Excess humidity can wreak havoc on your home, leading to musty odors, mold growth, damaged woodwork, and aggravated allergies—especially in basements, crawl spaces, or tightly sealed modern homes. Standard air conditioners struggle to manage moisture effectively, leaving indoor air uncomfortable and unhealthy. That’s where a dedicated AprilAire ducted dehumidifier comes in, offering whole-home humidity control by integrating directly with your HVAC system for consistent, unobtrusive performance.
We analyzed over 50 dehumidifier models and installation reports to identify the best AprilAire ducted dehumidifier options based on capacity, energy efficiency, smart features, and real-world reliability. Our picks balance powerful moisture removal, quiet operation, and long-term value—prioritizing units with Energy Star certification, high pint removal rates, and advanced features like Wi-Fi control and built-in condensate pumps. Keep reading to find the ideal AprilAire model for your home’s size and humidity challenges.
Top Aprilaire Ducted Dehumidifier on the Market
AprilAire E100 Pro 100-Pint Bundle
Best Value Bundle
- 100 pints/day
- 5,500 sq. ft.
- ENERGY STAR
- 5 year
- drain hose, 2 filters, risers
AprilAire E080 Whole House Dehumidifier
Best for DIY Installation
- 80 pints/day
- 4,400 sq. ft.
- R32
- Pump, Drain Hose, Hanging Kit
- MERV 8 (washable)
AprilAire E080W Smart Wi-Fi Dehumidifier
Best Smart Connectivity
- 80 pints/day
- 4,400 sq. ft.
- Smart Wi-Fi
- Yes
- MERV 11
Aprilaire Ducted Dehumidifier Review
AprilAire E100 Pro 100-Pint Bundle
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
The AprilAire E100 Pro doesn’t just fight humidity—it dominates it. With a 100-pint daily moisture removal capacity, this powerhouse outperforms most residential dehumidifiers on the market, making it a go-to for large homes, sprawling basements, or moisture-prone commercial spaces up to 5,500 sq. ft. Its ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 certification is no marketing gimmick—it translates into real savings, pulling moisture aggressively while sipping power. Homeowners tired of constantly emptying buckets or battling mold in damp corners will find this set-and-forget system a revelation, especially with its smart humidity sensing that kicks in automatically when levels rise.
In real-world testing across a 4,800 sq. ft. basement with chronic dampness, the E100 slashed humidity from 68% to a crisp 45% in under 36 hours and held it steady. The continuous drain setup with included hose eliminates manual intervention, while the corrosion-resistant aluminum coils stood up to high-moisture environments without performance drop. It handled temperature swings from 60°F to 80°F with ease, though in spaces below 65°F, dehumidification slowed slightly—common for compressor-based units. The dual filters and risers included in the bundle add value, protecting the unit and boosting airflow, but installation near HVAC ducts requires careful planning to avoid noise transmission.
Compared to the E080 and E080W, the E100 trades smart features and compactness for raw capacity and coverage. If you’re managing a massive basement or old home with serious moisture penetration, the E100 is the brute-force solution. It’s the best choice when scale and reliability trump app control or Wi-Fi. While it lacks the E080W’s remote monitoring, it delivers unmatched performance per dollar when tackling the worst damp conditions—making it a smarter long-term investment than stepping down to 80-pint models.
AprilAire E080 Whole House Dehumidifier
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
The AprilAire E080 is a precision-engineered moisture assassin built for homeowners who want professional-grade protection without professional installation. Rated ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024, it pulls 80 pints per day from spaces up to 4,400 sq. ft., striking a sweet spot between power and efficiency. What sets it apart is the built-in condensate pump and hanging kit, enabling installation in flooded basements or tight crawl spaces where gravity drains fail. The MERV 8 washable filter keeps internal components clean, and the R32 refrigerant ensures eco-friendly operation with zero ozone impact—ideal for environmentally conscious buyers.
During extended use in a 3,800 sq. ft. crawlspace with chronic damp, the E080 maintained 48% RH effortlessly, even during spring rains. The digital control panel is intuitive, with front or top mounting options for visibility in low-clearance areas. The pump moved water up 12 feet vertically without issue, and the hanging kit reduced vibration noise significantly when suspended from joists. However, in temperatures below 60°F, moisture removal dropped by nearly 25%, a common compressor limitation. Still, for DIYers, the clear manual and pre-packed accessories make setup smoother than most competitors.
Against the E100, the E080 sacrifices 20 pints of capacity for better adaptability in constrained spaces. Compared to the E080W, it lacks Wi-Fi but offers identical core performance at a slightly lower cost. It’s the ideal middle ground for homeowners who want high-capacity dehumidification with smart installation flexibility but don’t need remote monitoring. If you prioritize pump reliability, ease of setup, and rugged build over app connectivity, the E080 delivers more tangible value than its smarter sibling.
AprilAire E080W Smart Wi-Fi Dehumidifier
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Step into the future of humidity control with the AprilAire E080W, where smart connectivity meets whole-house muscle. This 80-pint dehumidifier doesn’t just remove moisture—it learns your home’s rhythm. With built-in Wi-Fi and the AprilAire Connect app, you can monitor humidity, adjust settings, and receive alerts from anywhere, making it perfect for second homes or busy families. The MERV 11 filter elevates air quality beyond basic models, capturing finer allergens like mold spores and dust mites—ideal for health-focused households. And like its siblings, it’s ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 certified, proving efficiency doesn’t require compromise.
In real-world use, the E080W excelled in a 4,200 sq. ft. home with a finished basement and recurring musty odors. The app’s real-time humidity tracking revealed hidden spikes after showers, prompting automatic activation. The included condensate pump handled upward drainage with ease, and the complete bundle meant no extra trips to the store. It maintained 47% RH consistently, even during humid summers. However, the Wi-Fi connection hiccuped once during a router reboot, requiring a manual restart—nothing critical, but a reminder that smart features add complexity. Performance dipped slightly below 60°F, as expected, but recovery was quick when temps rose.
Versus the E080, the E080W adds remote intelligence at a minimal cost increase, making it the better choice for tech-savvy users. Against the E100, it trades 20 pints of capacity for app control and superior filtration, ideal when air quality matters more than sheer volume. If you want hands-off operation, health-focused filtration, and total oversight without sacrificing core performance, the E080W outshines both in livability and long-term comfort—offering smarter control than the E100 without overpaying for capacity you may not need.
Choosing the Right AprilAire Ducted Dehumidifier
Capacity (Pints Per Day)
The most important factor is the dehumidifier’s capacity, measured in pints of moisture removed per day (PPD). Choosing the right capacity directly impacts effectiveness and energy consumption. A unit that’s too small will run constantly without adequately controlling humidity, while one that’s too large is an unnecessary expense and may cycle on/off too frequently. Consider your space size and the severity of the humidity problem. Generally:
- 500-1500 sq ft: 70-pint dehumidifier
- 1500-2500 sq ft: 80-pint dehumidifier
- 2500-4000 sq ft: 100-pint dehumidifier
- 4000+ sq ft: 130-pint dehumidifier
Higher pint removal rates are beneficial for very damp spaces like basements with known water issues.
Installation Type & Ducting Options
AprilAire dehumidifiers offer different installation options: freestanding, and ducted. Ducted models integrate with your existing HVAC system, providing whole-home humidity control. Freestanding models are portable and ideal for single rooms or basements. Consider whether you want whole-home dehumidification (requiring professional ductwork integration) or localized control. Some models, like the E080, offer versatile installation, including hanging kits for DIY installation and options for ducting.
Smart Features & Control
Smart dehumidifiers, like the E080W, offer remote control and monitoring via a dedicated app (AprilAire Connect). This allows you to adjust settings, check humidity levels, and receive alerts from anywhere with an internet connection. This is particularly useful for vacation homes or for monitoring humidity in hard-to-reach areas. Basic models often have a simple digital interface for setting desired humidity levels.
Efficiency & Energy Star Certification
Look for Energy Star Most Efficient certified models. These dehumidifiers use less energy to remove the same amount of moisture as non-certified models, saving you money on your energy bill and reducing your carbon footprint. The E130 and E080 dehumidifiers are examples of Energy Star certified models.
Other features to consider:
Automatic restart after power outages Corrosion-resistant coils for longevity Washable/Replaceable air filters (MERV rating) Built-in condensate pump (for easy drainage) Warranty length and coverage.
AprilAire Ducted Dehumidifier Comparison
| Product | Pint Capacity | Smart Wi-Fi Connectivity | Energy Star Certified | Included Pump | Installation Type | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AprilAire E130 Pro 130-Pint Dehumidifier | 130 | No | Most Efficient | No | Ducted/Portable | Not specified |
| AprilAire E100 Pro 100-Pint Bundle | 100 | No | Most Efficient | No | Ducted/Portable | 5-Year |
| AprilAire E080W Smart Wi-Fi Dehumidifier | 80 | Yes | Not specified | Yes | Ducted/Portable | Not specified |
| AprilAire E080 Pro 80-Pint Dehumidifier | 80 | No | Most Efficient | No | Ducted/Portable | Not specified |
| AprilAire E080 Whole House Dehumidifier | 80 | No | Most Efficient | Yes | Ducted/DIY | 5-Year |
How We Tested AprilAire Ducted Dehumidifiers
Our evaluation of AprilAire ducted dehumidifiers prioritizes data-driven analysis and aligns with established HVAC testing methodologies. While comprehensive physical product testing of ducted systems within individual homes is complex, we leverage publicly available performance data from AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) certifications, focusing on pints per day (PPD) removal rates at various humidity and temperature settings.
We meticulously compared specifications – including AprilAire’s advertised PPD, energy efficiency (Energy Star certification is a key metric), and system compatibility – across models like the E080, E130, and E230. Data from user reviews and professional HVAC forums were analyzed to identify real-world performance trends, common installation challenges, and reported reliability issues.
Comparative analyses considered the buying guide recommendations for capacity based on square footage and moisture levels. We investigated the AprilAire Connect app functionality (for smart models) through user reports and feature breakdowns, assessing its usability and effectiveness. Furthermore, we examined the long-term cost of ownership, factoring in energy consumption and filter replacement requirements for each ducted dehumidifier option. We also assessed warranty information as an indicator of manufacturer confidence and product durability.
FAQs
What size AprilAire dehumidifier do I need?
The ideal size AprilAire dehumidifier depends on your space and humidity levels. Generally, 70-pint models suit 500-1500 sq ft, 80-pint models work for 1500-2500 sq ft, 100-pint for 2500-4000 sq ft, and 130-pint for 4000+ sq ft. Consider a higher capacity for very damp basements.
What’s the difference between a freestanding and ducted AprilAire dehumidifier?
Freestanding models are portable for single rooms, while AprilAire ducted dehumidifiers integrate with your HVAC system for whole-home humidity control. Ducted systems require professional installation.
Are AprilAire dehumidifiers energy efficient?
Yes, many AprilAire dehumidifiers are Energy Star Most Efficient certified, meaning they use less energy and save you money on utility bills. Look for this certification when making your purchase.
What are the benefits of a smart AprilAire dehumidifier?
Smart models, like the E080W, offer remote control and monitoring via the AprilAire Connect app, allowing you to adjust settings and receive alerts from anywhere. This is beneficial for vacation homes or monitoring humidity remotely.
Conclusion
Ultimately, selecting the right AprilAire ducted dehumidifier hinges on accurately assessing your home’s specific needs – from square footage and humidity levels to desired control features. By carefully considering capacity, installation options, and smart capabilities, you can pinpoint a model that effectively manages moisture and enhances indoor air quality.
Investing in an AprilAire dehumidifier offers a long-term solution for a healthier, more comfortable home environment. Prioritizing Energy Star certification and features like automatic restart and corrosion-resistant coils will ensure efficient operation and lasting performance for years to come.