ALORAIR or Aprilaire? Dehumidifiers Compared in 2026
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When you compare an ALORAIR vs aprilaire dehumidifier, you are looking at two distinct approaches to moisture control. Both brands target crawl spaces and basements with professional-grade durability. The main difference lies in capacity and drainage. The AlorAir offers higher removal rates and a built-in pump for vertical discharge. The AprilAire focuses on compact dimensions and corrosion-resistant coils for tight installations.
Key differences
| Aspect | AlorAir 120-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier with Pump | AprilAire 70-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Removal Capacity | 120 PPD (55 PPD AHAM) | Up to 70 PPD |
| Coverage Area | 1,500 sq ft | Up to 2,200 sq ft |
| Drainage Method | Built-in pump, gravity drain hose | Drain hose |
| Dimensions | 17.9 x 12.6 x 14.2 inches | 33 x 13 x 12.9 inches |
| Room Type | Crawl Space | Basement, Crawl Space |
Which one should you choose?
Choose AlorAir 120-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier with Pump if
- You need to remove more moisture from a smaller area quickly.
- You require vertical water discharge via a built-in pump.
- You want a shorter, wider unit that fits low clearances.
Choose AprilAire 70-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier if
- You need to cover a larger area up to 2,200 square feet.
- You need a unit that fits between joists or through small doors.
- You prefer corrosion-resistant aluminum coils for long-term durability.
Verdict: Choose the AlorAir if your priority is high moisture removal in a compact footprint with flexible pumping options. Select the AprilAire if you need to cover a larger square footage and require a tall, narrow design that fits into tight crawl space structures.
AlorAir vs Aprilaire Dehumidifier Showdown
Moisture removal capacity
The AlorAir Helios MP55 leads in raw power. It removes up to 120 pints per day under saturated conditions, or 55 pints per day under AHAM standards. This high output makes it suitable for very wet environments. The Aprilaire E070 removes up to 70 pints per day. While this is sufficient for many homes, it is lower than the AlorAir’s maximum potential. If you deal with severe standing water or extreme humidity, the AlorAir offers significantly more capacity to handle the load quickly.
Coverage area
Coverage claims differ between the two units. The AlorAir is rated for areas up to 1,500 square feet. In contrast, the Aprilaire E070 covers up to 2,200 square feet. This suggests the Aprilaire is designed to move air across a larger footprint, possibly due to its taller, vertical design. If you need to treat a wide, open basement or large crawl space, the Aprilaire’s higher square footage rating may be more appropriate for your layout.
Drainage flexibility
Drainage options are a key differentiator. The AlorAir includes a built-in pump that can push water vertically up to 19.6 feet. This allows you to discharge water through a window or sink when gravity drainage is not possible. It also supports gravity drain hoses. The Aprilaire relies on a standard drain hose for gravity flow. It does not list a built-in pump. If your crawl space lacks a floor drain or your only outlet is above the unit, the AlorAir’s pump provides essential installation flexibility.
Physical dimensions
Size matters for tight crawl spaces. The Aprilaire E070 is tall and narrow, measuring 33 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 12.9 inches high. Its compact footprint allows it to fit between joists and through standard crawl space doors. The AlorAir is shorter but wider and deeper, measuring 17.9 inches long, 12.6 inches wide, and 14.2 inches high. It weighs 41.7 pounds, while the Aprilaire weighs 56 pounds. If vertical clearance is limited, the AlorAir may fit better. If width is the constraint, the Aprilaire is narrower.
Smart features
The AlorAir offers more automated control options. It features automatic defrost, GPP mode, and pump mode. It also retains settings after power outages and supports an optional remote control. The Aprilaire E070 data does not mention smart modes or remote control capabilities in its standard configuration. It focuses on basic operation with a drain hose. If you want remote monitoring or automatic adjustments without manual intervention, the AlorAir provides more advanced operational features.
Which AlorAir or Aprilaire fits your needs
You need maximum moisture removal in large spaces
The AlorAir Helios MP55 removes up to 120 pints per day under saturated conditions. This high capacity handles areas up to 1,500 square feet effectively. You get a built-in pump that discharges water vertically up to 19.6 feet. This feature allows flexible drainage options in tight crawl spaces where gravity drains are not possible.
You want compact design for tight crawl spaces
The AprilAire E070 measures 12.5 by 12.5 by 25 inches. This compact footprint fits through most crawl space doors and between joists. It removes up to 70 pints per day for homes up to 2,200 square feet. You simply connect the included drain hose for continuous drainage without a water tray to empty.
You prefer smart operation with automatic restart
The AlorAir unit features smart set-and-forget operation with automatic defrost and pump mode. It automatically restarts and retains previous settings after a power outage. You can install it once and let it maintain balanced humidity with minimal oversight. The corrosion-resistant casing ensures reliable year-round operation in demanding environments.
You value US-made durability and long warranty
The AlorAir comes with a 6-year limited warranty with the first 2 years of full coverage. It is ETL-listed for safety. The AprilAire is designed and manufactured in the USA with corrosion-resistant aluminum coils. Both offer professional-grade durability. The AlorAir provides a more comprehensive warranty structure for your peace of mind.
The products compared
AlorAir 120-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier with Pump
Best for: large crawl spaces needing vertical drainage
- Moisture Removal Capacity
- 120 PPD (55 PPD AHAM)
- Coverage Area
- 1,500 sq ft
- Drainage Method
- Gravity drain hose, built-in pump
- Room
- Basement, Crawl Space, Garage
- Dimensions
- 17.9 × 12.6 × 14.2 inches
- Weight
- 41.7 pounds
View on Amazon: AlorAir 120-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier with Pump Affiliate link
This ALORAIR Helios MP55 handles up to 120 pints per day in saturated conditions, covering areas up to 1,500 square feet. It features a built-in pump that pushes water vertically 19.6 feet, offering flexible drainage for difficult spaces. The corrosion-resistant casing is designed for dust and moisture. It weighs 41.7 pounds and includes automatic restart capabilities. This unit suits large, demanding environments like basements and commercial areas.
Pros
- Removes 120 pints of moisture daily under saturated conditions
- Built-in pump discharges water up to 19.6 feet vertically
- Corrosion-resistant casing withstands dust and moisture
- Automatic restart retains settings after power outages
Cons
- Heavy 41.7-pound build requires sturdy support
- Remote control and installation kits sold separately
- AHAM rated capacity is lower at 55 pints per day
Good fit if
- You need to remove water vertically in a deep crawl space
- You require high moisture removal for large areas up to 1,500 sq ft
- You want a unit with automatic restart after power loss
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter unit under 30 pounds
- You want all necessary accessories included in the box
- You need a compact unit for small rooms under 500 sq ft
Verdict: ALORAIR Helios MP55 120-Pint Crawl Space Unit is a robust solution for large, damp spaces like crawl spaces where vertical drainage is essential. It fits buyers who prioritize high capacity and corrosion resistance over portability.
AprilAire 70-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier
Best for: tight crawl spaces with continuous drainage needs
- Moisture Removal Capacity
- Up to 70 PPD
- Coverage Area
- Up to 2,200 sq ft
- Drainage Method
- Drain hose
- Room
- Basement, Crawl Space
- Dimensions
- 33 × 13 × 12.9 inches
- Weight
- 56 pounds
View on Amazon: AprilAire 70-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier Affiliate link
The Aprilaire E070 is a commercial-grade dehumidifier designed for basements and crawl spaces up to 2,200 square feet. It removes 70 pints of moisture daily. The unit measures 12.5 by 12.5 by 25 inches, allowing it to fit between joists. It uses a continuous drain hose, so you never need to empty a water tray. The aluminum coils resist corrosion for long-term use.
Pros
- Removes up to 70 pints of moisture per day
- Compact 12.5 by 12.5 by 25-inch profile fits tight crawl spaces
- Continuous drain hose eliminates manual water tray emptying
- Corrosion-resistant aluminum coils for durability
Cons
- 70-pint capacity is lower than the 120-pint competitor
- No built-in pump for gravity-fed drainage
- Control panel is not included in the base unit
Good fit if
- You need a dehumidifier for a crawl space with limited height
- You want continuous drainage without a pump
- You need protection for up to 2,200 square feet
Skip if
- You require a higher 120-pint moisture removal capacity
- You need a built-in pump for gravity drainage
- You want integrated Wi-Fi or app control
Verdict: Aprilaire E070 70-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier fits homeowners who need a compact, drain-ready unit for tight crawl spaces. It suits those prioritizing physical fit and continuous drainage over maximum moisture removal speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | AlorAir 120-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier with Pump | AprilAire 70-Pint Crawl Space Dehumidifier |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Removal Capacity | 120 PPD (55 PPD AHAM) | Up to 70 PPD |
| Coverage Area | 1,500 sq ft | Up to 2,200 sq ft |
| Drainage Method | Gravity drain hose, built-in pump | Drain hose |
| Capacity | not stated | 70 Pint |
| Room | Basement, Crawl Space, Garage | Basement, Crawl Space |
| Features | Pump | not stated |
| Dimensions | 17.9 × 12.6 × 14.2 inches | 33 × 13 × 12.9 inches |
| Weight | 41.7 pounds | 56 pounds |
| Size | Large | 500-2200 sq. ft. |
| Color | White | Gray |
| Model | Helios MP55 | E070 |
Frequently asked questions
Which dehumidifier is better for a large crawl space?
The AlorAir Helios MP55 is the stronger choice for large, damp crawl spaces. It offers a 120-pint capacity, which removes moisture faster than the Aprilaire E070. Its design includes a built-in pump for vertical drainage, making it ideal for spaces where gravity drainage is not possible.
Can the Aprilaire E070 fit in tight spaces?
Yes, the Aprilaire E070 is designed for tight crawl spaces. It has a length of 33 inches and a width of 13 inches. This compact footprint allows it to fit into narrower areas where the larger AlorAir unit might not fit, prioritizing physical fit over maximum removal speed.
Does the AlorAir unit have a water pump?
The AlorAir Helios MP55 includes a built-in pump. This feature allows you to pump water vertically, which is essential for crawl spaces where the drain line needs to go up. The Aprilaire E070 does not list a pump in its specifications, relying instead on standard drainage methods.
What is the weight difference between these two models?
The AlorAir Helios MP55 weighs 41.7 pounds, while the Aprilaire E070 weighs 56 pounds. The Aprilaire unit is heavier, likely due to its construction and internal components. The AlorAir model is lighter, which may make it slightly easier to maneuver if you need to adjust its position.
Which model is better for continuous drainage needs?
The Aprilaire E070 is noted for continuous drainage needs in tight crawl spaces. It is designed to work seamlessly with a drain line for constant moisture removal. The AlorAir Helios MP55 also supports drainage but adds the option of a pump, giving you more flexibility in where you place the unit.
Is the AlorAir dehumidifier suitable for basements?
The AlorAir Helios MP55 is primarily rated for crawl spaces. While it has a high 120-pint capacity, its design focuses on vertical drainage and corrosion resistance for below-grade areas. The Aprilaire E070 is explicitly rated for both basements and crawl spaces, making it a more versatile option for general below-grade moisture control.