Commercial Dehumidifier Choices for Business Use
Excess humidity in work settings can lead to a variety of issues, such as mold growth, musty odors, and damage to equipment and products. To combat these problems, businesses often turn to commercial dehumidifiers, which are designed to remove moisture from the air and maintain optimal humidity levels. With a wide range of options available on the market, selecting the right commercial dehumidifier can be a daunting task.
Importance of humidity control in businesses
Humidity control is crucial in a business setting because it can directly impact the health and safety of employees, as well as the longevity of equipment and products. Excess moisture in the air can create a breeding ground for mold and other harmful bacteria, which can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. It can also cause damage to sensitive equipment and products, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
On the other hand, insufficient humidity levels can lead to dry skin, respiratory irritation, and discomfort among employees. Maintaining optimal humidity levels through the use of commercial dehumidifiers can ensure a safe and comfortable work environment, while also protecting valuable assets.
Benefits of Investing in a Commercial Dehumidifier
Improved air quality
Prevention of mold and mildew growth
Protection of products and equipment
Enhanced employee comfort and productivity
Energy savings
Types of Commercial Dehumidifiers
There are two different commercial dehumidifiers: refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on the specific needs and conditions of your business.
Let’s take a closer look at the two types of commercial dehumidifiers, including how they work, their pros and cons, and which applications they are best suited for. This information will help you make an informed decision and select the right dehumidifier for your business.
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers
Refrigerant dehumidifiers are a popular choice for business settings due to their efficiency and effectiveness. They work by pulling in moist air and passing it over cold coils, which causes the moisture to condense and collect in a reservoir tank.
One benefit of refrigerant dehumidifiers is their ability to maintain low humidity levels even in warmer, humid environments. They are also typically more affordable and have a longer lifespan than desiccant dehumidifiers. However, they may struggle in colder environments and may require more energy to operate, leading to higher energy costs. Additionally, refrigerant dehumidifiers can be noisy and may require regular maintenance to prevent clogs and other issues.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Desiccant dehumidifiers use a drying agent, such as silica gel, to absorb moisture from the air. They are often used in colder, drier environments and are more effective at removing moisture from the air than refrigerant dehumidifiers.
One of the key benefits of desiccant dehumidifiers is their ability to operate at low temperatures, making them ideal for use in cold cold commercial spaces such as food processing plants and pharmaceutical facilities. They are also typically quieter than refrigerant dehumidifiers and require less maintenance.
However, desiccant dehumidifiers can be more expensive and may have a shorter lifespan than refrigerant dehumidifiers. Additionally, desiccants may require more energy to operate and can produce excess heat, which may be a concern in certain environments.
Comparison of Refrigerant and Desiccant Dehumidifiers
When comparing refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers, it is important to consider the specific needs of your business. Refrigerant dehumidifiers are generally more effective in warmer, humid environments, while desiccant dehumidifiers are better suited for colder, drier environments.
Refrigerant dehumidifiers are often more affordable and have a longer lifespan, but may be noisy and require more energy to operate. Desiccant dehumidifiers are typically quieter and require less maintenance, but may be more expensive and have a shorter lifespan.
Ultimately, the choice between the two types of dehumidifiers depends on the specific needs of your business, such as the desired humidity levels, environmental conditions, and budget.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Commercial Dehumidifier
Before investing in a commercial dehumidifier, there is a range of factors to consider to ensure that you get the right model for your business.
By taking the time to carefully consider these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose an industrial dehumidifier that will effectively control moisture levels while also minimizing costs and reducing environmental impact.
Space requirements: Consider the size of the area that needs to be dehumidified to ensure that the device has the appropriate capacity.
Humidity levels: Determine the desired humidity level for the space and choose a dehumidifier that can maintain that level.
Temperature range: Consider the range of temperatures in the environment where the dehumidifier will be used and choose a model that can operate effectively in those conditions.
Energy efficiency: Look for a dehumidifier with an Energy Star certification to ensure that it operates efficiently and minimizes energy costs.
Noise levels: If the dehumidifier will be used in a quiet environment, such as an office or hospital, choose a model with a low noise level.
Sizing Your Commercial Dehumidifier
To determine the appropriate size of dehumidifier for your business, a good starting point is to calculate the square footage of the area to be dehumidified, and then choose a dehumidifier with a capacity that matches the square footage and the level of humidity present.
You can also factor in other considerations, such as the number of people present, the type of equipment being used, and the overall environment.
Selecting the right size of dehumidifier will ensure that your business has optimal moisture control and a safe, comfortable environment for employees and customers.
Key Features to Look for in a Commercial Dehumidifier
When selecting a commercial dehumidifier, there are several key features to consider to ensure that it meets the specific needs of your business. These features can range from capacity and portability to control options and noise levels.
Understanding these features and their importance will help you make an informed decision and choose a dehumidifier that will operate efficiently in your workplace. Here are some of the key features to look for when selecting a commercial dehumidifier:
Capacity: Choose a dehumidifier with a capacity that matches the size of the area to be dehumidified.
Auto-defrost: This feature helps to prevent the dehumidifier from freezing up in cold environments, keeping it operating effectively.
Built-in pump: A built-in pump allows the collected moisture to be automatically pumped out of the dehumidifier, eliminating the need for manual emptying.
Digital controls: Digital controls allow for precise adjustments to the dehumidifier’s settings, ensuring optimal performance.
Timer functionality: A timer function can help to conserve energy and reduce costs.
Air filtration system: The air filtration system helps to remove contaminants from the air, improving overall air quality.
Portability: Portability allows the dehumidifier to be easily moved between different areas or rooms as needed.
Common Applications of Commercial Dehumidifiers
Below are some common businesses where industrial dehumidifiers can be found:
Warehouses and storage facilities: Warehouses and storage places use commercial dehumidifiers to help prevent moisture damage to stored goods or equipment, as well as mold growth, corrosion, and rust.
Office spaces: Office buildings may use refrigerant dehumidifiers to control humidity levels and prevent mold growth, which can be a health hazard for employees
Restaurants and cafes: Food service locations require low humidity levels to prevent spoilage and ensure product safety.
Gyms and fitness centers: An industrial dehumidifier can be used in a gym or fitness center to help reduce moisture levels and prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, reduce unpleasant odors, and create a more comfortable workout environment.
Hotels and resorts: Hotels or resorts use commercial dehumidifiers to control moisture levels in guest rooms, hallways, and other common areas. This can help prevent mold growth, reduce musty odors, and create a more comfortable and pleasant environment for guests
Indoor swimming pools and spas: Commercial dehumidifiers are used in spas and indoor swimming facilities to help control the humidity levels caused by the high amount of moisture generated by water activities, helping to prevent slips and falls and prevent mold growth.
Museums and art galleries: Museums and art galleries must maintain low humidity levels to preserve delicate and valuable artifacts.
Get a Commercial Dehumidifier for Your Business Today
We sorted through the many commercial dehumidifier options on Amazon to bring you this buying guide. Have a look at our picks and perhaps you’ll find the best commercial dehumidifier for your business needs.
Top Pick: Lumisys Commercial Grade Dehumidifier with Drain Hose
Runner Up: AlorAir Smart Wi-Fi Commercial Dehumidifier
Best Value: hOmeLabs Commercial Dehumidifier
Lumisys Commercial Grade Dehumidifier with Drain Hose
Top Pick: Our top choice among commercial dehumidifiers is this unit by Lumisys. It covers up to 8500 sq ft and removes up to 125 pints of moisture per day. Its uniquely designed tri-color knob can be rotated to change the desired relative humidity, and the child lock prevents accidental turn on or shut off.
This unit also comes with a drain hose, intelligent humidity control, and other features. The impressive features, positive reviews, and specs made this an easy choice for the best commercial dehumidifier on Amazon.
Lumisys Commercial Grade Dehumidifier with Drain Hose
AlorAir Smart Wi-Fi Commercial Dehumidifier
Runner Up: AlorAir’s new commercial dehumidifier has an App that allows you to set the ideal moisture setting, and it will smartly sense room humidity and control dehumidification to maintain that level.
This industrial dehumidifier offers up to 2300 sq. ft. of coverage, and its 19.6 ft drain hose allows drainage anywhere. This portable dehumidifier is also equipped with an auto restart function and a built-in pump. It’s among some of the best commercial dehumidifiers on the market.
AlorAir Smart Wi-Fi Commercial Dehumidifier
hOmeLabs Commercial Grade Dehumidifier
Best Value: HomeLabs’ commercial dehumidifiers works for up to 24 hours continually. They also include a defrost feature, water pump, and a 16-foot drain hose, as well as a reusable, easy-to-clean mesh filter.
HomeLabs maintains that their industrial dehumidifiers are more energy efficient than other commercial dehumidifiers at a competitive price.
hOmeLabs Commercial Grade Dehumidifier
Sleavon 130 Pint Commercial Grade Dehumidifiers
The rigid handle and semi-pneumatic wheels make this commercial dehumidifier option easy to move around. It has auto ON/OFF, auto-restart (for after power outages), a built-in timer, and auto defrost. A drain hose is provided for a continuous drainage system if needed.
Sleavon 130 Pint Commercial Grade Dehumidifiers
COLZER 232 Pint Commercial Dehumidifiers
This high-efficiency dehumidifier can eliminate moisture in large spaces up to 8,000 sq ft. Its large semi-pneumatic wheels and sturdy bar handle make it easy and safe to transport from job to job, and the metal outer casing promises durability.
Other features include an automatic humidistat, automatic restart after power outages, auto defrost, timer and continuous drainage.
COLZER 232 Pint Commercial Dehumidifiers
BlueDri Industrial Commercial Dehumidifier
This dehumidifier is equipped with an automatic water pump, digital panel, compact electrical control with auto restart, hour counter, drain hose, and RH and temperature sensors. Its rotary compressor provides a maximum moisture extraction of up to 225 pints of moisture per day, which the company claims is up to double the water per day than other commercial-grade dehumidifiers.
BlueDri Industrial Commercial Dehumidifier
BLACK+DECKER Dehumidifier with Drain Pump
BLACK+DECKER is a well-known brand, and they manufacture a lot of commercial-grade items, like this portable dehumidifier. You can select from relative humidity of 35-80% with the adjustable humidistat, and an indicator light and audible alert system notify you when the water tank needs to be drained. This compact unit covers up to 4500 sq ft of area.
BLACK+DECKER Dehumidifier with Drain Pump
Kesnos Large Commercial Grade Dehumidifiers
This industrial dehumidifier can remove up to 232 pints of moisture per day. It has a 3.3 ft. drain hose and washable filter and features intelligent humidity control, an auto defrost feature, and power outage restart. It is appropriate for spaces up to 8000 sq ft.
Kesnos Large Commercial Grade Dehumidifiers
ALORAIR Basement/Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Aloair makes some of the best commercial dehumidifiers on the market, which is why there are two from them on our list. Their basement/crawl space unit features corrosion-resistant aluminum coils, low-temperature operation, auto defrost, and more.
ALORAIR Basement/Crawl Space Dehumidifier
BaseAire AirWerx55 Dehumidifier for Basement/Crawl Space
The BaseAire AirWerx55 is designed for use in basements and crawl spaces and can remove up to 55 pints of moisture per day. You can set the target humidity and this smart dehumidifier will auto-shut off when it’s been met, and restart when it needs to. This unit is perfect for crawl spaces, basements, garages, laundry facilities, and many other commercial applications.
BaseAire AirWerx55 Dehumidifier for Basement/Crawl Space
Installation and Placement Tips
Once you’ve determined the best commercial dehumidifier for you, here are some tips to help keep it running smoothly:
Professional installation vs. DIY
While DIY installation may seem like a cost-saving measure, professional installation can ensure that the dehumidifier is properly installed and optimized for maximum efficiency.
Professional installation also comes with the added benefit of expert advice and ongoing support, which can help to minimize issues and maximize the lifespan of the dehumidifier.
Ultimately, the choice between professional installation and DIY installation depends on the specific needs and budget of the business.
Proper placement for optimal performance
Place the dehumidifier in an area where it can effectively pull in moist air and remove excess moisture. Avoid placing the dehumidifier near obstacles or in cramped spaces, as this can limit its effectiveness.
Ventilation considerations
Proper ventilation is essential to ensure the dehumidifier operates efficiently and effectively. It is also important that the dehumidifier has proper drainage to prevent the buildup of moisture and avoid potential leaks.
Regular inspection and maintenance of ventilation and drainage systems can help ensure that your dehumidifier operates at peak performance and effectively controls moisture levels in your business.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of the device and prevent issues such as leaks, clogs, and excessive noise.
Regular maintenance tasks
Some key tasks to perform on a regular basis include cleaning the air filter, checking for leaks, and inspecting the drain hose or drainage system. It is also important to regularly empty the reservoir tank and ensure that the device is properly ventilated.
Common issues and how to resolve them
While regular maintenance can help prevent many issues with commercial dehumidifiers, sometimes problems can still occur. Here are some common issues that may arise and tips on how to resolve them:
Excessive Noise: If your dehumidifier is making excessive noise, it may be due to a loose fan blade, dirty coils, or a failing motor. To resolve this issue, try tightening any loose parts, cleaning the coils, or replacing the motor.
Water Leaks: Water leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including a clogged drain or reservoir tank, a damaged pump or hose, or a malfunctioning float switch. To fix this issue, check for clogs and ensure that the pump and hose are functioning properly. If necessary, replace the float switch or call a professional for repairs.
Issues with Drainage or Ventilation: If your dehumidifier is not properly draining or ventilating, it may be due to a clogged drain or filter, a malfunctioning pump, or an issue with the ventilation system. Check the drain and filter for clogs, replace the pump if necessary, and inspect the ventilation system to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Overheating: If your dehumidifier is overheating, it may be due to a dirty or clogged filter, a malfunctioning fan, or a failing motor. To fix this issue, clean or replace the filter, inspect the fan for damage or wear, and replace the motor if necessary.
When to call a professional
If you encounter issues that you are unable to resolve or if you notice signs of serious damage or wear, such as unusual noises or leaks, it is best to seek professional help to prevent further damage and ensure safe and effective operation of your dehumidifier.
Cost and Budget Considerations
When considering the purchase of a commercial dehumidifier, it is important to keep in mind the various cost and budget considerations. The upfront cost of a dehumidifier can vary depending on the capacity and features, with larger, more advanced models costing more.
In addition to upfront costs, it is important to consider the ongoing operating costs, including energy consumption and maintenance expenses.
While there are costs associated with purchasing and operating a dehumidifier, there are also long-term financial benefits to consider.
By effectively controlling moisture levels, businesses can avoid costly damage to equipment and buildings caused by excess humidity.
Additionally, dehumidifiers can improve indoor air quality and promote a healthier, more comfortable environment for employees and customers.
To help manage costs and ensure optimal performance, businesses may consider options such as Energy Star-certified models, regular maintenance and inspections, and professional installation.
Carefully considering the costs and budget concerns associated with a commercial dehumidifier, businesses can make informed decisions to protect their investments and promote a safe, healthy environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my business needs a commercial dehumidifier?
If your business is experiencing issues such as excess moisture, mold growth, musty odors, or damage to equipment or structures due to humidity, it may be time to consider a commercial dehumidifier.
Additionally, if your business operates in a humid climate or has high moisture levels due to its environment or activities, a dehumidifier may be necessary to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for employees and customers.
What is the average lifespan of a commercial dehumidifier?
The average lifespan of a good commercial dehumidifier can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the device, the frequency of use, and the level of maintenance. However, with proper care and maintenance, a commercial dehumidifier can typically last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more.
Are commercial dehumidifiers energy efficient?
Commercial dehumidifiers can vary in terms of their energy efficiency, depending on factors such as the size and features of the device. However, the best commercial dehumidifiers are designed with energy efficiency in mind and may have features such as automatic shut-off or low-wattage motors to help reduce energy consumption. Choose a dehumidifier with a high Energy Star rating and perform regular maintenance tasks to help ensure optimal energy efficiency.
How often should I perform maintenance on my commercial dehumidifier?
It is recommended to perform regular maintenance on your commercial dehumidifier at least once per year. However, some maintenance tasks such as cleaning the air filter or checking for leaks may need to be performed more frequently, depending on the level of use and the environment in which the dehumidifier operates.
Can I use a residential dehumidifier for my business instead of a commercial one?
While it may be tempting to use a residential dehumidifier for a business, it is generally not recommended. Commercial dehumidifiers are specifically designed to handle larger spaces and higher humidity levels and often feature more advanced technologies than residential models.
Additionally, commercial dehumidifiers are typically more durable and long-lasting than residential models, making them a better investment for businesses in need of moisture control.
What are the potential health risks associated with high humidity levels in a business environment?
High humidity levels in a business environment can lead to a variety of potential health risks, including increased risk of mold growth and other allergens, respiratory issues such as asthma or bronchitis, and general discomfort or fatigue.
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This article, “Commercial Dehumidifier Choices for Business Use” was first published on Small Business Trends