Performance Test Results

Energy Efficiency

The APHL50LB draws more power than most other 50 pint dehumidifiers we’ve tested. We measured its power draw at 610 watts at 50% relative humidity. For comparison, the top rated Midea Cube draws only 512 watts at 50% RH.

Noise Output

The APHL50LB was measured at 71.2 dB of noise output on high power with our sound meter placed right above its control panel. It was measured at 65.7 dB on low power. These results are above average – meaning this unit is noisier than most other 50 pint dehumidifiers we’ve tested. It also emits a low pitched compressor noise that is very prominent on low fan speed and still audible on high fan speed. Top rated units completely mask compressor noise on high fan speed.

Moisture Removal

The GE APHL50LB lowered room humidity from 90% RH down to 40% RH in 8 minutes and 56 seconds in our moisture removal test. This was the average time over three different trials. Top rated units were able to lower room humidity from 90% RH down to 40% RH in under 8 minutes. The Frigidaire FFAD5034W1 did so in 7 minutes, 56 seconds on average, and the Midea Cube MAD50S1QWT did so in 7 minutes, 39 seconds.

We also measured how long it took each unit to lower room humidity from 80% RH down to 50% RH. The GE did so in 5 minutes, 8 seconds; the Frigidaire in 5 minutes, 1 second; and the Midea in 4 minutes, 48 seconds.

We used a 50 sq. ft. room for these tests with initial room humidity set above 90% RH to give the dehumidifier a “rolling start” to each test.

Hygrometer Accuracy

The APHL50LB’s built-in hygrometer is inaccurate. During testing, it repeatedly read room humidity to be at least 4% higher than the actual room humidity.

Included Features, Functionality, Build Quality, Warranties, and Value

Durability (Build Quality)

General Impressions

This unit features average build quality.

Consumer Feedback

This unit has received mostly positive reviews from consumers.

Overall Category Score

We give the APHL50LB an average score in the category – 3.5/5.

Adjustability

The APHL50LB features three fan speeds and a very basic timer that lets you set it to a delayed start or stop in one hour increments up to 24 hours.

Overall Category Score

Again, the APHL50LB earns an average score for the category – 3.5/5.

Versatility

Set Humidity Range

The APHL50LB lets you set a target humidity level between 35 and 80% RH in 5% increments. This is about average for a high capacity compressor based dehumidifier.

Operating Temperature Range

This unit’s operating temperature range is 41° F to 90° F.

Gravity Drainage

There’s a port on the side of the unit to which you can connect a garden hose to drain the unit using gravity.

Built-in Pump

There’s a port on the back of the unit to which you can connect an included 16 ft. long pump drain hose. You can use pump drainage to drain to a location above the dehumidifier. Using gravity you can only drain to a location below the dehumidifier.

Overall Category Score

Mostly because it features pump drainage, the APHL50LB earns a 5/5 for versatility.

Extra Features

Temperature Reading

This unit does not display ambient room temperature.

Defrost

This unit will automatically defrost if its evaporator coils freeze up.

Check Filter

There is an LED on the unit’s control panel that will alert you when its filter needs to be cleaned.

Overall Category Score

The APHL50LB earns a 4/5 in the category.

Ease of Use

LED Display Clarity

The APHL50LB LED display looks dated but it is easy to read. Warning lights are clear and easy to understand.

Setup Difficulty

The unit’s control panel is well-labeled – it’s easy and straight-forward to put it on the setting of your choosing.

Filter Removal Difficulty

It’s easy to remove the filter on the back of the unit.

Manual Clarity

The unit’s manual is easy to read and understand.

Water Tank Size

The APHL50LB’s water tank has a capacity of 15 pints. Most competitors have a bucket in the 12 to 13 pint range, though the top rated Midea Cube has a massive 34 pint tank.

Overall Category Score

All things considered, this GE dehumidifier earns a 4.5/5 for the category.

Portability

The APHL50LB weighs 42.8 lb. which is close to the average weight for a 50 pint dehumidifier. It has handles on the side which makes it fairly easy to pick up.

It does not have a buckle or a strap on the back to store its power cord.

Overall Category Score

Mostly because it lacks power cord storage, this unit only earns an average score – a 3.5/5 for the category.

Warranty (Manufacturer’s)

This unit comes with a 1 year warranty. Most competitors also come with a 1 year warranty.

Value

This unit usually retails for $279. It’s priced reasonably well for a 50 pint unit with a built-in pump.