Our garage contains expensive power tools, precious memories, and vehicles. Keeping the garage free of dampness and moisture is crucial, but that isn’t always easy.
If the garage becomes too damp or humid, mold will likely begin to grow.
Discovering mold on your old books, baby clothes, or other memories can be devastating. Luckily, using the best garage dehumidifier can effectively keep moisture and mold at bay.
But how do you choose one when there are so many options available? We’ve done the hard research for you. We spent hours looking at various dehumidifiers, their effectiveness, purpose, and ability. Keep reading to meet our five favorites.
- Excellent for medium-sized garages
- Portable with handles
- Auto-shutoff prevents leaks
- Compact and discreet unit
- Large 12.7 pint tank
- Defrost function
- Removes 100 pints daily
- Durable aluminum construction
- Easy to set up
- Water level indicator
- Easy controls
- Dust filter prevents clogs
- Excellent for large spaces
- 18-pint reservoir
- Built-in humidistat
Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we understand the importance of selecting the best dehumidifier for your garage. Our team of professionals conducts thorough research, hands-on testing, and detailed analysis to provide you with an unbiased evaluation of the top dehumidifiers on the market. We compare key factors such as performance, energy efficiency, capacity, and ease of use, while also considering the unique design choices and their effects on users. Our assessments are based on real-life experiences and quantitative measurements, ensuring that our recommendations help you make an informed decision. By identifying critical decision-making factors and ranking products accordingly, we aim to make your search for the perfect dehumidifier as seamless as possible.
The Best Garage Dehumidifiers of 2023
Before making our list, we looked at various sizes to see how each dehumidifier would perform in a garage. Our expert team had a weigh-in on what features and options are best. In conclusion, check out these five super powerful dehumidifiers for keeping moisture at bay.
Vremi Energy Star Rated Dehumidifier
Best Small Dehumidifier
The Moisture Maniac 22-pint is an excellent little machine, but don’t judge it by its size. It’s highly effective as well as energy-efficient. The device will dehumidify and purify the air in the garage in one go, so it’s a bit of a hybrid.
It comes with auto-shutoff and a gravity-fed drain hose outlet that allows continuous use without worrying about the tank. You can control the humidity in the garage by setting your preferences on the display.
What We Like
Excellent for Medium-Sized Garages
If you have a medium-sized garage, this dehumidifier is perfect. It can cover up to 1,500 square feet and will remove 22 pints of moisture per day. The Vremi effectively reduces humidity levels to help prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria.
Portable Size With Handles
The Moisture Maniac lives up to its name; it’s highly efficient yet compact and easy to move around. It’s fitted with two handles and four sturdy wheels to help you move it from room to room.
Auto-Shutoff Prevents Leaks
We love the auto-shutoff feature on the Vremi. It works by monitoring the tank and shutting the unit off when full.
This will help prevent a disaster if you’ve forgotten to empty the tank. When this happens, a light on the display will notify you that the unit has been turned off and it’s time to empty it.
Continuous Drain
If you don’t feel like dealing with a full tank, you can use the drain hose outlet. All you have to do is attach a hose to the unit and find a nearby drain. The dehumidifier will drain automatically through the hose instead of filling up the tank — saving you time and effort.
Air Purification
Luckily, with this dehumidifier, you don’t only get less humidity but also cleaner air. It’s fitted with a fine filter that captures allergens, dust, dirt, and mold spores.
You can easily remove the filter and wash it in warm water and mild detergent when needed. Vremi recommends that you do this monthly to keep up the efficiency. Ensure the filter is thoroughly dry before putting it back into the machine.
What We Don't Like
Loud Noise Level
Despite working effectively, the Moisture Maniac is loud. This won’t be ideal if you plan on using the dehumidifier in other rooms within the house.
No Hose Included
It would be handy if this came with a hose, especially since it has the option of continuous drainage. But you’ll have to buy a hose separately.
7.5 Pint Water Tank
If you don’t have continuous drainage set up, you might have to empty the tank twice daily. The tank is pretty small.
Product Specs
| Area Coverage | 1,500 square feet |
| Pints Per Day Removed | 22 pints |
| Reservoir Capacity | 7.5 pints |
| Dimensions | 16.1 by 10.4 by 19.9 inches |
| Weight | 30.9 pounds |
Community Feedback
Ivation 35-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
Best for Cold Weather
The Ivation 35-Pint Dehumidifier is an excellent choice for large garages as it can remove a significant amount of moisture. It’s a compact model that’s easy to move around, thanks to the four durable caster wheels.
It’s very energy-efficient and comes with multiple features such as auto-shutoff, a timer, a filter, and alerts. Unlike many other dehumidifiers, this one can be used safely during the colder months of the year due to the defrost function.
What We Like
Compact and Discreet Unit
The space in a garage can be somewhat restricted at times, so having a compact but powerful dehumidifier is best. This one from Ivation is small yet very powerful, removing up to 30 pints of moisture per day. It can cover an area of up to 3,000 square feet, which should be more than enough for the average garage.
Cleans the Air
The Ivation 35-pint dehumidifier has a filtration and evaporation system that helps prevent mold and mildew growth. It will also keep allergens and asthma triggers, such as dust mites, at bay.
Large 12.7 Pint Tank
Despite the compact size, this dehumidifier is fitted with a 12.7-pint tank to hold all the moisture it captures. The large reservoir will make life easier for you as you don’t have to spend time and effort emptying it several times a day.
Smart Features Give You More Control
We love the features you get with this dehumidifier; it comes with different fan speeds, a timer, and a filter alert. Using the built-in humidistat, you can also monitor and set your desired humidity levels. Everything is controlled from the bright LED display that’s easy to read and use.
Defrost Function Helpful in Winter
Winters can get frigid, especially in an unheated garage. Low temperatures can have detrimental effects on your dehumidifier as the coils can freeze over. However, thanks to the defrost function on this unit, you can use it all year round.
What We Don't Like
Missing Parts
There were a few customers who had complained about missing components on their pruchase. While this may be a minor issue, this is still worth considering.
Hard to Read Controls
Customers found that the controls on this unit were small and hard to read, especially in darker settings. If you’re trying to squint in your dim garage, you might struggle to read the settings.
Auto Shutoff Fails
Automatic shutoff is a must-have feature, but it doesn’t always work in this case. Sometimes, the unit will continue dehumidifying even when the tank is full. This leads to leaks.
Product Specs
| Area Coverage | 3,000 square feet |
| Pints Per Day Removed | 35 pints |
| Reservoir Capacity | 12.7 pints |
| Dimensions | 11.1 by 15.43 by 24.25 inches |
| Weight | 46.2 pounds |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Aprilaire E100 Pro 100 Pint Dehumidifier
Best Commercial Dehumidifier
If you want fast results, this is the way to go. The Aprilaire Dehumidifier was built to last. It’s also designed to remove a significant amount of moisture. This pick is a heavier model than what we’ve seen previously, but it’s excellent for a humid garage.
If you also have a basement in your house, you could use it there as well. Aprilaire offers a five-year warranty with the unit to cover any malfunctions or breakage.
What We Like
Removes 100 Pints Daily
For large garages, we prefer this Aprilaire dehumidifier. It effectively removes up to 100 pints of moisture per day. You can be sure there’s no dampness, mold, mildew, or even termites hanging around when using this model.
Durable Aluminum Construction
Because this is a commercial dehumidifier, it has been built to last you through the years. It’s fitted with corrosion-resistant aluminum coils and is manufactured and designed in the US.
Easy to Set Up
It’s quick and easy to get the dehumidifier started. It has two plastic duct connectors, which can be removed using a regular screwdriver. Place it over a drain or attach a hose, and it will work continuously without filling a tray.
The display can be placed where you find it most convenient — set it up on top of the unit or on the side.
Great for Large Areas
This is one powerful dehumidifier. If you have an extra large garage, this will work hard to remove moisture from every inch. In turn, it will prevent mold, mildew, and odors.
If you need to move it to another area, it will also be great in large living rooms and basements. It’s suitable for the whole home.
What We Don't Like
65 Pounds Heavy
Weighing nearly 65 pounds, this dehumidifier is far from lightweight. It’s heavy but durable. However, moving from one room to another will be pretty challenging.
Might Be Out of Budget
This is one of the most expensive dehumidifiers that we have seen. It might break the bank for many customers, but that’s why we call it a great commercial option.
If you decide to go for it, we recommend adding a protection plan in case of breakage.
Product Specs
| Area Coverage | 5,500 square feet |
| Pints Per Day Removed | 100 pints |
| Reservoir Capacity | N/A |
| Dimensions | 26 by 9 by 15 inches |
| Weight | 64 pounds |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Keystone High-Efficiency 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Best 50-Pint Garage Dehumidifier
Many homeowners favor the Keystone 50-Pint Dehumidifier. It’s highly effective and can cover vast areas of up to 3,000 square feet. It comes with a full-bucket alert and a transparent water level indicator.
The dust filter will catch large airborne particles while the unit extracts moisture from the air. It has several settings, such as different fan speeds, auto-shutoff, and a defrost function.
What We Like
Water Level Indicator
It’s easy to know how full the water tank is on the Keystone Dehumidifier. It’s fitted with a transparent panel where you can see exactly how much water is in the reservoir. You don’t have to open it to check or wait for a light indicator.
Controls Are Easy to Use
All buttons are marked, so it’s easy to figure out how to set your preferred settings. You can also set a timer and fan speed, among other things. The controls are electronic and have an LED display that’s bright and simple to read.
Dust Filter Prevents Clogs
As moist air is drawn into the machine, dust will inevitably follow, which can clog up the machine.
Fortunately, the dust filter will effectively catch anything that tries to get into the dehumidifier. When the filter needs to be cleaned, a light on the display will notify you. It’s easy to locate and quick to clean.
Auto-Restart Memory Function
In the case of a power outage, this handy dehumidifier will remember your last settings when it turns back on. This prevents you from having to factor in your preferred settings again.
What We Don't Like
Not Super Energy-Efficient
Although this unit works like a dream, it can be a nightmare for your electricity bills. It consumes significant energy, especially if you run it continuously.
Noticeable Noise Level
At 55 decibels, this isn’t the quietest unit. This is similar to the sound of conversation. In the garage, it’s not a big issue, but if you ever wanted to put it in the bedroom for a night, it might get on your nerves.
Shorter Lifespan Than Expected
When you invest in an expensive product, you want it to last a few years. Many customers reported this breaking down within two years of owning it, so keep that in mind.
Product Specs
| Area Coverage | 3.000 square feet |
| Pints Per Day Removed | 50 pints |
| Reservoir Capacity | 7.6 pints |
| Dimensions | 10.8 by 15.4 by 23.2 inches |
| Weight | 36.3 pounds |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Ivation 70-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
Best for Large Garages
The Ivation 70-Pint Dehumidifier is an ideal choice for a humid garage. It can cover a vast area in one go and remove an impressive amount of moisture. The large reservoir can hold a lot, but you can also attach the included hose for continuous drainage.
Customers love how effective and long-lasting it is, even with continuous use. It’s also energy-efficient and won’t raise your energy bills as much as other 70-pint units.
What We Like
Excellent for Large Spaces
If you have a large garage, you need a powerful dehumidifier — and this Ivation model is just that. It will remove up to 70 pints of moisture per day and can cover an area of up to 4,500 square feet.
18-Pint Reservoir
Having to empty the water reservoir multiple times a day can be extremely inconvenient. Luckily, this unit has an 18-pint reservoir. This generous size is impressive and will help reduce the number of times you need to empty the bucket daily.
On the other hand, if you don’t want to deal with having to empty the tank altogether, use the continuous drain.
Built-In Humidistat
You get to set your ideal humidity levels on the humidistat. It’s displayed on the LED screen and even shows the current levels so that you can monitor it throughout the day.
Easy to Move Around
Despite weighing 45 pounds, it’s relatively easy to move around because of the four durable caster wheels. Push it to where you need it without breaking a sweat or your back.
What We Don't Like
Too Loud for Indoor Use
Due to the size, we don’t expect it to be the quietest unit; however, it can get quite loud. This might not be an issue in the garage, but if you plan on taking it inside as well, it can be too loud.
Some Faulty Features
Customers found that the timer and sensor features didn’t always work. If you need to rely on these features, you might get frustrated from time to time.
Raises the Room Temperature
When you’re already sweating inside, the last thing you need is a dehumidifier to heat things up. But this device can raise the temperature of your room. It might not be a huge issue in the garage, but it can be annoying in other rooms.
Product Specs
| Area Coverage | 4,500 square feet |
| Pints Per Day Removed | 70 pints |
| Reservoir Capacity | 18 pints |
| Dimensions | 11.1 by 15.3 by 23.5 inches |
| Weight | 45 pounds |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Area Coverage | Pints Per Day | Reservoir Capacity | Dimensions | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vremi Energy Star Rated | Small Dehumidifier | 1,500 sq ft | 22 | 8 pints | 16.1 x 10.4 x 19.9″ | 30.9 lbs |
| Ivation 35-Pint Energy Star | For Cold Weather | 3,000 sq ft | 35 | 12.7 pints | 11.1 x 15.43 x 24.25″ | 46.2 lbs |
| Aprilaire E100 Pro 100-Pint | Commercial Dehumidifier | 5,500 sq ft | 100 | N/A | 26 x 9 x 15″ | 64 lbs |
| Keystone HE 50-Pint | 50-Pint Dehumidifier | 3.000 sq ft | 50 | 7.6 pints | 10.8 x 15.4 x 23.2″ | 36.3 lbs |
| Ivation 70-Pint Energy Star | For Large Garages | 4,500 sq ft | 70 | 18 pints | 11.1 x 15.3 x 23.5″ | 45 lbs |
Will a Dehumidifier Work in a Garage?
Many things can cause a significant amount of moisture in a garage. However, removing excess moisture is essential since it will cause mold. This can damage the garage’s structure and the items you store (1).
Garage sweating is a common issue where the floor seems to be constantly wet. It typically happens when moisture from the air settles on the cold floor, causing it to look sweaty.
Garages aren’t the best-ventilated areas either. So when the hot air meets the coldness of the floor, condensation occurs (2).
Installing a dehumidifier in the garage is the most effective way to eliminate the condensation and sweating floor.
What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need for My Garage?
What size dehumidifier you need for your garage depends on factors such as area size, dampness, and outside environment. If you know how many square feet your garage is, this should be a helpful start.
Look for one that’s adequate enough to cover the square footage of your garage.
Size Matters
How to Choose the Best Garage Dehumidifier
We’re here to share a few crucial points to consider so you can find the right dehumidifier for you.
Pints Per Day
Dehumidifiers are categorized or sized by how many pints of water they can remove in 24 hours. You can find units that are 30 pints, 40, 50, and all the way up to 70 pints. These are very effective, but choosing one that suits the area is essential.
It’s also essential to consider how humid your garage usually is. For instance, if you live in a hot, humid climate like Florida, your garage could benefit from a 50 or 70-pint dehumidifier.
Drain Options
Because the garage can be home to a significant amount of moisture, your dehumidifier will extract quite a lot. How often you’ll need to empty the tank will depend on how much moisture it can extract.
It’s important to note that a 70-pint dehumidifier won’t be fitted with a 70-pint tank. So, for a garage, we prefer to have the option of continuous drainage. That way, you won’t have to worry about emptying a tank.
Most dehumidifiers use gravity-fed hose drainage, which means the water has to be able to run down. Some units have a built-in pump that helps pump the extracted water out of the machine.
For the continuous drainage to work, you must attach a hose. Some dehumidifiers include a small hose. If yours doesn’t come with one, you can attach a standard garden hose to the outlet.
If you don’t have a drain nearby and need to use the tank, choose a unit with a large reservoir capacity. This will make it easier since you won’t have to empty it as often.
Area Coverage
As you’re hunting for a new dehumidifier for your garage, look at its area coverage. This is generally measured in square feet. It can give you a good idea of how the unit will do in your garage.
Extra Features
Here are some of the features we like to look for:
- Auto-shutoff: The auto-shutoff will monitor the water in the tank; when it becomes full, the unit will turn off. This will prevent the tank from overflowing, potentially ruining the dehumidifier and the surrounding area.
- Fan speeds: The option of setting the dehumidifier to a turbo speed or slow speed can be convenient, depending on the conditions. Most units have two fan speed options, while some have three or four.
- Defrost: Dehumidifiers are fitted with coils, and during cold days, these can freeze over. If this happens, the unit will use more energy to run, eventually burning it out. The defrost function keeps the coils free of ice and helps to save energy during the winter.
How Do I Keep Moisture out of My Garage?
Installing a dehumidifier in your garage is an effective way to get rid of moisture. However, there are other things you can do as well:
- Ventilate the garage.
- Dry your car after parking it.
- Control the temperature inside the garage.
- Coat the floor to prevent sweating.
FAQs
How Do I Dry Out My Garage?
The best way to dry out your garage is to use a dehumidifier. It extracts moisture from the air and reduces the risk of fungal growth like mold and mildew. You can also install a mid-size heater to dry the air.
Why is There So Much Humidity In My Garage?
There is so much humidity in your garage due to poor ventilation. Garages lack windows and doors and are rarely heated, which creates moisture in the air. Your garage is also unlikely to be as well insulated as other areas of your home.
Is It Worth Putting a Dehumidifier In the Garage?
It is worth putting a dehumidifier in your garage to reduce the moisture content to protect power tools. Extracting wet air also preserves other tools inside your garage.
What is the Ideal Humidity Level for a Garage?
The ideal humidity level for a garage is the same as inside your home. You should aim for 30 to 50 percent humidity to keep mold and mildew at bay and control rust.
