Dehumidifier Guide

When Whole-House Makes Sense

• Multiple rooms or floors have humidity issues
• You live in a humid climate (Southeast, Gulf Coast, Pacific Northwest)
• Portable units run constantly but can't maintain target humidity
• You have a large home (2,500+ sq ft) with central HVAC
• Chronic basement or crawlspace moisture affects upper floors

Cost Comparison

Portable: $200-400 upfront, $30-60/year in electricity for a single unit. May need multiple units for larger spaces.

Whole-house: $800-1,500 for the unit plus $300-1,500 for professional installation. Lower operating costs since one efficient unit replaces multiple portables. Often lasts longer (10-15 years vs. 5-8 for portables).

• Ductwork is cut and connected for supply and return air
• Condensate drain line is routed to floor drain or pump
• Electrical connection is made (usually 120V or 240V depending on unit)
• Controls are integrated with thermostat or standalone humidistat
• System is tested and calibrated

Questions to Ask Contractors

• Are you licensed and insured for HVAC work in this state?
• Have you installed this brand/model before?
• What warranty do you provide on the installation?
• Will this void my existing HVAC warranty?
• What's included in the quoted price (electrical, drain line, ductwork)?

Typical Installation Costs

• Basic HVAC-integrated: $300-600 if ductwork access is easy
• Complex HVAC-integrated: $600-1,000 if ductwork modifications are needed
• Ducted standalone: $800-1,500 depending on duct run length
• Electrical upgrade: Add $200-400 if a new circuit is required

Finding Qualified Contractors

Look for HVAC contractors with experience in indoor air quality equipment. Many dehumidifier manufacturers (AprilAire, Santa Fe, Honeywell) have dealer locators on their websites that list certified installers in your area.