The Best Crawlspace Dehumidifiers For Pest Control

A dehumidifier is a device that filters air and removes moisture before pumping it back into your property. Air passes through the intake, is filtered, then passes over an evaporator coil which removes excess moisture, and is pumped back out again. 

Dehumidifiers combat conducive conditions for mold and fungal growth as well as pests that thrive in warm, humid environments. They are passive devices; once installed they can simply be allowed to run, though they require some maintenance to keep working in top condition.

Recommendation

We recommend the WatchDog NXT60 Dehumidifier. It can remove up to 60 pints of water from the air per day in areas up to 11,000 cubic feet. It is a workhorse and its flexible installation makes it perfect for residential applications. It is intended for use in basements and crawl spaces.

Installation Guide

Step 1: Planning and Location

It will also require a electrical outlet. The unit will also need to be level to operate correctly. Allow sufficient clearance to handle the unit’s dimensions as well as any optional return or supply ductwork to the unit.

Keep in mind the unit’s filters will need to be changed, so allow space for removal and replacement. If there is a risk of flooding in the space a hang kit is required to suspend the unit. Note: a flooded unit is not covered under warranty.

Step 2: Place the Unit

Other than optional ductwork, leveling feet, or a hang kit, no assembly is required. Simply place it in a serviceable location with enough clearance.

Step 3: Install the Drain

Set up the drain line. The drain line should be routed to a suitable drain on the outside. THE DRAIN MUST FLOW DOWN WITH NO LOOPS OR DIPS.

Step 4: Set the Controls and Connect to Power

Plug unit into a dedicated 15 amp GFCI outlet.

Inspection and Maintenance

The unit should be inspected regularly to ensure there are no leaks and to replace the air filter when necessary. Air filters should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. This is also a good schedule for regular inspections.

When inspecting, ensure the area around the unit is clear of any debris that may block the intake or discharge vents. Be sure to check the drain port to ensure the drainage hose is still securely connected.

Key Takeaways

• A dehumidifier combats conducive conditions for mold and fungal growth as well as for some pests that thrive in humid conditions.
• It is a passive device and, once installed, operates in the background. Simply install and forget until the next inspection.
• The unit requires an air filter. Make sure to regularly replace this filter once every 3 to 6 months to ensure optimum efficiency.