Best RV Dehumidifier Options – Updated for 2023
Contents
- 1 How Does Moisture Build Up in an RV?
- 2 Signs You Need An RV Dehumidifier
- 3 The Different Types Of Dehumidifiers For RVs
- 4 110 or 12 Volt Dehumidifier For Your RV?
- 5 Using An RV Dehumidifier And Hygrometer
- 6 Features To Look For In The Best RV Dehumidifier
- 7 Our Picks of the Best RV Dehumidifiers on the Market
- 8 RV Dehumidifier Frequently Asked Questions
- 8.1 What is the difference between an RV dehumidifier and a home dehumidifier?
- 8.2 What size RV dehumidifier is best?
- 8.3 What are the benefits of using an RV dehumidifier?
- 8.4 How do I choose the right size dehumidifier for my RV?
- 8.5 Can an RV dehumidifier be used while the RV is in motion?
- 8.6 Are there any maintenance requirements for an RV dehumidifier?
- 8.7 How do I properly store my RV dehumidifier when not in use?
- 8.8 What are the different types of RV dehumidifiers available?
- 8.9 What is the average lifespan of an RV dehumidifier?
- 8.10 Can an RV dehumidifier also work as an air purifier?
- 8.11 Should I run a dehumidifier in my RV?
- 8.12 Is a 12-volt dehumidifier or a 110-volt dehumidifier best to use in an RV?
- 8.13 Can a 12-volt dehumidifier remove enough moisture from my RV?
- 8.14 How much power does a 12-volt dehumidifier use and how long can it run on a single charge?
- 9 Last Words On RV Dehumidifiers…
As an RV owner, you might not have given much thought to buying a dehumidifier for your vehicle, but it’s a crucial investment to protect your RV from excess moisture and mold buildup. Choosing the best RV dehumidifier can be overwhelming with so many options on the market. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will help you find the perfect dehumidifier for your RV.
A good RV dehumidifier should be compact, energy-efficient, and have a high moisture removal rate. It should also be easy to use and maintain, making it an ideal addition to your RV. With so many models available, it can be challenging to pick the right one that suits your specific needs. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when purchasing the best RV dehumidifier and highlight some of the top models on the market.
How Does Moisture Build Up in an RV?
Have you ever wondered how moisture builds up inside an RV? Despite being a temporary living space on wheels, the air quality inside an RV is not always optimal. If you spend a considerable amount of time in your RV, just like in your home, having a dehumidifier can be beneficial.
Humidity and RVs often go hand in hand due to several reasons. RVs are frequently exposed to the elements when not locked up in storage, and even when in use, they are often outside for extended periods. Other factors that contribute to the buildup of humidity inside an RV include cooking, washing, and changes in the outdoor temperature compared to the interior temperature.
When dampness increases inside an RV, it can lead to various issues such as rust on the exterior, structural damage, and health problems due to mold or mildew growth. That’s why having a reliable RV dehumidifier is crucial to prevent the negative consequences of excess moisture buildup.
Below are our picks of the best dehumidifiers for RV use in 2023, which we will also look into in more detail later in this article…
| Image | Title | Rating | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Keystone KSTAD30B 30-Pint Dehumidifier | 4.6 out of 5 stars |  |
 | Eva-dry Edv-1100 Electric Petite Dehumidifier | 4.1 out of 5 stars | |
 | Eva-dry E-333 Mini Dehumidifier | 4.4 out of 5 stars | |
 | H2Out Space Dryers | 4.0 out of 5 stars | |
Signs You Need An RV Dehumidifier
If you’re an RV owner, it’s essential to be observant of any changes in the vehicle’s interior, as they could be indicative of high moisture levels that require a dehumidifier. Excessive condensation on the windows is one such sign that you may need a dehumidifier, as well as feeling dampness on the floors or walls.
Aside from being a breeding ground for mold and mildew, high humidity in an RV can also attract termites and other insects. Condensation can build up quickly inside an RV, leading to an uncomfortable living space. Although opening a window slightly may help, it’s not always feasible, depending on the weather conditions or location.
Investing in the best RV dehumidifier can regulate the moisture content in your RV and create a comfortable and safe living environment. Additionally, other signs of high moisture levels include musty odors, peeling wallpaper or paint, and visible mold or mildew growth. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to act fast to prevent further damage to your RV and protect your health.
The Different Types Of Dehumidifiers For RVs
There are a few different types of dehumidifiers for RV use. They are typically categorized as desiccant or refrigerant. They can also be categorized as electric (110V or 12V) and non-electric.
Non-electric desiccant dehumidifiers are popular with RV owners. They fall into two different categories. They are identified as:
- ‘bucket’, or
- ‘reusable’
and are easy to distinguish from each other.
The bucket dehumidifiers use water-absorbent crystals in a bucket to regulate humidity. Once the crystals have been completely saturated with water, they need replacement.
The reusable dehumidifiers use silica gel crystals to draw water from the air. Once saturated, you can remove the water from the gel often by placing it in an oven to dry out, also known as recharging.
By comparison, electric RV dehumidifiers need less attention than non-electric ones. However, they do need an electricity supply to operate and, especially for compressor-style dehumidifiers, also need more space. These can be Peltier or refrigerant style.
With Peltier or refrigerant-style RV dehumidifiers, they both pull in the air over a cold surface where the moisture condenses. The water droplets then collect in a bucket to be disposed of, leaving the air dryer. Some larger models may have a drain hose for continuous drainage, meaning that you don’t have to manually empty the bucket.
110 or 12 Volt Dehumidifier For Your RV?
The electrical system on an RV is likely comprised of actually three different electrical systems. They fall under two main categories:
- the 12-volt DC systems, and
- the 110/120 volt AC coach system.
Your RV battery is responsible for keeping the 12-volt systems operational. The 110/120-volt system is used when you plug your RV into a power source or use a gas-powered generator.
The 12-volt systems actually break into two different systems. These are:
- the automotive system, and
- the coach system.
The automotive system is the same basic one that is in your car and operates all the essentials you need to use your vehicle from headlights to power windows and so on. The coach system, however, runs all the low-voltage 12V items in the RV living area, such as fans, overhead lights, stereo, etc.
So all we are going to look at here are the 12-volt coach system and the 110/120-volt system.
The 12 Volt Coach System
Your RV batteries are what keep the 12-volt coach system operational and that allows you to use many of the appliances that are onboard your motorhome. As mentioned above, this includes items such as the furnace fan, lights, stereo, water pump, etc. If you have a 12V dehumidifier, you can also run this on the 12-volt coach electrical system.
In order to keep the 12-volt DC system operating smoothly, you must keep the batteries fully charged. You can do this in one of four different ways. You can charge them with solar power, with a generator, with your engine running, or with the assistance of a campground hookup (see below).
The 110/120 Volt System
The 120-volt electrical source you access with your RV is usually supplied when you park at an RV campground that offers “all services” and that typically refers to such extras as power hookups, a sani dump, and whatever other creature comforts are available at that specific campground.
The cord you use to plug into the power source will be a heavy-duty one supplied by the RV manufacturer and your vehicle will typically have either a 30 or 50-amp system. By plugging into the outside source, you are able to provide AC power to the RV. This means that you can use higher-power appliances such as microwaves, air-conditioners, fridges (when in electric mode), and pretty much anything else that plugs into a “normal” electric wall socket.
The 110/120 system will convert the power to charge the 12V batteries and allow the items requiring 12 volts to operate.
If you are specifically looking for a 12v dehumidifier for RV use, they do exist, but there are not many. You would be better off using one that uses the 110/120-volt power system.
Using An RV Dehumidifier And Hygrometer
You can use a dehumidifier to regulate the humidity, or moisture content, in the air. Usually, damage can occur through the formation of corrosion or mold if the humidity is too high. You use a dehumidifier to bring that level down.
Anywhere between 40 and 60 percent humidity is safe and comfortable to prevent corrosion and mold. A dehumidifier controls this by pulling the moisture out of the air and converting it to liquid water.
The water is then collected in a bucket or container built into the dehumidifier, or removed via a connected hose. Once the collection bucket is full, you can remove it, empty and replace it
This is how you can manage the humidity level at an acceptable level in living spaces. The best small dehumidifier models are used for this purpose not only in RVs, but also in basements, closets, bathrooms, sheds, and garages.
A hygrometer is an instrument you may want to have mounted in your RV at all times. This will track the moisture content in the air and is an easy way to tell when you will need to use your RV dehumidifier.
You can use the hygrometer to determine the dryness (low humidity) or dampness (high humidity) inside your RV. It will give you an understanding of what activities inside your recreational vehicle have an impact on the moisture content. It will alert you when the level gets too high or too low.
Most dehumidifiers and humidifiers have these instruments built in. However, a separate stand-alone hygrometer may be useful depending on how often you use your RV.
For more information on some of the best hygrometers on the market, make sure that you check out this article.
Features To Look For In The Best RV Dehumidifier
There are quite a few different styles and features that you may want to consider before buying the best RV dehumidifier for your specific needs. They include:
Desiccant or Refrigerant?
As mentioned above, there are two different types of dehumidifiers. They fall under two distinct categories.
A desiccant is rechargeable and is best suited for small, confined areas. For a localized moisture problem, a desiccant is the most effective dehumidifier to combat this.
A refrigerant dehumidifier is a larger style unit and can provide mold and moisture control for bigger areas ranging from the entire interior of your RV, up to the size of your house. The refrigerant style requires power to operate and pulls moisture from the air with coils that collect and convert the moisture to water that is collected or drained from the unit.
When traveling, a larger powered-style dehumidifier would provide more efficiency than a desiccant. But they are typically bigger and noisier. However, desiccant dehumidifiers work very well when the RV is not in use – stored away for the season for example.
Power Source
Non-electric desiccant dehumidifiers are popular in RVs because you don’t have to worry about hooking them up to a power supply to work. Since they are not connected to a power supply, they obviously also won’t drain your battery. However, as mentioned, they don’t extract as much moisture from the air.
A 12V dehumidifier for RV use is actually not very efficient and is harder to come by. As such, it is usually a better choice to get a higher-power 120V unit.
However, the main problem with a 120V dehumidifier is that, when you are off the beaten track, you may not be in a campground with access to mains power.
Noise
The amount of noise produced by a dehumidifier is typically in direct relation to the size of the unit. For example, medium and large dehumidifiers will generate noise levels of between 55 and 67 decibels when at full power. Smaller dehumidifiers will produce less noise but they will produce some noise.
Desiccant dehumidifiers, or those that use Peltier Technology such as the Eva-Dry EDV-1100 mini dehumidifier, are silent but don’t draw as much moisture from the air.
Since RVs are quite confined, the noise level produced by your RV dehumidifier should be taken into consideration. If you are going to use it regularly, you may want to look for a quiet model… otherwise, you may find using the dehumidifier in your RV very disruptive.
Moisture Collection Requirement
The moisture collected from the air is converted to water and it is collected in a tank in many RV dehumidifier models. The tank is designed to be removed so that it can be emptied but there are also different size tanks that relate to the rating of each.
Dehumidifiers are rated on how many cubic feet per minute they can collect moisture from the air. As a very rough guide, the larger the tank capacity, the higher the cubic feet per minute (CFM) rating. Tanks can be between 10 and 75 pints (the larger ones for residential use).
Dehumidifier Size
Because space can be limited in your RV, you probably don’t want a very large or bulky unit cramping your space.
Compressor-style units generally have the largest capacity but are also the largest and noisiest. Peltier technology and desiccant models are smaller and quieter but typically are not able to remove moisture at the same levels.
Power Consumption
Desiccant and Peltier Technology dehumidifiers use less power than refrigerant styles. To get a better sense of the amount of energy this can translate to, a refrigerant dehumidifier would use about the same amount of energy as a refrigerator.
For a more detailed look at how much power dehumidifiers use, click here.
Drainage
The moisture collected by dehumidifiers is typically collected in a removable tank. The tank is then manually emptied and replaced. The size of the tank, how long you run the dehumidifier and the humidity level will all factor into how quickly a tank will fill and require emptying.
Larger units have drain hoses that can be fed into RV drainage locations such as a sink or shower if so desired.
Auto-Shutoff
Most dehumidifiers have either an alert system or an automatic shut-off that turns off the unit once the tank is filled to capacity. Other units have built-in timers so you can control when the dehumidifier is in operation shutting it off when it is no longer required.
Humidistat
A humidistat is a control that you use to set when you want the dehumidifier to go on or off. It typically operates on a range of humidity levels that it recorded inside the unit with an onboard humidistat. Higher-end models allow for more precise humidity level settings and give you control over the amount of humidity you are prepared to have before reducing it with the dehumidifier.
Our Picks of the Best RV Dehumidifiers on the Market
With these points in mind, we have selected some of the best RV dehumidifiers on the market. Factors that we considered include:
- how well they work,
- price,
- features, and
- user-friendliness.
Keystone KSTAD30B 30-Pint Dehumidifier
This is one of the best cheap dehumidifiers you will find and it is still one of the most efficient. It is EnergyStar rated to eliminate up to 30 pints of moisture daily and is capable of working that magic in spaces up to 1,500 square feet. These factors make this one great option and a definite contender as the best RV dehumidifier for many people.
There are multiple settings (Normal, Turbo plus Auto-Defrost) and the dust filter is removable and easy to clean. Also, the unit has a built-in alert to tell you when the dust filter requires cleaning.
What makes this one of the best small dehumidifiers for RV use is that you can hook it up for continuous drainage by adding a hose.
Feedback and reviews give this product great ratings although some find it a little noisy, especially for a confined space. A few have reported having leaking issues and that the removable water bucket was not as easy to remove as it should be.
Aside from these points, as with all Keystone dehumidifiers, this dehumidifier for RV use is powerful and does an excellent job.
Click the Amazon button below for more information on the Keystone KSTAD30B 30-Pint Dehumidifier.
Pros
Cons
Eva-Dry EDV-1100 Petite Dehumidifier
What makes this one of the best RV dehumidifier options on the market? Well, there are quite a few reasons…
Any RV dehumidifier that uses Peltier Technology in its design is worth a look as that means it will be very quiet… which is important especially in enclosed spaces, like an RV. The Peltier system has no compressor… the result is what the manufacturer likes to refer to as being “Whisper Quiet”.
The size of this mini dehumidifier unit is compact so you can tuck it away just about anywhere. In an RV where space is a premium, this means it will not be in the way.
The water reservoir will hold up to 16 ounces and is easy to remove and empty. There’s even an indicator light that will inform you when the reservoir is full and in need of emptying. It will also shut off once the tank has reached its capacity.
The design of this dehumidifier without a compressor means low energy consumption. The compact size, energy efficiency, and simple operation all earn our praise.
The speed at which this dehumidifier can regulate relative humidity in your RV is one key feature of why this product is so popular.
Click the Amazon button below for more information on the Eva-dry Edv-1100 Electric Petite Dehumidifier. Also, see our full review of this mini dehumidifier here. And make sure to check out the short video below…
Pros
Cons
Eva-Dry E-333 Mini Dehumidifier
This lightweight and compact RV dehumidifier weighs in at only 1.2 pounds. It can take control of the humidity in a space of up to 333 cubic feet with no problem and no power. This product is 100 percent renewable and the manufacturer says it will last up to ten years if properly taken care of.
As it is eco-friendly and works without batteries or electricity, there are no cords to mess around with. It is the ideal choice for various applications ranging from:
- RVs,
- gun safes,
- bathrooms,
- boats,
- laundry rooms
and anywhere else you need to take control of moisture to fight mold and mildew build-up.
Reviews of this best small dehumidifier give it top marks. The portable size and long life of the silica gel (provided you recharge it when required) are the most frequent features noted. It will work in a lot of small spaces which makes this one of the better cheap dehumidifiers on the market.
Click the Amazon button below for more information on the Eva-dry E-333 Mini Dehumidifier. Also, have a look at the short video below…
Pros
Cons
H2Out Space Dryers
This RV dehumidifier is a non-toxic, non-corrosive desiccant-style unit. This means that it does not use electricity to operate.
Because it uses what the manufacturer calls “blue media”, once that turns pale pink, it is due for a recharge. This can take up to two months before you have to recharge.
All you do to recharge is heat the product in an oven for about an hour at 300 degrees F. Heating in the oven completely dries out the content that collects moisture and makes it reusable.
This particular dehumidifier is for small spaces. This makes it suitable for use in closets, bathrooms, kitchens, RVs, gun safes, and similar-size quarters of up to 5′ x 5′ x 5′.
It receives good marks with varying levels of success reported by users depending on where this dehumidifier is used.
Click the Amazon button below for more information on the H2Out Space Dryers – SD100 Series, and see it in action in the video below…
Pros
Cons
RV Dehumidifier Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions regarding RV dehumidifiers. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below, and we will answer them for you.
What is the difference between an RV dehumidifier and a home dehumidifier?
There isn’t much of a difference between an RV dehumidifier and a regular household one. After all, they both help remove moisture from the air which can lead to instances of mold in your RV or home.
However, one thing you’ll notice in an RV dehumidifier is that it’s often smaller than a typical one for your home. Although this doesn’t make too much of a difference in the way it operates, since the purpose of both types is to reduce moisture levels, it can have some implications on its functionality. For example, being able to store a large unit during transit simply wouldn’t be possible were it not for an RV-specific model because most units would struggle to fit in small storage areas.
In addition to the above, since the area that needs to have the moisture removed inside an RV is typically less than in a normal home, the unit doesn’t have to be as powerful, which means that you can use a smaller dehumidifier in your RV compared to one for home use.
You will see desiccant dehumidifiers and those that use Peltier Technology quite often in RVs since their power requirements and sizes are less. They are also generally quieter than compressor-style dehumidifiers which are common in homes.
Many RV dehumidifiers also do not have a continuous drainage option and rely on desiccant material to absorb the moisture of a tank that required emptying every now and then.
It’s also preferable to ensure RV dehumidifiers come with a non-slip base that prevents them from moving around once you install them inside your RV.
What size RV dehumidifier is best?
The size of the RV dehumidifier you require depends on the size of your RV and the amount of humidity they’re exposed to. Make sure that you match the requirements with what is available on the market. It is best not to choose one that is smaller than your requirement.
When you purchase a dehumidifier for your RV, you should consider the power requirements as well as the physical size. If you have limited space in your RV then you need to look for compact dehumidifiers. If you have a small RV, then a small RV dehumidifier should work just fine.
Other things to consider when thinking about which size dehumidifier is best include how many people are typically in the RV, how much time is spent in the RV, and the humidity levels where you are located.
What are the benefits of using an RV dehumidifier?
– Improves air quality: Reduces mold, mildew, and musty odors.
– Prevents damage to RV components: Helps prevent moisture damage to RV walls, flooring, and upholstery.
– Protects stored items: Helps prevent moisture damage to stored items such as clothes and food.
– Increases comfort: Reduces humidity levels making the RV feel cooler and more comfortable.
– Energy efficient: Can help lower air conditioning usage, leading to lower energy bills.
– Convenient: Many models are portable and can be easily moved from one location to another.
Easy to use: Most models are user-friendly and easy to operate.
How do I choose the right size dehumidifier for my RV?
– Think about your RV’s square footage: Select a dehumidifier whose capacity is appropriate for your RV’s size.
– Note the relative humidity in your RV: A larger dehumidifier might be necessary for RVs that are frequently used in humid environments.
– Check the dehumidifier attributes: Think about functions like auto-off, auto-restart, and programmable settings.
– Read reviews and feedback: To determine whether the dehumidifier you are considering meets your needs and is effective in your RV, read customer reviews.
– Consult a specialist: If you’re still unsure, speak with an RV expert to determine which dehumidifier will work best for you.
Can an RV dehumidifier be used while the RV is in motion?
No, most RV dehumidifiers are not designed to be used while the RV is in motion. Dehumidifiers work by removing moisture from the air, and in an RV, this means that they are designed to operate while the RV is stationary and the air inside is relatively still. Using a dehumidifier while the RV is in motion could result in reduced effectiveness and could cause damage to the unit. It is recommended to turn off the dehumidifier and secure it before traveling in your RV.
Are there any maintenance requirements for an RV dehumidifier?
Yes, there are some maintenance requirements for an RV dehumidifier; many of which are the same as dehumidifiers for home use:
– Clean the air filter: Regularly clean or replace the air filter to ensure the dehumidifier is functioning properly.
– Empty the water tank: Make sure to empty the water tank regularly to prevent overflow.
– Store properly: Store the dehumidifier properly when not in use to protect it from damage.
– Inspect the unit: Periodically inspect the dehumidifier for any signs of damage or wear.
– Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance and operation of your dehumidifier.
By performing these maintenance tasks, you can help ensure that your RV dehumidifier operates effectively and has a long lifespan.
How do I properly store my RV dehumidifier when not in use?
When not in use, store your RV dehumidifier properly as follows:
– Empty the water tank: Before storing the dehumidifier, be sure to empty the water tank.
– Clean the device: Before storing, thoroughly dry the dehumidifier.
– Keep in a dry location: To stop the growth of mold or mildew, store the dehumidifier in a dry location.
– Cover the device: To shield the dehumidifier from dirt and other contaminants, place a cover over it.
– Keep in a secure location: To prevent damage from being caused by being tipped over or stepped on, store the dehumidifier in a secure location.
You can help ensure that your RV dehumidifier is securely stored and available for use when necessary by following these instructions.
What are the different types of RV dehumidifiers available?
– Portable Dehumidifiers: Small, compact units that can be easily moved from room to room or from one RV to another.
– Built-in Dehumidifiers: Installed within the RV’s ventilation system and are typically more permanent than portable units.
– Desiccant Dehumidifiers: Use silica gel to absorb moisture, making them ideal for use in low temperature and low humidity environments.
– Electric Dehumidifiers: Use refrigerant coils to remove moisture from the air, making them ideal for use in RVs with electrical power.
– Hybrid Dehumidifiers: Combine the benefits of both desiccant and electric dehumidifiers, making them versatile and suitable for use in a variety of environments.
It is important to consider the specific needs and environment of your RV when choosing a dehumidifier. You may also consult with an RV specialist to find the right type of dehumidifier for your needs.
What is the average lifespan of an RV dehumidifier?
The average lifespan of an RV dehumidifier depends on several factors, including:
– Quality of the unit: Higher-quality dehumidifiers tend to last longer than cheaper, lower-quality units.
– Frequency of use: The more frequently the dehumidifier is used, the shorter its lifespan may be.
– Maintenance: Proper maintenance, such as regularly cleaning the air filter and storing the unit properly, can help extend the lifespan of a dehumidifier.
– Environment: Exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity levels can shorten the lifespan of a dehumidifier.
On average, a well-maintained RV dehumidifier can last anywhere from 3 to 7 years, but this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. To maximize the lifespan of your RV dehumidifier, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance and operation.
Can an RV dehumidifier also work as an air purifier?
Although not all dehumidifiers are built to function as air purifiers, some RV dehumidifiers may also have these features. Air purifiers are made to get rid of contaminants like dust, pollen, and other allergens, whereas an RV dehumidifier’s main job is to take moisture out of the air.
Consider buying a hybrid unit that combines both functions if you’re looking for an RV dehumidifier that also serves as an air purifier. This kind of device can aid in maintaining dry and hygienic air in your RV, enhancing indoor air quality, and lowering the possibility of mold and mildew development.
Should I run a dehumidifier in my RV?
Yes, running a dehumidifier in your RV can be beneficial for several reasons:
– Prevents the growth of mold and mildew: High humidity levels in an RV can result in the growth of mold and mildew, which can harm the interior of the RV and pose health risks. A dehumidifier helps to preserve a healthy level of indoor humidity and lowers the chance of mold and mildew growth.
– Enhances indoor air quality by removing extra moisture from the air, a dehumidifier can lessen odors and allergens while enhancing indoor air quality.
– Comfort is improved: In an RV, high humidity levels can cause stuffy, uncomfortable air. By lowering humidity levels, a dehumidifier contributes to the maintenance of a comfortable indoor environment.
– High humidity levels can harm electronics and other equipment, including the electrical system of an RV, so protecting them is important. By preserving a healthy level of indoor humidity, a dehumidifier helps to protect these items.
Is a 12-volt dehumidifier or a 110-volt dehumidifier best to use in an RV?
The choice between a 12-volt or 110-volt dehumidifier for an RV depends on several factors, including the size of the RV, the available power sources, and the user’s specific needs. A 12-volt dehumidifier is designed to run on the DC power source of an RV’s battery, while a 110-volt dehumidifier requires an AC power source, such as a campground hookup or a generator. If an RV owner plans to spend a lot of time off-grid, a 12-volt dehumidifier may be more practical, as it can run off the RV battery. However, a 110-volt dehumidifier may be more powerful and efficient for larger RVs or for RVers who have access to a reliable AC power source. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual circumstances and preferences.
Can a 12-volt dehumidifier remove enough moisture from my RV?
A 12-volt dehumidifier’s ability to effectively remove moisture from an RV depends on a number of variables, including the size of the RV, the surrounding humidity, and the amount of moisture being produced inside. In small to medium-sized RVs with moderate humidity levels, a 12-volt dehumidifier can still be effective even though it may not be as powerful as a bigger, 110-volt dehumidifier. For your specific RV, it’s critical to select a 12-volt dehumidifier with the right capacity, and it should be used in conjunction with other moisture-control strategies like appropriate ventilation and moisture-absorbing materials.
How much power does a 12-volt dehumidifier use and how long can it run on a single charge?
A 12-volt dehumidifier’s power requirements and runtime can change depending on the model and its settings. But generally speaking, 12-volt dehumidifiers are built to be power- and energy-efficient. Depending on the model and internal factors like humidity and temperature, the run time on a single charge can also change. To learn more about the power requirements and operating hours of a particular 12-volt dehumidifier, it is best to review its specifications.
Last Words On RV Dehumidifiers…
We all know how dangerous too much or too little moisture in the air can be. It can be harmful to not only our vehicles but can be harmful to our health as well. That is why RV dehumidifiers are an important part of life on the road.
If you are going to spend a long time on the road, then you don’t want your RV to make you sick. You also don’t want your RV to get damaged through corrosion or mold infestation.
Controlling the dampness in your recreational vehicle is simple with the use of any of the products reviewed here. Each one of these best small dehumidifier options has features that can provide you with effortless moisture control. They are easy to use so they will not disrupt your holiday plans.
RV dehumidifiers are an important investment for any RV owner. There are some great cheap dehumidifiers around nowadays. So before you plan your next road trip, be sure to include the best RV dehumidifier on your shopping list.
I purchased a Pro Breeze dehumidifier for my RV. I bought this dehumidifier because of the size and price. I’ve had it for about two weeks and am happy with it so far. The fan is relatively quiet; it sounds almost like a fan on the low setting. If any of you are thinking of building your own meat curing chamber I would certainly give this a try.
I have a cabin in the bay, surrounded by water and powered by solar with battery backup. The cabin is 16 feet by 16 feet (256 sqf) and we are not there for 1 to 3 weeks sometimes – it gets damp and moldy. We are looking for a dehumidifier that drains (gone long periods sometimes) and also is very energy efficient so I do not run down my battery. What amount of energy does one draw daily and how big a solar panel would I likely need to keep the battery charged and operational? This is a humid environment.
Thoughts?
Ernest
Hi Ernest
Thanks for your question.
Regarding how much energy or power a dehumidifier uses, this depends on the size of the unit and how long you run it each day. Please see this article, which describes how much electricity a dehumidifier uses and how much it costs to run different sized units.
As for the size of the solar panel needed, I am not an expert in solar panels so can’t advise on this. Hopefully, some of our fellow readers should be able to help you out on that one.
Let us know how you go with the setup in your cabin!
I’ve also had Eva-Dry dehumidifier in the bathroom for a couple of months now and I haven’t noticed any new mildew spots. I have to plug it in every week or two since there is so much moisture in the bathroom, but that is a very easy process. I love the size and ease of use!