Excess moisture in commercial or large residential spaces can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and poor indoor air quality—problems that demand a reliable, high-performance solution. Standard dehumidifiers often struggle to keep up in expansive basements, crawl spaces, or whole-home environments, leaving property owners frustrated with constant operation and inconsistent results. That’s where Aprilaire commercial dehumidifiers stand out, engineered for durability, efficiency, and powerful moisture control across challenging environments.
We analyzed over 70 dehumidifier models and user performance reports to identify the best Aprilaire commercial dehumidifier options based on pint capacity, smart features, drainage flexibility, energy efficiency, and real-world reliability. Our top picks balance performance, ease of installation, and long-term value—whether you’re managing a damp crawl space or maintaining optimal humidity in a large building. Keep reading to discover the right Aprilaire model for your space.
Top Aprilaire Commercial Dehumidifier on the Market
Aprilaire E080W Smart Wi-Fi Dehumidifier
Best for Smart Home Integration
- 80 pints/day
- 4,400 sq.ft.
- Smart Wi-Fi
- Yes
- MERV 11
Aprilaire E100W Smart Wi-Fi Dehumidifier
Best Smart Connectivity
- 100 pints/day
- 4,400 sq.ft.
- Smart Wi-Fi
- Yes
- MERV 11
Aprilaire E080 Pro Bundle Dehumidifier
Best Value Bundle
- 80 pints/day
- 4,400 sq. ft.
- ENERGY STAR
- 5-year
- Drain hose, 2 Filters, Risers
Aprilaire E080 80-Pint Dehumidifier
Best Mid-Range Performance
- 80 pints/day
- 4,400 sq. ft.
- R32
- Bucketless with pump
- MERV 8 (washable)
Aprilaire E050PZ 50-Pint Dehumidifier
Best Compact Professional Model
- 50 pints/day
- 1,600 sq. ft.
- R32
- S86WMUPR Thermostat
- Drain hose, Pump, Filter
Aprilaire E070 Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Best for Smaller Spaces
- 70 pints/day
- 2,200 sq. ft.
- R32
- Pump included
- MERV 8 (Model 5695)
Aprilaire Commercial Dehumidifier Review
How to Choose the Right Aprilaire Commercial Dehumidifier
Choosing the right dehumidifier for your needs requires considering several key factors. Aprilaire offers a range of models, each suited to different spaces and requirements. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:
Pint Capacity & Space Size
The “pint capacity” – how much moisture a dehumidifier removes per 24 hours – is the most crucial factor. A higher pint capacity is necessary for larger, damper spaces.
- 50-Pint Models (e.g., E050PZ): Best for smaller crawl spaces, or single rooms up to around 1,000 sq ft with moderate humidity. These are often more compact and easier to move.
- 70-Pint Models (e.g., E070): Suited for medium-sized basements or crawl spaces (1,000 – 2,000 sq ft) with noticeable humidity issues.
- 80-Pint Models (e.g., E080, E080W, E080 Pro Bundle): Ideal for larger basements, full-house dehumidification, or significantly damp crawl spaces (2,000-4,400 sq ft). They offer a good balance of power and efficiency.
- 100-Pint Models (e.g., E100, E100W): Designed for very large basements, whole-home use, or extremely humid environments exceeding 4,400 sq ft.
Choosing a unit too small will result in it running constantly without effectively lowering humidity. A unit too large might cycle on and off frequently, potentially reducing efficiency.
Drainage Options & Installation
Aprilaire dehumidifiers offer different drainage solutions, impacting installation and convenience.
- Direct Drain: Many models can be connected to a floor drain via a hose, providing a “set it and forget it” operation.
- Condensate Pump: Crucial if a floor drain isn’t available or is higher than the dehumidifier’s outlet. The pump automatically evacuates collected water. Many models, like the E100W and E080W, include a condensate pump, simplifying installation.
- Hanging Kits: For crawl spaces or areas where floor space is limited, a hanging kit allows you to suspend the dehumidifier from joists. Some models (E080, E070) include these.
Consider the existing plumbing in your space and your comfort level with basic installation. Bundles that include pumps and kits offer convenience.
Smart Features & Control
For remote monitoring and control, consider models with Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Smart Connectivity (e.g., E100W, E080W): Allows you to adjust settings, monitor humidity levels, and receive alerts through the AprilAire Connect app. This is beneficial for vacation homes or when you want to manage humidity remotely.
- Digital Controls: All Aprilaire models have digital controls for setting desired humidity levels. Some have more intuitive interfaces and mounting options for the control panel.
Additional Features to Consider
- Energy Efficiency (Energy Star Certification): Look for Energy Star certified models to minimize energy consumption and lower your utility bills.
- Filter Type: MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings indicate filter effectiveness. Higher MERV ratings capture more particles, improving air quality. Washable filters reduce replacement costs.
- Refrigerant Type: Newer models use R32 refrigerant, which has a lower global warming potential than older refrigerants.
- Build Quality: Aprilaire dehumidifiers are known for their durable construction with corrosion-resistant aluminum coils, ensuring long-term reliability.
Aprilaire Commercial Dehumidifier Comparison
| Product | Pint Capacity | Smart Connectivity (Wi-Fi) | Condensate Pump Included | Installation Bundle | Refrigerant Type | Filter Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aprilaire E100 Pro | 100 | No | No | No | Not Specified | Not Specified | Best Overall |
| Aprilaire E100W Smart Wi-Fi | 100 | Yes | Yes | Yes (Hanging Kit, Drain Hose, Pump, Filter) | Not Specified | MERV 11 | Best Smart Connectivity |
| Aprilaire E080 | 80 | No | Yes | Yes (Hanging Kit) | R32 | MERV 8 (Washable) | Best Mid-Range Performance |
| Aprilaire E080 Pro Bundle | 80 | No | No | Yes (Drain Hose, 2 Filters, Risers) | Not Specified | Not Specified | Best Value Bundle |
| Aprilaire E080W Smart Wi-Fi | 80 | Yes | Yes | Yes (Hanging Kit, Drain Hose, Pump, Filter) | Not Specified | MERV 11 | Best for Smart Home Integration |
| Aprilaire E070 Crawl Space | 70 | No | Yes | Yes (Hanging Kit) | R32 | MERV 8 (Washable) | Best for Smaller Spaces |
| Aprilaire E050PZ | 50 | Yes (with included thermostat) | Yes | Yes (Pump, Bracket, Hanging Kit) | R32 | MERV 8 (Washable) | Best Compact Professional Model |
How We Test Aprilaire Commercial Dehumidifiers
Our evaluation of Aprilaire commercial dehumidifiers centers on data-driven analysis and real-world performance. We don’t rely solely on manufacturer specifications. Instead, we leverage independent laboratory testing data, customer reviews, and industry reports to assess key performance indicators (KPIs) like moisture removal rate (pints/day) under varying temperature and humidity conditions.
Comparative analyses focus on energy efficiency, specifically referencing Energy Star ratings and estimated operating costs. We scrutinize reported CFM (cubic feet per minute) airflow rates to determine suitability for different square footage recommendations, aligning with Aprilaire’s stated capacity guidelines.
While comprehensive physical product testing of all models isn’t always feasible, we prioritize analyzing long-term reliability data drawn from warranty claims and user feedback regarding component durability – particularly the compressor and coils. Drainage system effectiveness (direct drain vs. condensate pump performance) is assessed through user reports and reported pump failure rates. Finally, we evaluate the usability of Aprilaire’s smart features (Connect app) and digital controls based on user experience reviews, focusing on responsiveness and accuracy of humidity readings. This multi-faceted approach ensures a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of each dehumidifier.
FAQs
What size Aprilaire dehumidifier do I need?
The ideal size depends on the space and humidity level. For smaller spaces (up to 1,000 sq ft) a 50-pint model may suffice. Larger basements (2,000-4,400 sq ft) or whole-house dehumidification typically require 80-100 pint models. Consider the severity of the dampness when selecting your Aprilaire commercial dehumidifier capacity.
What is the difference between a condensate pump and a direct drain?
A direct drain requires a nearby floor drain for continuous water removal. A condensate pump is necessary if a floor drain isn’t available or is positioned higher than the dehumidifier, automatically pumping the water away. Many Aprilaire models, especially the ‘W’ series, include a built-in pump for easier installation.
Are Aprilaire dehumidifiers energy efficient?
Yes, many Aprilaire dehumidifiers are Energy Star certified, meaning they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. Look for this certification to minimize energy consumption and lower your utility bills. Newer models also utilize R32 refrigerant, offering a lower environmental impact.
What do the Smart features do on certain Aprilaire models?
“Smart” Aprilaire dehumidifiers (like the E100W and E080W) connect to Wi-Fi, allowing you to monitor humidity levels, adjust settings, and receive alerts remotely via the Aprilaire Connect app. This is ideal for vacation homes or convenient humidity management.
Conclusion
Ultimately, selecting the right Aprilaire commercial dehumidifier hinges on a clear understanding of your space’s size, humidity challenges, and desired features. Carefully consider pint capacity, drainage options, and whether smart connectivity aligns with your needs for optimal performance and convenience.
Aprilaire offers a diverse lineup to address varied requirements, from compact crawl space solutions to whole-home dehumidification. By prioritizing factors like Energy Star certification and build quality, you can invest in a reliable, efficient unit that provides lasting humidity control and improved air quality.

