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Type of dehumidifier for crawl space (that's more like a walk space/basement)

Type of dehumidifier for crawl space (that's more like a walk space/basement)


  #1  
Old 11-09-16, 10:21 AM
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Type of dehumidifier for crawl space (that's more like a walk space/basement)

If I get a humidifier for my crawl space (which is really just an extension of the basement when prior owners expanded, it's not a true crawl space), is it best to get something like the Sante Fe Compact 2 for over $1,000, or will any well-reviewed (on amazon or HD) dehumidifier work (for between $200 and $300)? Is there some reason in particular that a 'crawl space dehumidifier' should be used as opposed to just any dehumidifier?

In either case I will also get a condensate pump.

Thanks as always for your thoughts.
 
  #2  
Old 11-09-16, 10:56 AM
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Dehumidifier

The specifications for the Santa Fe 2 Compact state the minimum operating temperature at 49 degrees F. I do not think this will work for a crawl space.
 
  #3  
Old 11-09-16, 11:06 AM
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The area doesn't really get much below 50, except in the dead of winter, when it wouldn't be running anyway. I'm really just trying to figure out if any regular dehumidifier will be ok in this space, or if it needs to be a 'hard core' unit like a Santa Fe.
 
  #4  
Old 11-09-16, 11:17 AM
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The Santa Fe is going to last longer. Your call.
 
  #5  
Old 11-09-16, 11:21 AM
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Thanks. But any unit will work, right (aside from longevity)? It's not as if I need a particular kind of unit just because it's a crawl space, right? Especially since this isn't really a true crawl space anyway...
 
  #6  
Old 11-09-16, 11:30 AM
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Yes, one of the inexpensive units will operate there OK. Just plan on replacing it every 2-3 years and you won't be disappointed with the quality of the inexpensive units. Sometimes you get a good one and they last longer, but in my experience that is the exception. If you go that route, check the warranty language carefully. Most require taking it or shipping it to an authorized service center. If there isn't one nearby that means shipping it, and when you find out what that costs you'll probably just opt to buy another one.

Also, the stated capacity of most brands is based on the perfect sweet spot of operating conditions and will be lower, sometimes a lot lower, in real world applications.
 
 

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