The short answer
What Equipment Is Available for Rent
Rental centers in many areas carry air movers, which are high-velocity fans that speed evaporation on wet surfaces. You might also find refrigerant dehumidifiers and desiccant dehumidifiers, which pull moisture from the air. These machines are the same basic types the pros use, but the rental versions may be smaller or less powerful.
- Air movers for surface drying
- Refrigerant dehumidifiers for moderate moisture
- Desiccant dehumidifiers for low temperatures or heavy moisture
- Heat drying systems for faster evaporation
- Moisture meters to check progress
Renting vs. Hiring the Pros
Renting makes sense for small, contained spills where you can move furniture and reach the wet areas easily. You also have the time to run the equipment for several days and the physical ability to haul heavy machines up stairs or through doorways. The cost of rental often depends on the daily rate and the machine's size, and it depends on how long you need it.
For a flooded basement, soaked drywall, or water that has wicked up into walls, the pros bring industrial-grade units that dry faster and more evenly. They also know where to place the equipment and how to monitor moisture levels to prevent mold. If you choose to rent, expect to do a lot of the labor yourself, including moving furniture and checking the machines daily.
How to Use Rental Drying Equipment Safely
Set up the equipment in a well-ventilated area, and keep doors and windows open when using air movers to push humid air outside. For dehumidifiers, close the room off as much as possible so the unit can effectively pull moisture from the air. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for power cords and extension cables, and never run machines in standing water.
Check the collection tank on a dehumidifier regularly, especially in the first day or two, because it can fill quickly. If the machine uses a drain hose, make sure it leads to a floor drain or a bucket that you can empty. Move air movers around every few hours to target different wet spots, and use a moisture meter to see when the area is dry enough to stop.
- Keep doors and windows open for air movers
- Close the room for dehumidifiers
- Empty collection tanks often
- Use a drain hose if possible
- Move air movers to cover all wet areas
- Avoid running equipment in standing water
When Renting Might Not Be Enough
Rental equipment works well for surface moisture, but it struggles with water trapped inside wall cavities, under flooring, or in insulation. If you see bubbling paint, soft drywall, or a musty smell, the water has likely soaked deeper than the surface. In those cases, you may need to open up the structure to let air reach the wet materials.
The pros use specialized tools like moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden pockets of water, and they often combine drying with extraction and antimicrobial treatment. For a large or prolonged water event, the risk of mold and structural damage goes up quickly. If the drying process takes more than a few days, consider calling in help to avoid long-term issues.
What to Know Before You Rent
Check the rental yard's policy on delivery and pickup, and ask about the condition of the machines. Some units may have been used heavily and might not run at full efficiency, which can slow your drying time. Also, confirm the power source: many dehumidifiers need a standard outlet, but larger units may require a 240-volt connection.
If you live in a dry climate, the air can help with evaporation, but cold winters can slow drying if you don't heat the space. Rent the equipment for a few days to start, and extend if needed. Remember that you are responsible for any damage to the machine, so read the rental agreement before you leave the yard.
- Ask about delivery and pickup options
- Check the machine's condition before renting
- Confirm the power source and voltage
- Consider the climate and season
- Read the rental agreement for damage policies
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to rent drying equipment?
Rental costs vary by machine type and rental period. A small air mover might run $30 to $60 per day, while a commercial dehumidifier could be $100 to $200 per day. The final price depends on your location, the machine's capacity, and how long you need it. Always ask the rental yard for their daily rates.
Can I dry my home with just a fan and a dehumidifier?
For a small spill, a household fan and a dehumidifier can help, but they are often too weak for a significant water event. Professional-grade equipment moves much more air and removes more moisture per hour. If you see water damage on walls or floors, you likely need heavier equipment to prevent mold.
What if the rental equipment doesn't dry everything?
If the area still feels damp after a few days of running the equipment, the water may be trapped in hidden spaces. You might need to remove baseboards or cut small holes in drywall to improve airflow. If you suspect structural damage or mold, contact local water damage pros for an inspection.