Frigidaire FFAD7033R1 is the newest model from the brand that is intended to replace the older model, FAD704DWD. This new model offers pretty much the same functionality as the previous model with a few changes that are designed to make the dehumidifier a little less noisy than its predecessor.
As we had also reviewed FAD704DWD previously, we will be comparing some of the features of this new model with it, pointing out the pluses and minuses the FFAD7033R1 has against the older model.
In addition to advanced features like low temperature operation, easy humidity control, Energy Star rating, optimum mobility, full bucket alert and auto-shut down that we had come to expect from Frigidaire models, FFAD7033R1 also offers novelties like three fan speeds and side exhaust.
Basic Features
- Three fan speed settings
- Energy Star rated
- Full bucket alert
- Auto shut-down
- Low temperature operation
- Ready Select electronic controls, 24 hour timer, control lock
- Digital humidity display
- Effortless Humidity Control
- Front loading bucket with splash guard
- Top and side handles, caster wheels
Detailed Features
Three Fan Speeds
FFAD7033R1 is equipped with a three fan speed setting which allows you to control the rate of moisture removal and the noise level. The three options (Hi, Med and Low) can be used in different situations. You can use the high fan speed setting if the space is too humid and you need faster dehumidification, then leave the dehumidifier running at medium speed, or use the low setting if there is not much excess moisture and you want to keep the noise level down.
Reduced Noise Level
The biggest change Frigidaire introduced with FFAD7033R1 is the placement of the air intake and exhaust. Unlike the previous models that had air intake on the front and exhaust on the top, this new model has air intake at the back and exhaust on the side. This new approach actually lowers the noise level (or at least makes it easier to direct the noise away from where you are).
However, one problem with this new system is that you cannot place the dehumidifier too close to a wall since such placement would hamper air intake and stop the dehumidifier from working effectively. If you will be using the dehumidifier in a rather compact space, then the FAD704DWD could actually be a better choice.
Low Temperature Operation
Like the previous models, the FFAD7033R1 can be operated in temperatures as low as 41 Fahrenheit. The dehumidifier is equipped with an automatic defrost feature: when the room temperature is between 41°F and 59°F, the compressor will stop and the fan will kick in with high speed until the defrosting is complete.
Easy Humidity Control
This new Frigidaire model is also equipped with an Effortless Humidity Control system which allows setting the desired humidity level anywhere between 35% and 85%.
Fan Shut-Off
The fan does not continuously. It will cycle on and off depending on the humidity level. Once the as the set humidity levels are reached, the compressor shuts down and the fan will cycle off for about 5 minutes.
Easy to remove front pull-out bucket
Frigidaire made a good job in making the condensate bucket easy to remove. And this is quite good since the bucket is smaller in comparison to other models and you will be emptying it more often if you are not using the continuous drainage option.
Full Bucket Alert and Auto Shut-Down
The unit is equipped with a full bucket alert that will warn the user when the condensate collection bucket is full (which, considering the fact that the bucket in this model is only 13.1 pint, will happen more often than before). The dehumidifier will also shut down automatically when the bucket is full and not emptied by the user.
Continuous Operation
Like most of the highest rated dehumidifier models, this unit also offers continuous operation. You can connect it to a floor drain with a garden hose to continuously drain the water, hence allowing the dehumidifier run without interruption. Alternatively, you may want to purchase the optional drain pump to make it easier to drain the water without relying on gravity and eliminating any potential headaches.
Digital Display and Controls
FFAD7033R1 70-pint is equipped with digital humidity display, a 24-hour on and off timer and control lock that make the unit very easy to use and effective. The humidity display is quite accurate and effectively measures the RH levels. The timer is also a nice touch as it makes it easy to set the unit to start working while you are not at home (this way, you can set it to remove the excess moisture before you arrive).
Optimum Mobility
One of the most important and often underrated features that should be present in any good dehumidifier is the mobility, and Frigidaire did a good job in that regard with this model. The extendable top handle, side handles and caster wheels make the dehumidifier very easy to move from room to room, effectively increasing its usability.
However, the top handle is not of the highest quality and may break after a few months. Luckily, the side handles can be used in such a case, especially if you don’t want to bother with obtaining a new handle or repairing the broken one.
The cord storage is also nicely designed and makes it very easy to store the unit for any prolonged period of non-usage.
Washable anti-bacterial mesh filter
This new 70-pint dehumidifier is equipped with a washable anti-bacterial mesh filter. It is advised to remove and clean the filter every two weeks under normal usage conditions. The filter is very easy to remove (you just pull the tabs and remove the filter).
The cleaning is quite easy to do too. All you need to do is to wash the filter with clean water and then wait for it to dry. It is not advised to use hairdryers or any other artificial heat sources to dry the filter. The filter indicator lights when the filter needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Warranty
Frigidaire offers a limited 1 year warranty for the dehumidifier and a 2-5 year limited warranty for sealed components including the condenser, compressor and the evaporator.
Practical Tips
Although dehumidifiers are not that hard to use efficiently, some users still have problems due to misuse or simple mistakes. These problems can be avoided with a few simple steps, making your dehumidifier a lot more efficient and protecting it against possible malfunctions.
First of all, it’s advised to run the dehumidifier with factory settings (meaning maximum fan speed for the first two to three days to remove all the excess humidity). Afterwards, the speed can be adjusted according to your needs. This is especially true if the humidity levels are too high in your region.
Secondly, Frigidaire made sure that the noise level is lower in this model, and if you are experiencing loud noises, you should check the floor you placed the dehumidifier on. Most users who complain from loud noise make the mistake of placing the dehumidifier on wooden floor or an uneven surface. The vibrations caused by such placement are the source of the extra noise in eight out of ten cases.
The fan in this model does not run continuously. It should cycle off automatically after the compressor shuts down. If the dehumidifier is running continuously, you should first check if there are any windows or doors near the dehumidifier are open to the outside. If that is the case, close them since contact with outside air will greatly reduce the dehumidifier’s effectiveness and force it to run almost continuously. Another reason for this problem may be the size of the space. If the room/space is too big for the dehumidifier (Frigidaire considers 70-pint dehumidifiers to be suitable for up to 2500 sq. ft.), it will try to run all the time to remove the moisture.
And last but not least, make sure that the air flow to the grill (front) and the coil (rear) is not obstructed under any circumstances.
Verdict
- Lower noise levels in comparison with other models
- Easy humidity control
- Accurate humidity measurement and display
- 24-Hour On/Off Timer
- Optimum mobility with side handles and caster wheels
- Energy Star certified, efficient dehumidifier
- Small condensate bucket (13.1 pint against the previous model's 16.3 pint)
- The price is higher than the previous model
If you are looking for a high quality dehumidifier that can remove up to 70-pints of moisture a day without too loud a noise level, Frigidaire FFAD703RR1 is definitely a model you need to check out and consider. The only thing that would deter you from going with this model would be if you have a compact space and need a dehumidifier that you can place very close to a wall, in that case, we would recommend going for the older but yet very efficient FAD704DWD.
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