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Table of Contents
- Types of Gun Safe Dehumidifiers
- Top 5 Best Dehumidifiers For Gun Safes
- Why should you invest in a safe dehumidifier?
- How to Pick the Best Gun-Safe Dehumidifier
- Garage Dehumidification Tips
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Gun safes are airtight, which reduces air circulation and can cause the humidity in the safe to rise. When exposed to high humidity, metal items such as guns are prone to rust and corrosion. This can lead to serious damage to your gun, or cause undesirable mold and mildew to develop on leather holsters, felt linings, and the like. If your safe is in a garage, it is particularly difficult to control the humidity in the safe because of fluctuating temperatures. But a good gun-safe dehumidifier can solve most humidity problems.
A dehumidifier is the best way to control the humidity in a gun safe. These devices absorb moisture from the environment or raise the temperature to lower the humidity, which keeps items safe from corrosion and rusting. Some of them work by drying the air inside the safe gun, while others use silica gel (a desiccant) to absorb moisture.
Types of Gun Safe Dehumidifiers
Gun Safe dehumidifiers are available in four major types for gun owners. They are:
Desiccant dehumidifiers/ Silica Gel Canister Dehumidifier:
This type is best described as a gun safe moisture absorber. It uses .use silica gel beads to absorb moisture. They are available in different shapes but they all have silica gel packets for absorbing a specific amount of humidity. Some of them require recharging while others should be replaced after they have absorbed the maximum amount of moisture. One of their major benefits is that they do not require electricity or batteries. Instead, you just place them in the gun safe and check them after every month to ensure that they are still functional. If you have a small safe, desiccant dehumidifiers are the best since they have a limited capacity for moisture. You may need to use several for larger safes. In terms of price, they are cheaper than the electric ones but the silica gel weakens after some time meaning that you may need to replace them.
Pros
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They are cheap
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Provide a wireless performance
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Very easy to use
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They do not require batteries or electricity
Cons
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Only suitable for small safes
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Limited capacity
Electric dehumidifiers
Electric dehumidifiers have become so popular due to their convenience. Unlike the desiccant dehumidifiers, these ones require batteries or an electric outlet to work. They use heat which means that they do not absorb moisture like the desiccant models. Once they heat up, they create a consistent temperature in the safe preventing temperature changes which may cause condensation. They are very powerful and more reliable than the desiccant dehumidifiers. However, they are a bit challenging to install since you may need to drill a hole inside the gun safe for power cords.
Pros
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Suitable for large areas
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Excellent temperature control to prevent condensation
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Easy maintenance
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Ideal for humid environments
Cons
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Requires power
Electric Rod Dehumidifiers
These models are mostly used to remove moisture, corrosion, mold and mildews inside the safe. They feature a rod that heats up through an electrical power. This enables them to keep the air warm inside the safe. As a result, they eliminate moisture. If you have a limited space in your safe, these ones are the best because they do not require a lot of space. They also come with different sizes which means that you need to confirm the size of your safe before buying. Another great thing about them is that they do not require recharging. Instead, they use electrical power to operate.
Dryers
Dryers work by releasing warm air into the safe which allows moisture to dry. The only problem with these models is that you will need to create a hole in the safe where the wire will pass. Another thing is that they need a reliable power connection.
Top 5 Best Dehumidifiers For Gun Safes
- Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier | Best Overall
- Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier 750G, 95902 | Portable
- PEET, Safekeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier for Gun Safes and Cabinets | Most Energy Efficient
- LOCKDOWN Goldenrod Dehumidifier Rod with Low Profile Design | Best for Small Spaces
- Barska Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier for Home Closets, Safes, and Cars | Best Budget
Today there are thousands of dehumidifiers on the market, and if you are not careful when buying, chances are that you may end up with a non-functional product or one that does not get the job done. We review the five best gun safe dehumidifiers, including the most common types of gun safe dehumidifiers, from the electric Goldenrod Dehumidifier to the cheaper silica gel dehumidifiers. You can also find branded products like the Liberty Safe dehumidifier and the Snap-On Products that will do the job, but the slightly higher price is not worth it, and the generic products provide better value, in our opinion.
Best Cordless Dehumidifier For Gun Safe
Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier | Best Overall
The Eva-Dry Wireless Mini Dehumidifier E 333, is a silica gel dehumidifier that is first on our list of the best dehumidifiers. It has a sleek and small design which means you can hang it or place it in a specific place where you want it to work. Due to its small size, it can be used in cars, cabinets, boats, gun safes, gym bags, costs, or anywhere else. It makes a perfect gift for everyone. Silica gel is an inert, non-toxic product you often see as little sachets or silica packets in packaging. It is easily stored on a shelf alongside pistol racks and ammo cans.
Another benefit of using the EVA Dry E 333 is that it is a cordless dehumidifier, so you don’t require batteries or electric cords to manage. Instead, it is rechargeable, which means convenience, and the silica gel beads last for 20-30 days after recharging. Unlike other dehumidifiers, this model uses crystallized silica beads, which absorb moisture up to 4 to 6 oz--sufficient for most small safes. The unit works for an interior safe volume of up to 333 cubic feet (In terms of price, the Eva Dry E 333 is pocket friendly, and the good thing is that it comes with a 5-year warranty.)
Pros
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Child and pet safe
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Convenient indicator window
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Silent operation
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Sleek design
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It lasts long after charging.
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100% spill and leak-free
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5-year warranty
Cons
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It gets too hot
Best Non-Powered Dehumidifier for Gun Safe
Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier 750G, 95902 | Portable
The Hornady Reusable Canister Dehumidifier is an excellent choice if you are searching for an effective dehumidifier that can keep your gun safe and free from rust, corrosion, and moisture.
This appliance uses a highly absorbent silica gel which is able to attract excess moisture from the surroundings. As a result, it is very effective in enhancing the overall condition of your guns. This appliance is very easy to use since it does not require any electrical equipment or batteries.
It also features humidity indicators that turn from blue to pink once it is time to recharge the desiccant dehumidifier units. When recharging, you should place each canister in a 300° F oven until the silica gel canister changes color to blue. This should take about 4 hours. You can use it even in small spaces such as cabinets, closets, hard cases, gun lockers, rifle safes, guns, boats, RVs, and bags.
Pros
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It looks nice
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Easy to maintain
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Ideal even for large gun safes
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Compact design
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Available in 2 colors
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Easy to use
Cons
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Poor-quality viewing window
Best Electric Dehumidifier for Gun Safe
PEET, Safekeeping Dryer and Dehumidifier for Gun Safes and Cabinets | Most Energy Efficient
Peet's Gun Safe Heater / Dehumidifier is another top-quality electric dehumidifier that will give you excellent value for your money.
To start with, this machine is very simple to use since you only need to plug it in and leave it to perform its functions. The machine also has easy-to-follow instructions for those not conversant with dehumidifiers. This can be your best choice for a dehumidifier if your cabinet or safes are not more than 300 cubic feet. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
In terms of power consumption, you will be pleased to note that the unit consumes less power than the standard light bulb, meaning that you don’t need to worry about high electricity bills. Besides that, it comes with a 5 years warranty meaning that it will exceed your expectations for many years. However, you need to register your product within the first 10 days after purchase if you want to benefit from the warranty.
Pros
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Easy to install
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Effective performance
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Budget-friendly
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Energy efficient
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5-year warranty
Cons
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You may need to buy a plug-in connector.
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You need a power socket/power source.
Best Dehumidifier Rod for Gun Safe
LOCKDOWN Goldenrod Dehumidifier Rod with Low Profile Design | Best for Small Spaces
The first thing you need to note about the LOCKDOWN GoldenRod Dehumidifier Rod is that they are available in 4 different sizes to ensure that they will match the size of your gun safe and provide a coverage area to match your needs. The four sizes are 36”, 24”, 18”, and 12 inches. Due to this, they are not only suitable for gun safes, but you can use them in different places, like in a boat or any storage area where you want to protect your items from humidity and mildew. They are made in the USA, so you should trust their quality.
These rods slightly increase the temperatures in the gun safe, creating the best environment for your firearms. As a result, they keep the safe gun free from any dangerous elements. Due to their design, you can fix them in smaller or less usable parts of the safe, which means that you don’t need to create extra space. When it comes to installation, a Lockdown Dehumidifier Rod comes with attachable legs for easier placement and a quick plug attachment that allows the cord to run through the back of your safe. The Golden Rod comes with a lifetime warranty to protect your guns for many years.
Pros
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Available in 4 sizes
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Easy to install
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Small profile
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It helps to prevent condensation.
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Covers up to 300 cubic feet
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Highly versatile
Cons
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Too hot to touch
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
Best Desiccant Dehumidifier for Gun Safe
Barska Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier for Home Closets, Safes, and Cars | Best Budget
The Barska Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier is an excellent accessory for storage compartments where you store moisture-sensitive items like firearms.
It is very effective in reducing the moisture content in the air, and this protects your valuables from mildew, corrosion, and mold. This desiccant dehumidifier is equipped with a patented color-changing indicator that turns from blue to pink once it evaporates the moisture. You can easily do this by placing it in a microwave for about 4 minutes at 600 Watts.
It is filled with Silicone Dioxide, which enables it to absorb moisture. Whether you are searching for a reliable desiccant dehumidifier for RVs, Cars, Safes, Closets, or storage containers, this unit will be a perfect choice. However, you need to ensure that the microwave area is clean because grease or oil may damage the appliance.
Pros
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Very safe to use
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Versatile
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Renewable
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It features a moisture indicator.
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Cheap price
Cons
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Inconsistent results
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Alternatives are cheap and can be bought at a hardware store
Easy ordering, low prices, and free shipping at Amazon. Click To Buy.
Why should you invest in a safe dehumidifier?
Investing in a dehumidifier for your gun safe offers a range of significant benefits, particularly if your safe is located in a high-humidity area such as a garage or basement.
Here are the key advantages of using a dehumidifier to protect your firearms and gun safe:
1. Prevents rusting and corrosion.
A dehumidifier is the most effective method of ensuring that the guns in your safe are free from rust and corrosion. This machine helps to absorb all the moisture that can cause rusting and corrosion. It also protects your guns from potential damages that can cost you a lot of money to fix. Since your gun safe is made of metal, it can also get damaged, meaning a dehumidifier is a very important accessory.
2. Mold and mildew.
A dehumidifier helps maintain optimal conditions within your gun safe by preventing mold and mildew buildup. In addition to causing potential damage to your firearms, mold and mildew can also lead to unpleasant odors inside the safe.
3. Extended time between recharging.
The good thing about dehumidifiers is that you do not need to recharge them every day. Once they are fully charged, they can last for more than 2 months.
4. Durability.
Constructed with high-quality materials, dehumidifiers are built to last for many years! Their durability ensures that your investment in a dehumidifier is a cost-effective, long-term solution for protecting your guns and gun safe.
How to Pick the Best Gun-Safe Dehumidifier
Searching for the best gun safe dehumidifier is not easy, especially if you are not sure which one you should pick. Below are some of the features that will help you to narrow down your search when comparing different models.
Cordless or corded
Depending on your requirements, you can choose either a cordless model or one with a cord. A cordless gun safe dehumidifier is the most preferred because of its convenience. Unlike the corded models, these ones do not require any installation. On the other hand, you may need to create a provision for the electric outlet, meaning that you may need to drill the safe where the cable will pass. Modern safes are equipped with electrical provisions, so you don’t need to drill.
Size
A gun safe dehumidifier can come in different shapes and sizes. This means that some may require extra space while others are compact to fit even in tight spaces. When buying, you must ensure that the model fits perfectly in the available space.
Capacity
Another important thing you need to think of is the maximum internal cubic feet of volume the unit can cover. This will allow you to know if it is the best for your safe. You can get this information from the product details: multiply the internal width times internal depth time and internal height to get cubic feet. This approximate number should be adequate.
Visual Indicator to Recharge
The best models are those with an indicator because they alert you when it is time to recharge or reactivate the machine. Some display different colors in the bead, but there are those that show a light. The recharge frequency depends on the surface area (and number) of gel beads, the cubic feet being dehumidified and the level of “dryness” of the beads.
Customer reviews
The easiest method of determining the quality of the dehumidifier is going through customer reviews. This allows you to compare the positives and the negatives of the product. However, make sure that the reviews are from a reputable website like Amazon.com.
Maintenance
Dehumidifiers can serve you for many years if you know how to maintain them. You need to reactivate the appliance when it has absorbed a lot of moisture. This means that you should look for a model that is easy to reactivate. Some may require to be heated in an oven, while others may need to be plugged in when reactivating.
Performance
If you are searching for a reliable dehumidifier that can serve you for many years, an electric rod dehumidifier will be an awesome choice. However, if you need a unit that can work even without a power connection, you should look for a desiccant dehumidifier, but you need to keep up with recharging.
Garage Dehumidification Tips
You can try several things to lower the moisture levels in your garage, which include:
Temperature Control:
The first thing you must do is control the temperatures. During winter or cold months, you should increase the temperatures; in the summer, you should try to reduce the temperatures inside the garage.Check ventilation:
You also need to ensure that your garage has the required level of ventilation. Ventilation helps to maintain the correct balance of the air inside and outside, which prevents condensation. If your garage has roof vents, you need to ensure they are always clean.Drainage :
Another important thing you should check is the drainage in the flow and rooftop. You should ensure that there are no leakages if you want to keep your garage dry. Check the floor drains to ensure that they are not obstructed. The downspouts should also be free from debris and dirt.Floor coating:
This coating minimizes condensation levels and protects your floor from wearing out. In order to enhance your safety, you should look for a slip-proof coating.FAQs
a) Do I need a dehumidifier for my gun safe?
A dehumidifier is an essential appliance if you have a safe where you store guns. With this appliance, you are sure that your firearms are safe from rust, corrosion, and other harmful elements. It also saves you the replacement costs to repair the guns or other items in the safe if they get destroyed by those dangerous elements. A safe dehumidifier is a must-have appliance for people living in areas with high humidity levels. The good thing is that even the best ones, like those we reviewed, are affordable.
b) How do dehumidifiers work?
These machines pull air through them where moisture is separated from the air. The dry air is then released back into the garage.
c) What size dehumidifier do I need for my gun safe?
Gun safe dehumidifiers are available in two types which are desiccant dehumidifiers and electric dehumidifiers. If your gun safe is more than 300 cubic feet, you should look for a model at least 24 inches long. On the other hand, a 12-inch long model is the best for gun safes that are not more than 100 cubic feet.
d) How long do gun safe dehumidifiers last?
Gun safe dehumidifiers have different lifespans; some may last up to 10 years while others like disposable desiccant dehumidifiers should be replaced within a day. The best thing you can do is purchase a model with an indicator to alert you when it is time to recharge.
e) Is it okay to put a gun safe in the garage?
Putting your gun safe in the garage is only advisable if there is no other alternative. In this case, you should bolt the appliance on the floor and make a closet around it.
f) How do I keep my gun safe dry?
The best way to ensure that your gun safe is dry is by using a dehumidifier. These machines are highly effective in preventing condensation and moisture, which can damage your expensive items.
g) Is DampRid Good for Gun safes?
Damp Rid is an excellent moisture absorber that you can use in a gun safe. It prevents condensation inside the gun safe by minimizing the humidity level.
h) What causes moisture to form in a gun safe?
Anything you place in the gun safe is likely to contain moisture. After some time, this moisture vapor may start to coalesce, leading to condensation in the safe.
i) Where should a dehumidifier be placed in a gun safe?
Dehumidifiers provide the best performance when placed at the bottom of the safe. The most advanced gun safes have pre-drilled holes at the bottom where the cords pass through. Alternatively, you can place it near the door, at the front, or deep inside the safe.
j) How long do desiccant dehumidifiers last?
Desiccant dehumidifiers use silica gel which needs to be replaced or recharged frequently. However, the refrigerant type can last for up to 5 years. Overall, a good desiccant dehumidifier should last for at least 1 year.
Conclusion
A dehumidifier is an essential item you must have in your garage, especially if this is where you have installed your gun safe. With a good dehumidifier for a gun safe or cabinet, you can protect your guns and other valuables from rust, corrosion, mold, and mildew due to moisture. There are different types of dehumidifiers which means that not all of them may be suitable for your gun safe or garage. However, we have already provided a list of the best dehumidifiers you should use in your garage. You can pick any of them since they are all reliable and affordable.
