Best Dehumidifier for Gun Safe In Garage
If you are placing a gun safe in your garage, you should be aware of the increased chance of moisture getting into your safe and potentially growing mould or causing other damage. In order to avoid this, you should find a dehumidifier to prevent any damage to your belongings. For a gun safe, you should place the dehumidifier inside and on the floor of the unit. Read on to learn more about the best options for a gun-safe dehumidifier.
Picking the Best Dehumidifier for a Gun Safe
Just as there is not only one option when choosing a gun safe, there are many different options available to you for dehumidifiers. You should take into account factors such as the size of your gun safe, for instance, so that you can choose the best dehumidifier option for you. However, since there are so many options, it can also become overwhelming to choose the perfect dehumidifier. Take it feature by feature to determine the best option for you and your gun safe, and look at the factors below to learn more.
Size
Gun safe dehumidifiers come in different shapes and sizes. Some are compact and can fit into tight spaces, while others may require more space in the room it is set up in. Take into account the size– and the shape, if it is an odd shape– of your gun safe when choosing a dehumidifier. Obviously, if you choose a dehumidifier that is too large for your gun safe, it will not do the job you need it to do.
Capacity
You’ll also need to do the proper research to see if your chosen dehumidifier can cover the space you need it to cover. Take a look at the product description to see the maximum amount of cubic feet that it can cover so that you can determine whether or not it is a good pick for your gun safe. You will likely need to do some math to find out this number. Simply multiply the internal width times internal depth times internal height to find out the cubic feet of the interior of your safe. This is the number that your dehumidifier must be able to cover.
Cordless vs Corded
Dehumidifiers come in both cordless and corded models. Depending on your gun safe and your unique set of requirements, either of these options could work. Cordless options are typically considered to be more convenient and easier to install– in fact, they do not require any installation. Corded models, however, do need to be installed and may require the safe to be located somewhere close to outlets. Corded models may also require that the safe have holes where the electric cables and cords can pass through. Most modern safes do have these already, so if your gun safe is a newer model, you may be all set and will not need to drill the holes yourself!
Visual Recharge Indicator
The visual recharge indicator is a light or other feature that quickly alerts you when the dehumidifier needs to be recharged or reactivated. Certain models of dehumidifiers show different colors in the bead when they are running low on charge, while others show an indicator light. A dehumidifier’s recharge frequency is dependent upon a few things– the cubic feet being dehumidified, the level of dryness of the beads, and the surface area and a number of beads.
Performance
The performance of a dehumidifier is also important to take into consideration. You should think about its longevity and reliability. A great option for a long-lasting dehumidifier is an electric rod model. These do require a power connection. Another high-performing and long-lasting option would be a desiccant dehumidifier. These do not need a power connection but must be recharged. Thus, your dehumidifier choice hinges on all of these factors, but also on your preferences and lifestyle.
Maintenance
Whatever model of dehumidifier you choose, it is important that you are aware of how to properly maintain it. A dehumidifier will only last and do its job successfully if taken care of correctly. For instance, when a dehumidifier absorbs a lot of moisture, you will need to recharge or reactivate it. Due to this, it is wise that you search for a model that is easy to reactivate, as you will have to do so often. For reactivation, there are some models that require you to plug them in, while there are others that require you to bake them in an oven.
Reviews
As with any product, always pay attention to customer reviews! This is perhaps the easiest way for you to determine a dehumidifier’s quality, and also allows you to compare and contrast it easily with other models. Customer reviews will clearly outline some of the pros and cons of the product– it is important that you make sure these reviews are from a reputable site, and not biased by paid advertisers, for instance.
Types of Gun Safe Dehumidifiers
There is not only one type of dehumidifier for a gun safe. In fact, these come in four different categories, which also range in cost, practicality based on your needs, and sizes. Below we discuss these different categories and what sets them apart.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
These types of dehumidifiers do not work to dry the air, but rather absorb the moisture from the air. However, like all types of dehumidifiers, they combat moisture and humidity in a space. To do this, desiccant dehumidifiers utilize silica gel beads, which are typically enclosed in a sort of packet. Silica gel works well to absorb moisture and can often be found in packaging– for example, when you buy a pair of shoes, you will often find a silica packet in the box. These types of dehumidifiers have silica gel packets for absorbing specific amounts of moisture, and then they must be recharged or replaced– depending upon the model– once that threshold is met.
One of the key benefits of this kind of dehumidifier is that it does not require any power source, whether electricity or batteries. All you have to do is place them inside the gun safe and then be sure to check in every once in a while to ensure that they are still functioning and do not need any additional maintenance such as a recharge. These are best for small gun safes, since their capacity for moisture has a limit, unlike some of the other dehumidifier options. Some of the key elements of desiccant dehumidifiers are as follows.
- Easy to use
- Inexpensive
- Wireless
- Do not need batteries or electricity
- Limited capacity
- Best for small safes
Electric Dehumidifiers
Electric dehumidifiers are one of the most convenient options on this list. These do require either a battery or electrical outlet to function, unlike desiccant dehumidifiers. Also unlike desiccant dehumidifiers, these types of dehumidifiers use heat. This means that they do not absorb the moisture from the air. After an electric dehumidifier has heated up, it will then create a steady, consistent temperature, which may cause a bit of condensation. Electric dehumidifiers are also considered to be more powerful and reliable than desiccant models. On the other hand, it is important to note that installation may be trickier due to the need for cords and outlets– you may have to drill holes in your gun safe to properly install this kind of dehumidifier. Some of the important elements of electric dehumidifiers are listed below.
- Good for large areas
- Easy to maintain
- Ideal for humid environments
- Great temperature control to prevent condensation
- Requires a power source
Electric Rod Dehumidifiers
The third category of dehumidifiers is the electric rod dehumidifier. These types of dehumidifiers are usually used to remove corrosion, mould, mildew, and rust within a gun safe. They feature a rod, which heats up with an electrical power source– hence the name. This helps them to keep the air warm inside the safe, thus eliminating moisture. For small safes or those without a lot of room, these are some of your best bets. There are also different sizes available, so there is likely to be a model that fits your needs and your safety. Electric rod dehumidifiers do not need to be recharged like some of the other types of models do, as they use electrical power to function. Some of the key elements of this kind of dehumidifier are below.
- Different size options
- Do not need to be recharged
- Easy to maintain
- Use electrical power
- Great for dealing with rust and corrosion
Dryers
The fourth and final category of gun-safe dehumidifier is what is known as a dryer. They function a bit differently than some of the models we have previously discussed. Dryers release warm air into the safe, which allows the moisture in the safe to dry, thus avoiding the growth of any mould or mildew. These also require a power source and are not wireless options, so installation can be a pain if you do not have one of the newer safes that already have holes in the bottom for wires. With this dehumidifier option, you will also need a stable, reliable power connection. Some of the important aspects of dryers are below.
- Release heat into the air to combat moisture
- Use electrical power
- Not cordless
- Installation can be challenging
Why Should I Get a Dehumidifier for a Gun Safe?
There are several reasons for a homeowner to get a dehumidifier for their gun safe. Spaces like garages or basements are areas that are high in humidity. Due to this, a gun safe in one of these locations has a big chance of being adversely affected by the humidity, and this is why having a dehumidifier in the safe is so crucial. Some of the reasons that you should get a gun-safe dehumidifier and the effects that basement humidity has are as follows.
Prevents Mold and Mildew
High levels of moisture and humidity can lead to a buildup of mould and mildew within your gun safe. A dehumidifier works to eliminate any moisture in the air, so can effectively combat mould growth in a room– or in your gun safe! Mould and mildew can damage your guns, as well as the safe itself, and can also create a musty or stale odour in the safe.
Prevents Rust or Corrosion
A dehumidifier also helps to prevent any sort of rust or corrosion that might affect your guns. The moisture in the air can end up creating rust, as well as starting any corrosion on your guns and gun safety, since both are made of metal. These sorts of damages could cost you a lot of money to fix.
Best Dehumidifier Options for Gun Safe
Below are some great dehumidifier options for a gun safe, covering some of the best models from electric dehumidifiers to desiccant dehumidifiers. Read on to learn more!
Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier
This dehumidifier is convenient because it is small, but also wireless! It is a silica gel dehumidifier, so has no need for a power source. It can also be hung from the top of a gun safe or placed on the floor– whichever you prefer. It operates silently and has a convenient indicator window so you know when it needs to be reset. One of the customer complaints about this model, though, is that it can get very hot.
LOCKDOWN Goldenrod Dehumidifier Rod
This is an electric rod dehumidifier and requires a power source and a power outlet. It is not a cordless option, so installation may be more difficult than with some other dehumidifier options. This particular model is also available in four different sizes, so it is easy to find an option that works with the size and space available in your gun safe. Attachable legs come with this model as well for easy placement. The LOCKDOWN Goldenrod Dehumidifier Rod comes with a lifetime warranty.
PEET Safekeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier
The PEET Safekeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier is an example of an electric dehumidifier. While it is electric and requires a power source, this model is still fairly energy efficient. It consumes less power than the typical light bulb, so you do not have to worry about costly electricity bills when implementing this dehumidifier. This option is best for safes that are smaller than 300 cubic feet, and as it is electric, it requires both a power source and a power outlet for the cord. It also comes with a 5-year warranty.
Barska Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier
This model is a desiccant dehumidifier, using silica gel to absorb the moisture in your gun safe. It is a pouch that can easily fit in small or narrow spaces, so great for gun safes of all sizes! When it has reached its moisture threshold, the indicator changes colours from blue to pink. You will then have to microwave the pouch in order to evaporate the moisture so it can be used again. This option is renewable and energy-efficient, as it does not require any sort of power source or power outlet– the silica gel gets the job done.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size dehumidifier do I need for my gun safe?
There are two types of gun-safe dehumidifiers, which are known as desiccant dehumidifiers and electric dehumidifiers. When it comes to the best size of a dehumidifier for your gun safe, this depends on the size of the gun safe itself. For example, if your gun safe is over 300 cubic feet, you should find a dehumidifier that is at least 24 inches long. However, if the gun safe is under 100 cubic feet, a 12-inch long model should be fine.
Can you keep a gun safe in an unheated garage?
Many people recommend avoiding installing your gun safe in an unheated garage. However, you can certainly do so if you take into account certain precautions and ensure that you give the gun safe the proper maintenance. You will want to ensure that you install it by levelling it and creating an air pocket underneath, which avoids rust and ensures proper door swing. The main concern in a garage is humidity, so the implementation of a dehumidifier with gun-safe installation is key.
Do dehumidifiers work in gun safes?
Yes, dehumidifiers do work in gun safes. Certain dehumidifiers work by using silica gel– which is known as a desiccant– to absorb the moisture, while others function by drying the air itself inside the affected space.
Where is the best place to put a dehumidifier in a gun safe?
If you are putting a dehumidifier in a gun safe, the best place for it is on the bottom of the safe. You can choose to place the dehumidifier in either the back of the safe or towards the front– whichever you prefer– as long as it sits on the bottom of the safe for maximum performance. Most gun safes also come with predrilled holes on the bottom where electrical wires can be threaded through.
