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7 Best Dehumidifiers for Your Garage (2023 Reviews)

Garages are prone to mold, mildew, and rust more than almost any room in your home. Dark spaces and moisture combine to create the perfect environment for bacterial growth, but dehumidifiers can tackle the problem. There are dozens of choices, but only a handful of them are worth using in your home.

The best dehumidifier for a garage is the CLEVAST 1,500 Sq. Ft. Energy Star Dehumidifier. It has a 0.8-gallon tank with a drain hose to pour water out of the tank effortlessly. There’s a 24-hour timer you can set, and it’s listed as an energy-efficient model by Energy Star. It’s also ultra-quiet.

Throughout this article, you’ll also learn the following information about the best dehumidifiers for garages:

  • Three noteworthy features to look for in your next garage dehumidifier.
  • Details about the best dehumidifiers for your garage, regardless of its size.
  • Low-noise, high-tech, and hands-free designs to consider

What To Look for When Getting a Dehumidifier for Your Garage

You can’t choose a random dehumidifier for your garage, or you’ll end up with one of many problems. For example, getting a massive dehumidifier for a small space is a waste of money and space. On the other hand, a small unit won’t get the job done quickly enough.

In my research, I’ve come across three factors that are found in every high-end garage dehumidifier:

  1. They need to have a tank that’s big enough to handle the space. A bigger tank will store more water, increasing the time between emptying it. If you have a large garage and a small water tank, you’ll have to empty it daily. The adequate tank size will let you drain it every three or more days.
  2. Square footage is equally as important as the tank size. Your dehumidifier should have a powerful fan to pull water from the air. If it’s not strong enough, you won’t notice much of a difference. Fortunately, all of the dehumidifiers on the list below their square footage listed. Measure your garage and choose the one that fits.
  3. Maintenance is another essential component of the process. How often do you have to empty the water tank? Is there a draining hose? How long is the power cable? There are several considerations involved in the process. Make sure you’re not sacrificing functionality and maintenance to get a cheaper model.

Let’s break down all three traits below.

Tank Size

The tank size is crucial when you’re choosing a dehumidifier for any space in your house, especially the garage. As mentioned earlier on the page, garages are a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, mildew, rust, and pests. By removing water with a dehumidifier, you’ll eliminate all of the problems.

So, how do you know what tank size you should choose?

  • The tank size is based on how much water it consumes daily. If your dehumidifier pulls one gallon of moisture per day and the tank is half of a gallon, you’ll have to empty it twice each day. The goal is to get a dehumidifier that needs to be emptied every two to three days or more.
  • Consider your garage’s square footage. We’ll dive into the details of measurements and choosing the best size in the next section, but it’s essential to compare the tank size to the square footage and water consumption. Failure to do so will increase daily maintenance. As you can see, all three traits relate to one another.
  • According to Bob Vila, you should get a tank with 10 pints of space per 500 square feet. For example, if you have a 1,000 square foot garage, get a dehumidifier with a tank that’s at least 20 pints. This number may vary depending on your garage’s ambient humidity.

Square Footage

Square footage is the clearest indicator of the dehumidifier you should get for your garage. I’ve made a chart detailing the tank size you’ll need for the provided square footage. Keep in mind the table is made for extremely damp environments, so the calculations are slightly higher than the 10-pint per 500 sq. ft. suggestion.

Square FootageDamp GaragesExtremely Damp Garages
500 sq. ft.30 pints30 pints
1,000 sq. ft.30 pints50 pints
1,500 sq. ft.50 pints70 pints

If you live in an extremely humid area, you might need a bigger tank. Those who live in dry environments could get away with anywhere between 10 to 20 pints, as mentioned in my example in the previous section. Your tank size and square footage depending on the ambient humidity.

One way to test the humidity to choose the best dehumidifier for your garage is to get a hygrometer. Hygrometers test the air’s humidity, so you can use the information to choose the correct model. They also allow you to see how well your dehumidifier is working. Dehumidifier Buyer’s Guide explains many top-notch units will cut the humidity down to 30% to 40%.

Maintenance

Although it’s the final piece of the puzzle, maintenance is a significant part of the process. It determines how often you’ll have to repair, drain, and operate the dehumidifier. You can save money by getting an inexpensive unit, but you’ll have to maintain it much more often than high-quality models.

Maintenance involves draining and fixing parts. Many dehumidifiers come with draining hoses for your convenience. Stretch the hose outside or into a garbage can, then dump the water elsewhere. You can reduce maintenance by getting a bigger tank and a lengthy drain hose. Remember, large garages require much more dehumidifier maintenance. Humidity directly impacts your efforts, too.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: CLEVAST 1,500 Sq. Ft Energy Star Dehumidifier

The CLEVAST 1,500 Sq. Ft. Energy Star Dehumidifier combines a large water tank with quick, quiet dehumidifying to make it the best choice for most garages. It’s UL-listed to be energy-efficient for rooms up to 1,500 square feet, making it an excellent choice for every size garage. You can also choose the 3,000 sq. ft. model.

This dehumidifier can pull up to 22 pints of water per day with a 0.8-gallon water tank. That’s enough to handle the dampest environments. Set your hygrometer and watch this impressive dehumidifier clean your garage’s air without a problem. It has a filter that removes fine particles, including dust and debris.

Unlike most dehumidifiers on the market, this one has an operating temperature range between 41 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Considering the competitors typically only get to 85 degrees, it’s quite an improvement for those living in warm humidity (Florida, Georgia, etc.). It sits on four wheels for easy portability to reduce the effort required to lift and empty the tank.

Bottom Line: The CLEVAST Dehumidifier makes it easy and quick to remove moisture from the air. You don’t have to empty it too often, even if you live in a swamp climate. When it’s time to drain, roll the wheels and remove the tank or attach a drain hose to the spout on the back. Don’t forget to clean the air filter!

Square Footage1,500 sq. ft.
Tank Size0.8 gallons
Water Consumption22 pints per day
Temperature Range41 to 90 F

Pros

  • This product is UL-listed to be an energy-efficient model that won’t cost you too much on your electricity bill.
  • It comes with a removable air filter that purifies the garage while removing moisture from the air.
  • The water tank is 0.8 gallons, which is big enough to empty every few days without overfilling.
  • It consumes up to 22 pints of water per day, making it much more effective than the vast majority of other dehumidifiers on the market.
  • There’s a 12-month limited manufacturer’s warranty covering broken parts and malfunctions associated with shipping, handling, and producing the product.

Cons

  • It’s a bit too large for small garages. If you have a lot of tools, vehicles, and other supplies, it might be in the way all the time.

Best Large Dehumidifier: Waykar 4500 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier

Whether you have a large three-car garage or a warehouse, the Waykar 4500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier is an excellent addition to your home. It removes an astounding nine gallons of water per day, keeping your garage dry and free of mold, mildew, and rust. Excess moisture accounts for damage caused by ants and other pests, too.

This dehumidifier’s water tank is 1.18 gallons. The gap between the water consumption and tank size isn’t overlooked; The consumption rate is at 100% humidity during high temperatures. Unless you’re living in the middle of the most humid, hot place on earth, the tank will only need to be emptied every three to five days (sometimes less).

The digital display on top of the unit allows you to adjust the fan speed, power, lighting, humidity range, and more. There’s also a timer you can set to run at a specific time each day and a lock to prevent unwanted interruptions. If 4,500 square feet sounds like too much space, they offer a 1,750 sq. ft. model.

Bottom Line: The Waykar 4500 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier is a powerhouse that handles the biggest and baddest garages around. You can use them for almost any size garage, though it might be a little overboard for a 100 sq. ft. space. Thanks to the four wheels, you’ll have no problem moving this 30-pound dehumidifier.

Square Footage4,500 sq. ft.
Tank Size1.18 gallons
Water Consumption9 gallons per day
Temperature Range41 to 95 F

Pros

  • It can handle the biggest garages worldwide. Most houses aren’t 4,500 square feet, much less a garage.
  • It has four wheels to make it easier for you to move, drain, and replace this dehumidifier whenever you’d like to.
  • There’s a digital display that provides access to humidity adjustments, fan settings, timers, locks, and more.
  • The company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. You can also purchase an additional year.
  • Remove and clean the air filter for fresher, cleaner air around the clock.

Cons

  • This dehumidifier is far too powerful and big to small garages. If your garage is under 250 square feet, you should consider another entry on the list.

Best Small Dehumidifier: AUZKIN Dehumidifier

If you don’t want a massive dehumidifier because you have a small garage, look no further. The AUZKIN Dehumidifier is undoubtedly the best model for garages under 160 square feet. If you have a one-car garage or storage space, this dehumidifier will get the job done. It has a 26 fl. ounce water tank that removes 16 ounces of moisture per day.

Perhaps the most impressive feature is the wide operating temperature range. This dehumidifier can work between 46.4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, shattering most of the competition. It’s the definition of tiny but mighty. The quiet fan whispers between 20 to 30 dB, so you won’t notice it’s running unless you look at the color-changing display.

It has a compact design that’s only 5.1 x 5.1 x 8.4 inches. You can take it with you and use it in your bathroom, garage, shed, living room, office, and almost anywhere else within the previously mentioned square footage. Emptying the tank is as easy as removing it, pouring out the water, and reattaching it to the dehumidifier.

Bottom Line: It might not be the biggest dehumidifier you’ll find, but the AUZKIN Dehumidifier is well worth a second look. Many customers prefer it over bigger models because it’s lightweight, never in the way, and easy to place almost anywhere. You can set it on a workshop counter or shelf and forget about it.

Square Footage160 sq. ft.
Tank Size26 fluid ounces
Water Consumption16 ounces per day
Temperature Range46.4 to 122 F

Pros

  • It’s small enough to fit anywhere in your garage without causing clutter or getting in the way.
  • You can empty the tank in a few seconds, mount it onto the unit, and start removing moisture from the air again.
  • It changes colors to create a unique appearance, unlike any other dehumidifier on the list.
  • The operating temperature range is drastically bigger than most options we’ve come across. You can use it between 46.4 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Quiet operation allows this model to run between 20 to 30 decibels, making it ultra-quiet.

Cons

  • It takes much longer to remove moisture since it doesn’t have enough space for a powerful fan.
  • The water tank needs to be emptied frequently, especially if you live in a warm, humid environment.

Best High-Tech Design: Inofia 30-Pint Dehumidifier

Most people don’t think of dehumidifiers as high-tech devices, but the Inofia 30-Pint Dehumidifier changes everything. The unique display consists of speed adjustments, timers, and additional settings. You can review all of the changes on the LED digital display. Bold letters make it easier to view any time of the day.

This dehumidifier is designed for 1,500 square feet and has a 0.5-gallon storage tank. You can use it for garages, workshops, mid-sized houses, apartments, and more. The durable design prevents cracks and wear and tear, so you don’t have to worry about it falling apart. However, it includes a one-year warranty for peace of mind.

Bottom Line: The Inofia Dehumidifier uses high-tech modifications to create a user-friendly interface that takes care of excess humidity. You don’t need a hygrometer since it has a built-in one. There’s also a fan adjustment setting and a drain hole for hoses to remove water without wheeling it around.

Square Footage1,500 sq. ft.
Tank Size0.5 gallons
Water Consumption30 pints per day
Temperature Range41 to 90 F

Pros

  • There’s a one-year manufacturer’s warranty included with the purchase.
  • This dehumidifier pulls up to 30 pints of water per day.
  • You only have to empty it every two to three days, depending on how much humidity is in the air.
  • Adjust everything on the handy, modernized digital display without wondering about fan settings and humidity levels.
  • There are a removable water tank and drainage hose to let you decide how you want to empty it.

Cons

  • This model is a bit noisier than other dehumidifiers we’ve reviewed. It’s over 10 dB higher than most units.
  • It’s on the expensive side of the price range, but you get what you pay for.

Best for Hands-Free Use: HEVILLO 2000 Sq. Ft Dehumidifier

If you’re tired of emptying, wheeling, and moving your dehumidifier throughout the garage every day, try the HEVILLO 2000 Sq. Ft. Dehumidifier. This model offers a wide air filter to remove debris and dust, keeping your garage clean. You can clean and replace the filter in a couple of minutes. Perhaps the best part of this dehumidifier is the drainage hose on the back.

You can drain this dehumidifier wherever you’d like to. Use a long hose to pour water outside, keeping your garage free of moisture. Choose between gray or black to match the room. It has a .66-gallon water tank that pulls up to five gallons of water per day. Assuming you live in a mildly humid area, you’ll have to empty it every two to three days.

Bottom Line: This dehumidifier combines a mid-sized storage tank, massive water consumption, and convenient draining to create a top-of-the-line model. It automatically restarts if there’s a power outage, preventing the timer from going off. There’s also an auto-defrost mode for cold nights.

Square Footage2,000 sq. ft.
Tank Size0.66 gallons
Water Consumption5 gallons per day
Temperature Range41 to 90 F

Pros

  • There’s a digital screen that shows the humidity, fan power, timer, defrost mode, and more.
  • It consumes quite a bit of water each day to prevent excess humidity, mold, and bacterial growth.
  • Enjoy a removable, cleanable air filter to freshen your garage without too much hassle.
  • You can use this dehumidifier for garages and workshops up to 2,000 square feet.
  • The drainage hose removes water without lifting a heavy water tank; Otherwise, the 5-gallon tank would weigh 40 pounds.

Cons

  • Due to its large size, it’s slightly louder than other models on the list at 40 decibels.
  • It’s a bit too big for small garages and might get in the way. This unit measures 14.37 x 10.63 x 20.28 inches.

Best for Low-Noise: KTPOWER Dehumidifier

Are you overwhelmed by buzzing, constantly noisy dehumidifiers? You don’t have to sacrifice high-functionality to reduce the volume. The KTPOWER Dehumidifier is an excellent example. It runs at about 39 dB on its max settings, but lowering the fan and humidity will drop it between 20 to 30 decibels.

Surprisingly, this quiet dehumidifier is fit for 500 square feet. Considering most garages are less than 165 square feet, it’s more than enough. Measure your garage by multiplying the length by the width to determine what size dehumidifier you need. Regardless of the size, you’ll enjoy the doubled air outlet that creates fresh air every day.

Bottom Line: This dehumidifier purifies the air by removing moisture and other contaminants. Protect your tools, vehicles, and supplies by cleaning the air filter and draining the 68-ounce tank whenever necessary. It removes up to 34 ounces of water per day, so you only have to empty the tank every two days at most.

Square Footage500 sq. ft.
Tank Size68 ounces
Water Consumption34 per day
Temperature Range55 to 86 F

Pros

  • This dehumidifier can go down to 20 decibels, making it one of the quietest models available.
  • The water storage tank is double the size of the water consumption rate. The difference prevents overfilling and lets you take a break between emptying it.
  • Despite its impressive performance, this dehumidifier weighs less than five pounds.
  • It has two air vents that circulate fresh air and remove dust and debris.
  • It’s much more energy-efficient than other dehumidifiers in its square footage and price range.

Cons

  • The operating temperature range is much lower than others, so make sure you live in an environment that doesn’t go outside its limits.
  • The removable water tank has a cheap plastic lid that’s prone to cracks. Make sure you handle it with care when you’re emptying the dehumidifier.

Best for Simplicity: KLOUDIC Dehumidifier

It’s convenient to have dozens of buttons, digital displays, and removable air filters, but simplicity is prized by many. If you want a dehumidifier that pulls water from the air quickly without adding a bunch of upgrades, try the KLOUDIC Dehumidifier. Despite its simplicity, it has a 77.5-ounce water tank and pulls up to 27 of moisture from the air.

This dehumidifier is perfect for garages at or below 480 square feet. It works between 59 to 90 degrees, but there’s an auto-defrost setting that brings it up to the proper temperature. The four-button display keeps it simple without dumbing it down. You can review and adjust the humidity with one button tap.

Bottom Line: The KLOUDIC Dehumidifier might not have all the bells and whistles of other models on the list, but it’s more than worth the investment. It’s budget-friendly, easy to use, and Ideal for almost all garages. The water tank is designed to fit more than double the size of the average two-car garage.

Square Footage480 sq. ft.
Tank Size77.5 fluid ounces
Water Consumption27 ounces per day
Temperature Range59 to 86 F

Pros

  • It’s ultra-lightweight and compact, which is perfect for people who don’t want a bulky dehumidifier.
  • You can empty this dehumidifier every two to five days, depending on your garage’s square footage.
  • The water tank is easily removable and snaps back in place instantly. Pour it out, reattach it, and get back to work.
  • Four buttons control everything you need to do with this dehumidifier.
  • It can run 24 hours a day, seven days a week, without overheating or overfilling, thanks to the sensors.
  • There’s a sleep mode that reduces its noise output at night.

Cons

  • The operating temperature range is a bit smaller than others. However, there’s a defrost feature that keeps it from freezing.

Conclusion

The CLEVAST 1,500 Sq. Ft. Energy Star Dehumidifier is undeniably impressive. From the massive water tank to the whisper-quiet operation, you won’t find another high-quality dehumidifier compared to this one in the price range.

However, you might consider another option if one of the following situations applies: