Dri-Z-Air vs DampRid Dehumidifiers | Which One Will be Ideal for Your RV’s Humidity Control Solution
Deciding between Dri-Z-Air and DampRid dehumidifiers for your RV can be tricky. Both absorb moisture and help control humidity, but they have key differences in how they work and perform.
In this in-depth guide, I’ll compare Dri-Z-Air and DampRid side-by-side across several factors like materials, operation, capacity, coverage area, ideal humidity range, and more. I’ll also overview the unique pros and cons of each to help you determine which is the best choice for your specific RV moisture control needs.
Side-by-Side Differences Between Dri Z Air and DampRid
To start, let’s overview how Dri-Z-Air and DampRid units are similar and different when it comes to critical specifications:
Material Used
The core material used for moisture absorption is the same in both Dri-Z-Air and DampRid dehumidifiers – calcium chloride. This hygroscopic compound has a high affinity for water molecules.
Both brands utilize calcium chloride beads or particles inside permeable pouches. The moisture-absorbing substance is contained yet exposed to air, allowing the units to efficiently extract humidity from the surrounding environment.
Operating System
Dri-Z-Air and DampRid use a non-electrical passive operating system. There are no batteries or power sources; instead, they work through natural chemical absorption.
Ambient moisture migrates to areas of lower humidity. The calcium chloride inside has a lower moisture content than the surrounding air, creating a moisture gradient. As humidity passes through the pouches, the calcium chloride binds to water molecules, pulling them from the environment.
So both operate on the same basic principles of chemical moisture absorption. No power is needed for either unit.
Serviceability
The serviceable lifespans of Dri-Z-Air and DampRid units depend on environmental conditions but typically last between:
Dri Z Air: 30 to 60 days after refiling
DampRid: Up to 45 days after refiling
In higher humidity environments, they will absorb more moisture and need replacing sooner. In drier spaces, they can run longer before reaching full absorption capacity.
Both manufacturers recommend replacing the calcium chloride beads once they’ve fully liquified. The pouches can then be refilled and reused over several cycles before needing full unit replacement.
So Dri-Z-Air tends to operate slightly longer before requiring a refill, but DampRid also allows multi-use across numerous refilling cycles.
Coverage Area
The estimated coverage areas for humidity control are:
Dri Z Air: 100 sq ft
DampRid: Up to 300 sq ft
So DampRid dehumidifiers have around triple the specs for moisture absorption space. A single unit can keep a larger area of an RV interior dry.
Several factors determine actual coverage like humidity levels, air circulation, and containment. But in equivalent spaces, DampRid offers substantially more square footage capacity.
Working Level
The operable humidity ranges are:
Dri Z Air: Can work up to 50% humidity level
DampRid: Up to around 40% humidity level
So Dri-Z-Air can provide moisture protection in environments with up to 50% relative humidity, while DampRid performs optimally under 40%.
In very damp areas like bathrooms or humid external conditions, Dri-Z-Air may maintain some dehumidification where DampRid units max out. So Dri-Z-Air has a 10% higher humidity tolerance.
Summary
| Factor | Dri-Z-Air | DampRid |
| Core Material | Calcium Chloride | Calcium Chloride |
| Operating System | Non-electric passive absorption | Non-electric passive absorption |
| Servicing Lifespan | 30-60 days per refill | Up to 45 days per refill |
| Coverage Area | 100 sq ft | Up to 300 sq ft |
| Working Humidity Range | Up to 50% RH | Up to 40% RH |
Benefits and Drawbacks of Dri Z Air and DampRid
Now that we’ve compared the key specifications, let’s analyze the unique advantages and disadvantages of these two popular RV dehumidifier brands:
Dri Z Air pros include: a longer servicing lifespan per refill, can withstand higher humidity levels up to 50%, locking slide lid to prevent spills, and are wall mountable for positioning flexibility. However, cons are: lower moisture absorption capacity, smaller 100 square foot coverage area per unit, and surface beads can spill if knocked over when lid is open.
DampRid pros are: much larger 300 square foot humidity control range, multi-use and reusable pouches, hanging tab for placement options, and low profile bucket design. However cons include: shorter duration vs Dri Z Air when refilled, doesn’t perform above 40% relative humidity, and no spill-proof lid option.
As you can see, there are good reasons to choose either brand depending on your specific humidity control needs inside your RV. Key considerations are humidity tolerance ranges, coverage capacities, and convenience factors like mounting abilities or lid security. Analyze your interior layout, typical humidity ranges, and safety requirements with pets or children to decide whether Dri-Z-Air or DampRid RV dehumidifiers are the smarter solution.
Which One Will Be Ideal for Your RV?
Determining whether Dri-Z-Air or DampRid is the better choice for your motorhome or camper comes down to a few key considerations:
Humidity Levels: If moisture is moderate, with relative humidity <40%, DampRid works excellently. When dampness exceeds 40%, like in bathrooms or wet weather, Dri-Z-Air can handle higher humidity.
Coverage Area: For larger interior moisture protection across multiple rooms, DampRid buckets offer substantially more square footage capacity. Go with Dri-Z-Air for concentrated areas.
Location: Dri-Z-Air has a slide lid and wall mount for safe positioning in high-traffic areas or over beds. DampRid works well in closets, below sinks, and similar enclosed spots.
Analyze the humidity concerns in your RV and unique needs for convenience. Calculate the total interior space that requires moisture protection. This determines how many units are required.
While both brands utilize calcium chloride for dehumidification, DampRid lasts longer and covers more area per pouch, while Dri-Z-Air handles greater humidity swings. Ensure the choice aligns with your specific camper conditions and setup requirements.
With this breakdown of similarities and differences, you now have the knowledge to decide whether Dri-Z-Air or DampRid RV dehumidifiers are the smartest solution for controlling dampness and preserving air quality inside your motorhome.
