Is there an automatic dehumidifier?

Yes, there are automatic dehumidifiers available that can remove excess moisture from the air in your home without needing to be manually drained or adjusted. Automatic dehumidifiers monitor the humidity level in a room and turn on and off as needed to maintain a target humidity level, typically between 40-60%. This saves you from having to frequently empty water buckets and gives you consistent humidity control without constant oversight.

How do automatic dehumidifiers work?

Automatic dehumidifiers work like regular dehumidifiers in that they pull moisture from the air using refrigerant coils to condense water vapor. The key difference is that automatic models have a built-in pump that drains the condensed water for you. Here is an overview of the automatic dehumidification process:

• Air is drawn into the dehumidifier and passes over cold refrigerant coils, which causes moisture to condense.
• The water drips down into an internal reservoir or bucket.
• Once the bucket is full, a sensor triggers the internal pump to turn on.
• The pump automatically empties the water through a drain hose that can empty into a floor drain, sink, or outside.
• This cycle repeats automatically as needed when the humidity level rises again.

Many automatic dehumidifiers also have a humidistat built in. This allows you to set your desired humidity level, say 50%. The dehumidifier will then monitor the room and automatically turn on when the humidity rises above 50% to bring it back down.

What are the benefits of an automatic dehumidifier?

There are several notable benefits that automatic dehumidifiers provide compared to models you have to manually empty:

Continuous operation

You don’t have to frequently stop the dehumidifier to empty water buckets. The automatic pump allows it to run continuously without overflowing. This results in more consistent humidity control.

Accuracy

Since it runs continuously, automatic humidity control can more accurately maintain a target humidity level rather than fluctuating up and down.

Convenience

You avoid the hassle of having to empty and refill water buckets. The dehumidifier manages itself.

Versatility

You can direct the drainage hose to empty in multiple places like a floor drain or out a window. This makes installation easier in more rooms.

Prevention of leaks and spills

There is no risk of water buckets overflowing or spilling, which could damage floors and furniture. The pump eliminates this hazard.

Are there limitations to automatic dehumidifiers?

While very convenient, automatic dehumidifiers do have some limitations to be aware of:

Higher upfront cost

They are more expensive than standard dehumidifiers because of the added pump and drainage capabilities. Expect to pay $200-$500 versus $100-$300 for manual models.

Permanent drainage requirement

You need an appropriate permanent spot for the drainage hose, which may require some installation work in some rooms.

Pump reliability

While not common, pump failures can happen. This would require repair or replacement. The pump also adds an additional failure point.

Electricity usage

Automatic models require more power to run the pump. This adds to electricity costs, which are already higher for dehumidifiers in general.

What size and features should you look for?

When selecting an automatic dehumidifier, there are several factors to consider:

Room size

Match the dehumidifier capacity to the square footage of the room. For example, a 1,500 square foot capacity would be appropriate for a basement or large living space up to that size.

Drainage options

Make sure the drainage setup works for where you want to install it. Many models offer a gravity drain option or condensate pump.

Humidity range

Look for a low humidity setting down to at least 40% relative humidity and high setting up to 80% for whole home coverage.

Built-in humidistat

Models with an adjustable humidistat allow you to set your ideal humidity level and achieve more accurate control.

Fan speeds

Multiple fan speeds allow for quieter operation or maximum moisture removal as needed.

Smart app controls

Many newer models can connect to home WiFi and be controlled via a smartphone app for convenience.

Filters

Some have air filters to remove allergens and provide air purification benefits as well.

How much do automatic dehumidifiers cost?

You can expect the following price ranges for automatic dehumidifiers depending on the capacity:

Dehumidifier Capacity	Typical Price Range
30-50 pints/day (small rooms)	$200-$300
50-70 pints/day (medium rooms)	$250-$400
70-90 pints/day (large rooms)	$300-$500

Higher capacities suitable for basements, whole homes, and commercial use can cost $500-$1000+.

Key factors that affect the price include the brand, tank size, pump type, controls, and warranty.

Sale prices from retailers like Amazon can sometimes save up to 30% off typical list prices.

Where can you buy them?

Here are some options for where you can buy automatic dehumidifiers:

Online

Major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot all offer a wide selection of brands and capacities that can be ordered online and shipped to your home. This provides the widest selection and easy price comparisons.

Home improvement stores

Stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Menards, and Costco typically carry at least a few models in stock in smaller capacities. This allows you to see units in person before purchasing. Selection is often limited however.

Appliance and HVAC stores

Check local appliance retailers or heating and cooling contractors. They sometimes stock specialty dehumidifiers you won’t find at big box stores. Professional assistance with installation may also be available.

Direct from manufacturers

Many dehumidifier brands like Aprilaire and Frigidaire sell their products directly from their websites. This ensures you get an authorized new unit under the full factory warranty.

How difficult is it to install an automatic dehumidifier?

Installing an automatic dehumidifier is relatively straightforward as long as you have an appropriate location to route the drainage hose. Here are some tips for an easy installation:

Positioning

Place the dehumidifier in a central area in the room, allowing at least 1 foot clearance on all sides for proper air flow.

Drainage

Route the drainage hose to a floor drain, condensate pump, or out a window. Use the shortest route possible without kinks.

Leveling

Make sure the unit sits flat and level to allow proper drainage and operation. Use feet levelers or shims as needed.

Wiring

Plug into a grounded outlet. Do not remove the ground prong from the power cord for safety. Use a surge protector for added electrical protection.

Settings

Configure the target humidity setting and fan speed on the unit or app. Turn to continuous drainage mode.

Maintenance

Change filters as needed per the manufacturer instructions to maintain airflow. Periodically clean dust buildup from coils.

As long as the drainage setup works for your space, the rest of the process is very quick and efficient. Most units can be up and running in under 20 minutes.

Do automatic dehumidifiers require maintenance?

Some periodic maintenance is recommended for automatic dehumidifiers:

Filter changes

If your model has an air filter, check it at least every 2-3 months and replace when dirty. Clogged filters reduce airflow and efficiency.

Coil cleaning

Use a vacuum with brush attachment to remove dust buildup from coils every 6 months minimum. Dust reduces performance and can lead to freezing coils.

Pump check

Verify the pump is draining properly and not leaking. Make sure hoses are intact without kinks.

Duct cleaning

For models with ducting, clean the ducts annually to remove accumulated dust and debris.

Dehumidifier defrost

Occasionally run the unit in defrost mode for 1 hour to prevent ice buildup on coils in damp environments.

Air purges

Let the unit run on fan-only mode for 30 minutes to remove odors and refresh air periodically.

Following the manufacturer maintenance tips will keep your dehumidifier running efficiently for years.

What are the top brands for automatic dehumidifiers?

Some of the leading brands for reliable and effective automatic dehumidifiers include:

Frigidaire

A trusted brand for home appliances, Frigidaire offers feature-packed dehumidifiers across a range of capacities. Many have smart controls and magnetic drain options.

Aprilaire

Specializing in whole-home humidity control, Aprilaire makes commercial grade dehumidifiers with options like zoning controls and ultra low humidity settings.

Eva-Dry

Eva-Dry focuses on small, portable dehumidifiers that are ideal for RV use or areas up to 1,500 square feet. Their renewable desiccant models do not require power.

hOmeLabs

With a reputation for quality and performance, hOmeLabs provides affordable automatic options with humidistats, timers, and built-in pumps.

Ivation

A leader in air quality appliances, Ivation builds user-friendly dehumidifiers with touch controls, air purification, and WiFi smartphone access across various sizes.

Sticking with a trusted brand ensures you get time-tested performance you can rely on from a dehumidifier.

What features should you look for in an automatic dehumidifier?

Here are some helpful features to look for when selecting an automatic dehumidifier:

Adjustable humidistat

Allows setting a precise humidity level between 30-80% typically. Models without humidistats only have high/low settings.

Built-in pump

Eliminates having to empty water tanks. Look for durable pumps designed for high duty cycles.

Continuous drainage

Runs in perpetual drainage mode rather than needing to be switched on. Convenient set-and-forget operation.

Multiple fan speeds

Low speeds for quieter operation. High speeds to maximize moisture removal.

Defrost mode

Periodically reverses the refrigerant cycle to melt frost buildup on coils. Improves longevity.

Air filter

A washable filter removes dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air for added air purification.

Timer

Can automatically switch on and off on a set schedule. Helps reduce operating costs.

Smart controls

Allows monitoring and adjusting the unit remotely via smartphone, smart speaker, or other connected platforms.

Portability

Wheels and handles allow moving the unit from room to room as needed in some models.

Are there alternatives to an automatic dehumidifier?

If an automatic dehumidifier isn’t practical for your situation, here are a few alternative options for controlling humidity:

Manual dehumidifier

Non-automatic models with water tanks you empty yourself are less expensive. They require frequent maintenance though.

Air conditioner

Running an AC unit will remove some humidity as a byproduct of cooling. Portable units can be moved room to room.

DampRid

Hanging moisture absorbing bags in closets and rooms removes some excess moisture passively without power.

Dehumidifying crystals

Silica gel or other crystals placed in rooms absorb moisture. Recharge by drying them periodically.

Ventilation

Improving air circulation via fans, open windows, and vents can help reduce humidity passively.

Dehumidifying pump

A separate condensate pump can automatically drain many manual dehumidifiers and simplify the process.

Depending on your goals and budget, these alternatives provide more humidity control options to consider.

Conclusion

Automatic dehumidifiers provide set-and-forget humidity control by continuously draining condensed water on their own. This avoids the need to frequently empty buckets while maintaining a desired humidity level automatically. Top brands like Frigidaire and Aprilaire offer durable, high performing models with useful features like humidistats, air filtration, and smart controls. While more expensive upfront than manual models, automatic dehumidifiers can provide great convenience and accuracy for whole home humidity management. Considering factors like room size, drainage options, and features will allow you to choose the right automatic dehumidifier for your needs.