years of experience in crawl space encapsulation and hundreds of dehumidifier installations under our belt, our recommendations are both solid and backed by a lifetime warranty. Ensuring that crawl spaces are free from moisture penetration and maintaining optimal air quality in your home is essential, and while encapsulation does help, a dehumidifier is often necessary to manage residual moisture.

Why Encapsulation Isn’t Always Enough

Crawl space encapsulation is essential for reducing moisture penetration, but it doesn’t always address all humidity levels in crawl spaces. Even with proper space encapsulation, moisture can penetrate your crawl space, compromising the air quality and overall foundation of your home. This is where crawlspace dehumidifiers play a crucial role. The best dehumidifier for your crawlspaces will help maintain optimal air quality and prevent structural repair needs caused by prolonged moisture exposure.

The Benefits of Installing a Dehumidifier

A good dehumidifier can reduce allergens and improve the air quality inside your home. High humidity in crawlspaces can lead to mold growth and wood rot, which can compromise the structural integrity of your foundation. That’s why choosing the right dehumidifier is critical. A condensate pump will also help manage the collected moisture and improve the effectiveness of your dehumidifier.

 
When you compare crawl space dehumidifiers, you should consider features like:
  • energy efficiency
  • filter types
  • ease of maintenance
  • Warranty options 

Popular brands like Santa Fe offer top-rated options incorporating advanced features to effectively manage the moisture levels in your crawl spaces. The best dehumidifier for crawl spaces often come with robust warranties, ensuring long-term functionality and peace of mind. Dehumidifiers with a condensate pump can handle moisture removal more efficiently, providing an added layer of convenience.

Best crawl space dehumidifiers

Whether your home has a crawl space under 2,000 square feet or a larger area requiring structural repair support, the right dehumidifier can make all the difference. Investing in high-quality dehumidifiers can help you avoid future repairs and maintain the health of your home’s foundation. Always look out for the best dehumidifier options by reading reviews and understanding what features are most important for your specific needs. A trusted brand like Santa Fe can provide reliable solutions for maintaining optimal humidity levels in crawlspaces.

What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need for My Crawl Space?

Most homeowners don’t give too much thought to their crawl spaces. However, it’s one of the most important elements of your home. Letting moisture issues develop over the years could lead to lasting structural and foundation problems. It’s important to note that the target wood moisture is between 12-15% while target humidity is 55%.

Why a Dehumidifier Might Be Necessary

While not every crawl space needs a dehumidifier, high humidity, flooding, and other moisture issues are more common than you might think. Moisture in your crawl space provides a supply of water for mold, which can grow on wooden structural elements and more. This can affect your subfloor, possibly spreading into your home and causing health concerns.
There’s also the risk of rotting wooden structural elements that can require expensive repairs to replace. Installing a dehumidifier regulates humidity, preventing these issues. Sometimes encapsulation doesn’t work entirely, and that’s when a dehumidifier for crawl space becomes essential. Look for the best crawl space dehumidifier reviewed by experts to ensure you make an informed choice.
 
Choosing the Right Size Dehumidifier
 
The best dehumidifiers can significantly control moisture levels, and it’s crucial to select the right size dehumidifier for your space. If your crawl space has high humidity, a dehumidifier becomes indispensable. The recent product innovations in dehumidifiers available today ensure you can find the top model that fits your needs. Investing in the best crawl space dehumidifiers or options from brands like Alorair can save you from future repairs and health issues.
Properly regulated humidity keeps your home’s structure safe, ensuring the air stays clean and healthy for your family. A professionally installed crawl space dehumidifier works to balance the humidity and eliminate harmful water presence. Remember, excess humidity can wreak havoc on your wooden elements, so acting promptly is essential.
 
When It’s Time to Install a Dehumidifier
 
If you’ve noticed signs of dampness or water issues in your crawl space, it’s high time to add a quality dehumidifier. Many best crawl space dehumidifiers come equipped with top features, enhancing their efficiency. By tackling the space’s moisture problems early, you’re safeguarding your home’s foundation and your family’s well-being. Don’t overlook the humidity issue; instead, replace the moisture-laden air with the best crawl space dehumidifier today.
In summary, properly addressing crawl space humidity with the right dehumidifier is crucial to maintaining a healthy home environment. Explore the array of dehumidifiers, and don’t hold back from seeking expert advice for a product best suited for your home’s unique requirements.
 
Crawl Space SizeRecommended Dehumidifier Capacity
Under 1,000 sq. ft.50-70 PPD (pints per day)
1,000-2,000 sq. ft.70-90 PPD
Over 2,000 sq. ft.90+ PPD

Top Features to Look for in Crawl Space Dehumidifiers in 2024

When choosing the best crawl space dehumidifier, getting the right size is crucial. Dehumidifiers remove humidity from the air, but each model has a specific capacity. If your dehumidifier for crawl space isn’t powerful enough to reach a safe humidity level, your crawl space will remain at risk of mold and rot. Experts can measure humidity levels in your crawl space and consider criteria such as seasonal flooding. Alongside the size of the crawl space, they look at the current ventilation and other factors to recommend the proper size.
 
Factors Beyond Crawl Space Size
 
Simply relying on the size of your crawl space won’t cut it since other factors play a significant role in determining the proper capacity for your crawl space dehumidifier. One of the features to consider in the best crawl space dehumidifier is a built-in pump or a condensate pump. These features make it easier to manage the excess moisture accumulated. Dehumidifiers with an Energy Star rating are also preferred because they’re more energy-efficient, helping you save on your electric bill while effectively controlling moisture.
 

Some of the top-rated dehumidifiers, like those from brands such as Alorair and Santa Fe, are especially good for crawl spaces and basements. They come with features like air filters to keep clean air circulating and commercial strength to handle larger spaces. When considering the best crawl space dehumidifier, it’s essential to read reviews and compare prices to get the best value for your money. A review of customer experiences can help determine if a specific model is effective at reducing moisture and preventing mold buildup.

When to Opt for a Commercial Dehumidifier

If you’re dealing with a particularly large or damp crawl space, a commercial dehumidifier might be necessary. These models often have higher capacities and more robust features, such as built-in pumps and quality air cleaners, to handle the moisture demands of larger basements or crawlspaces. Checking the energy efficiency, such as an Energy Star rating, ensures you’re choosing a unit that won’t dramatically increase your energy consumption.

Overall, the best crawl space dehumidifiers are those that combine the right capacity, energy efficiency, and features like built-in pumps and air filters. By carefully considering these top features, you’ll find the right dehumidifier for your crawl space and maintain a healthy, mold-free environment.

Dehumidifiers for Under 2,000 Square Feet Crawl Spaces

For larger crawl spaces with significant humidity issues, a robust solution like the AlorAir basement/crawl space dehumidifier is a great choice. This heavy-duty model boasts an impressive 90 PPD capacity, making it suitable for crawl spaces up to 2,600 square feet. If you’re looking for the best crawl space dehumidifier for larger areas, this might be the one.
 
Key Features of the AlorAir 198-PPD Dehumidifier
 
The AlorAir 198-PPD dehumidifier comes equipped with several convenience , such as automatic defrost and compatibility with a remote control (though it’s sold separately). In the event of a power outage, the automatic restart function ensures that dehumidifying resumes without any user input. Additionally, this model includes a built-in condensate pump, which allows users to pump water away effortlessly instead of relying on gravity alone. This provides more versatility and ease during crawl space dehumidifie.

Performance Review: Humidity Reduction Test

During our tests, the AlorAir 198-PPD effectively reduced the humidity level in crawl spaces consistently. Starting from 65 percent humidity, it took just 24 hours to drop to 49 percent humidity (and it was still decreasing). We monitored and noted the progress at key intervals: at 6 hours, the humidity level hit 56 percent; at 12 hours, it was down to 53 percent; and by 18 hours, it had reached 51 percent. Despite being a larger unit, which posed some maneuverability challenges in the confined crawl space, proper preparation of the base and drain line made installation smooth. While remote monitoring would have been a nice addition, the AlorAir 198-PPD still performed admirably without it.
 
This crawl space dehumidifier is designed to handle serious excess moisture issues in large spaces and is a worthy upgrade for anyone needing a more powerful solution. The AlorAir HDi90 crawl space dehumidifier is available for purchase on Amazon or directly from AlorAir. Ensure your crawl space remains dry and free from moisture penetration with this top-rated model, which is suitable for use in basements, wet rooms, and other spaces in your home.
 
Explore our comprehensive reviews and recommendations on the best crawl space dehumidifiers of 2024 to keep your crawl spaces in optimal condition. For those looking for reliable and efficient solutions, the AlorAir HDi90 stands out as a top contender for your crawlspace needs.
AlorAir 198-PPD

Best Overall and Best Bang for the Buck: AprilAire E070

With the capacity to remove up to 70 pints of water from the air per day, the AprilAire E070 stands out as the best crawl space dehumidifier for sealed crawl spaces. Even in loosely sealed crawl spaces up to 1,800 square feet, it maintains relative humidity within the ideal 40 to 60 percent range. Featuring an onboard digital control near the air intake, it ensures easy control access.
 
The large display and simple user interface make the E070 one of the most user-friendly models to set up and operate. Additional features such as a washable air filter, gravity drain, and corrosion-resistant aluminum coils contribute to its long-lasting reliability. Safety and convenience are enhanced by an automatic defrost function and the unit’s ability to retain the most recent humidity setting after a power outage.
 

Easy Installation and Efficient Performance

During our test installation, setting up the AprilAire E070 was a breeze. With clear setup instructions, we had it running within 15 minutes. To boost air movement efficiency, we attached 10-foot flexible air ducts to the intake and outflow collars. Within just 12 hours, the humidity level plummeted from 70 percent to 58 percent, and after 24 hours, it was down to 49 percent. Over the next 24 hours, the humidity level remained stable in the mid-40s, with the dehumidifier operating intermittently.
 
Despite the higher price point compared to other crawl space dehumidifiers we tested, the E070 excelled at reducing high humidity and maintaining the desired setting. Noise was minimal and not noticeable from the home’s main floor. This energy star rated model not only enhances air quality but also prevents moisture penetration, contributing to a healthier home environment.
 

A Standout Product for Humidity Control

For a crawl space dehumidifier with built-in pump options, the AprilAire E070 is a standout product. Its features align it closely with other top brands like Santa Fe and Alorair, making it an exceptional choice for crawl space encapsulation projects. If you’re looking to add a reliable commercial dehumidifier to your home to replace an outdated one, the E070 offers outstanding performance and value.
 
Improve your air quality and control your home’s humidity level efficiently. Get the AprilAire crawl space dehumidifier at Amazon or Sylvane.

FAQs

Do I need a dehumidifier for my crawl space?

Yes, if your crawl space has high humidity, mold growth, or moisture issues, a dehumidifier is necessary to prevent damage and improve air quality.

What size dehumidifier do I need for my crawl space?

For crawl spaces under 2,000 sq. ft., a dehumidifier with a capacity of 50-70 pints per day (PPD) is recommended. Larger areas may need a unit with a 90+ PPD capacity.

How does a dehumidifier help a crawl space?

A dehumidifier removes excess moisture from the air, preventing mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage while improving overall air quality.

How much does a crawl space dehumidifier cost?

Dehumidifiers for crawl spaces typically cost between $800 and $1,500, depending on size, features, and brand.

What is the ideal humidity level for a crawl space?

The ideal humidity level for a crawl space is between 30% and 50%. Higher humidity can lead to mold growth and structural damage.

How often should I run my crawl space dehumidifier?

Run your dehumidifier continuously if humidity levels are high, or set it to maintain the humidity at 50% or lower.
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Protect Your Home Today

Not Managing Crawl space humidity and moisture issues can lead to serious problems like fungal growth, mold, and structural damage. By choosing the right dehumidifier and addressing humidity early, you can protect your home from long-term damage. Whether you’re dealing with high humidity or need professional advice on the best dehumidifier for your crawl space, Phantom Contractors is here to help.

Don’t let excess moisture or fungal growth compromise your home—schedule a free crawl space inspection with Phantom Contractors today. Our experts will assess your needs and recommend the best solutions to keep your home safe and dry.

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