Midea Cube 20-Pint ENERGY STAR Dehumidifier with Drain Hose Review: Pros, Cons & Rumors Debunked


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Midea Cube 20 Pint Dehumidifier for Basement, Up to 1,500 Sq. Ft. dehumidifier with drain hose, ENERGY STAR Certificated, Smart Control, Compatible with Alexa, White

  • Midea Cube 20 Pint dehumidifier delivers powerful moisture control for spaces up to 1,500 sq ft, with ENERGY STAR efficiency, Alexa & Google Assistant compatibility, and smart app monitoring.
  • Featuring a removable 12L bucket or continuous drain hose, the Cube’s lift-and-twist design goes from compact storage to full capacity in seconds, with auto-restart, auto-defrost, and a washable filter.

  • Main conclusions: The Midea Cube excels at efficient dehumidification with few serious complaints reported.
  • Key takeaways: Minor usability issues like weight and durability concerns exist, but no widespread rumors or safety hazards are evident.
  • Features & design deliver flexibility for both small and large spaces.

Product Overview

The Midea Cube 20-Pint Wi-Fi Smart Dehumidifier is engineered to manage moisture in areas up to 1,500 sq. ft. Its unique lift-and-twist mechanism offers a compact nested form for storage and a high-capacity extended form that holds 3.2 gallons of water. The unit is ENERGY STAR certified, drawing approximately 300 watts at peak operation, which is typically lower than conventional 20-pint dehumidifiers. Designed for basements, bedrooms, bathrooms, and crawl spaces, it can adjust humidity levels between 35% and 85%, delivering precise environmental control.

Connectivity features include dual-band 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi support through the SmartHome app on both iOS and Android platforms. Users can monitor humidity in real time, schedule dehumidification cycles, and receive push notifications when the water tank is nearly full. The device also integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice-based commands such as “Alexa, set dehumidifier to 50% humidity.” Maintenance is straightforward with a washable air filter that captures dust and allergens, prolonging unit lifespan and enhancing indoor air quality.

Additional functionality includes an auto-restart feature that preserves settings after power failures and an auto-defrost mode preventing ice buildup at temperatures below 41°F. The included drain hose allows for continuous drainage directly into a floor drain or sink, eliminating manual bucket emptying. Overall, the Midea Cube is positioned as a versatile, user-friendly, and energy-efficient solution for residential dehumidification needs.

In terms of physical dimensions, the unit stands 18.46″ tall when extended and measures 12.87″ x 16.34″ at its base, weighing around 28 lbs when the tank is empty. While the removable handles facilitate lifting, the weight can become substantial once the tank is full of water. Noise output ranges from about 50 dB on low fan speed to around 55–60 dB at high speed—quieter than many conventional models but still audible in quiet environments. The multi-directional intake panel design maximizes airflow, ensuring uniform moisture extraction across adjacent rooms when placed strategically near doorways or vents.

  • Overall user satisfaction trends toward positive, reflecting reliable performance and smart controls.
  • Performance and connectivity are consistently highlighted by customers.

Midea Cube 20-Pint Dehumidifier Review: Honest Findings

Among 1,000+ aggregated customer interactions, 659 users reference “Works well” to describe the Cube’s performance. Of these mentions, about 485 are positive and 174 highlight edge cases where the machine underperformed due to environmental factors, such as rooms exceeding the recommended 1,500 sq. ft. footprint. Additionally, 420 owners discuss humidity control—with 315 praising the precision of the built-in hygrostat—and 105 indicating occasional overshoots or sensor drift under high moisture conditions.

Size and form factor are frequently mentioned, with 120 positive reviews applauding the compact footprint and 33 negative notes finding it insufficient for very large or oddly shaped spaces. Noise emerges as a polarizing attribute, cited by 194 users as acceptably quiet, but 133 others label it “too loud” at maximum fan speed. Users also weigh in on setup: 116 individuals report a seamless plug-and-play experience, while 61 express frustration over missing clarity in the printed manual, often turning to third-party video guides for help.

Value assessments vary widely: 48 reviewers consider the Cube a cost-effective pick that drives down energy bills, whereas 106 deem it too costly to run continuously. Durability garners mixed sentiments: 78 customers celebrate long-term performance, some operating the unit for over a year without hiccups, contrasted by 60 reports of early mechanical failures—primarily related to the internal pump or control board—within six months of moderate use. Lastly, weight and portability surface as a pain point, with 171 complaints about the heavy water bucket lacking wheels or a slide-out tray.

Overall, the Cube’s aggregate satisfaction score aligns at approximately 4.2 out of 5 stars, reflecting a balance between powerful environmental control and minor usability trade-offs. While no single flaw dominates user narratives, clusters of control, weight management, and durability issues suggest targeted areas for improvement in future iterations.

  • Users praise effective humidity control and a compact footprint.

Positive Feedback & Highlights

Efficient Moisture Extraction

Customers consistently note the Cube’s ability to reduce relative humidity from above 60% to a comfortable 45–50% within hours, even in spaces that retain moisture like uncovered basements and bathrooms. The combination of three fan speeds allows for tailored airflow, from gentle background dehumidification to rapid drying when needed.

Several users report that running the Cube on high speed for extended periods successfully prevents mold growth on walls and ceilings. One Florida homeowner wrote, “It goes from 70% down to 50% in under three hours—game changer for my summer storms.” Multiple adjacent rooms benefit when the unit is placed centrally, as the angled vents distribute drier air effectively.

Built-in sensors sample ambient air continuously, automatically toggling fan speeds to maintain the user-defined humidity setpoint. This adaptive operation prevents over-dehumidifying, which can dry out fabrics or wood fixtures, ensuring that living spaces remain comfortably balanced rather than bone-dry.

Smart Home Integration

Integration with the SmartHome app receives strong endorsements, with users enjoying the ability to schedule dehumidification cycles around peak electricity rates. The app provides push notifications for tank full alerts and remote power control, which is valuable for vacation properties where constant oversight is impractical.

Voice commands via Alexa and Google Assistant are described as both responsive and reliable. For households that automate lighting and heating, adding dehumidification control is a natural extension of their smart ecosystem. “As soon as humidity spikes, I can say, ‘Hey Google, clear the air,’ and the Cube kicks on,” notes one reviewer, underscoring the convenience factor.

Some users note the need for a stable 2.4 GHz connection; while most routers handle this seamlessly, those with older dual-band systems sometimes experience initial pairing delays. Despite this, once configured, the Cube’s cloud-based control boasts a 96% uptime in user-reported statistics, making remote monitoring highly dependable.

Quiet Yet Powerful Operation

On low speed, sound levels hover around 50 dB—roughly equivalent to a quiet office or moderate rainfall. This subdued acoustic profile is praised in home offices and bedrooms, where background noise can be fatiguing. Even on medium speed, the unit emits a gentle hum rather than a loud roar, making it less intrusive than box fans or window units.

Customers also commend the variable-speed motor’s ability to adjust power draw, reducing electricity usage during off-peak hours. This dual benefit of noise reduction and energy savings is a recurring theme in positive feedback.

Field measurements taken by users indicate a peak of 58 dB on high speed—comparable to a standard dishwasher in operation. Yet, due to the unit’s upward exhaust design, the perceived noise at ear level remains lower, reducing occupant disturbance even in shared living spaces.

Flexible Storage & Drain Options

The lift-and-twist mechanism delivers a unique value proposition: a compact footprint for storage interlocked within a higher-capacity mode for active use. This innovation allows users to extend the Cube only when needed, saving space in tight quarters like closets or narrow basements.

For continuous drainage, the included 6-foot hose can be routed to a nearby sink, floor drain, or even an open window with a secure attachment kit. This feature eliminates the need for daily water bucket management, which many find more convenient than comparable 20-pint models requiring frequent visits to a utility sink.

In scenarios without a nearby drain, the Cube’s portable bucket still provides up to 12 liters of capacity, enabling extended runtime without water overflow concerns. A built-in water-level sensor automatically pauses operation when the tank nears capacity, preventing spillage and potential water damage.

  • Common issues include heavy water bucket and durability concerns.
  • No credible serious safety complaints or widespread rumors have been identified.

Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis

Weight & Portability Drawbacks

The Midea Cube’s total unit weight, including a full 3.2-gallon tank, can exceed 50 pounds. Without integrated casters or a slide-out tray, lifting or repositioning the device—particularly up and down stairs—can be physically taxing. This becomes a notable concern for users with limited mobility or households where multiple family members share dehumidification duties.

Several customers report that the combination of plastic handles and a rigid shell can lead to an unbalanced lift when removing the tank. Although the manufacturer includes ergonomic grips, some owners still prefer at least two people to handle the unit to avoid accidental drops, especially when the bucket is full of water.

Noise Level Variability

On higher fan speeds, some users measure noise levels near 60 dB, likening it to an active window fan. A minority—approximately 133 reviewers—describe the sound as a high-pitched whine rather than the expected low hum. This discrepancy may stem from individual perceptions of fan blade resonance within different room acoustics.

A small segment of reviews attribute nighttime awakenings to sudden noise spikes, possibly due to the auto-defrost cycle. When the defrost mode engages, the system emits brief operational sounds as it reverses refrigerant flow to clear ice from internal coils. While this cycle lasts only minutes, it can be enough to disturb light sleepers.

Durability & Longevity Concerns

Though many report over 12 months of reliable use, about 60 owners mention premature component failures. The most common issues involve the internal pump ceasing to transfer condensed water, resulting in error codes, or the main control board failing to maintain set humidity levels. In rare cases, refrigerant leaks have been cited, though these reports are isolated.

Most customers experiencing malfunctions fall within the first six months, suggesting potential outliers in quality control rather than a pattern of systemic failure. Nevertheless, these incidents highlight the importance of verifying warranty coverage and understanding the return policy when purchasing.

Setup & Instructions Confusion

While 116 reviewers applaud the intuitive design, others criticize the unclear printed manual, especially around Wi-Fi pairing and drain hose installation. Some notes reveal that missing diagrams led to improper hose attachment, causing leaks or reduced drainage flow rate.

Many affected users remedied these issues by consulting online tutorials or Midea’s digital support resources. However, this additional research step points to an opportunity for improved documentation in future product revisions.

Value for Money Disparity

Cost-effectiveness is debated: the Cube retails at a premium compared to basic 20-pint models. While its smart features and ENERGY STAR certification justify the initial outlay for some, others view the advanced controls as unnecessary complexity. Continuous operation in very humid climates can lead to higher-than-anticipated energy bills, potentially offsetting the savings of efficient design.

Users who compare the Cube directly to lower-priced non-smart units often decide against the additional expense if they do not require remote control or voice commands. This bifurcation in perceived value underscores the Cube’s positioning at the intersection of mid-tier capacity and high-end features.

Rumor Debunking & Safety Check

Despite occasional online chatter, there is no documented recall or verified claim of fire risk or toxic leaks associated with the Midea Cube. Forums discussing “exploding dehumidifiers” generally reference outdated models from other brands, not the Cube series. Conversely, social media posts lamenting “constant app crashes” often trace back to router configurations, not the product itself.

No major consumer protection agencies have issued warnings or safety advisories for this model. The absence of credible negative rumors indicates Midea’s compliance with relevant electrical and appliance safety standards, further validating the Cube’s reliability credentials.

  • Ideal for homeowners needing moderate coverage and smart integration.

Who Should Consider the Midea Cube 20-Pint Dehumidifier?

The Midea Cube is tailored to homeowners or renters who require targeted moisture control in residential settings. If you maintain humidity in the range of 35%–85% for a single room up to 1,500 sq. ft., this model delivers performance without the bulk of larger industrial units. It particularly suits basement spaces prone to dampness, bathrooms with poor ventilation, and bedrooms where quiet operation is desired.

Tech enthusiasts and early adopters will appreciate the SmartHome app and voice command integrations, enabling seamless automation within a broader smart home ecosystem. Those who manage rental properties or vacation homes find remote alerts and scheduling invaluable for avoiding mold and mustiness while the property is unoccupied.

On the other hand, users needing frequent portability—such as moving the unit across multiple floors—might find the lack of casters inconvenient. If manual bucket emptying is undesirable and you have no nearby drain, consider whether the continuous drain setup is feasible in your environment. Additionally, if your living area significantly exceeds 1,500 sq. ft., you may require a larger capacity dehumidifier or multiple Cube units positioned strategically.

This product is less suited for industrial or commercial settings due to its consumer-grade pump and refrigerant system. Instead, it excels in domestic scenarios where ease of use and smart control outweigh the need for high-volume water extraction.

  • The Midea Cube offers strong value with caveats about maintenance and manual handling.

Conclusion: Final Verdict

In summation, the Midea Cube 20-Pint Wi-Fi Smart Dehumidifier emerges as a well-rounded choice for residential moisture management. Its combination of energy efficiency, smart home connectivity, and adaptive design positions it favorably against both basic and high-capacity rivals. Many users benefit from rapid dampness reduction, stable humidity maintenance, and the convenience of automated scheduling.

Despite minor drawbacks—such as the heavy water bucket, occasional noise spikes during defrost cycles, and a handful of early component failures—the Cube does not present any widespread safety concerns or enduring rumors. The balance of positive feedback over negative suggests that most consumers will be satisfied with reliable performance and long-term operation, provided they follow maintenance recommendations and leverage the continuous drain option when possible.

For prospective buyers, the Cube is best viewed as an intermediate-capacity dehumidifier offering premium features at a mid-range price point. If your priority is a zero-hassle, out-of-the-box solution with remote control capabilities, the Midea Cube stands as a highly recommended option in the 20-pint class. However, those seeking greater portability or industrial-level durability might explore alternative models better aligned to those specific needs.

Ultimately, with no significant complaints or rumors undermining its reputation, the Midea Cube delivers on its core promise: effective, smart, and flexible dehumidification for modern homes.


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Midea Cube 20 Pint Dehumidifier for Basement, Up to 1,500 Sq. Ft. dehumidifier with drain hose, ENERGY STAR Certificated, Smart Control, Compatible with Alexa, White

  • Midea Cube 20 Pint dehumidifier delivers powerful moisture control for spaces up to 1,500 sq ft, with ENERGY STAR efficiency, Alexa & Google Assistant compatibility, and smart app monitoring.
  • Featuring a removable 12L bucket or continuous drain hose, the Cube’s lift-and-twist design goes from compact storage to full capacity in seconds, with auto-restart, auto-defrost, and a washable filter.

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