Best Whole House Dehumidifier in 2025: Top 11 Ducted Picks

Sticky rooms, musty basements, fogged windows, and a constantly overworked AC are all signs that your home’s humidity is out of control. Beyond comfort, high moisture invites mold, warps wood floors and trim, and accelerates wear on your HVAC system. A properly sized whole-house (ducted) dehumidifier solves this at the source—quietly pulling 65–130 pints of water per day, holding indoor RH in the healthy 45–50% range, and often lowering cooling costs by letting your AC focus on temperature, not moisture.

This guide ranks the 11 best ducted dehumidifiers of 2025, with clear picks for small homes, large homes, basements, and crawl spaces. For each model you’ll see why it made the list, key specs (DOE 2019 pints/day, CFM airflow, operating temp range, filtration), installation and ducting notes (dedicated return vs bypass, fresh-air options), drainage (gravity vs pump), controls, noise, energy efficiency (including ENERGY STAR where applicable), warranty, and current pricing/where to buy. We also include practical sizing guidance so you match capacity to climate, square footage, and leakage—not just a marketing “coverage” number. This is a ducted-dehumidifier guide; if you’re comparing portables, you won’t find them here. Ready to pick the right unit? Let’s start with our top choice for larger homes.

1. AprilAire E100C (100-pint) — best for large homes

If you’re taming humidity across a big footprint—open plans, multiple stories, or 3,000–5,500 sq. ft.—the AprilAire E100C is the safest “set‑it‑and‑forget‑it” play. It’s a ducted, whole‑home unit that removes up to 100 pints per day and is rated for large coverage, earning ENERGY STAR “Most Efficient” recognition for doing a tough job without wasting power. Once installed and tuned, it automatically maintains your target RH while your AC focuses on temperature.

Why we picked it

For large homes, capacity and integration matter more than gadgets. The E100C checks the right boxes: it’s built for ducted use, sized for big square footage, and designed to run automatically with minimal fiddling.

• Big‑home capacity: 100 PPD with coverage up to 5,500 sq. ft. (per lab and manufacturer guidance reported by third‑party testing).
• Efficient by design: ENERGY STAR “Most Efficient” designation helps keep operating costs in check.
• Hands‑off control: Humidity setpoint can be programmed so the unit cycles automatically to maintain RH.
• Durable build: Corrosion‑resistant materials and a drain‑to‑pipe design reduce maintenance headaches.

Key specs and sizing

For most tight to average‑leakage homes, the E100C is a match when you need whole‑house control rather than a single zone or basement. In hot‑humid or coastal climates, the headroom this unit offers helps it stay ahead of load spikes.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	100 pints/day (DOE 2019)
Suggested coverage	Up to 5,500 sq. ft.
Energy	ENERGY STAR “Most Efficient” (E100 series)
Weight	64 lb
Drainage	Gravity drain to floor drain or tie-in; pump required if no drain
Controls	On/off with programmed RH; optional wired wall controller

Sizing tip: If you’re consistently above 60% RH across the main level and upper floor, or you have high latent loads (large family, frequent cooking/showers), step up to 100 PPD rather than running a smaller unit flat‑out.

Installation and ducting notes

The E100C is a ducted whole‑house dehumidifier intended to tie into your HVAC’s return/supply or run on a dedicated return with its own supply into the plenum. Professional installation is recommended.

• Ducting: Works as a dedicated return-to-supply setup or integrated bypass; follow pressure/CFM guidance to avoid short‑circuiting airflow.
• Placement: Basements or mechanical rooms are typical; included casters help position it on hard floors.
• Drainage: Plan a gravity run to an existing condensate drain or floor drain; add an external condensate pump if elevation is required.
• Controls: Installer can program the setpoint; an optional wired wall‑mount controller can provide central access.

Price, warranty and where to buy

This is a premium‑capacity, premium‑grade unit, typically priced in the upper‑mid to high bracket for residential dehumidifiers. It’s widely available through HVAC distributors, big‑box home improvement channels, and major online marketplaces. AprilAire backs the unit with a manufacturer warranty; verify term and any registration requirements with your seller and installer. If you want the best whole house dehumidifier for large homes that prioritizes capacity, efficiency, and smooth HVAC integration, the E100C is the benchmark to beat.

2. AprilAire E070 (70-pint) — best overall for small to midsize homes and crawl spaces

If you need whole‑home humidity control without oversizing, the AprilAire E070 hits the sweet spot. In hands‑on testing by a major home publication, it was named Best Overall thanks to efficient, quiet operation, simple gravity drainage, and set‑and‑forget automatic control. It’s purpose‑built for crawl spaces and small to midsize homes, holding RH at your target without constant tweaking—exactly what you want from the best whole house dehumidifier in this size class.

Why we picked it

AprilAire engineered the E070 around reliability and ease of use rather than gimmicks. That shows up in the real‑world experience: quick setup, intuitive controls, and steady humidity reduction.

• Right‑sized performance: Removes up to 70 pints/day and maintained target RH in testing, dropping indoor humidity ~12% within 12 hours and holding steady afterward.
• Quiet and efficient: Noted for low operating noise and strong effectiveness in a 65–70% RH basement test.
• Low‑maintenance design: Washable air filter, corrosion‑resistant aluminum coils, and automatic defrost for cool, damp weather.
• Simple drainage: Gravity drain to a sump or floor drain—no built‑in pump to fail.
• Flexible deployment: Works as a standalone unit in a crawl space/basement or can be integrated with HVAC ductwork.

Key specs and sizing

For tight to average‑leakage homes up to roughly 2,200 square feet—or for targeted crawl space/basement control—the E070 provides ample capacity without the energy or ducting overhead of larger units.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	70 pints/day (DOE 2019)
Suggested coverage	Up to 2,200 sq. ft.
Airflow	200 CFM
Weight	56 lb
Coils	Aluminum (corrosion‑resistant)
Filter	Washable
Drainage	Gravity drain (no internal pump)
Defrost	Automatic
Control	Automatic humidity maintenance; onboard interface

Sizing tip: Choose the E070 for small to midsize homes, finished basements, and most crawl spaces. Step up to a 90–100 PPD class if you see whole‑home RH persistently above 60% in hot‑humid climates, or if you’re conditioning 3,000+ sq. ft.

Installation and ducting notes

You can place the E070 as a standalone appliance in a crawl space or basement, or tie it into your HVAC for whole‑house distribution. Many homeowners set it up in minutes when used stand‑alone; professional installation is recommended for ducted integrations to ensure proper airflow and static pressure.

• Ducting options: Dedicated return with supply into the plenum, or standalone supply into the space; avoid short‑circuiting return and supply.
• Placement: Level surface in a basement or crawl; leave service clearance for the filter and drain.
• Drain planning: Use a floor drain or sump with continuous slope. If the drain is above the unit, add an external condensate pump (the built‑in design is gravity‑only).
• Controls: Set the target RH and let the unit modulate automatically; no complex controller is required for basic operation.

Price, warranty and where to buy

The AprilAire E070 typically lands in the mid‑range for ducted dehumidifiers given its capacity and build quality. It’s widely available through HVAC wholesalers and installers, big‑box home improvement stores, and major online retailers. AprilAire provides a manufacturer warranty—confirm terms and any registration requirements with your seller/installer. If your goal is dependable, quiet humidity control for a small to midsize home or a crawl space, the E070 is the one to beat.

3. Santa Fe Ultra98 (98-pint) — best for air quality with MERV 13 filtration

When you want whole‑home humidity control and cleaner air in one box, the Santa Fe Ultra98 stands out. It’s a ducted, no‑tank workhorse that pulls up to 98 pints/day and ships with a high‑efficiency MERV 13 filter. In independent testing, it reduced humidity quickly, held the target RH, and ran quietly—roughly refrigerator‑level noise—while its filtration captured fine particulates most dehumidifiers simply blow past.

Why we picked it

Santa Fe pairs strong moisture removal with a genuine air‑quality upgrade and flexible HVAC integration—ideal for families sensitive to dust or allergens.

• MERV 13 filtration: Traps about 90% of airborne particulates and dust mites down to roughly 3 microns for cleaner recirculated air.
• Proven performance: In testing, it reached the target humidity faster than peers and maintained it steadily.
• Comfort boost: With drier air, testers comfortably raised the thermostat from 67°F to 72°F—often lowering AC runtime.
• Quiet operation: Comparable to a refrigerator during normal use—great for basements and mechanical rooms near living spaces.
• HVAC‑ready: Installs to return/supply ducting; optional outdoor air intake can bring in filtered fresh air.

Key specs and sizing

For midsize homes and finished basements up to about 2,300 sq. ft., the Ultra98 provides ample latent control without oversizing. Choose it when air cleanliness matters as much as dryness.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	98 pints/day (DOE 2019)
Suggested coverage	Up to 2,300 sq. ft.
Filtration	MERV 13 high‑efficiency filter
Fresh air	Optional outdoor air intake
Drainage	Continuous drain via hose (no tank)
Controls	Requires separate controller (e.g., Ultra‑Aire DEH 3000/3000R)
Installation	Ducted to HVAC; professional install recommended
Noise	Quiet; roughly refrigerator‑level in testing
Weight	81 lb

Sizing tip: Use the Ultra98 for whole‑home control in the ~2,300 sq. ft. range or to dominate basement/crawl latent loads while upgrading filtration. For larger homes or extreme coastal humidity, step to a 100–120 PPD class.

Installation and ducting notes

Santa Fe designed the Ultra98 for a proper ducted install. It typically uses a dedicated return to pull moist air and supplies dry air into the HVAC supply plenum for even distribution.

• Duct integration: Dedicated return with supply into the plenum helps avoid short‑circuiting and ensures house‑wide mixing.
• Controller: The unit requires a separate control (commonly the Ultra‑Aire DEH 3000/3000R); plan wiring during install.
• Placement/clearance: Level it in a basement or mechanical room and leave service space for filter changes and drain access.
• Drain plan: Route a gravity hose to a nearby floor or condensate drain; if elevation is unavoidable, consult your installer about an external condensate pump.
• Fresh‑air option: The outdoor air intake can be added to temper and filter a small amount of ventilation air—useful for stuffy homes.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect a premium price commensurate with its filtration and ducted design. As tested, the Ultra98 generally costs about twice as much as budget ducted units, and with a controller plus professional installation, total project cost often lands above $3,000. It’s available through HVAC distributors and major online retailers. Santa Fe backs the product with a manufacturer warranty; confirm exact terms and any registration requirements with your seller/installer. If you want the best whole house dehumidifier for air quality and humidity control in one, the Ultra98 is the pick.

4. Honeywell TrueDRY DR90 (90-pint) — a balanced, reliable workhorse

Honeywell’s TrueDRY DR90 is the quintessential “install it once and forget it” whole‑house unit. With 90 pints/day of moisture removal and a duct‑ready chassis, it’s built to run quietly in the background, maintain a steady 45–50% RH, and integrate cleanly with your existing HVAC. If a 70‑pint class feels undersized but 100+ pints seems excessive, this is the balanced middle ground for many households.

Why we picked it

The DR90 leans into Honeywell’s strengths: solid build quality, dependable components, and simple, proven controls. It doesn’t chase flash—just consistent latent removal and smooth HVAC integration.

• Right‑sized capacity: 90 PPD is ideal when a 70‑pint unit can’t keep up, but a 100–130 PPD model would be overkill.
• HVAC friendly: Designed for ducted installs and compatible with Honeywell control options for set‑and‑forget operation.
• Maintenance‑lite: No bucket to empty; continuous drain design mirrors Honeywell’s smaller ducted units praised for easy ownership.
• Brand support: Honeywell’s ducted line is widely distributed and favored by pros for reliability.

Key specs and sizing

The DR90 is a strong fit for whole‑home control in average to warm‑humid climates where latent loads routinely push RH above 60%, or for combined “basement + main level” duty in leaky or high‑occupancy homes.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	90 pints/day (DOE 2019)
Type	Ducted whole‑house (return/supply or dedicated return)
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain; external condensate pump optional if no floor drain
Controls	Onboard humidistat; compatible with Honeywell wall controllers
Use case	Whole‑home or zoned (basement/crawl + shared living areas)

Sizing tip: Choose the DR90 when 70 PPD can’t hold 50% RH during peak season, but you don’t need the headroom of a 100–130 PPD unit. Homes with frequent showers, cooking, or laundry cycles benefit from the extra latent capacity.

Installation and ducting notes

Plan a professional install for best results. The DR90 can be tied from a dedicated return into the HVAC supply plenum or configured per Honeywell’s ducting guidance to avoid return/supply short‑circuiting.

• Ducting: Dedicated return recommended; supply into the plenum for even distribution.
• Placement: Basement or mechanical room with service clearance for filter and drain access.
• Drain plan: Slope to a floor/condensate drain; add an external condensate pump if the drain is elevated.
• Controls: Set a target RH on the unit or pair with a compatible Honeywell controller for centralized control.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect mid‑to‑upper pricing relative to 70‑pint units, reflecting the added capacity and Honeywell build. It’s available through HVAC wholesalers, many installers, and major home‑improvement channels. Honeywell backs the product with a manufacturer warranty; confirm specific terms and any registration requirements with your seller/installer. If you want the best whole house dehumidifier that balances capacity, reliability, and clean HVAC integration, the DR90 is a top choice.

5. Honeywell TrueDRY DR65 (65-pint) — top pick for smaller homes

For compact homes, condos, or tight basements where a full 90–100 PPD unit is overkill, Honeywell’s TrueDRY DR65 delivers whole‑house control without the energy or space penalty. It removes up to 65 pints per day, ties cleanly into your duct system, and maintains a steady setpoint automatically—exactly what smaller homes need to keep RH in the healthy 45–50% range.

Why we picked it

Honeywell’s 65‑pint ducted unit is built around practicality: right‑sized latent capacity, simple controls, and straightforward drainage that keeps ownership low‑maintenance. A major home publication highlights Honeywell’s 65‑pint ducted model as “Best for Small Homes,” calling out its programmable control, quiet running, and hands‑off humidity maintenance.

• Sized for small homes: 65 PPD capacity with a listed coverage up to 1,800 sq. ft.—ideal for compact residences and tight basements.
• Hands‑off operation: Built‑in humidistat/programming maintains the target RH without constant tweaking; compatible with Honeywell wall controllers.
• No bucket to empty: Designed to drain continuously to a floor or condensate drain.
• Pro‑friendly: A known brand in HVAC channels with parts and installer support.

Key specs and sizing

Use the DR65 when you want whole‑home control in an apartment, townhome, or smaller detached home, or when you’re targeting a single zone (basement or crawl) without oversizing.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	65 pints/day
Suggested coverage	Up to 1,800 sq. ft.
Type	Ducted whole‑house (return/supply integration)
Weight	~60 lb
Controls	Programmable humidistat; works with Honeywell controllers (e.g., HumidiPRO)
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain (no internal tank)

Sizing tip: If your conditioned area is ≤1,800 sq. ft. and RH sits near 60% during sticky weather, DR65 is the efficient choice. If you routinely exceed 60% RH across multiple floors or exceed ~2,000 sq. ft., step up to a 70–90 PPD unit.

Installation and ducting notes

The DR65 is intended for ducted installs—either from a dedicated return into the supply plenum or per Honeywell’s approved bypass configurations. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper airflow and static pressure.

• Ducting: Dedicated return with supply into the plenum promotes even distribution; avoid return/supply short‑circuiting.
• Placement: Basement or mechanical room with adequate service clearance.
• Drain plan: Route a gravity line to a floor/condensate drain; if the drain is elevated or distant, add an external condensate pump.
• Controls: Program the RH setpoint on the unit or use a compatible Honeywell wall controller for central access.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect mid‑range pricing relative to larger 90–100 PPD models. Honeywell’s ducted units are broadly available through HVAC distributors, many installing contractors, and major home‑improvement channels. Manufacturer warranty coverage applies; confirm term and any registration requirements with your seller/installer. If you want the best whole house dehumidifier sized for smaller homes—quiet, efficient, and easy to live with—the TrueDRY DR65 is the smart pick.

6. AprilAire E080 (80-pint) — sweet spot for basements in temperate climates

When a 70‑pint unit starts to lag on sticky days but a 90–100‑pint model feels like overkill, the AprilAire E080 is the Goldilocks choice. It sits in the middle of the E‑Series line (noted by AprilAire alongside the E100 and E130) and delivers enough headroom to pull a basement and main level back into the 45–50% RH zone without the energy or footprint of bigger machines. For many temperate‑climate homes, it’s the best whole house dehumidifier “sweet spot.”

Why we picked it

The E080 gives you meaningful extra latent capacity over 70‑pint units for finished basements and mixed‑use lower levels, yet it avoids the cost and ducting demands that sometimes come with 100‑plus‑pint models. AprilAire’s whole‑home focus, broad availability, and pro‑friendly integration make it an easy recommendation when you need more than “entry‑level” moisture removal but don’t need a coastal‑grade workhorse.

• Right‑sized power: Steps up from 70 PPD to keep RH in check during shoulder seasons and summer spikes.
• Whole‑home ready: Built for ducted integration so dry air reaches living spaces—not just the mechanical room.
• Ownership made easy: Continuous drainage design means no bucket management; set target RH and let it work.

Key specs and sizing

For finished basements and temperate regions, the E080 offers the capacity cushion that keeps you ahead of showers, laundry, and infiltration without oversizing. If your home routinely creeps past 60% RH on humid days, moving from a 70‑ to an 80‑pint class can be the difference between “almost there” and “locked at 50%.”

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	80 pints/day (DOE 2019 class)
Category	Ducted whole‑house dehumidifier
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain (no internal tank)
Typical use case	Finished basements and temperate‑climate homes needing modest headroom
Brand line	AprilAire E‑Series (listed alongside E100 and E130)

Sizing tip: Choose E080 when a 70‑pint unit can’t quite hold 50% RH through humid afternoons, but your home doesn’t demand a 90–130 PPD upgrade.

Installation and ducting notes

Treat the E080 like any ducted whole‑home dehumidifier: plan the airflow, plan the drain, and let a pro balance it with your HVAC so you don’t short‑circuit return/supply paths.

• Ducting: Commonly installed with a dedicated return pulling moist air and a supply into the HVAC plenum for even distribution.
• Placement: Level in a basement or mechanical area with service clearance for filter access and drain routing.
• Drainage: Run a gravity line to a floor or condensate drain; if the drain is elevated, add an external condensate pump.
• Controls: Coordinate setpoint and control strategy with your HVAC contractor; many installs use wall‑mounted humidity control for convenience.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect mid‑range pricing between AprilAire’s 70‑ and 100‑pint offerings. The E080 is typically available through HVAC distributors and installers, big‑box home‑improvement channels, and major online marketplaces. AprilAire provides a manufacturer warranty; confirm term, registration, and installer requirements with your seller. If you’re after the best whole house dehumidifier for a finished basement in a temperate climate, the E080 is the practical, right‑sized pick.

7. Santa Fe Ultra120 (120-pint) — high capacity with ventilation option

If your home’s latent load routinely overwhelms 70–100 PPD systems—think coastal humidity, large households, or leaky older homes—the Santa Fe Ultra120 is the “turn the corner and stay there” upgrade. It belongs to the same ductable, HVAC‑ready family as the Ultra98 that testers praised for fast drying, quiet operation, and a genuine filtration upgrade. The headline here is capacity plus flexibility: the Ultra120 is built for whole‑home moisture removal and supports an outdoor air intake so you can dehumidify a small amount of fresh air as you condition the house.

Why we picked it

The Ultra120 is for homeowners who don’t want to gamble on borderline sizing. It gives you the breathing room to nail 45–50% RH on the stickiest days, while preserving the Santa Fe advantages we like from the Ultra98.

• Headroom that holds the line: 120‑pint class capacity keeps RH under control during peak humidity instead of “almost” getting there.
• Ventilation option: Like the Ultra98, Santa Fe supports an outdoor air intake so you can temper and dry a controlled amount of fresh air.
• HVAC integration: Purpose‑built to tie into return/supply ducting for whole‑home distribution and even mixing.
• Pro‑grade approach: Continuous drain, serviceable filters, and a separate controller strategy align with long‑term reliability.

Key specs and sizing

Choose the Ultra120 when a 98–100 PPD unit isn’t keeping up, you’re conditioning a larger footprint, or you want capacity in reserve for extreme weather swings. It’s a strong candidate for multi‑story homes, high‑occupancy households, and coastal environments where dew points stay elevated for months.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	120 pints/day (DOE 2019 class)
Type	Ducted whole‑house dehumidifier
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain (no internal tank)
Filtration	High‑efficiency, serviceable filter (Ultra line emphasizes filtration; Ultra98 uses MERV 13)
Ventilation	Supports optional outdoor air intake (fresh‑air dehumidification)
Controls	Typically paired with a separate controller (e.g., Santa Fe’s DEH 3000/3000R)
Install	Professional ducted installation recommended

Sizing tip: If you’re consistently above 60% RH across multiple floors in hot‑humid or coastal climates—or you’re conditioning a large, leaky envelope—120 PPD gives you the cushion smaller units can’t.

Installation and ducting notes

Plan the Ultra120 like you would the Ultra98 that testers installed successfully: a dedicated return pulling moist air and a supply discharge into the HVAC supply plenum for even distribution across the home.

• Ducting: Avoid return/supply short‑circuiting; balance CFM and static pressure per installer guidance.
• Fresh air: If you add the outdoor air intake, your contractor will size and route it to deliver a modest, controllable ventilation rate that the dehumidifier can handle.
• Controls: A separate wall controller is commonly used; coordinate setpoint, fan interlocks, and dehumidifier calls with your HVAC pro.
• Drain plan: Route a sloped drain line to a floor/condensate drain; add an external condensate pump only if elevation makes gravity impossible.
• Service access: Leave space for filter changes and drain maintenance.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect premium pricing above 98–100 PPD models, with total project cost reflecting professional ducting, controls, and potential fresh‑air integration. Santa Fe products are sold through HVAC distributors, installing contractors, and major online retailers. Manufacturer warranty coverage applies; confirm term, registration, and installer requirements with your seller. If you’re after the best whole house dehumidifier for big latent loads—and you want the option to dry incoming fresh air—the Ultra120 is the high‑capacity pick that keeps RH nailed down when lesser units tap out.

8. AprilAire E130 (130-pint) — maximum moisture removal for coastal and humid regions

When dew points stay stubbornly high and a 70–100 PPD unit can’t hold the line, AprilAire’s E130 brings the extra latent horsepower you need. It’s the largest model in AprilAire’s E‑Series lineup (which also includes the E080 and E100) and is engineered for energy‑efficient, ducted, whole‑home control. For big, busy households in hot‑humid or coastal climates, this is the capacity that turns “almost dry” into reliably 45–50% RH.

Why we picked it

The E130 is purpose‑built for heavy moisture loads while preserving the practical traits that made the smaller E‑Series models favorites among testers and installers.

• Serious capacity: 130‑pint class moisture removal for peak‑season latent loads and larger footprints.
• Whole‑home integration: Designed to tie into your HVAC ductwork for even distribution and consistent RH.
• Efficiency focus: Part of a series AprilAire positions around strong humidity control and energy efficiency.
• Set‑and‑forget control: Program a target RH and let the unit modulate automatically—no buckets, no babysitting.

Key specs and sizing

If your home lives above 60% RH on sticky days—even with good AC—and you’ve outgrown 70–100 PPD, stepping to 130 PPD gives you the headroom to stay ahead of showers, cooking, laundry, and infiltration.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	130 pints/day (DOE 2019 class)
Category	Ducted whole‑house dehumidifier
Best fit	Large homes, multi‑story or leaky envelopes, coastal/hot‑humid regions
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain (external condensate pump optional if needed)
Controls	Onboard RH setpoint; optional wired wall controller
Efficiency	Engineered for energy‑efficient whole‑home control (E‑Series)
Brand line	AprilAire E‑Series (with E080 and E100)

Sizing tip: Choose the E130 when a 100 PPD unit still runs hard and you can’t consistently hold 50% RH across multiple floors. The extra 30 PPD is your safety margin during heat waves and tropical air masses.

Installation and ducting notes

Treat the E130 like any pro‑grade ducted dehumidifier: plan airflow, drain, and controls up front, and have an HVAC pro balance it with your system for quiet, even results.

• Ducting: Commonly installed with a dedicated return pulling moist air and a discharge into the HVAC supply plenum for whole‑home mixing.
• Placement: Level surface in a basement or mechanical area with service clearance for filter access and drain routing.
• Drainage: Gravity to a floor/condensate drain; add an external condensate pump only if elevation prevents slope.
• Controls: Program the RH setpoint on the unit or integrate a wired wall controller per installer guidance.

Price, warranty and where to buy

As a top‑capacity residential unit, expect premium pricing above 98–100 PPD models. The E130 is widely available through HVAC distributors, installing contractors, home‑improvement channels, and major online marketplaces. AprilAire backs the model with a manufacturer warranty; confirm specific term, registration requirements, and installer qualifications with your seller. If you’re shopping for the best whole house dehumidifier to tame relentless coastal or hot‑humid moisture, the E130 delivers maximum removal with clean HVAC integration.

9. Santa Fe Ultra70 (70-pint) — crawl space specialist with low‑temp performance

Crawl spaces stay cooler and damper than the rest of the house, so you need a ductable unit that keeps pulling moisture in those conditions and doesn’t rely on a bucket you’ll never see. The Santa Fe Ultra line is built for pro‑grade, ducted installs with continuous drainage and quiet operation (the Ultra98 was measured about “refrigerator‑quiet” in testing). For smaller homes, basements, and especially crawl spaces, the 70‑pint Ultra70 is the right‑sized way to hold 45–50% RH and protect framing, subfloors, and indoor air.

Why we picked it

The Ultra70 brings Santa Fe’s proven approach—ductable design, continuous drain, serviceable filtration, and separate controller compatibility—down to a crawl‑space‑friendly capacity. It’s a practical choice when you want the best whole house dehumidifier performance scaled to the footprint and conditions that make crawl spaces tricky.

• Purpose‑built capacity: 70 PPD is ideal for most crawl spaces and small to midsize homes.
• Quiet, continuous operation: No tank to empty; drains by hose and runs unobtrusively.
• Air quality focus: Ultra units emphasize better filtration (the Ultra98 ships with MERV 13), a meaningful upgrade over basic screens.
• Controller flexibility: Commonly paired with a separate wall controller for set‑and‑forget RH management.

Key specs and sizing

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	70 pints/day (DOE 2019)
Intended use	Crawl spaces, basements, small to midsize homes
Filtration	High‑efficiency, serviceable filter (Ultra line emphasizes filtration; Ultra98 uses MERV 13)
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain (no tank)
Controls	Typically used with a separate controller (e.g., DEH 3000/3000R)
Install style	Ducted integration or standalone supply/return in the space

Sizing tip: Choose Ultra70 when a crawl space, partial basement, or compact home rides near 60% RH in sticky weather. Step up to a 90–100+ PPD unit if whole‑home RH remains high across multiple floors.

Installation and ducting notes

Plan the Ultra70 like the Ultra98 tested by pros: a dedicated return pulling moist air and a supply discharge into the HVAC plenum (or into the crawl/basement) for even mixing. Professional installation is recommended.

• Ducting: Avoid return/supply short‑circuiting; balance CFM and static per installer guidance.
• Placement: Level in the crawl or basement with clearance for filter service and drain access.
• Drain plan: Slope a hose to a floor/condensate drain; add an external condensate pump only if gravity isn’t possible.
• Controls: Wire a wall controller for easy access and stable RH setpoints.

Price, warranty and where to buy

As a premium, ductable 70‑pint unit, the Ultra70 typically sits above budget options but delivers pro‑grade performance and integration. It’s available through HVAC distributors, installing contractors, and major online retailers. Santa Fe provides manufacturer warranty coverage—confirm specific terms, registration, and installer requirements with your seller. If you want a dependable, quiet crawl‑space solution that scales to smaller homes, this is a best whole house dehumidifier pick for the job.

10. GeneralAire DH75 (75-pint) — compact ducted option with solid value

If you want true ducted, whole‑home humidity control but don’t need a 90–130 PPD heavyweight, the GeneralAire DH75 hits a practical middle ground. In the 75‑pint class, it’s a compact choice for mid‑size homes or for dedicating to a basement/crawl zone—often at a lower price than the larger units above. Think “enough headroom to hold 45–50% RH on sticky days” without oversizing your system or your budget.

Why we picked it

The DH75 represents what many buyers actually need: a duct‑ready dehumidifier with sensible capacity, small footprint, and straightforward install requirements.

• Right‑sized capacity: A 75‑pint class unit bridges the gap between 65 PPD and 90+ PPD models.
• Compact and versatile: Easier to fit in tight mechanical rooms or crawl spaces than bigger chassis.
• Good value play: Typically priced below 90–100 PPD machines while delivering whole‑home integration.
• Low‑maintenance mindset: Designed for continuous drainage so you’re not babysitting buckets.

Key specs and sizing

You’ll choose the DH75 when a 65‑pint unit feels marginal for your home or basement, but you don’t need the extra cost and airflow of a 90–100 PPD model.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification class	75‑pint (DOE 2019 class)
Type	Ducted whole‑house dehumidifier
Best fit	Mid‑size homes, finished basements, or crawl spaces
Drainage	Set up for continuous drain; confirm exact configuration with your installer
Controls	Typically paired with a humidistat/HVAC controller (verify model‑specific options)

Sizing tip: If RH hovers near 60% in a finished basement or across a modest footprint, 75 PPD is a smart step up from 65 PPD. If humidity climbs past 60% on multiple floors in hot‑humid weather, consider a 90–100+ PPD unit.

Installation and ducting notes

Treat the DH75 like other ducted whole‑house dehumidifiers for best results.

• Ducting: Use a dedicated return pulling moist air and discharge dry air into the HVAC supply plenum to avoid short‑circuiting.
• Placement: Level in a basement, mechanical room, or crawl space with service clearance for filter and drain access.
• Drain plan: Route a gravity line to a floor/condensate drain; add an external condensate pump only if elevation makes slope impossible.
• Pro setup recommended: An HVAC installer should balance airflow and integrate controls to maintain a stable setpoint.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect the DH75 to land below 90–100 PPD models on price, making it a solid value for mid‑size applications. GeneralAire products are commonly available through HVAC wholesalers, installing contractors, and major online marketplaces. Manufacturer warranty coverage applies; confirm term, registration, and installer requirements with your seller. For many homes, this 75‑pint class unit is a best whole house dehumidifier pick when you want ducted control without overbuying capacity.

11. Clean Comfort DV065 (65-pint) — quiet, efficient, and easy to integrate

If you want whole‑home humidity control without the size, airflow, and cost of the 90–130 PPD class, the Clean Comfort DV065 hits the practical mark. In the 65‑pint category, it’s built for ducted integration, continuous drainage, and low‑hum operation—making it a smart match for smaller homes, condos, and finished basements that need steady 45–50% RH without oversizing.

Why we picked it

The DV065 emphasizes the traits that matter day‑to‑day: right‑sized latent capacity, simple install paths, and quiet, dependable operation once it’s online.

• Right‑sized capacity: 65 PPD is ideal when portables can’t keep up, but bigger ducted units would be overkill.
• Quiet running: Designed for low‑hum operation in mechanical rooms or basements near living spaces.
• Easy HVAC integration: Duct‑ready chassis for dedicated return and supply into the plenum.
• Low‑maintenance ownership: Continuous drain setup—no buckets to empty.
• Control flexibility: Pairs with standard humidistats/wall controls for set‑and‑forget RH.

Key specs and sizing

For smaller, tighter envelopes or a single zone (basement/crawl), a 65‑pint class unit is often the most efficient way to lock in comfort without excess power draw or airflow.

Spec	Detail
Dehumidification capacity	65 pints/day (DOE 2019 class)
Type	Ducted whole‑house dehumidifier
Best fit	Smaller homes, condos, finished basements, crawl spaces
Drainage	Continuous gravity drain (confirm exact configuration)
Controls	Works with standard humidistats/controllers (consult installer)

Sizing tip: If your conditioned area is modest and RH hovers near 60% in sticky weather, a 65‑pint ducted unit is typically sufficient. Step up to a 70–90+ PPD class if humidity rides high across multiple floors.

Installation and ducting notes

Treat the DV065 like any pro‑grade ducted dehumidifier: plan airflow, drain, and controls up front, and have an HVAC pro balance it with your system.

• Ducting: Use a dedicated return pulling moist air and discharge dry air into the HVAC supply plenum to avoid short‑circuiting.
• Placement: Level surface in a basement/mechanical area with service clearance for filter and drain access.
• Drain plan: Gravity line to a floor/condensate drain; add an external condensate pump only if elevation prevents slope.
• Controls: Integrate a wall‑mount humidistat or compatible controller for centralized, automatic RH management.

Price, warranty and where to buy

Expect pricing in line with other 65‑pint ducted models; request quotes from your HVAC contractor for equipment plus install. You’ll typically find Clean Comfort through HVAC distributors and installing pros, as well as major online marketplaces. Manufacturer warranty coverage applies—confirm term, registration, and installer requirements with your seller. For many small homes, the DV065 is a best whole house dehumidifier pick when you want quiet, efficient control and clean HVAC integration without oversizing.

Final thoughts

Whole-house dehumidifiers are about matching capacity to load and installing them right. If your RH hovers near 60% in a compact home or crawl, a 65–70 PPD unit is typically enough. Mid-size homes or finished basements benefit from 75–100 PPD, while coastal and hot‑humid regions often need 100–130 PPD headroom. Prioritize clean duct integration (dedicated return to supply), a reliable gravity drain, simple controls, and—when allergies matter—higher‑efficiency filtration. A pro install that balances airflow and static pressure pays you back in quieter operation and steadier 45–50% RH.

For even better comfort and lower cooling bills, pair your dehumidifier with nighttime ventilation. Modern, insulated whole‑house fans purge heat fast, bring in fresh air, and let your AC do less. When you’re ready to plan the ventilation side of the equation, browse our lineup of quiet, insulated whole house fans and get expert help sizing and integrating a system for your home.