Do you have a boat and spend a lot of time cruising? If you are reading this, then the answer is yes. Although this is can be rated as the best form of fun and it is extremely appealing, there is one issue some of you may have encounter. Excess moisture in the air can make your time on a boat a nightmare and even damage your boat. Using the best boat dehumidifier will solve this problem.
These devices may be specifically designed for boat-related usages or they can be ordinary dehumidifiers. But, because you are using them on a boat rather than in your home, we had to think of a different approach in order to test and rank each one.
Luckily for you, all the things you need to know and will ant from your dehumidifier will be explained below. We have invested tons of time and effort in order to give you the best reviews and the most honest opinion, so you don’t have to waste your precious time trying to find the same.
As always, each dehumidifier was properly tested in a real-world situation for a period of 5 days. We checked for all the features, capabilities, efficiency, and all other factors you will actually need. In addition, we will give you answers to the most common questions you may have on your mind right now.
List of Best Boat Dehumidifier in 2021
- LG PuriCare 2019 50-Pint Pump
- Ivation IVADM35 Powerful
- Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000
- Meaco Zambezi 8
- SereneLife 10,000 Portable
Why You Should Use Boat Dehumidifier?
A boat dehumidifier is a mandatory addition for all boat owners. This is especially the case when it comes to the winter months. If your boat is sitting in the marine all winter, adding a dehumidifier is very important. You will prevent excess moisture from affecting your beddings, wood, pillows, and most of the interior. As the result, there won’t be that awkward smell when you get inside the boat in the spring.
Believe it or not, your boat needs a dehumidifier more than you do. It is essential for keeping the interior in the best condition and making sure various issues such as the aforementioned bad odor, damages, or similar problems are completely eliminated.
Of course, you can use a dehumidifier when you are on board. Some people like a low level of moisture even while on the open sea, so this is another perk you are going to get. Add the fact there are countless options to choose from and you are on the right path.
Keep in mind that the dehumidifier will extract water from the air. That water must be removed from the boat. Most models come with the ability to drain that water all the time, so you don’t have to do it manually.
Top 5 Best Boat Dehumidifier Review in 2021.
As we have mentioned earlier, all 6 models were tested in the real-world scenario and yes, we had a boat. The goal is to give you the best review of a model you are considering right now or to help you find one that will meet all your requirements.
Here is another way we can help. In order to find a dehumidifier for a boat cabin or another area in your boat, we had to develop specific criteria that consist of factors to consider. This will be covered in our buyer’s guide. We have invested over 10 hours just in developing the criteria. Actual testing lasted much longer.
Both of these elements are needed. You need a model that will last longer, be effective, and gets the job done without you having to worry about anything. The last thing you need is an underpowered, inefficient, or cheap dehumidifier that can stop working at any given moment.
1. LG PuriCare 2019 50-Pint Pump.
Specifications
- Brand: LG.
- Dimensions: 12.6 x 16.8 x 26.2 inches.
- Model: PuriCare 2019.
- Color: Black.
LG PuriCare 2019 50-Pint Pump is probably the most elegant model you can find. It will feel just right in any boat and it will be extremely useful. Of all boat dehumidifier reviews, this one has to be the most interesting as well. You get a model that can cover 2000 square feet and it can remove 50 pints of water per day. It will shut down itself in the case of overheating. Additional safety features are available and included.
The dimensions are 12.6 x 16.8 x 26.2 inches so it isn’t the smallest model, but it is reasonably compact. It is heavy though at 51 pounds! The bucket has a 1.7-gallon capacity and it will require you to empty it frequently. Luckily you can monitor the water level. Users can use an app, SmartThinQ to control the dehumidifier.
Highlights:
- Covers up to 2000 square feet of area.
- Generates under 48 dB when used.
- Removes 50 pints of water in a single day.
- Made from metal.
- Will shut down itself in order to prevent overheating.
2. Ivation IVADM35 Powerful Mid-Size Thermo-Electric Dehumidifier.
Specifications
- Brand: Ivation.
- Color: White.
- Dimensions: 9.6 x 14.1 x 7.2 inches.
- Coverage: 2200 cubic feet.
Ivation IVADM35 is a boat dehumidifier Amazon likes. This particular unit is compact and comes with 9.6 x 14.1 x 7.2 inches dimensions. The weight is just under 5 pounds so moving it around won’t be a problem. But, it can be used for areas of up to 2200 cubic feet, which is simply impressive. It will remove 20 ounces of water per day. One of the biggest advantages is the 12V power adapter. It allows you to use it in various types of boats and even in your car. Sadly, finding this adapter as a standalone unit can be difficult.
Automatic shutdown and overall simplicity when emptying the tank are included with this dehumidifier. We also liked the Thermo-electric Peltier module Technology. Basically, it means that there are no moving parts inside so the unit is extremely quiet. You can use it even in your bedroom or a cabin in a boat where you sleep and there won’t be any issues.
Highlights:
- Covers up to 2200 cubic feet of space.
- No moving parts inside.
- Weighs only 4.4 pounds.
- Extremely quiet when activated.
- Automatic shutdown feature.
3. Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner.
Specifications
- Brand: Whynter.
- Model: ARC-14SH.
- Color: Black.
- Dimensions: 16 x 19 x 35.5 inches.
- ASHRAE: 14.000 BTU.
- SACC: 9.000 BTU.
Whynter ARC-14SH can be defined as a boat dehumidifier with a drain hose if you want the simplest explanation. But, it is much more than that. You get an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and a heater in one device. It is also paired with a carbon filter meaning it will filter the air when you use it. You can select control temperatures between 61°F and 89°F. Cooling capacity is 14000 BTU while heating capacity is 13.000 BTU.
When it is used as a dehumidifier, it can remove up to 71 pints per day, which is impressive. Keep in mind that the dimensions of this model are 16 x 19 x 35.5 inches so it is reasonably compact. It is an ideal choice for boat owners who want a versatile device to help them control the temperature and the humidity level in their cabin at any given moment. It is loud and it consumes plenty of power, so don’t forget about these two things.
Highlights:
- Portable air conditioner.
- Can be used as a dehumidifier.
- Heating capabilities.
- Activated carbon filter.
- A storage bag is included.
4. Meaco Zambezi 8-Liter Desiccant Dehumidifier.
Specifications
- Brand: Meaco.
- Color: White.
- Dimensions: 36 x 20 x 55 inches.
- Size: 7 or 8 liters.
Meaco Zambezi is an interesting dehumidifier we all liked. It can be used as boat engine room dehumidifier instantly or you can place it in your cabin. The unit is 7.8 kg heavy, so moving it around is reasonably easy. But, there are a few advantages. First of all, it is efficient. It can remove up to 17 pints of water per day. This refers to 7-liter model. 8-liter model is even more capable. A smart feature will notify you when the humidity is high in your boat and when you need to turn the device on.
The wattage is 600 and the tank or the reservoir comes with a 6.34-pint capacity. It is too small for this model which is the biggest drawback. On the other hand, we have a continuous drain feature which is very helpful and extremely useful in boat-related applications. An interesting advantage is that the manufacturer will donate $2.63 to David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s Elephant Orphanage after each sale.
Highlights:
- Removes 8 liters of water from the air per day.
- Continuous drain operation mode.
- 3 pints of the water tank.
- 650 watts.
- Various indicators.
5. SereneLife 10,000 Portable Air Conditioner + 9000 BTU Heater
Specifications
- Brand: SereneLife.
- Color: White and grey.
- Dimensions: 17.4 x 13.4 x 32.1 inches.
- Power source: Corded.
- Control method: Touch and remote.
SereneLife model we have here isn’t a small dehumidifier for boat. As a matter of fact, it is one of the most advanced and the most sophisticated units of this kind out there. You can use it as AC, for heating, and as a dehumidifier. It requires 110 Volts while Wattage is 1150. Cooling power is impressive with 10000BTU while heating power is slightly lower at 9000BTU.
All models come with a remote controller that is easy to use, has a decent range, and offers full functionality. It doesn’t look modern though. This is the same we can say for the entire unit. It looks obsolete and ordinary. But, it is a useful, practical, and effective way to control comfort while on your boat. You can use it for areas of 350 square feet. It can remove 15 liters per hour.
Highlights:
- Portable and sleek design makes it ideal for versatile applications.
- Heater, AC, and a dehumidifier in one.
- Covers 350 square feet of area.
- 6 different variations available.
Types of Boat Dehumidifiers.
There are several types of boat dehumidifiers available on the market. Knowing perks each one offers will help you get the right model. That’s why it is essential to learn something about the types before we move to the next section. This will allow you to see which type works well for you. Is it dry boat 12 by ecor pro or some other unit? Anyway, here are the most common types of boat dehumidifiers.
Desiccant.
These are very common. They use calcium chloride or another chemical, zeolite on a wheel that will filter the water from the air. They also come with a fan that is used to suck that air inside the dehumidifier.
Compressor-driven models.
They have a compressor, hence the name. They will use the condensation process to remove the water. All of these units come with a bucket you will need to empty occasionally. A drain hose is a clever system to make this task ‘’automatic’’. Keep in mind that they are loud and they operate in a similar way as any AC.
Thermo-electric.
Thermo-electric dehumidifiers use the obvious. It uses current and metal plates alongside the fan. The fan will suck the air inside where it will reach the plates connected to the current. These models are extremely quiet and they don’t have moving parts.
Solar models.
These can be any of the three types mentioned above, but they will use solar energy instead of ordinary electricity. A solar-powered dehumidifier for boats can be an amazing investment and can make you feel special at the same time. Keep in consideration that they are less efficient than other types and they are more complicated to install.
3-in-1
This is a type we saw earlier. It will be a dehumidifier that comes with other capabilities. For instance, it can operate as AC, heater, and a dehumidifier. Yes, they are slightly bigger in size than other models, but they are more versatile. Most come with remote controllers which makes usage even more appealing.
Best boat dehumidifier: An In-Depth Buying Guide.
If you are still looking for a solar dehumidifier boat, the best model, or a dehumidifier for your boat that will look perfectly, here are factors you must consider. We used all of these on our tests and now we want to share them with you, so you can become a professional and get the needed knowledge within minutes. Without further ado, let’s begin.
Size of your boat.
The size of your boat will be the first and the most important factor to consider. If you have a small boat, a small boat dehumidifier west marine will get job done. But, if you have a larger boat, you need a more powerful unit. Look at the area coverage each dehumidifier will display in its description or we will in our reviews. If it can cover the size of your boat, it is a valuable choice. Using a dehumidifier that is too small won’t be effective and you will still have plenty of moisture in the air. Yes, you can use a more powerful model, but it will be more expensive.
Material of your dehumidifier.
A dehumidifier designed for boat-related applications must not rust or get damaged when exposed to saltwater. Stainless steel marine dehumidifiers are an amazing option. Stainless steel is a metal completely immune to rust and corrosion. The situation is the same as any other brand. You don’t want a dehumidifier that will end up broken within months. This is one of the main differences between a boat and a house dehumidifier.
Water amount extracted per day.
This is one of the very important factors to consider and the one we believe you will need to invest your full attention. All dehumidifiers come with ratings that tell customers how much water it can remove from the air per day. It can be anywhere between 1 and 70 pints. The value is expressed for 24 hours so keep that in mind as well. After all, you won’t use your dehumidifier for 1 or 2 hours per day. A higher number means that a dehumidifier is more powerful, more effective, and usually can be used for larger areas. It is an interesting way to see how effective your particular model is. Pair this with the area coverage we mentioned earlier and you can make a fast decision. But, a more powerful dehumidifier will also cost more.
Drain hose.
Here we have the simplest feature that is extremely appealing. A drain hose means that the dehumidifier will be able to remove the water it collects from the air to the sea or on the ground automatically. Without a drain hose, you will need to empty the bucket or water tank if you prefer all by yourself. It isn’t a difficult task, but it can become annoying after some time. Using a drain hose system is much easier and allows you to use your dehumidifier as long as needed.
Shape and/or fasteners.
A boat dehumidifier air dryer or any other type needs to have one or two things mentioned here. It should come with fasteners and it should be designed to stay upright when you are sailing or cruising around. Boat dehumidifiers are usually very compact and they can withstand boat movement without any issue. Adding fasteners to this type of design is even better and we actually recommend it. If you end up in rough waters, fasteners will make a massive difference. If you get a model without these, you will have to make some fasteners or to improvise.
Safety systems.
A goldenrod dehumidifier boat model or any other model used for this purpose must come with safety features. There are a few of them we liked and consider to be extremely important. First of all, you need an automatic shutdown feature. It is popular these days and it will turn off your dehumidifier when the reservoir is full. You don’t have to worry about spills or anything similar. Another feature we liked is similar. It will turn the unit off if it gets too hot. As such, it will prevent damage to the dehumidifier and even risk from a fire.
Notifications.
This is an appealing system but very rare. Basically, a dehumidifier will have an LED that will tell you when the moisture levels are too high and you should activate your dehumidifier. It is something we will highly recommend to all beginners and people who don’t pay a lot of attention to the moisture levels. Some models even come with displays and they are amazing. You get all the needed information, notifications and etc. Usually, this feature is available on premium, 3-in-1 models.
Noise.
Noise is the most important factor when looking for a bedroom dehumidifier. You will sleep in the boat’s cabin so you can imagine the importance of this factor. The loudness is expressed in dB and the lower the number, the better. Look for models with no noise at all or very low numbers such as 20-39dB. Those that generate 60-70 dB are too loud and not perfect for this purpose. Make sure to take another look at the types of dehumidifiers. Those without air compressors are very quiet and will meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is The Best Way To Stop Condensation In My Boat?
The best way is to use a dehumidifier. It removes excess water and therefore condensation. There are a lot of models you can opt for that will get the job done perfectly.
Are Dehumidifiers Dangerous?
No, dehumidifiers are not dangerous in any way. They remove excess moisture and they are beneficial. They are also easy to use and don’t come with safety-related issues.
What Is The Best Dehumidifier I Can Find For My Boat?
The best one is a dehumidifier that is easy to use, covers the area in the boat you will use, and can remove plenty of water from the air.
Can I Make A Dehumidifier For My Boat?
Yes, there are various methods you can use to make a dehumidifier in your garage and use it in your boat. But, this takes time, there are safety concerns and they don’t work well. A much better option is to purchase one considering their affordable prices.
What Is The Ideal Size Of A Dehumidifier To Use In My Boat Cabin?
The ideal size will be based on the cabin area of your boat. A larger cabin needs a larger dehumidifier to cover that area.
Final verdict:
LOCKDOWN GoldenRod is the best boat dehumidifier and the one we liked the most, obviously. A clever design, high quality, and capabilities are all at the highest level possible. It is also easy to install and versatile. If you are looking for something else or you want a model with other features, you can check out the other 5 models we have tested and reviewed above. The best one for you is right here.