Keep Your Boat Dry — And Help Prevent Mold, Mildew & Musty Odors During Storage
If you've ever uncovered your boat to find damp cushions, condensation, mildew spots or that familiar musty “boat smell,” excess moisture is usually part of the problem.
The DryWave 1000 Boat Air Dryer provides continuous, gentle warmth that helps prevent condensation from forming inside enclosed boats and storage areas. Unlike traditional boat dehumidifiers, there's no water tank to empty—and unlike a disposable boat moisture absorber, there are no crystals to replace.
DryWave air dryer for boats should be used during fall, winter and spring months when humidity is high, and temperatures are between 32ºF and 65ºF.
*Not for use in higher temperatures since this can lead to overheating of the unit.
A Simple Way to Help Prevent Mold & Mildew During Boat Storage
A boat cover protects your boat from rain, leaves, snow and debris, but it doesn't necessarily prevent moisture from developing underneath the cover.
Temperature changes can affect moisture in the air causing it to form condensation on cooler surfaces inside your boat.
That moisture can collect on or around:
- Boat seats and cushions
- Fiberglass surfaces
- Cabin windows
- Carpet
- Storage compartments
- Canvas and enclosures
- Woodwork
- Electronics and metal components
Left unchecked, persistent dampness can contribute to mildew, musty odors, moisture stains and corrosion.
The DryWave 1000 helps address the problem by gently warming the air and surrounding surfaces above the dew point, helping prevent condensation before it forms.
Instead of repeatedly cleaning mildew, DryWave helps address one of the conditions that allows it to develop: moisture.
What DryWave Actually Does:
Cold Surface + Moist Air → Condensation → Damp Surfaces → Mold/Mildew Risk
Versus:
DryWave → Gentle Warm Air → Helps Keep Surfaces Above Dew Point → Less Condensation
This Electric Boat Air Dryer is Perfect for Helping Protect:
- Boats, RVs, Cabins, Basements
- Boat cabins, Cuddy cabins
- Pontoon boats under covers
- Covered fishing boats
- Boat upholstery, Cabin cushions
- Carpet
- Storage compartments
- Electronics areas
- Winterized boats
- Shrink-wrapped boats where the manufacturer's placement/use requirements can be safely met
DryWave 1000 Specifications
- Works best in spaces up to 1,000 cubic feet
- Warms air to above dew point for prevention of mold
- Designed to operate 24 hours a day for extended periods for boat moisture control
- Built in thermal cut-off switch to prevent overheating making it safe and easy to use
- No moving parts to wear out, no refills, maintenance, or drain pans that need to be emptied
- Designed for cool, moist climates
- Most efficient in temperatures between 32ºF and 65ºF.
- NOT recommended for warm humid climates, but is the perfect boat air dryer for winter storage
- Plugs into standard 120-volt outlet. Draws 120 watts which is no more than a household light bulb
- Measures 13.5"L x 10.5"W x 4"H
- 2-year warranty
- Made in the USA
*Any existing mold/mildew should be cleaned and any leaks or standing water should be corrected. DryWave is primarily about helping prevent the damp condensation conditions that allow such a problem to return.
Will the DryWave 1000 prevent mold and mildew in my boat?
The DryWave helps prevent the condensation and damp conditions that mold and mildew need to thrive. It cannot guarantee that mold will never occur, particularly if your boat has leaks, standing water or already-wet materials. It works best as part of an overall moisture-control strategy.
Will DryWave remove existing mold or mildew?
No. DryWave isn't a mold cleaner or remediation product. Existing mold or mildew should be properly cleaned and the underlying moisture source corrected. DryWave can then help reduce condensation that could contribute to the problem returning.
Is DryWave actually a dehumidifier?
Not in the traditional sense. A conventional dehumidifier physically removes water from the air. DryWave gently warms air and surrounding surfaces to help prevent condensation.
Does DryWave collect water?
No. There is no water tank, bucket or drain.
DryWave vs. DampRid – which is better for a boat?
It depends on the application. DryWave requires electricity but can operate continuously without moisture-absorbing crystals or a water collection container. Passive moisture absorbers require no electricity and can be useful in smaller areas, but eventually need replacement or refilling as they absorb moisture.
Can DryWave help prevent mildew on boat cushions?
It can help by reducing condensation and maintaining a drier environment. For best results, store cushions completely dry and provide airflow around and underneath them whenever possible.
Can I leave my boat cushions onboard during winter storage?
Many boat owners do, but cushions should be completely dry before the boat is closed up. Raising or standing them where practical can improve airflow. Whether leaving them aboard is appropriate also depends on your storage environment and how well the boat is protected from water intrusion.
Will DryWave get rid of a musty boat smell?
DryWave isn't an odor remover. However, persistent musty odors are often associated with damp conditions and mildew. Reducing condensation can help address one of the underlying conditions contributing to those odors. Existing mold, mildew or wet materials should still be cleaned and dried.
Can I leave the DryWave running 24/7?
The DryWave 1000 is designed and tested for continuous operation. Always follow the manufacturer's installation, clearance and electrical instructions.
Does DryWave have a fan?
No. It has no fan or other moving parts.
How much electricity does the DryWave 1000 use?
The DryWave 1000 draws approximately 120 watts, comparable to a traditional incandescent light bulb.
Where should I place the DryWave in my boat?
Place it on a stable, level surface where warmed air can circulate through the space, following all manufacturer instructions and clearance requirements. Opening interior lockers and raising cushions where appropriate can improve airflow.
Should I leave cabinets and storage compartments open?
Where practical and safe, opening interior compartments during storage can improve air circulation. Closed compartments may restrict the warmed air from reaching damp-prone areas.
Can I use DryWave underneath a boat cover?
DryWave is designed for enclosed boat spaces. Electrical safety, placement, ventilation and manufacturer instructions should always be followed. Never allow the unit or electrical connections to be exposed to water.
Can I use DryWave in a shrink-wrapped boat?
Moisture management and ventilation are particularly important under shrink wrap. Whether an electrical air dryer is appropriate depends on the installation, access to suitable electrical power and the manufacturer's operating requirements. Follow all DryWave and shrink-wrap safety instructions.
Does DryWave work in freezing temperatures?
The DryWave is intended for cool, moist environments and is most efficient in approximately 32°F–65°F conditions. It should not be confused with an engine-compartment heater or freeze-protection device.
Will DryWave keep my engine from freezing?
No. The DryWave 1000 is an air dryer intended to help prevent condensation. It is not a substitute for winterizing your engine or for an approved engine-compartment heater where freeze protection is required.
Does DryWave work in hot, humid climates?
DryWave is most efficient in cool, moist conditions between approximately 32°F and 65°F. In persistently hot, high-humidity environments, a true dehumidifier that physically extracts moisture may be a better solution.
Do I need a DryWave 100 or DryWave 1000?
Use the DryWave 100 for small spaces up to approximately 100 cubic feet. The DryWave 1000 is intended for larger spaces up to approximately 1,000 cubic feet. Airflow and separate enclosed compartments also matter, so larger boats may require multiple units.
