How we rate
We don't test products by hand.
We read the certified numbers.
A source for every specification. An honest limit on every score.
DOE · ENERGY STAR · AHRI · NEEP
What we do
- Read certification records for the exact model.
- Separate rating conditions and product groups.
- Link source evidence and flag missing specifications.
- Display a source and date with each price.
What we don't do
- No lab or home testing.
- No ranking on box claims when certified data exists.
- No star averages or invented customer ratings.
- No paid placement.
Four public databases
DOE
Test rules and SACC.
ENERGY STAR
Capacity, efficiency and yearly energy.
AHRI
SEER2 and HSPF2 for matched systems.
NEEP
Heating output at 5°F.
When no database covers a specification, we use the maker’s manual and label it “maker’s claim”. Listing or box claims remain distinct from historical capacity labels.
The box number, then the rated one
Waykar CTH120A
Senville SENA-18HF-OG / SENA-18HF-IGG
A spec score, not a test score
Our Spec score summarizes published specifications, not hands-on results. Missing or unverified specifications earn zero for that factor. We show a score only when certified capacity for a dated price, certified IEF and drainage are documented, and at least 90% of the weighted evidence is available. Otherwise we show “Insufficient published specs”. Portable and whole-home scores use separate rating groups and must not be compared. Manufacturer noise claims may use different measurement conditions.
Dehumidifiers · approved method v1.0
| Factor | Weight | Anchor |
|---|---|---|
| Certified capacity for dated price | 30% | $5/certified pint portable; $25 whole-home |
| Efficiency · IEF | 25% | 2.5 L/kWh portable; 3.5 whole-home |
| Drainage and pump | 20% | Built-in pump: 2 points; confirmed gravity drain: 1 |
| Lowest operating temperature | 10% | Full at ≤35°F; zero at ≥50°F |
| Published noise | 10% | Full at ≤40 dB; zero at ≥60 dB; highest published speed |
| Warranty | 5% | Base term; full at 5 years |
Value points = 3 × min(1, anchor × certified capacity ÷ price). Efficiency points = 2.5 × min(1, IEF ÷ anchor). Temperature = clamp((50 − °F) ÷ 15); noise = clamp((60 − dB) ÷ 20); warranty = 0.5 × min(1, base years ÷ 5). Sum unrounded points, then decimal half-up to one place. Tied displayed scores are ties. The weights are editorial choices, not certification thresholds.
No numerical scoring method is approved for humidifiers, mini splits, or portable ACs. Scores do not measure reliability, safety, installation quality, or customer satisfaction.
No date, no price
Dated price
$249.99 Archived Amazon · as of
Exact pump offer could not be verified on Oct 17, 2026; its purchase link is disabled. Displayed prices are dated historical snapshots.No dated price
Check the retailer for the current offer.
Exact pump offer could not be verified on Oct 17, 2026; its purchase link is disabled. Displayed prices are dated historical snapshots.How we make money
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