Why You Need a Dehumidifier for Your Boat

Humidity is a fact of life on a boat, especially one with enclosed spaces. That humidity can damage your boat and make those areas less comfortable. 

During the winter, a dehumidifier is a must when your boat is sitting inactive for months, but you’ll also want one while you’re using your boat.

Benefits of a Dehumidifier on a Boat

Less humidity in the cabin of a boat offers more comfort, improves air quality and prevents mold and mildew. It also prevents dust mites, condensation on windows and damage to wood and metal.

Types of Dehumidifiers for Boats

Desiccant dehumidifiers use a chemical to dry the air. They typically have a basket inside a bucket. The basket holds the chemical and the bucket holds accumulated water.

Compressor-drive dehumidifiers work like an air conditioner. As the air is cooled, the humidity is condensed and then drains into a pan underneath. Some models can be fitted with a hose so that the pan drains continuously, which may be a good option if you don’t want to keep emptying the pan.

Thermo-electric or Peltier dehumidifiers are the most sophisticated of the bunch. This design employs a small fan that pushes air across two metals with electricity running through them. One side heats up and the other cools down, condensing the moisture and draining it into a collection pan. They’re extremely quiet, but might not be as effective for larger spaces.

If you’re using a humidifier while the boat is moving, make sure you have a way to secure and drain it. You don’t want the humidifier moving around and the condensed moisture spilling everywhere.