Key Types of Commercial Dehumidifiers

1. Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers

Low-Grain Refrigerant dehumidifiers are the most common choice for water restoration. They remove moisture from the air by condensing it onto cooled coils.

Best for: Moderate to high humidity environments where temperatures are above 55°F.

Pros:

• High extraction rates

• Energy efficient

• Easy to set up and move

2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers

These units absorb moisture from the air using a desiccant material (like silica gel). They can operate in low-temperature and low-humidity environments where refrigerant models are less effective.

Best for: Cold or low-humidity environments like unheated warehouses or large commercial basements.

Pros:

• Operates efficiently in low temperatures

• Excellent at pulling deep moisture from structural materials

Understanding Dehumidifier Ratings: X, XL, and XXL

Commercial dehumidifiers are often categorized by their size and capacity into X, XL, and XXL:

• X Rated: Entry-level professional units typically capable of removing up to 85–100 pints/day. Best for smaller rooms and light water damage.

• XL Rated: Mid-size units designed for moderate flooding. They remove 130–150 pints/day with airflow around 250–350 CFM.

• XXL Rated: Heavy-duty, high-capacity units that remove 200–300+ pints/day. Ideal for industrial-size drying and severe water damage.

Xactimate Pricing by Category:

• X Rated: ~$100–$115/day (e.g., XPOWER XD-85L2 - 85 PPD / 180 CFM)

• XL Rated: ~$120–$145/day

• XXL Rated: ~$150–$180+/day (e.g., XPOWER XD-165L - 280 PPD / 476 CFM)

Choosing a higher-rated model can significantly reduce drying time and increase billable rates during insurance-covered restoration jobs.

What Do CFM and Water Removal Capacity Ratings Mean?

When comparing dehumidifiers, you’ll often see two key performance specs: CFM and water removal capacity. Here's what they mean:

CFM – Cubic Feet per Minute

CFM measures the airflow rate—how much air the dehumidifier can move in one minute.

• Higher CFM = faster drying over large or open areas.

• Example: A unit rated at 476 CFM circulates 476 cubic feet of air every minute.

Water Removal Capacity

Dehumidifiers are tested under different environmental conditions. You’ll usually see two ratings:

• AHAM Rating (80°F, 60% RH) – Industry standard for comparing units in typical indoor environments. Example: 165 PPD at AHAM = 165 pints/day under average indoor conditions.

• Saturation Rating (90°F, 90% RH) – Maximum performance in high heat and humidity. Example: 280 PPD at Saturation = peak removal rate under extreme moisture levels.

Both are important, but AHAM gives you the most realistic performance expectation in real-world scenarios.

Choosing the Right Size and Capacity

Capacity is often measured in pints per day (PPD)—the amount of water a dehumidifier can remove in 24 hours.

Consider the following:

• Severity of damage: Heavily saturated spaces may require multiple high-capacity units.

• Size of the area: Larger facilities will need units with a greater airflow rating (CFM).

• Ambient temperature and humidity: Choose LGR for warmer, humid environments; desiccants for cooler or dry zones.

• Power source and portability: Ensure your facility can support the power demands. Wheels and handles help with repositioning.

Additional Features to Look For

• Built-in humidistat: Automatically regulates humidity levels.

• Digital controls: For precise settings and real-time monitoring.

• Drain hose or pump-out system: For continuous operation without manual tank emptying.

• Stackable design: Saves space during storage and transport.

Dehumidifier Placement Tips

• Place dehumidifiers centrally in the affected area.

• Avoid positioning near walls or obstacles.

• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent re-humidification.

• Use air movers in conjunction with dehumidifiers to speed up evaporation.

Featured Brand: XPOWER® Dehumidifiers

XPOWER is the leading brand we currently carry for water restoration equipment. Built for professionals, XPOWER offers robust dehumidifiers for every size job:

• ✅ XPOWER XD-85L2 – Compact LGR model with 85 PPD water removal and 180 CFM airflow (X Rated)

• ✅ XPOWER XD-165L – XXL powerhouse with 280 PPD removal and 476 CFM airflow

These models are stackable, energy efficient, and built for fast deployment in commercial water-damage scenarios.

Learn more about XPOWER's restoration technology: Read the full product story
Shop all XPOWER Equipment: Browse Equipment

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right dehumidifier is critical to restoring a commercial space efficiently and safely. Whether you're managing a water-damaged office, retail center, or industrial facility, selecting a unit tailored to your needs will help reduce downtime and protect your property from long-term damage.

Looking for professional-grade commercial dehumidifiers? Monster Janitorial offers a wide selection of LGR and desiccant units, perfect for flood recovery and moisture control in any environment.

❓Need help selecting the right equipment? Contact us today or call 956-772-4842 for expert recommendations.

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