What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need?

When it comes to dehumidifiers, size matters. You can't use a residential dehumidifier to effectively control the indoor humidity in a large space, for example, a warehouse, indoor pool or manufacturing facility. For a business that needs a large volume of water removal, a small home unit won't cut it either. To figure out what size commercial dehumidifier you need for your business, you'll need to figure out a little bit about your space first.

How big is your space?

Know the square footage of the area you need the commercial dehumidifier to cover. Multiply the length times the width of the space.

Length x Width = Area

Irregularly shaped rooms may be a little difficult to figure out—contact an indoor environmental solutions expert if you need help. You should also measure the ceiling height, which will give you the cubic feet or volume when multiplied by the length and width of a room.

Length x Width x Height = Cubic Feet or Volume

Most models of commercial grade dehumidifiers will indicate either the square footage the unit will cover—such as this Albert Dehumidifier by Stadler Form, which can cover 650 square feet, or the cubic feet the unit can handle, such as this Watchdog 550 Crawl Space Dehumidifier, which can cover 10,000 cubic feet.

Do you need a portable or permanent solution?

Portable units are great options for restoration work, for example, or areas that only need temporary or seasonal humidity control. Some commercial dehumidifiers have wheels or casters that allow for easy portability. Units come in lighter and heavier models.

If you need a more permanent installation, you can also find units that include mounting fixtures.

How much moisture removal is needed?

The volume of water you need to remove will also factor into what dehumidifier solutions will suffice for your space. An industrial dehumidifier can remove anywhere from about 40 to more than 230 pints of moisture per day. This specification may be indicated by "PPD" for pints per day.

On the higher end of the spectrum will be a spa pool dehumidifier, which is made for handling very high moisture environments. For example, this Ebac PD-200 Pool Dehumidifier handles up to 190 pints of moisture per day.

If you need a dehumidifier that can handle a large volume of moisture removal, consider a commercial dehumidifier with a pump. Unlike dehumidifiers that collect water in a tank or reservoir that requires periodic removal, a dehumidifier with a built-in pump automatically drains for convenience.

Wondering exactly what size and model of unit you need for your business? Our free Dehumidifier Comparison Guide has a sizing form that will help you navigate the process.

At what temperature do you need the unit to operate?

Depending on what kind of space and use you need the dehumidifier for, you might have some very specific temperature needs.

For example, if you need to control the climate to protect food or other goods that are sensitive to temperature, as well as moisture. You may find units that operate as low as -4 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do you have specific electrical needs?

As you consider what size dehumidifier you need, take into consideration your electrical needs. Commercial dehumidifiers are rated in volts and may be available in the following electrical capacities: 110 V, 115 V, or 220 V.

What is your budget?

Expect to pay between about $800 to $10,000 for a professional dehumidifier, depending on the size and features of the unit you choose. How much you spend will be influenced by the above factors, as well as other professional dehumidifier features your business may require. The materials and insulation of your room may also play into what you need.

Talk to a reputable environmental systems dealer about how to meet your specific needs and find the best commercial dehumidifier for your company.

For a free consultation on your commercial dehumidifier needs from experts with decades of experience, contact Pure n Natural.