Musty smells are a clear sign of a moisture problem in your basement. This odor usually indicates mold or mildew growth, which can cause health issues. Even if you aren’t specifically allergic to mold, its presence means an unsafe environment with potential long-term damage.
Why Common Home Remedies Don’t Work
Home remedies, while commonly shared as “tried-and-true” solutions from friends and family, are not permanent solutions. They only alleviate the symptoms (mold growth and odor) without eliminating the underlying cause (high humidity).
Eliminate Sour Smells: When encountering sour smells, the first thought is deodorizing the area. While this may temporarily abate mold growth and its odor, it doesn’t address or prevent a recurrence.
Chemical Cleaners: Chemicals like bleach and hydrogen peroxide can remove some mold from surfaces and add a layer of scent to the area but don’t prevent re-growth. Even natural solutions like baking soda or combining vinegar and water aren’t effective over time. And, while moisture absorbers are typically acceptable for a closet or pantry, they just can’t handle larger areas.
What is a Dehumidifier and Why Do You Need One?
The best way to maintain a healthy moisture level (between 45 and 50 percent) in a high-humidity environment is to use a dehumidifier. They remove excess moisture from the air and prevent mold growth from recurring. Many models feature a built-in humidistat, which constantly monitors the air and automatically operates the unit to maintain your set relative humidity level (RH).
A dehumidifier’s process is quite simple for an effective change in humidity levels:
- The dehumidifier pulls damp air inside.
- A condenser cools the air to remove the moisture, which collects in a bucket inside the dehumidifier.
- Finally, a fan pushes the dry, dehumidified air into your environment.
For more detailed information about dehumidifiers, see our Buying Guide, which includes information on sizing, draining, and optional features to consider.
Product Recommendations
For persistently damp areas, the best option is a dehumidifier with a high moisture-removing capability and a robust air filter to capture mold spores and other particulates.
A free-standing or ductable dehumidifier is a good choice for finished basements. A freestanding unit with a high capacity for larger spaces is recommended for unfinished basements.
If you live in a climate where the temperature in an unfinished space remains cold for months, a desiccant dehumidifier that can operate in low temperatures is best. Other models include optional fresh air ventilation with existing HVAC systems and in-wall installation models.
Santa Fe Compact 70 Dehumidifier
Powerful yet space-saving, this reliable dehumidifier features a pre-filter, a MERV-13 filter, and a drain hose. Easy-to-use controls let you set the desired RH level and switch the fan to On or Auto. This freestanding unit can be suspended between joists if needed and is backed by a 5-year complete warranty and a 6-year components warranty.
- Moisture-Removal Capacity: 70 Pints
- Coverage Area: 2,200 square feet
- Lowest Operating Temperature: 49 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dimensions: 12W x 12H x 21D inches
Ecor Pro EPD200 Desiccant Dehumidifier
Designed to operate in spaces where temperatures can fall below freezing, this dehumidifier runs in temperatures down to -4 degrees F. Using a desiccant wheel with silica gel instead of refrigerant and a compressor, it never needs draining and can achieve very low RH levels. It has a washable dust filter and carries a 1-year warranty.
- Moisture-Removal Capacity: 95 Pints
- Coverage Area: N/A
- Lowest Operating Temperature: -4 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dimensions: 13.8W x 13.6H x 24.8D inches
Santa Fe Impact 155 Dehumidifier
This dehumidifier can handle a challenging environment in large basements with a user-friendly dial control for easy operation. Dual-air distribution from vents on both sides of the unit results in balanced humidity and air circulation. It can be ducted to dry finished areas located in high-humidity environments. It is backed by a 5-year complete warranty and a 6-year component warranty.
- Moisture-Removal Capacity: 155 Pints
- Coverage Area: 4,000 square feet
- Lowest Operating Temperature: 49 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dimensions: 20.25W x 21.75H x 38D inches
Aprilaire E100V Energy Star Dehumidifier w/ Ventilation
This unit dehumidifies and ventilates your space with 280 CFM of airflow. It includes duct collars and vent terminals to control the inflow and outflow, allowing fresh air to circulate through the space. It received the Energy Star Most Efficient Award for 2021. It includes a washable MERV-8 filter and is backed by a 5-year warranty.
- Moisture-Removal Capacity: 100 Pints
- Coverage Area: 3,000 square feet
- Lowest Operating Temperature: 40 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dimensions: 14.5W x 23.5H x 48.25D inches
Santa Fe Ultra205 Ventilating Dehumidifier
This unit provides dehumidification and fresh air ventilation for large homes and other spaces by integrating into existing ductwork to create a full-scale humidity control solution. It includes a MERV-13 filter and ducting collars for installation and is backed by a 5-year complete warranty and a 6-year components warranty.
- Moisture-Removal Capacity: 205 Pints
- Coverage Area: 5,000 square feet
- Lowest Operating Temperature: 56 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dimensions: 20.25W x 21.75H x 38D inches
Innovative Systems In-Wall Dehumidifier
This in-wall model features a less obtrusive design for areas with limited floor space. It can be installed fully recessed or semi-recessed as needed and includes a 10-foot drain hose and MERV-8 filter. It operates independently of any existing HVAC system and is quiet and efficient. It is backed by a 5-year warranty.
- Moisture-Removal Capacity: 29.5 Pints
- Coverage Area: 1,500 square feet
- Lowest Operating Temperature: 46 degrees Fahrenheit
- Dimensions: 17.25W x 30.375H x 5.75D inches
In Summary
If you’ve noticed a musty odor in your basement, it is likely due to moisture causing mildew and mold growth, even if you can’t see it. A large-capacity dehumidifier can remove odor-causing and damaging moisture. Models with a ventilation option allow fresh air to be drawn into the system and combined with the dehumidified air.
If you have additional questions or need assistance selecting the suitable model for your space, call our customer service representatives at 1-800-934-9194, and they’ll be glad to help.
