Advancement in technology has enabled the integration of various helpful features in traditional devices, making them more user-friendly whilst upholding the standard, optimal quality. This stands for dehumidifiers, essential appliances that reduce moisture levels to a comfortable and healthy level.
A smart dehumidifier is a device having additional features like WiFi/Alexa /Google Home connectivity, app optimization, auto shut-off feature, and LED display.
In this article, we explore various features of smart dehumidifiers, and how they help users control and operate the appliance conveniently. We then recommend the ten best smart dehumidifiers you can consider buying.
What Are Dehumidifiers?
Dehumidifiers are appliances that soak up moisture from the environment. Relative humidity (RH), ranging from 30 to 50%, is considered healthy. However, in humid climates, RH can exceed the ideal level, which may lead to various allergies, microbial growth, and general discomfort.
Dehumidifiers help improve comfort by bringing down the RH to the ideal range.
Here are the three types of dehumidifiers and their respective dehumidification system:
Compressor Dehumidifier
Compressor or legacy dehumidifiers are traditional, default units, designed for high temperatures.
- A rotating fan draws air inside the system.
- The air stream is absorbed by a refrigerant sealed in a cooling coil.
- Due to the temperature difference between the refrigerant and the original air stream, heat exchange occurs, which causes moisture to condensate on the coil.
- The moisture is collected in a tray /container or removed through a drain hose.
- A compressor then adjusts the refrigerant’s pressure, forcing it to transmit the absorbed heat into the dehumidifier air.
- The refrigerant returns back to the cooling coil to continue the process while the air is emitted into the room.
Desiccant Dehumidifier
Unlike compressor units that involve cooling and heating coils, and refrigerants, the desiccant dehumidifiers have sponge or silica gel to absorb the moisture.
- When the wheel rotates, it comes in contact with humidity-dense air.
- The desiccant material (usual silica) coated on the wheel adsorbs moisture from the air.
- Most of this air is emitted out into the room, whereas a small percentage is passed through the wheel. This second air stream absorbs moisture which enables the wheel to continue the dehumidification process.
Whole House Dehumidifier
Whole house dehumidifiers are compressor units connected with the duct system of the house. They work with the HVAC system and are not portable.
Features Of Smart Dehumidifier
Generally, dehumidifiers will reduce RH and make the room’s environment comfortable. But smart dehumidifiers have additional features that make the appliance easy to control and navigate.
Auto Shut-Off Feature
Auto shut-off is one of the essential features of smart dehumidifiers. We know that units collect condensate in a bucket. This bucket has a specific capacity that varies for each model.
If the system keeps dehumidifying even after the container is full, water will spill out of it, which might damage the unit’s components.
The auto shut-off feature enables the dehumidifier to turn off once the container is full. Buckets in dehumidifiers have a float that keeps the water level in check and regulates the auto shut-off process.
Since this feature halts dehumidification until collected water is drained, you should track the runtime of your model and empty the bucket once it’s full. You can also enable continuous operation if your unit connects to a drain hose.
LED Indicators
Many modern devices have LED lights that illuminate to indicate any problems with the dehumidifier. This makes it easier for the users to diagnose and troubleshoot a possible malfunction.
While LED can vary for different models, here are the common colors you can find in dehumidifiers:
- Red: When the preset humidity level is not attained after the unit has been running for a long time.
- Blue: Once the room’s RH is reduced to the set level. The dehumidification process automatically pauses temporarily to prevent further drying. In some models, a flashing green light is used to signal standby mode.
- Green: Green light usually illuminates for a few seconds after you connect the dehumidifier to a power source. This signals that the unit has started working properly.
It is important to mention that after fixing the implied issue, the lights won’t turn off until you reset the dehumidifier.
You can refer to the user manual of your respective models to learn more about LED indicator lights.
App Control
Some high-end brands have mobile apps that you can connect with your dehumidifier for remote controls. The app can be used to:
- View the temperature and humidity of the room
- Set the fan speed
- Check the bucket water level
- Set the RH level
- Switch dehumidifier on /off
- Check battery level in portable (battery-operated) dehumidifiers
- Turn on /off any night lights on the device
Compatibility With Voice Control Technology
Voice control optimization is one of the most recent features in domestic appliances. Some dehumidifiers can be connected with Google Home and Alexa. You can use voice control to set up and manage the device.
Auto Mode
Most dehumidifiers these days have an auto mode that adapts to the changes in indoor humidity and temperature and accordingly adjusts fan speed to maintain the set humidity level.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Some dehumidifiers can connect to Bluetooth. These units usually come with a speaker and can be used to play music.
What Else To Look For In A Smart Dehumidifier?
Dehumidifiers are crucial in high-humidity areas. To get the best out of your investment, it is important to look for the following essential features in a smart dehumidifier:
Type
The type of dehumidifier is the first thing you should consider when buying one. While compressor units are better suited to high-temperature areas, they tend to make a lot of noise when running.
On the other hand, desiccant units are comparatively silent but less effective than refrigerant dehumidifiers.
If you intend on purchasing a single unit for the entire house, you would need a whole-house dehumidifier.
Defrost Feature
For dehumidifiers to perform properly, a significant temperature difference between the coil and incoming air (with the coil being cooler) is necessary.
In winter, if the room temperature is too low, the coils can freeze. This won’t only disrupt the process, but can also damage the coil.
To counter this problem, some smart dehumidifiers have an automatic defrost feature that shuts the unit off and ensures the removal of frost from the coils before resuming dehumidification.
Coverage
Coverage implies the sq. ft. area that a dehumidifier can cover. It varies for different models and is determined by a lot of factors like fan speed, size of the air inlet, and bucket capacity.
While buying a smaller model prevents adequate dehumidification, a large-sized model will over-dry the room. Therefore, it is crucial to check the coverage in the product description before buying a unit.
Note that the number mentioned by the manufacturers is just a loose indicator, and several external environmental factors like inflow of air in the room, temperature, etc., influence it. Therefore, it is better to buy a slightly larger unit than the one required for your room.
Bucket Size
Bucket size implies the water-holding capacity of the container. This is of critical importance if your smart dehumidifier does not come with a drain hose, or else the unit will automatically turn off once the reservoir is full, thus halting further dehumidification.
Bucket capacity is an important determinant of the unit’s run time. You should compare reservoir capacity and coverage before finalizing a dehumidifier. A unit having a 20 to 40 pints bucket is required for mid to large-sized rooms (500 to 1500 sq. ft.).
Drain Hose
A drain hose is a pipe that connects to the reservoir at one end. The other end is opened and is used to empty water into a yard /sink. This disables auto shut-off mode and allows continuous operation of the dehumidifier.
To enjoy uninterrupted operations of a unit, you must check if it has an adapter for the drain hose.
Noise During Operation
The old models of dehumidifiers can produce a loud noise due to the fan motor. In areas with excessive humidity, you need to run a dehumidifier 24/7, and in this case, especially, noise can be a huge nuisance.
These days, you can find a lot of premium models that have the best features and whisper-free operation.
Filters
Dehumidifiers draw in the room’s air which contains several contaminants like dust, debris, mold, bacteria, gases, VOCs, and chemicals. These pollutants can collect inside the system and damage the mechanical components of the dehumidifier.
- Dust and debris can cause coils to corrode.
- Particulate matter can accumulate between the fan builds, preventing it from rotating properly.
- Mold and bacteria can build up inside the system. The water present on the coils and inside the reservoir facilitates their growth, leading to the formation of multiple colonies in no time.
Some dehumidifiers have built-in filtration systems that remove contaminants from the incoming air stream. While a generic pre-filter successfully traps large particles, an advanced HEPA filter captures microscopic pollutants like bacteria, mold spores, pollen, dust, debris, etc.
Combo Units
Like dehumidifiers, some other appliances like air purifiers and diffusers are also essential. Nowadays, some companies have started launching combo devices, having two or more appliances.
These combo-units save space and money as compared to stand-alone devices, and therefore, you can consider investing in them.
10 Best Smart Dehumidifiers
Here are ten of the best SMART dehumidifiers you can find in the market:
1. Pure Enrichment PureDry Deluxe Dehumidifier
Pure Enrichment is a household name for domestic appliances, and their PureDry Deluxe Dehumidifier is a product we can recommend with confidence.
It is a mid-sized device (160 sq. ft. coverage) that removes 500 ml of moisture in 24 hours. You get an auto shut-off anti-spill feature that turns off the unit once the water tank is full. Although this unit does not have a drain hose adapter, the tank can store 1.5 L and does not require frequent drainage.
It is also transparent, which makes it easier to track the water level.
Although it comes with an auto mode, users can adjust the speed levels as per their comfort level.
2. LG PuriCare 50-Pint Black Energy Star Dehumidifier
LG PuriCare Black Energy Star is a 50-pint dehumidifier. Launched in 2019, this unit has become a customer favorite because of its extensive coverage and appealing smart features.
The device can cover 2000 sq. ft. space and is thus perfect for mid to large rooms, basements, small offices, etc.
Its control panel comprises a large screen that displays device controls like fan speed, set humidity level, etc. Additionally, the panel also has white LED lights that indicate current and desired humidity.
The appliance has an automatic defrost control that enables adequate dehumidification at low temperatures. You also get a 12-hour timer and two fan speeds that can be adjusted to suit your comfort.
The safety features make this device a full package. While a non-flammable metal case and heat-resistant wires protect the dehumidifier from impact, an airflow blockage alarm and safety standby mode prevent overheating. It also comes with filters that protect the system from contamination.
3. Honeywell Smart WiFi Energy Star Dehumidifier
Honeywell Smart WiFi Energy Star Dehumidifier caters to large rooms and basements with its whooping 3000 sq. ft. coverage. It is capable of removing up to 50 pints of moisture within 24 hours and is, therefore, ideal for continuous dehumidification in damp areas.
This unit is optimized for WiFi connectivity and Amazon Alexa voice commands. Using this feature, you can manage the device, change humidity settings, fan speed, timer, and control other features remotely via mobile phone.
This unit comes with a detachable bucket that you can easily remove and drain. Additionally, it also has a drain hose that acts as a continuous drain outlet.
The durable air filter removes the majority of pollutants, whereas a Clean Filter Alert reminds you to clean and replace the filter when need be.
4. Paris Rhone Energy Star Dehumidifier
Paris Rhone Energy Star Dehumidifier is our next pick. It is a large space unit that can cover up to 5000 sq. ft. area.
Despite its extensive coverage, this is a portable, lightweight, and compact device. It has a 14.8-pint reservoir and removes 50 pints of moisture in a day. It also comes with an anti-spill auto-shut-off feature. The drain hose adapter enables continuous dehumidification.
This device comes with three operating modes and three fan speeds that you can choose from when setting up the dehumidifier. Each of the three modes is suitable for different spaces like basements, closets, and bedrooms.
5. Govee Smart Dehumidifier
Govee Smart Dehumidifier is a 50-pint unit designed for mid-sized rooms and basements.
It comes with a drain hose that enables continuous operation. The UI is optimized for WiFi and Alexa compatibility, allowing remote voice controls.
There is a healthy balance humidity (auto) mode, in which a sensor automatically adjusts the humidity settings to keep the RH within a healthy range.
6. Emerson Quiet Kool 50 Pint Smart Dehumidifier
Emerson Quiet Kool is a smart 50-pint dehumidifier. It is optimized for WiFi connectivity, which enables remote voice control.
This is a large device that caters to almost 4500 sq. ft. area. The LED display and electronic controls allow you to conveniently run and manage the device.
You also get three fan speeds, an auto-defrost feature, bucket-full and clean filter alert, which is crucial for adequate maintenance. The dehumidifier also has an auto-shut-off feature (apart from the drain hose adapter).
7. Frigidaire Dehumidifier
Frigidaire FFAD2233W1 Dehumidifier is a small room unit that can potentially remove 22-pint moisture in a day. It comes with a drain hose adapter that enables the continuous function. When the hose is not connected, the unit shuts off automatically to prevent a spill.
The bucket is front loading and comes with a carrying handle and splash guard that allows the users to drain it conveniently.
This unit is designed to work in cold climates and can run uninterrupted in as low as 41 degrees.
8. TCL Home Smart 50 Pint Dehumidifier
Next up, we have TCL Home Smart 50 Pint Dehumidifier. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. Additionally, it is also optimized for connectivity with the TCL app, which allows you to remotely manage your dehumidifier from anywhere.
It covers 4,500 sq. ft., which makes it suitable for large rooms. The quiet whisper operation (49 dB) is another plus. There are multiple modes and fan speeds, each of which is designed for different spaces (basements, rooms, closets, etc.)
Although it cannot connect to a drain hose, the tank is removable and easy to drain. Other features like defrost system, auto shut-off, and timer make the unit worth the investment.
9. EasyAcc Smart Dehumidifier
EasyAcc Smart Dehumidifier is a 40 oz device suitable for small rooms. It offers ultra-quiet operation at 35 dB.
There is an auto shut-off feature that prevents spill and water damage. The tank is removable and can be drained and cleaned easily.
The device also has filters that remove airborne contaminants before the air encounters a cooling coil.
10. Amana Portable Dehumidifier
The last product on our list is Amana Portable Dehumidifier. It is a 48-pint device that caters to mid and large-sized rooms.
The auto shut-off feature prevents spills (there is no drain hose for continuous dehumidification).
Amana portable dehumidifier also has several additional features like LED displays, timer, different fan speeds, adjustable humidistat, and auto restart (saves your settings after a power outage); all of which make it one of the best choices in its price range.
