Dehumidifiers are an essential appliance for homes prone to high humidity levels. Excess moisture in the air can lead to a myriad of problems – peeled wallpaper, window condensation, musty smells, and growth of mold, mildew and dust mites.
While no one likes living with damp air, not all solutions are made the same. In your search for the ideal dehumidifier, you’re likely to encounter two premium brands – AprilAire and Santa Fe. Both manufacturers produce high-quality, highly efficient dehumidifiers to improve indoor air quality.
But which brand should you choose? To help make the decision easier, we’ve created this comprehensive guide comparing Santa Fe and AprilAire dehumidifiers. We’ll evaluate the key features, performance metrics, warranties and common user opinions for each brand.
By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently select the best dehumidifier for your specific needs. Let’s get started!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | AprilAire | Santa Fe |
| Moisture Removal Rate | 90-128 pints/day | 70-120 pints/day |
| Energy Efficiency | Very high, ENERGY STAR certified | Medium, some models lack certification |
| Noise Output | 41-61 dB | 51-58 dB |
| Drainage Method | Internal pump | Gravity drain, optional pump |
| Air Filtration | MERV-11 pleated | Basic foam pre-filter |
| Installation | Simple, self-contained | May need condensate pump |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1-3 years |
| Reliability Reputation | Excellent | Mixed reviews |
| Price | $$$, premium models | $, budget models |
| Overall | Superior performance and reliability | Good value for price |
Overview of AprilAire and Santa Fe Dehumidifiers
First, let’s look at the basic dehumidifier models offered by AprilAire and Santa Fe.
AprilAire Dehumidifier Lineup
AprilAire is owned by Lennox International and offers three main dehumidifier product lines:
- Whole Home Dehumidifiers: For large, multi-room humidity control
- High-Efficiency Dehumidifiers: Energy efficient for medium to large spaces
- Compact Dehumidifiers: Smaller units ideal for bathrooms and closets
The most powerful AprilAire dehumidifier can remove up to 128 pints (16 gallons) of moisture per day. Many models include smart home integration and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Santa Fe Dehumidifier Lineup
Santa Fe dehumidifiers are produced by Therma-Stor LLC. They manufacture two categories of dehumidifiers:
- Santa Fe Classic: Affordable models for small to medium rooms
- Santa Fe Advance: High-capacity dehumidifiers with advanced features
Santa Fe’s largest dehumidifier has a 120 pint (15 gallon) per day moisture removal rate. Some units include touch screen controls and dual voltage options.
Key Differences Between AprilAire And Santa Fe Dehumidifiers
Now let’s do a deep dive into the key traits of each brand.
Dehumidifier Capabilities
The most important factor in choosing a dehumidifier is moisture removal performance. Here’s how Santa Fe and AprilAire compare:
Moisture Removal Rate
This measures how many pints or gallons of water a dehumidifier can extract from the air daily. Higher pint capacity equals faster humidity reduction.
- AprilAire offers whole home models that remove 90-128 pints daily. Smaller units handle 16-70 pints.
- Santa Fe dehumidifiers remove 70-120 pints per day depending on size. Units for large spaces have higher pint capacities.
Most users will require a 70-80 pint dehumidifier for a moderately damp home. Both brands offer models ideal for typical household humidity levels. AprilAire has an edge for extra large capacities needed in severely humid homes.
Maintenance Features
Since dehumidifiers must dispose of collected water, features that simplify drainage are useful:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers feature a patented pump to empty water vertically into a sink or out a window rather than rely on gravity drainage. No need to empty buckets frequently!
- Santa Fe units have a standard gravity drain outlet but lack an internal pump. However, some models allow attachment of an optional condensate pump.
The integrated pump gives AprilAire units an advantage in drainage convenience. No need to buy and install a separate pump module.
Special Modes
Advanced settings allow customization for specific conditions:
- AprilAire offers special modes like ‘Max Dehumidification’ for extreme humidity and ‘Fan Only’ to circulate air without dehumidifying.
- Santa Fe dehumidifiers have a ‘High Capacity’ mode for maximum moisture removal as well as a ‘Continuous’ fan function.
Both brands provide the useful modes customers want for enhanced control over moisture levels. This category is a draw.
Sensing Accuracy
The humidity sensor affects how well the unit maintains desired conditions:
- AprilAire uses an accurate capacitive sensing element that can be calibrated if needed for optimum performance.
- Santa Fe relies on an uncalibrated relative humidity sensor. Accuracy can decrease over time.
AprilAire’s superior sensing technology allows it to more precisely measure and regulate moisture levels.
Sound Levels
Quieter operation is desirable, especially for bedrooms:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers produce only 41-56 decibels of sound on low fan speed. Even high fan mode is just 61 dB.
- Santa Fe units run at a louder 51-58 dB, although some models have a ‘Quiet’ mode to reduce noise.
AprilAire is the winner if a very quiet dehumidifier is your top priority. But Santa Fe units are not excessively loud on typical settings.
All things considered, AprilAire dehumidifiers slightly outperform Santa Fe in moisture removal capabilities due to drainage convenience, sensing accuracy and quiet operation.
But Santa Fe still produces very effective and high capacity dehumidifiers suitable for most households.
Efficiency and Cost Savings
For appliances that run 24/7, energy efficiency directly impacts electricity costs. Let’s see how the brands compare.
Energy Factor
This measures dehumidifier efficiency in liters of moisture removed per kWh of energy consumed. Higher is better.
- AprilAire units have excellent Energy Factors of 2.80-3.50 L/kWh.
- Santa Fe dehumidifiers are rated at 1.80-2.80 L/kWh for models without Energy Star certification. Some newer units reach 3.10 L/kWh.
AprilAire comes out ahead with consistently higher ratings that denote superior efficiency and lower running costs.
ENERGY STAR Ratings
This independent certification verifies good energy efficiency:
- The majority of AprilAire dehumidifiers meet ENERGY STAR standards and many hold the ‘Most Efficient’ designation.
- Only certain Santa Fe models are ENERGY STAR certified, with more units lacking this eco-friendly rating.
Again, AprilAire leads in certified energy efficient performance. Expect lower electricity bills compared to equivalent Santa Fe dehumidifiers.
Advanced Controls
Smart settings optimize moisture removal and energy use:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers feature adjustable humidity set points, fan speed modulation and on/off timers to save power when humidity is low.
- Santa Fe offers humidistat control to prevent over-dehumidifying but lacks advanced fan speed settings found on AprilAire units.
AprilAire provides more ways to limit runtime and hit just the right moisture levels for your home. This allows greater electricity savings during operation.
In summary, AprilAire emerges as the efficiency winner thanks to very high energy factors, universal ENERGY STAR certification and advanced control options. Expect to save around 20% or more on operating costs compared to a similar Santa Fe unit.
Design and Installation
Dehumidifier design affects functionality, aesthetics and installation. Let’s examine how AprilAire and Santa Fe units are engineered.
Unit Design
Physical configuration impacts features and appearance:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers have a sleek, modern horizontal design suitable for floor placement against a wall or inside a closet.
- Santa Fe models use a vertical tower form factor intended for standalone installation in a basement or utility room.
The low-profile AprilAire units may blend into home decor better if the dehumidifier will be visible.
Santa Fe products resemble a small AC unit.
Filtration
Good air filtration improves dehumidifier effectiveness:
- AprilAire systems use a MERV-11 pleated fabric filter that captures dust, pet dander and other particles.
- Santa Fe includes a basic foam pre-filter that needs frequent cleaning or replacing to maintain air flow.
The superior AprilAire filtration system keeps air cleaner as it circulates through the dehumidifier. This enhances moisture removal and indoor air quality.
Installation Needs
Requirement for ducting or condensate pumps affects setup:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers are self-contained with an internal pump, requiring minimal installation work. Just plug into an electrical outlet.
- Santa Fe models may need external drainage modifications and a separate pump to remove condensate water.
AprilAire’s simplicity and lack of ductwork gives it leg up for quick, convenient installation. Santa Fe requires more considerations for water drainage during setup.
Available Sizes
A range of capacities suits different room sizes:
- AprilAire offers compact to whole-home dehumidifiers effectively handling spaces of 100 to 2500+ square feet.
- Santa Fe makes smaller capacity units for 500 to 1600 square foot rooms along with a couple large dehumidifiers.
Both manufacturer product lines cover typical home sizes well. AprilAire has an advantage for the largest houses that need very high pint capacities.
Overall, the streamlined AprilAire design, built-in pump, excellent filtration and flexible sizing simplify installation. Santa Fe dehumidifiers may require extra condensate drainage work but remain straightforward to set up.
Reliability and Durability
You want a dehumidifier that will provide years of trouble-free, high-performance operation. Here’s how the brands compare in longevity:
Warranty Coverage
A longer warranty period indicates higher expected reliability:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers come with a 5-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship.
- Santa Fe provides a shorter 1-2 year limited warranty on most models. Some premium units include a 3-year warranty.
The lengthy 5-year AprilAire warranty demonstrates confidence in product durability and performance over time. Santa Fe lags with just 1-3 years of coverage.
Reputation for Reliability
What do actual owners say about dependability?
- AprilAire earns reputation for very reliable operation with few malfunctions according to most customer reviews.
- Santa Fe dehumidifiers get mixed reliability feedback, with a higher rate of quality complaints compared to AprilAire.
Real world experience shows AprilAire units excel in delivering many years of trouble-free humidity control. Santa Fe has more reports of defects and premature failures.
Usage Design
Engineered for residential versus commercial use impacts durability:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers are designed for residential settings with typical runtimes and operating conditions.
- Some Santa Fe models are spec’d for commercial applications with very high duty cycles. This overbuilding can reduce home efficiency.
AprilAire’s residential-focused design should provide outstanding longevity under normal household use. Santa Fe’s commercial units may be overkill for home use and run less efficiently.
In summary, AprilAire emerges as the more reliability brand based on longer warranties, reputation for dependability and residential-focused engineering. Expect 5+ years of excellent performance.
Customer Support and Resources
Backing up the physical product, what support resources do these brands offer?
Technical Support
This assists you in resolving any issues with the dehumidifier:
- AprilAire includes phone, email and online support with quick, knowledgeable responses to questions.
- Santa Fe only provides direct customer support by email, with some delays reported in response time.
AprilAire’s phone access and rapid replies make it easier to troubleshoot problems promptly.
Santa Fe’s email-only system can result in slower issue resolution.
Manuals and Guides
These provide product information for consumers:
- AprilAire offers nicely written manuals plus additional online FAQs and homeowner education about dehumidifiers.
- Santa Fe manuals are brief and many models lack online information for consumers beyond the included spec sheet.
AprilAire backs units with more extensive learning material to help homeowners use and maintain the system correctly. Santa Fe’s limited guidance may leave users with unanswered questions.
Dealer Network
Local outlets allow professional installation and service:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers can be purchased and installed through the nationwide Lennox dealer network, ensuring good service.
- Santa Fe units are sold online and by a smaller group of individual retailers, with quality of support varying.
Having certified Lennox dealers available makes it easier to obtain professional AprilAire service locally. Santa Fe’s network is less established.
Overall, AprilAire provides superior educational materials, responsive direct support and widespread professional installation through its established dealer channels. Santa Fe trails in customer service infrastructure.
Cost Considerations
Let’s examine how pricing compares between the brands.
Purchase Cost
Upfront sticker price is a factor for any major appliance.
- AprilAire dehumidifiers are sold at premium price points, which can exceed $1000+ for the largest units. Expect to pay $500+ even for compact models.
- Santa Fe dehumidifiers are priced 20-40% lower than AprilAire across comparable product tiers and capacities.
If budget is a concern when selecting a dehumidifier, Santa Fe offers more affordable options starting under $250. AprilAire is priced at the high end of the market.
Operational Costs
Day to day energy consumption matters too:
- AprilAire’s very high efficiency ratings mean lower electricity costs during operation compared to units with equal pint capacity.
- Santa Fe dehumidifiers that lack Energy Star ratings will have higher energy usage and monthly bills.
The greater efficiency of AprilAire units can offset their higher upfront cost over time through reduced power consumption. Santa Fe operating costs will be higher for non-Energy Star models.
Value Per Performance
This balances pricing against features and capabilities:
- AprilAire dehumidifiers justify their premium price through outstanding moisture removal, low noise, attractive design and reliability. You get what you pay for.
- Santa Fe units offer good performance relative to the more budget-friendly purchase price, although reliability concerns exist.
In essence, AprilAire provides a superior ownership experience but at a luxury price point. Santa Fe delivers good humidity control at a discount.
Ultimately, Santa Fe units cost less upfront but AprilAire dehumidifiers earn back some of the difference through lower operating costs. Consider total cost of ownership over the appliance lifetime when evaluating price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Among residential brands, AprilAire is widely considered the leading dehumidifier manufacturer. AprilAire units earn top ratings for their moisture removal capacity, energy efficiency, quiet and attractive design, durability, and helpful customer service. The premium pricing reflects the outstanding quality customers receive. If you want the very best overall ownership experience, AprilAire is likely the top choice.
Santa Fe dehumidifiers are still high performing, ENERGY STAR certified appliances that effectively reduce unwanted humidity in homes. Their main drawback is reliability and longevity – a higher rate of quality complaints exist versus AprilAire units. But Santa Fe dehumidifiers cost 20-40% less than comparable AprilAire models. Overall, Santa Fe makes good quality dehumidifiers at budget-friendly price points, although AprilAire is better for those wanting premium features and construction.
For residential dehumidifiers, AprilAire receives top ratings for its unmatched combination of moisture removal, efficiency, durability, and customer service. Other excellent brands include Frigidaire and Danby. But no other manufacturer quite matches AprilAire’s pedigree and reputation across all evaluation criteria. Santa Fe, Friedrich, and GE also make good quality, affordable dehumidifiers that satisfy most homeowners’ needs. Do compare warranty coverage between brands as an indicator of expected reliability and lifespans.
Santa Fe dehumidifiers are manufactured by Therma-St
Verdict: Which Is The Better Dehumidifier Overall?
After this comprehensive brand comparison, which manufacturer emerges on top for dehumidifiers?
The clear winner is AprilAire for the following key reasons:
- Exceptional moisture removal capabilities – Very high pint capacities, drainage pump, accurate sensing and quiet operation.
- Greater efficiency – Achieves ENERGY STAR certification and higher energy factors for lower electricity costs.
- Premium design and construction – Horizontal configuration, excellent air filtration, easy installation, residential-focused engineering.
- Outstanding durability and reliability – Five year warranty and reputation for very dependable performance long-term.
- Top-rated customer service – Phone and online support, detailed educational materials, professional installation through dealers.
Simply put, AprilAire dehumidifiers outperform Santa Fe models across the board. While Santa Fe units cost less upfront, AprilAire products justify their higher price tag by delivering superb moisture removal, efficiency, longevity and support.
Santa Fe dehumidifiers remain a decent option for budget buyers that still want good quality. Just temper expectations somewhat on noise, reliability and operating costs compared to AprilAire. Weigh your needs to determine if the savings are worth the trade-offs.
No matter which brand you select, proper installation and maintenance will ensure your dehumidifier keeps your home’s air fresh and comfortable for years to come. With this guide’s help, you can buy the model that truly meets your requirements for performance, efficiency and value.