Dehumidifiers For Boats: Choosing The Best One

Boats tend to be in damp environments, and moisture can be an expensive problem. A dehumidifier is an essential piece of kit for boat owners, as it can prevent mould, mildew, and mustiness, as well as damage to electronics, electrics, and engines. There are two main types of dehumidifiers: compressor and desiccant. Compressor dehumidifiers are like refrigerators, using refrigerant gas to create cold plates or coils on which moisture condenses. Desiccant dehumidifiers, on the other hand, pass air over a rotating wheel coated with an absorbent material, which soaks up the moisture. Both types have their pros and cons, and the best choice for a boat depends on factors such as the size of the boat, the climate, and the availability of shore power.

Desiccant vs compressor dehumidifiers

There are two types of dehumidifiers: desiccant and compressor. Both types of appliances will help prevent mould and damp by extracting water. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Temperature

As a general rule, a compressor dehumidifier is suitable for a room with an air temperature above 10°C, while a desiccant dehumidifier is more suited for temperatures below 10°C. This is because compressor dehumidifiers need the inside of the machine to be colder than the air within the room in order to function correctly. Therefore, in colder temperatures, a compressor dehumidifier will have to work harder to create that cold surface, and may spend more time defrosting itself than dehumidifying.

Warming the Room

Desiccant dehumidifiers emit some additional warmth, so can be useful in a cold room. The air coming out of a desiccant dehumidifier will be about 10-12°C warmer and will have a significant impact on the temperature of the room. On the other hand, compressor dehumidifiers do not provide additional heat, so are better suited to a room that is already warm.

Drying Laundry

Both types of dehumidifier are good at drying laundry. A desiccant dehumidifier tends to have a larger top speed air flow than a compressor dehumidifier, and the air coming out is warmer, giving it an edge when it comes to drying laundry. However, compressor dehumidifiers are cheaper to run, so can dry laundry at a lower cost.

Portability

Compressor dehumidifiers tend to be heavier, so are harder to move around. However, most come with castors, making them more portable. Desiccant dehumidifiers are lighter and easier to carry, but may not have wheels.

Running Costs

Compressor dehumidifiers are generally cheaper to run. However, a desiccant dehumidifier releases its extra energy as heat, so can help to reduce your central heating bills.

Noise

In the past, desiccant dehumidifiers on a low fan speed were the quietest option. However, in recent years, some compressor dehumidifier models have been released that are even quieter, at just 35dB.

Air Purification

Many dehumidifiers can now be fitted with HEPA filters so they can purify the intake air as well as extracting moisture. However, due to the heat elements and sensitive parts of a desiccant dehumidifier, HEPA filters are not usually supplied with this type of machine.

Eva-Dry dehumidifiers

When it comes to dehumidifiers for boats, Eva-Dry is a popular option. In this article, we will take a closer look at Eva-Dry dehumidifiers and how they can help keep your boat dry and mould-free.

Firstly, let's understand why a dehumidifier is essential for boat owners. Boats are often exposed to damp environments, and humidity can cause a host of problems, from mould and mildew to electrical issues. Saltwater can also find its way into enclosed spaces, attracting moisture and causing further complications. A good dehumidifier can help mitigate these issues by extracting moisture from the air, creating a drier and more comfortable environment.

Eva-Dry offers a range of dehumidifiers designed for boats, RVs, and vehicles. These dehumidifiers are compact and portable, making them ideal for use in enclosed boat spaces. Here are some of the popular options:

• E-250 Mini Dehumidifier: This mini dehumidifier is perfect for small spaces and can be purchased for $20.27.
• Renewable Mini Dehumidifier E-333: The E-333 is another compact option, available in packs of 2 or 6, priced at $36.76 and $127.46, respectively.
• E-500 High Capacity Renewable Small Dehumidifier: For a higher capacity option, the E-500 is a popular choice, priced at $55.96.
• EDV-1200 Mini Electric Dehumidifier: This mini electric dehumidifier is available for $58.61 and is perfect for enclosed boat spaces.
• EDV-2400 Large Dehumidifier with Humidistat: If you require a larger capacity, the EDV-2400 comes with a humidistat and a 3-foot drain hose, priced at $271.96.

Benefits of Eva-Dry Dehumidifiers:

• Portability: These dehumidifiers are lightweight and compact, making them easy to move around and store in tight spaces.
• Effectiveness: Eva-Dry dehumidifiers are known for their ability to extract moisture from the air, helping to prevent mould and mildew growth.
• Low Power Consumption: These dehumidifiers are designed for extended use without causing electrical issues, indicating low power consumption.
• Ease of Use: Eva-Dry dehumidifiers are simple to operate, with straightforward controls, and some models even have an automatic mode.
• Versatility: You can use Eva-Dry dehumidifiers in various settings, including boats, RVs, closets, bathrooms, and cars.

Customer Testimonials:

Remember, maintaining a dry environment on your boat is essential to prevent mould, mildew, and electrical issues. By investing in a quality dehumidifier like those offered by Eva-Dry, you can enjoy peace of mind and a more comfortable boating experience.

Dehumidifier drainage options

Dehumidifiers are an essential piece of kit for boat owners, as moisture can cause damage to electrical equipment and create an unpleasant, musty environment. There are several options for dehumidifier drainage, depending on the type of dehumidifier and the specific needs of the boat.

Continuous Drainage

Some dehumidifiers offer the option of continuous drainage, meaning they do not need to be manually emptied. This is achieved by attaching a hose to the unit and directing the water into a sink or drain. This is a convenient option for boat owners, as it means the dehumidifier can be left to run without the need for regular maintenance. Examples of dehumidifiers with this feature include the EDV-2400 Boat Dehumidifier by Eva-Dry, the Ufesa 10L, and the Meaco DD8L.

Manual Drainage

Other dehumidifiers require manual drainage, meaning the water collection tank needs to be emptied at regular intervals. This can be a more hands-on approach, but may be suitable for boat owners who only use their dehumidifier intermittently. An example of a dehumidifier with this feature is the Eva-Dry E-500.

Drainage via a Desiccant

Desiccant dehumidifiers use a desiccant material, such as zeolite or silica gel, to absorb moisture from the air. The saturated desiccant can then be removed and replaced or regenerated, depending on the specific product. This type of dehumidifier does not produce liquid water, so there is no need for a drainage system. However, desiccant dehumidifiers may not be as effective as compressor-type dehumidifiers in high-humidity environments.

Overboard Drainage

One important consideration for boat owners is where the water from the dehumidifier will go. In some cases, it may be possible to direct the drainage hose overboard, ensuring that the water is completely removed from the boat. This can be an effective solution, but it is important to check local regulations and ensure that any drainage is done in an environmentally responsible manner.

Other Drainage Options

In addition to the options mentioned above, there may be other creative solutions for dehumidifier drainage on a boat. For example, one boat owner reported drilling a hole in the reservoir of their Eva-Dry dehumidifier and allowing the water to drain into the sink. Another option could be to collect the water from the dehumidifier and use it for non-drinking purposes, such as cleaning or flushing toilets.

Dehumidifier weight and portability

Dehumidifiers vary in weight and portability. The DD8L, for example, is Meaco's lightest desiccant dehumidifier at 6.4kg, while the DD8L Zambezi, another Meaco product, is heavier and less likely to fit into small spaces. The Ufesa 10L dehumidifier is also compact and lightweight, and can fit into smaller spaces and countertops. The EDV-2400 Boat Dehumidifier by Eva-Dry is designed for spaces up to 2,400 cubic feet and comes with a 3-foot drain hose. The EDV-365AD-CS Eva-Dry Air Dry System Bundle is another option, though no weight is listed.

For those looking for something more portable, the E-250 Mini Dehumidifier by Eva-Dry is a lightweight option, weighing only 0.27kg. The E-333 Renewable Mini-Dehumidifier by Eva-Dry is another small and portable option, weighing 0.36kg.

It is important to consider the size and layout of your boat when choosing a dehumidifier. Smaller, more portable options may be preferable if you anticipate needing to move the dehumidifier around your boat frequently. Additionally, if you plan to store the dehumidifier in a tight space, be sure to choose one that will fit.

Dehumidifier safety

Dehumidifiers are a great way to keep your boat dry and prevent mould, mildew, and mustiness from damaging your boat's interior and electronics. However, it is important to be aware of potential safety hazards when using a dehumidifier. Here are some tips to ensure safe dehumidifier usage:

• Fire Hazards: Dehumidifiers can pose a fire risk, with malfunctioning units sparking hundreds of fires in the United States alone since 2009. It is important to check for recalls on your unit by searching for its model number online. If your unit has been recalled, turn it off immediately and contact the company for a repair or refund.
• Overheating: Dehumidifiers can overheat if they are placed in areas with insufficient airflow or if clothes or other items are placed on top of them during operation. Ensure your dehumidifier has adequate ventilation and keep the area around it clear.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to safe dehumidifier operation. Clean or replace the filter regularly, and consider getting your unit serviced. Additionally, check for loose fan shaft screws and keep the coils clean to ensure optimal performance.
• Type of Dehumidifier: Compressor dehumidifiers are more prone to fire risk than desiccant dehumidifiers due to their use of a refrigerant gas and cold coils. If using a compressor dehumidifier, ensure it has an auto-defrost feature to prevent the unit from operating at too low a temperature, which could lead to overheating.
• Placement: Do not place your dehumidifier directly on the floor of your boat. Instead, place it on a counter or bench to avoid any potential water damage.
• Continuous Drainage: Consider using a dehumidifier with a continuous drainage facility, especially if you plan to leave it running while you are away from the boat. This will prevent the water tank from overflowing and minimise the risk of water damage.

Frequently asked questions