How to Choose the Dehumidifier Size for a Garage

A dehumidifier is not a major necessity in a garage, but it is a practical solution for dealing with humidity and other moisture-related problems that are common in garage spaces.  In a garage, a dehumidifier plays four important roles: preventing rust and corrosion, controlling mold and mildew, protecting stored items, and reducing condensation.

How to Choose the Dehumidifier for a Garage

There are five important factors to consider when choosing a dehumidifier size for a basement: the size of the garage (in square footage), the level of dampness, the quality of insulation and sealing, outside climate, and the ceiling height.

Dehumidifier For Garage: Size Chart

For most people, the biggest challenge with choosing a dehumidifier for a garage is finding one that is the right size. 

• A dehumidifier that is too small would run constantly, fail to control humidity, and wear out faster. 
• On the other hand, a garage dehumidifier that is too large will cost a lot of money and use up much more energy than necessary. 

Rule of thumb:
When in doubt, size up, especially for uninsulated or detached garages.

Best Types of Dehumidifiers for Garages (Ranked)

1. Refrigerant (Compressor) Dehumidifiers 

Compressor dehumidifiers are, overall, the best dehumidifiers for garages, especially attached and mild-climate garages. Overall, they tend to have high moisture removal capacity, are widely available, generally affordable, and are best for moderate to warm temperatures. 

Look for a model with an auto-defrost function, low-temperature operation rating, and continuous drain option.

2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers: Best for Cold Garages

Desiccant dehumidifiers are also great for garages, especially unheated garages in cold climates. They perform well in cold climates, and there is a very low risk of their compressors freezing up. They are also known for being relatively quiet in operation. 

The downsides of desiccant dehumidifiers, however, are that they use more energy and some models have lower moisture removal rates overall.

Industrial / Commercial Dehumidifiers: Best for Severe Moisture

Industrial/ commercial refrigerators are best for larger garages and garages with severe moisture problems. You can also consider a commercial dehumidifier for a large garage or workshop. These usually feature:

• Extremely high capacity: usually 140+PPD
• Built for harsh environments
• Durable housings

The downsides of industrial or commercial dehumidifiers are that they are expensive and may consume more power. An affordable model worth considering is Crework's 145 PPD Commercial Dehumidifier. Tailored for areas spanning from 800 to 2000 square feet, it is Ideal for garages, as well as basements and crawl spaces.

With upgraded condenser and evaporator coils, this crawlspace dehumidifier effectively eliminates 70 ppd at AHAM and an impressive 145 ppd at saturation, maintaining a reliably dry environment. Perfect for eliminating unpleasant odors, unhealthy mold, microbes, and uncomfortable dampness in a garage.

Benefits of Garage Dehumidifiers

1. Preventing Rust and Corrosion

Garages often store tools, bikes, lawn equipment, power tools, and vehicles, all of which are sensitive to moisture. A dehumidifier in your garage helps prevent rust and corrosion in three ways:

• It keeps the relative humidity below ~50–55%
• It slows oxidation on metal surfaces
• It reduces electrical corrosion in tools and chargers

Without a dehumidifier, moisture cycles daily with temperature changes, accelerating rust even if the garage “looks dry.”

2. Controlling Mold and Mildew

Garages are rarely climate-controlled and often have poor airflow. Keep in mind that mold does not necessarily need standing water: persistent humidity alone is enough. A dehumidifier can help control mold and mildew by keeping the humidity below the 60% threshold that mold needs to grow. 

The low humidity also reduces musty odors while protecting drywall, wood framing, and stored items.

3. Protecting Stored Items

If you are like most people, your garage doubles as a storage space for cardboard boxes, clothing, holiday decorations, paints and chemicals, and other items that need protection from moisture. Having a dehumidifier in there will help all these items in three main ways:

• It prevents warped cardboard and ruined packaging
• It reduces moisture damage to fabrics and paper
• In the long run, the lower humidity extends the shelf life of stored materials

4. Reducing Condensation

Condensation forms when warm air hits cooler garage surfaces, especially on metal doors, ceilings, and vehicles. A dehumidifier fights condensation in a garage by lowering the moisture in the air. This is important for reducing condensation because:  

• It reduces water droplets forming overnight
• It keeps floors and surfaces drier year-round

Creworks Best Commercial Dehumidifiers for Large Basements

Creworks offers a variety of commercial dehumidifier models ranging in size/capacity from 145PPD-180PPD, and suitable for garages of different sizes from 600 to 1600 square feet. Depending on the level of moisture and the size of your garage, you can choose between the following top units:

 1. Creworks 180 PPD Commercial Dehumidifier

This 180PPD professional dehumidifier effectively eliminates 85 PPD at AHAM and an impressive 180 ppd at saturation, maintaining a reliably dry environment. 

It has a built-in drain pump and 16.4 ft. hose allow this under-house dehumidifier to automatically drain water up to 16.4 ft. away in any direction. The intuitive display panel ensures easy adjustment of the timer, humidity levels, and water drainage. 

2. Creworks 145 PPD Commercial Dehumidifier

 With upgraded condenser and evaporator coils, this 145 PPD Commercial Dehumidifier effectively removes 70 ppd at AHAM and an impressive 145 ppd at saturation, ensuring a reliably dry environment.

The included water pump allows proper water drainage, even to higher or farther locations. The detachable display panel ensures easy adjustment of the timer and humidity levels. 

Important Factors When Choosing a Garage Dehumidifier

1. Operating temperature range: Garages get cold. Look for dehumidifiers rated to operate at 41°F (5°C) or lower, and auto-defrost capability
2. Drainage options: Garages are ideal for continuous drainage. Look for a gravity drain hose, a condensate pump (for uphill drainage), and a large bucket if manual emptying is required
3. Energy efficiency: Garages often need longer run times. Look for ENERGY STAR certification, adjustable humidity settings, and auto shut-off functions.
4. Build quality: Garages are tougher environments. Look for sturdy housing, large wheels or handles, and easy-to-clean air filters

Should You Put a Dehumidifier in a Garage?

If moisture is causing damage or discomfort, a dehumidifier is usually justified.

When It Makes Sense

• You store tools, vehicles, or valuables
• You notice condensation or rust
• The garage smells musty
• Humidity stays above ~55–60%

When It May Not Be Worth It

• The garage is very open or poorly sealed
• You live in an extremely dry climate
• The garage is rarely enclosed or used for storage

Practical Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier in a Garage

• Rust reduction: Lowering humidity from 70% to 50% can cut corrosion rates by more than half.
• Mold prevention: Keeping humidity below 60% prevents most mold growth entirely.
• Extended tool and equipment life. Reduced moisture means longer tool lifespan, fewer electrical failures, and less maintenance
• Improved air quality: Fewer odors, less dust and allergens, and a more comfortable workspace

How to Reduce Garage Humidity Without a Dehumidifier

If you’re not ready for a dehumidifier yet, these steps can help:

• Improve ventilation (vents or exhaust fans)
• Seal gaps and weather-strip doors
• Fix water intrusion and leaks
• Avoid storing wet items
• Use moisture absorbers (limited effectiveness)

These help, but they don’t replace active moisture removal in humid environments.

Final Thoughts on Choosing a Dehumidifier for a Garage

Choosing a dehumidifier for a garage doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on garage size, humidity level, temperature, and drainage options, and choose a unit designed to handle tougher conditions than standard indoor spaces.

When properly sized and matched to your garage, a dehumidifier can protect your tools, vehicles, and storage, and save you money in the long run by preventing moisture damage before it starts.

You might also be interested in the best dehumidifier settings for efficient and cost-effective use in different environments, including garages.