RV Dehumidifier Reviews – Read This Before Buying One

RV living has its own unique perks and challenges. Life on the road, untethered and carefree, can be exciting and liberating. But think about life in an RV: It’s a small enclosed space where you cook, shower, eat, and sleep. All these activities, especially cooking and showering, causes an increase in water vapor. This vapor condenses back into water after it cools, and excess water and RVs just don’t mix. Not addressing the condensation build-up in your RV can lead to mold and other damage. In this post, we’ll explore different types and brands of dehumidifiers and why they are essential for RVs.

Table of Contents

• Why Humidifiers are Important for RVs
• Types of Dehumidifiers for an RV
• Key Features to Keep in Mind
• Dehumidifier Manufacturers and Reviews
• Compact Dehumidifiers for RVs
• Full-Size Dehumidifiers
• How to Use a Dehumidifier in Your RV

Why Humidifiers are Important for RVs

As we mentioned, the small, enclosed living space of an RV means it’s hard for condensation to naturally dissipate with even the everyday activities of cooking or showering. There are a handful of ways to prevent condensation, such as opening a window, but what if it’s freezing outside and cracking a window isn’t possible? A dehumidifier becomes essential. They not only prevent mold but also work to keep your RV comfortable, by reducing the humidity in the air. There is also the added benefit of reducing odor, which definitely comes in handy living in close corners with even your favorite loved ones. Traveling with your pets? A dehumidifier will also help keep the air clean for the whole family.

Types of Dehumidifiers for an RV

So a dehumidifier is essential, but what kind should I buy? There are two types of dehumidifiers available, the rechargeable dehumidifier which uses a desiccant, and the refrigerant (also called a compressor) model. The rechargeable model is best used in closed spaces, such as closets. If you have a localized mold problem, this is the best dehumidifier to use, but you would need more than one of them if you need a solution for your entire vehicle.

Refrigerant models are a better bet if you need to keep your whole camper mold-free. Any refrigerant unit will do the job, as long as it has sufficient capacity.

Desiccant or Refrigerant Dehumidifier?

There are pros and cons to both types of dehumidifiers. Let’s go through them to see what type of dehumidifier is best for you.

Refrigerant/Compressor Pros

• Slightly cheaper
• Lower power consumption

Refrigerant/Compressor Cons

• Heavier than desiccant models
• More mechanical parts
• Do not work very well at temperatures lower than 40 degrees Fahrenheit
• Higher noise levels

Desiccant Pros

• Lower noise levels
• Lighter than compressors
• Can work at temperatures as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit
• Warm air is blown out of the unit

Desiccant Cons

• More expensive
• Higher power consumption
• Slightly more expensive than refrigerant/compressors

Key Features to Keep in Mind

 The best dehumidifiers will have the following features:

• Humidistat – this constantly measures the humidity levels, and will automatically switch off when the levels are optimum.
• Laundry setting – a dehumidifier with a laundry setting helps to dry clothes that have been hung faster, by operating the unit continuously.
• Timer – this is a great feature to have if you are away from the house for long periods of time. It enables you to set the unit to function for a predetermined number of hours a day.
• Adjustable louvers – This isn’t a top consideration, but a useful feature nonetheless. It allows you to redirect the airflow of the vents.

Extraction Rate of Dehumidifiers

This is a feature that is usually quoted by manufacturers; however, comparing the different extraction rates on different dehumidifiers is hard, as different manufacturers use different rates depending on the temperature and relative humidity. Also, the two types of dehumidifiers operate best at different temperatures, which makes it hard to compare across brands. Generally, compressor dehumidifiers have a higher extraction rate.

Power consumption – what does it cost to run a dehumidifier?

Desiccant models use more power than compressor units. The running costs of a compressor can be compared to that of a refrigerator, while a desiccant dehumidifier uses about the same energy as a washing machine.

Dehumidifier noise levels

Desiccant dehumidifiers are generally quieter than refrigerant units, but the noise levels are unobtrusive.

Importance of Portability

How do you plan to use your dehumidifier, and how often? Will it have a permanent home, or do you intend to move it between your sticks-and-bricks home and RV? Some units weigh as much as 26 lbs, so always keep weight in mind. Wheels and a carry handle will come in handy if you plan to move the unit around.

Dehumidifiers specifically designed for RVs have a non-slip base and are wider than they are high, so as to have a low center of gravity. Portable designs are less expensive.

Most people do not live in their RVs throughout the year, so you should take whatever precautions you can to ensure that rain doesn’t enter your vehicle, while still allowing for ventilation.

Park your RV within reach of a main water line to drain, if you have a refrigerant dehumidifier and need to use it while in storage, or you can also use strategically-placed desiccant models.

Dehumidifier Manufacturers and Reviews

Now that you have a better understanding of the importance of a dehumidifier for your RV and what to look for, let’s walk through reviews of different brands on the market. Some of these units are older but are still worth considering on the secondary market.

We’ll start with compact units that would work best in smaller RVs such as travel trailers and Class Cs. Then we’ll move on to units that are designed to handle more “traditional” dwellings but would work well in larger RVs, such as fifth-wheel trailers or Class As.

Compact Dehumidifiers for RVs

We totally get how space saving is a top priority for any RVer, so a compact dehumidifier might be best for your rig. However, something to keep in mind when choosing a dehumidifier for size is how effective the unit is at removing moisture from the air. You may have to empty the tray of these units a couple times throughout the day, depending on the humidity in your RV. It may also be a good idea to get multiple units since they can be conveniently placed out of the way.

• SEAVON: This unit is top-rated for ease of use, low noise level, and more. It is also energy-efficient which can be helpful if you need to use your generator.
• ProBreeze: This unit can handle up to 225 sq feet making it perfect for small RVs. It’s the shortest unit on our list, so getting two or three to place around a larger rig wouldn’t take up much space at all.
• Tenergy Sorbi: this unit has a slim profile and is well-reviewed for effectiveness. Another great option for a compact dehumidifier.

Full-Size Dehumidifiers

The units we have reviewed below may be bigger than the compact ones but are also effective at managing larger spaces. These can be great options for any RV but especially fifth-wheel trailers to Class As. Also remember, even if you see a brand or model that is no longer available, it may be worth trying your luck at buying it second-hand.

Alen Dehumidifier

This company now specializes in air purifiers, but again, may be worth considering secondhand. Each model in the Alen range is energy efficient. Alen dehumidifiers consistently get a good rating from their users. They carry an inventory of 70, 50 and 30-pint capacities suitable for home use.

• 70 pint MDF3-70: This dehumidifier can comfortably extract 70 pints of water a day, and is most popularly used in basements. It has a continuous drainage feature, complemented by an auto-restart function.
• 50 pint MDF3-50: This model is a smaller version of the 70-pint and is also popular in basements.  Humidistat is critical, especially for allergy sufferers. This unit works well as an RV dehumidifier.
• 30-pint MDF-30: If your unit has to be moved frequently, or you have limited floor space, the MDF-30 is the perfect model for you. It is more suited to a small room, and will automatically switch off, if the bucket gets full, to prevent overflowing. It has continuous drainage, and even though it’s the smallest in the range, it is the ideal RV dehumidifier

Comfort Aire Dehumidifier

Most reviews of this brand relate to the relatively short life span. On a positive note, they are quiet, and so for those who treasure this as a feature, this is the brand you should go for.

• 35-Pint: This unit can push out a fair amount of production each day while still being easy to travel with in most RVs. It is also smartphone capable, making it easy to manage wherever you are.
• 70-Pint: Being able to hold 70 pints should be a tip-off that this unit is heavy. It weighs about 50 pounds on its own, so it’s definitely not an easy one to move. However, if your camper is stationary or tends to stay camped in one place at a time, it may be for you. Filters can be washed and reused, and again, this brand is known for low sound.
• BHD651G: This model is very quiet for its 65-pint capacity. It is popular in basements and works well in areas up to 1100-sq. feet.
•  BHD501G: This dehumidifier works in areas as large as 900-sq. feet. It has a capacity of 50 pints. If you need a quiet RV dehumidifier, this will do just fine
• BHD301G: This is a quiet, low-capacity unit that is suitable for bedrooms, and other smaller areas of your home. It is powerful enough to work as an RV dehumidifier. It has all the features of the 65-pint model.

Danby Dehumidifier

Danby is a solid brand that performs well, across the board. Its range is varied, allowing customers to choose a dehumidifier that is exactly right for them. The prices also vary significantly so look around for a deal.

Reviews are consistently favorable, so you cannot go wrong with a Danby. The most read complaint is the noise of the unit, so that is something to consider if you’d like a quieter dehumidifier.

• 40-Pint: Ease of use is the top-rated feature for this unit, and it also has an automatic shut-off feature.

• 70 pint DDR 7009REE: This high-capacity portable unit is mostly used in wet basements. It is especially great for inaccessible areas, and it has a continuous drainage feature and remote control.

• 60 Pint DDR6009REE: Other than the fact that it uses a little less power and has a lower capacity, the 60-pint is no different from the 70-pint. It is energy-efficient and has an auto-restart that kicks in, in the event of a power failure.

• 50 pint DDR5009REE: The 50-pint is identical to its bigger brothers, but requires that you place the unit a foot or two above the drainage for effectiveness.

De’Longhi Dehumidifiers

De’Longhi dehumidifiers are well-made by current standards and manufactured in Italy. De’Longhi are more expensive than other brands, but they also have the features to back up the high price tag. If you are looking for an RV dehumidifier that is lightweight, small, and quiet, De’Longhi will probably have the perfect one for you.

• 35 or 50-Pint: These units are aesthetically appealing, easy to use, and have pretty much every feature you’d want or need in a dehumidifier.

• De’Longhi Aria Dry Light DNC65: This is a desiccant dehumidifier, which means it will still keep working at very low temperatures. They do not fail where refrigerant units do. They are also much quieter than refrigerant dehumidifiers. They cost more to run and pull less water from the air than refrigerant dehumidifiers though.

• 50(25) pint DD50p: The P at the end of this model’s name means that it has an internal pump. This model is great for areas not exceeding 400sq. feet. It works great in even the largest of RVs.

• 45 (22.5) pint DD45P: Everything you read above applies here, the main difference being the slightly lower price of the DD45P. This model is not very silent, but then again, it’s quieter than some, which is why it is the preferred dehumidifier model.

• 45 pint (22.5) pint DD45: This is the DD45P minus the pump. This model has an auto-restart function and all the advantages of the two models above. It is cheaper than them both and is probably the best buy of the range.
• De’Longhi DEM 10 Compact: This model is small, lightweight, and has everything you need to control humidity in an RV, a room, or even a small apartment. It has continuous drainage, and an adjustable humidistat, as well as auto-defrost.

• De’Longhi DES12: This 12-liter-a-day model is great for small areas. It weighs 20 lbs., but has more than enough power to dehumidify your RV, room, or even small home. It has a humidistat and continuous drainage, as well as auto defrost.

• De’Longhi SLIM DES 14: This dehumidifier is compact and easy to move. It is a medium-capacity dehumidifier that works fine in most family homes. This model could be considered a larger version of the DES12. It makes some noise but is overall a good choice as far as dehumidifiers go.

• De’Longhi SLIM DES 16: The slim design of this model allows you to place it flush against a wall, helping you to save space. It has all the advantages of the DES 14, but with more power, and a noise decibel level of 42dB. It is quieter than its competitors.

• De’Longhi DEC 21: This portable unit keeps the whole house free from humidity. It is great for drying laundry, and can be used in three modes: heater, dehumidifier, or heater and dehumidifier, which is combo mode. The energy consumption, due to the combo,  was probably not factored in to the design, but a novel idea all the same.

Eco Air Dehumidifier

Eco Air Brand carries a range of products including air purifiers, heat pumps, and air conditioners.
Their range of dehumidifiers includes:

• Eco Air ECO8LDN: This dehumidifier is suitable for small spaces or homes. It is quiet, only 43dB, and economical to run, consuming as much power as three 60-watt bulbs, or 230 watts per hour.

• Eco Air ECO12LDT: With auto-restart and continuous drainage, this dehumidifier works well as an RV dehumidifier. It can control the humidity in a single large room. It is simple to use and can extract up to 12 liters per day.

• Eco Air ECO20LDT: This high-capacity unit can extract up to 20 liters per day, or a room as large as 30-sq. meters. It has manual controls.

• Eco Air ECO14LDF: This model is effective in a room no larger than 20-sq. meters. It can pull up to 14 liters of water every day and weighs 23 lbs. It also has a carrying handle that makes it easy to move around. It has electronic controls, giving it a very modern appearance.

• Eco Air ECO20LDF: This 20-liter unit is suitable for areas up to 30-sq. meters. It is similar to the ECO14LDF, except for the larger size. The greater power also means more noise production: 50dB, as compared to 45dB for the ECO14LDF.

• Eco Air ECO14LDG: This unit is priced slightly higher than the ECO14LDF, due to some improvements. This dehumidifier works well in an RV, or any space not larger than 20-sq. meters. It is compact and portable with a carrying handle and castors. The improvement is in the noise level, which has been reduced by 2dB, which is almost negligible for most ears.

• Eco Air ECO20LDK: This is yet another 20-liter model that is similar to the ECOAIR20LDF, but with some improvements. For starters, it is much larger, so as to accommodate the 4.5-liter bucket for water collection. This makes it ideal for those who cannot use continuous drainage. The second improvement in this model is the noticeably quieter noise levels, ranging from 36 to 42dB. For such a powerful unit, this is significantly quiet.

• Eco Air DD122FW: This desiccant unit is very different from all others in this range. It is much quieter and lighter than refrigerant units. Desiccant units work fine in very low temperatures, one or two degrees above freezing, though they extract less water than the refrigerant variety. Odors are also captured in the desiccant, which is a disadvantage. This dehumidifier is best used in your garage, or on your RV while in storage.

Frigidaire dehumidifiers

Frigidaire is a very popular model in the US market. It is not particularly outstanding, but rather a good performer, and works great to eliminate musty smells caused by dampness. All models are Energy Star® qualified.
Frigidaire was founded as the Guardian refrigerator company and developed the first self-contained refrigerator. The name was adopted in 1919 after General Motors acquired the company. General Motors owned it for the next 60 years, after which it was bought by Electrolux, its current owner. Among its other achievements, the company introduced the 1st room air conditioner. Frigidaire has a 70-pint, 50-pint, and 30-pint models.

• 70 Pint FAD704DUD
  This is a great model for wet basements with a 70-pint capacity.

• 50 Pint FAD504DUD
  This model replaces the 50-pint FAD504TDD, which was well-liked. It has got enthusiastic reviews so far.

• 30 pint FAD301NUD
  This is the replacement for the FAD251NTD 25-pint model. It is more energy efficient than its predecessor and has all the essential features you expect in a dehumidifier.

GE Dehumidifier

If you are looking for a portable dehumidifier, GE is the brand for you. All units are reliable and effective. They are also very attractive, priced competitively, and are great for all areas including bathrooms, RVs, laundry areas, and basements. GE, or The General Electric Company, was rated the world’s second-largest company in 2010 by Forbes. It was formed in 1892 with Thomas Edison as one of the partners. Since then GE has grown to become a world leader in the field of electric brands. GE Appliances, a subsidiary of GE, is the leading supplier of refrigerators, washers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers.

• 65 Pint GE ADER65LN: This is the most powerful in this range and the heaviest. It also uses the most energy but is a beast when it comes to water collection. It is suitable for large to medium basements and can collect up to 65 pints a day. This model is slowly being replaced by the 65-Pint GE ADER65LP. This is the successor of the above model. The two are virtually identical.

• 40 Pint GE ADER40LN: This is a smaller, lighter version of the above model. It is 7 lbs lighter than the 50-pint. This unit is best used in small areas, such as a small room or an RV, as it is not energy-efficient. This model is being replaced by the ADER40LP.

• 30 Pint GE ADER30LN: This is the baby of the family and works great in small areas. It is the same size as the 40-pint model but weighs 11lb less. It also consumes the least amount of energy. This model is being replaced by the ADER30LP.

Haier Dehumidifier

Haier group began in China in the 1920s and was founded as a refrigerator manufacturer. It is the fourth-largest manufacturer of goods in the world, thanks to a partnership with the German Liebherr Group.

• Haier 45 pint DE45EJ: This is a portable model that can extract up to 45 pints of water a day. It works fine in an area no larger than 700-sq. feet and has a 25-pint bucket. Consumer reviews for the model are mixed, though most are centered on its short life span.

• Haier DE65EJ-L: This unit can pull 65 pints of water from the air daily. It is lighter than most of its counterparts, but also has a tendency to break down quickly.

LG Dehumidifier

Large numbers of LG dehumidifiers are sold yearly. The brand is well-known the world over, and the products are pleasing to the eye. Most customers express satisfaction with the brand that also manufactures cell phones, refrigerators, air conditioners, and a host of other household appliances. The bad reviews are mostly centered on the life span of the units, as well as a high proportion of comments that relate to the humidistat and heating effect, on the air that has run through the unit.
LG was established in The Republic of Korea and was formed in 1947. LG Electronics, the company subsidiary, manufactures the LG Dehumidifier and other electronic goods.

• 65 pint LG LD65OEAL: This is a high-capacity portable model that is designed for use in temperatures 65 degrees F and above. It does not work well in lower temperatures but is similar to other high-capacity models with the usual features. This dehumidifier’s black casing makes it stand out, and may be ideal for those looking for something other than the usual white of other brands. Reviews of this model center on the difficulty of removing the water bucket, as well as the noise produced.

• 45 Pint LG LD45OEAL: This unit can remove 45-pints, and costs less to run than the LD650EAL. It works well in a space no larger than 700-sq. feet. It operates more economically in a space smaller than that though. It is similar in weight, size, and noise-produced to the 65-pint model, but has the familiar white finish of traditional dehumidifiers. Reviews of this model are more critical than that of the 65-pint and center on the same issues.

Meaco Dehumidifier

Meaco uses desiccant technology in its dehumidifiers, making them less than ideal for use in your home. Their dehumidifiers mostly have commercial applications, though some can be used in garages and boats, as well as RVs, and other places where temperatures get very low. The company was founded in 1991. Their dehumidifier range is restricted, but their high standards are to be expected in each unit

• DD122FW-MK4 Dessicant: This unit does not condense water, but instead absorbs it from the air using a desiccant material. The unit is very effective in temperatures as low as one or two degrees above freezing, as it does not have a refrigerant unit. An overstated point with regard to the desiccant models is that they are quieter and lighter than their refrigerant counterparts. Desiccant units, however, are more expensive that those units that use refrigerant. They also absorb the odor present from pollution or even tobacco smoke, that is in the air. They also heat the air more than refrigerant units do.

• DD8L: This is another desiccant unit provided by Meaco. Desiccant units as stated above are sold as “whisper quiet,” but this is not necessarily true. The desiccant unit has two fans, one for drawing air in, and the other for pushing it into the desiccant material to be dried. These fans will produce some noise while in operation. Desiccant units are very advantageous in low-temperature conditions though.

• The 10L: This low-powered unit is not exceptional in any way, but is competitively priced. It is a handy unit with electronic controls and can extract up to 10 liters a day. It is also fairly quiet and economical to run.

• The 20 L: This unit has twice the capacity of the above,  but is quiet and light. The visual appearance is quite pleasing, and the castor wheels provide an easy way to move it from room to room, as required. If you can find it at an attractive price, this is a must-buy.

Mitsubishi Dehumidifier

Mitsubishi is a popular model in the UK. As with most brands made in the East, the most common complaint is the relatively short life span of the unit. Mitsubishi dehumidifiers have a “hot gas defrost” feature, which is their version of the auto-defrost feature on other brands. This feature allows the refrigerant units to work well in much lower temperatures. The brand costs a little more than others, but the quality is undeniable. Mitsubishi is effective, quiet, and reliable. The name Mitsubishi can be translated as “three diamonds,” which accounts for the logo of the brand. It began as a shipping company formed in 1870 by Yataro Iwasaki, but adopted the name Mitsubishi in 1873. The company has since diversified, and has numerous interests, which include aircraft production, and is famous for producing the A6M Zero carrier-based fighter. Mitsubishi is several different companies running independently under one business philosophy and brand. They offer two dehumidifier units:

• MJ-E16V: This lightweight dehumidifier can extract 16 liters of water from the air per day. It has several useful features, such as an electronic humidistat, and continuous drainage, as well as auto-restart and a large 4-liter water collection container. It is a quiet performer and is effective in low temperatures.

• MJ-E16Vx: This unit is identical to the one above, but has even more functionality and flexibility. It costs more than the one above but has the “hot gas defrost” feature, as well as auto-restart

Premiair Dehumidifier

Premiair is a well-regarded brand, with a range of products for heating, cooling, and improving air quality.

• PMDN-12DMN3: This medium-capacity portable uses 320 watts per hour. It has a 12-liter capacity. The selling point for this unit, however, is its relatively low noise levels, coming in at 41dB, making it one of the quietest models available.

• PD20DEN: The extra power in this unit comes with a range of additional features, including castors for easier movement, and an ionizer. It consumes 420 watts per hour, which is reasonable compared to the unit above but produces a deafening 50dB of noise, which is disappointing.

• PDDS10: This is a desiccant dehumidifier. It is smaller and lighter than a refrigerant dehumidifier with the same capacity,  as it does not use a compressor. It is ideal for places that experience very low temperatures.

• PRDHZ8OU: This is another desiccant dehumidifier. It has a higher removal capacity than the PDS10, but can get very loud when set on high. Its noise output is 47.9dB. It also comes with higher energy costs but works great in areas with very low temperatures.

• Premiair PMD16O8: This dehumidifier is for tiny spaces. It removes a third of a liter of water per day, at best, and is very quiet. This small dehumidifier is great for wardrobes and cupboards.

• Premiair EP 16O8E: This dehumidifier has a capacity of 0.65 liters per day,  and just like the above, is suitable for enclosed spaces such as wardrobes.

• Premiair RMDH-09: This dehumidifier has no moving parts, and therefore a very long working life. It is the best choice if you need a dehumidifier for a specific space, such as your wardrobe. You simply place the dehumidifier in the enclosed space, where it will collect water until the indicator changes color. When this happens, plug your dehumidifier into a power socket for a while until the indicator changes back, then you are ready to use it again. It is silent, clean, and easy to use and works great.

Kenmore Dehumidifier

Distributed by Sears Holding Company, The Kenmore brand requires no introduction. Sears Holdings was created as a merger between Kmart and Sears, Roebuck and Co. It is a leading seller of home appliances, though you can also purchase other brands in any of its 4,500 retail stores, as well as online. Their dehumidifiers are not manufactured by them, but they contract the work out to manufacturers, such as LG, Winix, and Frigidaire.

• Kenmore 70 Pint Model: This is the largest model in the Kenmore range, and works well in basements or water damage restoration projects. The appearance, according to customers is also very pleasing and it is generally easy to use. Common complaints include noise and faulty units within the first year.

• Kenmore 50 Pint Model: This 50-pint model is similar to the 70-pint in all aspects, complaints included. There are equally effective units for the same price.

• Kenmore 30 pint model: This dehumidifier would be more effective in a room, or even an RV than it is in a basement. It is smaller in size than the above models, and quieter, as well as easier to fit in a space that is limited.

• Kenmore Elite: The Kenmore Elite is a top-seller in the Kenmore brand. It is similar to the 70-pint model with one addition, an internal pump. This makes it easier for individuals without an easily accessible floor drain to use the continuous drainage option. The reviews for this model are also similar to those of the 70-pint, with one addition, complaints of the failure of the pump. A portable dehumidifier with an internal pump is not a bright idea generally, as repairs cost more than a new unit.

• DP17003: This is a 70-pint capacity unit that is typically bought for use in basements. It generally has positive reviews and all the usual features.

• CFM40E: This dehumidifier will keep humidity under control in a 600-sq. foot room. It is stylish in appearance and produces noise levels of 41dB. Like all Soleus products, the unit has good reviews all around.

• Dp1-30-03: This unit can extract 30 pints of water daily, but is not quiet by any standards. It produces 59dB of noise at its highest setting and is therefore not suitable for bedrooms. The overall good quality makes up for the noise though.

• CFM25E: This is a more economical version of the DP1. It has a 25-pint capacity and is a great choice for recreational vehicles or small homes.

Sunpentown Dehumidifier

Better known as SPT, this is a small company that manufactures and distributes several home appliances. It was founded in California in 1993.

• 65 pint SD-65E: At 65-pints per day, this unit is suitable in large areas such as basements. The brand is less known than Frigidaire, but most reviews are centered on positivity and effectiveness. The biggest complaint regards its noise, especially when set on high. The decision to buy centers around a users preference, a quiet unit that needs to run for hours, or a noisy unit that gets the job done quick. Your choice.

• 46 Pint SD-46T: This is a compact unit that is great as an  RV dehumidifier, and has an effective air filtration system. The electronic controls make it easy to operate.

• 40 pint SD-40E: This unit is effective, but noisy just like the 65-pint SD-65E. It works very effectively, and is a great choice for use in the home or in an RV, if noise is not a big issue for you.

• 30 pint SD-30E: This is too small to use in a basement, but would be fine for a small house or apartment. The noise level, compared to the capacity is too high, so do not place it in your bedroom. If you don’t mind the noise, this is a great choice that will serve you well for several years.

• SD350: This is a great dehumidifier for closets and wardrobes. It is not powerful enough for even a small bedroom, and is a desiccant unit which though quiet, is not silent. Unless you have damp problems in your cupboard, this dehumidifier would not be of much use to you.

• SD652: This is similar to the 350, but has a slightly higher water-extraction capacity.

Winix Dehumidifier

Winix are much less known than other non-US-based brands. They are priced slightly higher than others, such as Haier and LG, for example, but the reviews from consumers are much better than the lower-priced competitors. Winix has an overall better build quality, and longer life span, as well as features that are not typical in most brands. For example, the auto-restart function, while not rare, is not universal in all dehumidifiers, and neither is a condensate pump, as most models rely on gravity for drainage. Winix dehumidifiers are manufactured by Winix Inc. in the Republic of Korea. They also manufacture products for the Kenmore brand (Sears), among others.

• Winix 50 pint dehumidifier WDH751: This stylish unit is effective and quiet and the fan does not run continuously. It is an all-round great performer.

• Winix 70 pint Dehumidifier WDH871: This is a larger, more powerful version of the above unit, and comes with an internal pump which is not found in other models.

How to Use a Dehumidifier in Your RV

Even the best dehumidifier won’t work if it’s not being used properly. Tuck our best tips in your back pocket to help keep your rig as dry as possible:

• At a minimum, consider using a moisture absorber, such as DampRid, regardless of whether you see condensation on your walls or windows.
• If using smaller units or a unit that isn’t designed for a large amount of square footage, consider getting multiples and place around your RV.
• Make sure the air is able to circulate around the dehumidifier and not placed in the corner or against a wall; this is how it removes moisture from the air.
• Check the tank and drain before it becomes too full. If using a hose, check to make sure it is draining properly.
• Move the unit around your rig from time to time to evenly dehumidify.

The bottom line: It’s easy for condensation to build up in an RV year-round. A dehumidifier in your RV can save you thousands of dollars in damage, from mold and excess moisture. Especially if you live in an area with high humidity levels, it would be a very smart choice to get yourself a dehumidifier.

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