I think anyone who has bought a dehumidifier for their home has felt overwhelmed to start with. There’s so much jargon to wade through and how do you know which one is best for your needs? If you have a damp or condensation problems in your home which is accompanied by mould you also might be wondering how you can cure it using a dehumidifier and what advantages they offer.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about choosing a dehumidifier for your home and review our pick of the top dehumidifiers which provide the best balance between performance and cost. We’ll also give you our recommendations on what to look for so you can make an informed choice when you buy.
Dehumidifier Comparison Table
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Review: The Best Dehumidifiers Compared
MeacoDRY ABC
See More ImagesThe ABC range promises to be one of Meaco’s quietest dehumidifiers to date and produces just 35 dB of noise when operating in its lowest mode. This makes it only 1dB louder than the much smaller and less powerful ProBreeze 500ml and this is exceptionally quiet for a refrigerant dehumidifier.
Measuring in at just 46.3 x 30 x 25 cm and weighing a modest 10.5Kg for the 10L model and 11.2Kg for the 12L the ABC is certainly compact. And, even though the 10-11Kg weight might seem quite hefty, the ABC range easily weighs 2-4Kg less than many refrigerant dehumidifiers.
Features
Despite being one of Meaco’s lower priced models the ABC does not lack in functionality and features. And, whilst it is not fashioned with some of the more advanced settings found on units like the Zambezi (such as programmable run-time operation and medical grade ionizer). The ABC does provide the ‘core’ basics we’d expect to see on any modern dehumidifier.
Let’s take a look at the key features for this unit:
Meaco Control Logic
You can think of Meaco Control Logic as a conscientious tech that is designed to save money. Once the ambient humidity in your home has fallen to the target threshold the ABC will automatically stop the dehumidification process and go to sleep. It will then wake up every 30 minutes, sample the air and begin working if the humidity has risen. If not, it will go back to sleep and the process is repeated.
This process helps keeps the ABC’s running costs as low as possible.
Laundry Mode
This feature is now built into virtually all modern dehumidifiers because this method of laundry drying is much cheaper than using a tumble dryer. In this mode, the ABC operates continuously, on its highest setting. This will not only dry you washing faster but also prevent the condensation on walls and windows that often accompanies drying washing indoors as humidity builds up within your home.
Two Fan Speeds
The fan speed of a dehumidifiers effects not just how much water it extracts, but also, the noise it generates.
Having two fan speeds allows you to get a boost of power when you need it and quieter operation when you don’t. And whilst you are limited to only 2 speeds (compared to the Dehumidryer’s 5) this should be adequate for many peoples needs.
Timer
One of the ABC’s most simple, but also most useful, functions is the humble timer. Pressing the timer button will allow you to set the timer in one-hour increments from 1-12 hours. After the time has elapsed the ABC will automatically switch off.
Just like the Meaco Control Logic, this simple function is designed to help make using the ABC as energy efficient as possible and ensures the appliance is only working when it is needed and for as long as you specify.
Humidistat
We were pleased to see a highly configurable humidistat on the ABC. It allows you to finely tune the target humidity threshold for your home in 5% increments. The range runs from 30% Relative Humidity (RH) up to 80%RH.
There is even a continuous mode that causes the ABC to run at full power without stopping, should you need to quickly deal with problem damp.
Performance
Despite arriving in a range of colours there are only two models to choose from the ABC range. The most powerful model extracts up to 12 litres of water per day and the next model down 10 litres (both figures based on 30°C and 80% RH).
Each model is easy to distinguish thanks to naming convention common to Meaco units, whereby the maximum extraction rate is quoted in the name. In this case, the MeacoDRY ABC 10L and MeacoDRY ABC 12L represent their least and most powerful ABC models respectively.
The base of each unit is home to the ABC’s 2.6L litre collection tank. Once full the unit will stop automatically switch off and the tank full light will illuminate. You can empty the tank by sliding it out of the back of the unit. The tank also features a lid to help prevent spillages when on your way to emptying it.
Whilst we won’t go into too much detail here, you can find out more about how powerful this ABC by reading our full test results here.
What we think
You won’t find the bells and whistles on the ABC which you might find on some of Meaco’s platinum range of dehumidifiers, but this does not mean the ABC disappoints. Its a solid entry by Meaco for 3 main reasons:
- The first is that is one of the quietest refrigerant dehumidifiers available to date
- Secondly, the build quality is excellent and makes, the sometimes expensive, Meaco dehumidifiers much more affordable.
- Lastly, it is still powerful and provides enough features to satisfy virtually all users and it economical to operate, costing just 2.45p/hour (based on 15.2p/kWh).
Meaco DD8L Zambezi
See More ImagesComing in on the top of our list is the DD8L Zambezi. It represents Meaco’s flagship dehumidifier and is packed with genuinely useful, smart technology which makes using this device a breeze. This same technology also ensures the Zambezi is very energy efficient – keeping its running costs low.
In a layout common to many Meaco devices the top of the Zambezi houses a digital control panel, folding carry handle and motorised louvre. The control panel features a very easy to use directional control pad and a crisp LCD screen which glows blue when you press any of the Zambezi’s controls. A few button presses are all that is required to configure the most common settings and you can have the device ready to go in seconds.
Comes With a Plethora Of Functions to Eradicate Damp and Control Mould
Airflow plays a major role in reducing humidity quickly and drying problem damp spots. This is why the Zambezi sports a motorised louvre. This can be used to direct the warm air flow exiting the machine across an entire room or you can focus it in a small arc to deal with problem damp spots quickly.
The Zambezi features Meaco’s Laundry+ Drying System
If you already own a dehumidifier you’re probably aware at just how useful they can be when it comes to drying washing. Meaco are aware of this too and have introduced their Laundry+ system into the Zambezi. This smart system keeps an eye on the relative humidity and automatically switches the dehumidifier on or off as it is needed. This not only helps dry your washing but it can also use up to 600 watts less energy too.
High humidity brings with it a plethora of problems and bacteria and spores released by mould and mildew can be a real concern because they are not healthy to inhale. This is why the Zambezi comes equipped with a medical grade Ionizer which is (at the time of this review) the only dehumidifier available to sport this impressive device.
This Ionizer is so powerful is can eradicate dust, germs, odours, spores and bacteria within a massive 10m radius of the device. When you compare this to the current 1m radius offered by other machines it is an impressive improvement. The secret behind the power increase is due to the inclusion of a high voltage, ceramic Ionizer which releases a wave of hydrogen and oxygen ions into the air to create a cleaner environment within your home.
‘Control Logic’ Technology
The control panel features some impressive functions which improves the Zambezi’s efficiency and lowers running costs
Sometimes we just want things to work with minimal fuss and when you first get your dehumidifier you may not be sure which settings are ideal for your home. However, with the Zambezi, you can literally never make the wrong choice thanks to Meaco’s 20+ control logic.
Essentially this feature will check to see if the humidity is 20% above or below your desired threshold and then boost or decrease the fan speed as necessary to keep on top of the humidity. This makes sure the device is only running on high power when it is needed to keep operating costs as low as possible.
Water Collection
Once the roomy 3-litre collection tank is full the device will beep 3 times and the display will show the ‘full tank’ icon. At first glance, this seems like a pretty standard feature. But the Zambezi applies a very clever twist to this. It will ensure the device has fully finished emptying into the tank before it alerts you the device is full.
This prevents the machine from dribbling out water whilst you are emptying it – a common problem with some other devices. When you combine this with the anti-mould coating on the tank itself you really begin to see the features and forethought Meaco have placed into this device which makes it stand apart from the crowd.
Conclusion
The Zambezi is not the cheapest dehumidifier on the market. But, if you’re looking for a ‘smart’ unit which is not only portable but powerful and very economical to use then you won’t be disappointed with the DD8L Zambezi.
Meaco 12L Platinum
See More ImagesThe 12L Platinum is the smallest dehumidifier we have on our list measuring in at just 48.5cm tall by 32.5cm wide by 24.8cm deep. But don’t be fooled by its minute dimensions this unit packs some real power.
Just like some of it’s larger counterparts the 12L features Meaco’s control logic system. This smart piece of engineering allows this dehumidifier to actively lower its running costs because it knows when it is NOT needed and when it IS.
Ease Of Use and Energy Saving Features
Once the humidity falls at least 3% of the desired threshold for more than 10 minutes the 12L will put itself into sleep mode. It will then wake up and sample the air every 30 minutes to determine if it needs to operate. The money-saving advantages here are obvious and it is an impressive feature.
The 12Ls simple and clear control panel makes using the device a breeze
The top of the device is home to an easy to use digital control panel. You can set the desired humidity threshold in handy 5% increments using the up and down arrow buttons. You can also set the auto shut off timer by pressing the timer button which runs in one-hour intervals.
Wrapped around the control panel is a folding carry handle. This makes picking up and moving the 12L a breeze and we had no problem at all moving it up and down stairs and between rooms.
In front of the control panel is the manually adjustable louvre. This adjusts the direction of air flow exiting the machine and can be set to point at problem damp spots or towards washing to help drying. This moves with a satisfying click and locks itself securely in place. Speaking of airflow, the 12L only has one fan speed which means you can’t knock it up a notch if needed. However, this does have the added value of making this one of the cheapest dehumidifiers to operate available. It costs only 2.5p an hour to run (based on 15.3pkWh).
Water Collecting Power
Around the back of the unit, you will find the very ample 2.5-litre water collection tank. It can be removed with a simple pulling motion when it needs emptying. It is a little disappointing that there is no carry handle on top, but this doesn’t present any problems while emptying.
Conclusion
Overall it is hard not to be impressed with the 12L it is very reasonably priced and, thanks to its smart logic system, it is very economical to run. This dehumidifier is ideal for smaller homes or flats where space is at a premium or any damp problems are not too severe.
Meaco 25L Dehumidryer
See More ImagesRepresenting the latest in Meaco’s ‘Platinum’ range the 25L Dehumidryer features a powerful DC motor and is designed to provide a cost-effective way of drying your washing – without using an expensive tumble dryer.
But, this doesn’t mean it is unsuitable for dealing with high humidity and damp within the home. In fact it provides a number of very useful settings made just for this purpose. So, let’s dive right in and see what this device can do.
An Overview of The 25L Dehumidryer
The 25L can hold an impressive 5L of water in its ample water tank – which features a folding carry handle
The 25L is one of the largest dehumidifiers we’ve reviewed and measures 28.7cm deep by 37.8cm wide and 64.4cm high and weighs a hefty 15kg. It does come with casters to make wheeling between rooms easier, but this device is not light to lift and carry. So if you plan on moving your dehumidifier around your home you may want to check out a lighter desiccant model such as the Zambezi or MK5 Classic.
However, with this weight increase comes a massive increase in performance and the 25L can extract up to 26.4 litres of water from your home over a 24 hour period. The water it collects is stored in its huge 5-litre collection tank. You can also use the supplied hose to feed the water it collects directly into a drain or sink for continuous drainage – removing the need to manually empty it. The water tanks itself features a handy viewing window so you can see how much water has been collected and it has a collapsible carry handle – which makes emptying it a breeze.
Money Saving DC Motor
Inside the 25L is another innovation by Meaco – a DC motor. This might not sound too impressive however this was a shrewd move because the harder you work a DC motor the less energy it uses. This makes this device incredibly economical, even on its highest setting. Which means you can use it to deal with damp or dry your washing without worrying about your electricity bill rocketing.
Powerful air-flow from the 25L’s auto-moving louvre makes short work of drying washing and problem damp spots
The front-mounted digital control panel gives you quick access to the 25L’s functions. You can, for example, set it on dry mode to reach the desired humidity level, laundry mode to help dry your washing or you can set auto mode.
Auto mode is a ‘smart’ function which allows you to set and forget your dehumidifier. It periodically samples the air and automatically knows if it should be working or not. The ‘smart’ facility this function offers is that it does not simply switch on or off, rather it samples the air, works out how hard it should be working (if at all) then adjusts the fan speed in increments depending on the humidity level. It represents the perfect balance between power consumption and performance.
Lastly, there is a timer function and a child lock. The timer can be used to automatically turn the dehumidifier off after a set time – this runs in 1-hour intervals. And, the is a child lock is a nifty feature which locks the control panel to prevent small hands from accidentally changing the settings.
Conclusion
The 25L is definitely an impressive all-rounder. Its powerful humidity extraction rate and economical performance means it can be perfectly at home in anything from small flats up to large 5 bedroom houses. However, you may want to choose a lighter model if you plan on moving your dehumidifier around your home and think its 15Kg weight might be a little on the hefty side.
EcoAir DC12
See More ImagesThe DC12 fits into EcoAir’s smaller range of compressor units and represents an excellent value, mid-range dehumidifier. The DC12 is the smaller brother of the much larger and bulkier DC18 and is rather compact, measuring just 49.6 cm high by 35.3 cm across and 22.5cm deep.
It weighs in at 11kg, which makes it around average for a compressor dehumidifier. The base of the unit is fitted with casters which help ensure moving the unit is simple and fast. However, if you do need to pick it up two recessed carry handles make lifting and holding the DC12 easier when compared to other compressor units which often only provide one handle.
How Effective is The DC12?
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A clear and impressive control panel gives quick access to the DC12’s functions
When it comes to performance the DC12 does not disappoint. It can extract up to 12L of water over a 24 hour period which it collects in its 3.5-litre collection tank. For such a small machine this size tank is impressive and it even features handy viewing window so you can see at a glance how much water is being collected. However, if you would prefer not to empty the tank at all the DC12 comes supplied with a handy hose for continuous drainage.
The top of the DC12 is home to its impressive digital display panel. A large LCD display clearly shows the humidity level and two buttons either side of this allow you to set the humidity threshold in handy 5% increments ranging from 30% RH up to 80% RH.
Beneath the display, you’ll find a series of blister buttons which can be used to configure various options on the machine with nothing more than a few presses. It features a timer function and two fan speed settings. Plus it also provides a handy water tank indicator light – so you know exactly when it needs emptying – and a light which indicates when the filter needs a clean to make sure the DC12 is always operating at peak efficiency.
Conclusion
For smaller homes and flats the DC12 is sure to please. And, for a mid range dehumidifier it packs some surprisingly good features. If you want something with a bit of power, but which isn’t going to break the bank we recommend taking a look at this nifty, compact device.
EcoAir DD1 Classic MK5 (DD122fw)
See More ImagesFeaturing powerful performance combined with ease of use and energy saving features it is easy to see why the DD1 Classic MK5 (formerly the DD122fw Mk5 classic) is one of the UK’s most popular dehumidifiers.
It has a rather compact footprint and measures just 17.5cm deep by 29cm wide by 47.5cm high, making it ideal to be tucked away in small spaces or to be used in rooms where space is at a premium. It is also incredibly portable weighing just 6 Kg and featuring a top mounted carry handle it is easy to pick up and move.
How Well Does It Work?
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When compared to some of the compressor models we’ve reviewed the DD1, on the surface, appears to be lacking in power and is quoted as being able to remove up to 6 litres of water over 24 hours. But, remember this is desiccant technology and, as we mentioned above, this is far more effective in typical UK conditions than compressor-based units. This means this device would be comparable to buying a 12 – 14L compressor dehumidifier.
Inside the unit is a moderate sized 2L collection tank. When full it can be slid out of the side of the machine and features a top mounted carry handle – so there’s no need to worry about spilling any water as you carry it to the sink for emptying.
Impressive Features and a Wide Range Of Functionality
When it comes to useful features the DD1 is literally packed with them. Making it one of the most impressive dehumidifiers we’ve reviewed. Around the back of the machine is a silver filter which kills bacteria and spores on contact. When you combine this with the built-in Ionizer this impressive device comes equipped with everything you need to not only dry out your home but also eliminate the problems caused by damp such as bacteria, spores, and mould in the air.
Control Panel & Functions
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As you would expect with any good dehumidifier the DD1 features a digital control panel. Moving across the panel from left to right you can turn the ionizer on or off, set the auto shut-off timer to operate for 2, 4 or 8 hours, configure the direction of air flow, turn the laundry mode on and set the drying mode.
Eco E7
Just like Meaco’s Control Logic system EcoAir have their own version called Eco E7. This piece of smart tech monitors the ambient humidity AND temperature and uses this to decide whether it should operate on full power, economy or go into standby mode. The end result is reduced energy consumption because the device only operates when it is needed.
Operating Temperature Range
The EcoAir DD1 can also operate comfortably in some pretty impressive conditions. On this review page we’ve mentioned that, in particular, compressor units begin to have problems working effectively when the temperature falls to 10 degrees or below. Well, this device can operate effectively down to temperatures as low as 1 degree! This means you have a so much great degree of flexibility where and when you can use it.
Conclusion
It is hard not to be impressed with this device. It is very well thought out, packed with useful technology and can operate in effectively in even the coldest conditions within the home. Its silver ion filter is also a big plus point considering it can eliminate the bacteria and spores produced by mould, making the air in your home cleaner and healthier.
Meaco DD8L
See More ImagesThis unit is the second compact unit we’ll review in this guide. It measures just 50cm high by 35cm wide and weights a respectably light 7Kg. The carry handle is a simple recessed grip (which we’re not a fan of) but given the size and weight of this unit does not present any real problems.
How Well Does The DD8L Work?
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A supplied hose allows the DDL8 to run constantly without the need to empty the tank
The 8 in the DD8L prefix lets us know that this unit is capable of extracting up to 8 litres of water every day. As we’ve already mentioned this may not seem like a lot compared to some compressor units which can extract 16 or 20L of water a day, it is worth remembering these figures are measured at conditions which are not often found in the UK. Plus, because this is a desiccant device its won’t suffer the performance problems that compressor units can in lower temperatures (below 10 – 15 degrees) and will remain consistently effective.
Like most Meaco units the 2-litre water tank features handy water level window so you can easily see how much water has been collected and it comes with a hose for continuous drainage – should you wish to bypass the water tank altogether.
Easy To Use Control Panel
The top of the device is home to a simple 5 button control panel. Each button corresponds to a different setting and a press of each button cycles between the different modes for each. You can choose from 3 different fan speed, 3 drying modes (including a laundry function), set the timer to shut the unit off after 1, 2, 4 or 8 hours or switch on/off the ionizer. And, of course, turn the unit on or off.
For such a compact unit it is good to see that it comes with Meaco’s Control Logic technology. When the target humidity level has been reached the device will run the fan for 10 minutes to ensure everything is ok before going to sleep for 30 minutes. After this time has elapsed it will sample the air again, if the target humidity level has been exceeded it will start the dehumidifying process again, if not it will go back to sleep! But, what does this mean for you? Well, in most cases, it will only cause the dehumidifier to run for 10 minutes every hour effectively using 1/6th of the power of other units. This is a great money saving feature.
Conclusion
Overall the DD8L is an impressive unit for one which is so compact. And, you can even buy a slightly cheaper version should you wish to save a little money. The only difference is that it does not come with an Ionizer and is called the DD8L Junior. It is easy to see why this device is so popular and has won a total of 3 Which best buy awards.
Trotec Dehumidifier TTK 69 E
See More ImagesTrotec are another brand which seems to be making waves in the dehumidification market. The TTK 69 E is getting a lot of great reviews and definitely seems to be a great performer. It is priced at around the £130-140 mark (at the time of writing) – making it exceptionally good value for money. Let’s dive right in and see exactly what you can expect from the TTK 69E…
An Overview of The TTK 69E
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The TTK 69E a stylish analogue control panel that is simple to use, if lacking in features, compared to some other dehumidifiers
Like most units, the control panel is housed at the top of this very stylish unit. 5 brushed steel style buttons are all you need to access the major functions which make configuring this device a breeze.
The device itself it about average for a compressor unit and measures 57.5 cm high by 34.5 cm wide by 21 cm deep. It comes with most features you would expect for a unit which costs slightly more which pleasantly surprised us. One such notable feature is the auto defrost function which prevents the unit from freezing up and helps maintain efficiency in lower temperatures. Whilst its performance will decline under 10 – 15 degrees the defrost facility will certainly help.
You can choose from 3 fan speed settings. This allows you to get a burst of performance when you need it, and the option to lower the fan speed when you don’t. This also gives you a little control over how noisy the unit is. Lower fan speeds obviously mean less noise.
Impressive Safety and Maintenance Features
There are also a number of safety features in the Trotec. One is an overflow protection switch which turns the unit off when it is full (this is quite common) and a child lock to prevent children from accidentally changing the settings (this is still quite a rare feature and is nice to see).
There are also a number of other features which show just how well built this device is. One such feature is that the vent at the back slowly opens up when you turn the unit on, to allow for maximum airflow, and then closes automatically when you switch it off. A little but nice touch.
It also comes with a filter warning light which lets you know when the filter needs cleaning. But, unlike some units made by Ebac, you can actually remove this filter and wash it. Which will definitely save on running costs because you will not need to buy extra filters.
Conclusion
The TK 69E is a very respectable little unit. Whilst Trotek are not so well known in the dehumidifier market we believe they will gain more recognition over the coming years thanks to well-priced devices like this. If you’re looking for a solid unit and don’t mind going with a relatively unknown brand we don’t think this will disappoint you.
The Different Kinds of Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers generally take on a very similar appearance to one-another. Often consisting of a white or beige box with a top-mounted vent. However, the internal technology that powers these appliances comes in several different variations. Each variation brings its own set of advantages, and disadvantages, and each kind is suited for different humidity and temperature ranges.
In this section of our guide, we’ll describe what they are, how they work, list their pros and cons and describe where they are most suited for use in, and out of, the home.
1. Desiccant Dehumidifiers
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Desiccant dehumidifiers are certainly one of the most versatile dehumidifiers you can buy. They can work comfortably within the home and be used in environments where the temperature drops – such as caravans, garages or sheds.
In fact, desiccant units can continue operating in temperatures as low as 5 degrees Celsius. They also provide the additional advantage of expelling warm air. Over time this gradually increases the temperature of the room they are in use. And, depending on the size and humidity levels within a room, can also reduce the need for a separate heat source.
Inside this kind of dehumidifier, you will typically find a continuously rotating wheel made of a highly absorbent material called zeolite. Humid air is drawn into the device and passed through the zeolite causing the amount of water it contains to be drastically reduced.
The saturated wheel is passed through a small heating system inside the device which removes the water and collects it inside a storage tank. The warm air produced is mixed with the dry air and exits the machine. This process is repeated and causes the relative humidity of the room to drop.
2. Compressor Dehumidifiers
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Compressor (also known as refrigerant) dehumidifiers are the work-horse of the dehumidifier world. They are very robust and, if cared for, will last for many years.
Compressor dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air using a similar process to the fridge in your kitchen. Inside this kind of dehumidifier a compressor pump expands and contracts a refrigerant gas like freon into a series of metal pipes or plates causing them to cool.
Air is drawn into the machine and passed over the cool pipes. This causes a percentage of the excess water it contains to condense and drip away into a storage tank. This process is repeated and lowers the ambient humidity levels.
In temperatures of 15°C and lower the performance of compressor units drops drastically and sometimes the coils begin to freeze causing the unit to shut down while it defrosts.
This makes this kind of dehumidifier only suitable for use within the home. Although some newer units are getting better at working in lower temperature environments.
3. Peltier Dehumidifiers
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Despite being relatively uncommon in the domestic market there are some Peltier units available. They work by passing an electrical current between two different layers of material. Where the materials join a heat flux is created and heat is drawn from one material to another creating a cold spot.
Humid air is drawn into the appliance and passed over the colder material and the excess moisture condenses and runs away into a collection tank – much like the water collection process in a refrigerant dehumidifier.
Peltier units feature some impressive advantages when compared to desiccant and compressor models. They are virtually silent and have fewer moving parts which could wear out or break down.
The problem is that this technology is not energy efficient and is expensive to run, especially in larger units. As a result, the commonly available units are small and low powered. At this smaller scale, they work surprisingly well. However, their low power means they are unable to deal with anything other than the minor damp and condensation problems.
ProBreeze is the main contender in the Peltier market and their [amazon link=”B00NFRTVY6″ title=”500ml” /] unit is one of their best sellers because of its low price point.
4. Non-Electric Desiccant Units
Despite some clever marketing, this kind of ‘dehumidifier’ are little more than glorified moisture traps. You will have probably seen these before and they typically look like small containers filled with beads, chalk or gel. The material inside is hygroscopic and absorbs small amounts of water from the surrounding air.
They are only really suitable for minor humidity problems – such as fusty odours in cupboards or in your car. They will not deal with problems caused by anything other than the smallest amount of humidity.
Many cannot be reused and require buying additional refill cartridges. This makes this kind of appliance very cheap initially but could get a little costly in the medium to long term. We’d recommend using the [amazon link=”B00NFRTVY6″ title=”500ml” /] for very minor damp problems rather than moisture traps.
Buyers Guide
Here are the key points we think you should consider when choosing a dehumidifier for your home:
1 Features
Decide if you want digital or analogue controls. Typically analogue controls are much easier to use but you sacrifice useful features such as auto-shut off timers and precise control over the target humidity levels.
Take a look at the filters which come with the device (if any). Do they need replacing often? Or can they be taken out and cleaned? Also, check to see if the filter has any antibacterial properties which can be used to kill the spores released by mould and mildew. This is particularly useful if you have children or anyone in your home suffers from breathing problems such as asthma.
Lastly, look at the water collection tank size. These can range from a few hundred millilitres up to 5 or 6 litres. The size of the tank and the extraction rate of the machine will dictate how often you need to empty the tank.
All dehumidifiers feature an automatic shut off system, so you’ll never need to worry about the device overflowing. The problem is when full they are not removing moisture from the air.
If you think this might be a problem for you check to see if the dehumidifier has an auto drain facility. This means you can place the machine next to a sink or drain and have the collected water drain out of the machine rather than it being collected in the internal storage tank.
2 Price
The truth is dehumidifiers are not the cheapest appliances you can buy for your home. Most range from £80 (for a basic unit) to £250 (for a top end device). Once you start falling below the £70 – £80 mark the effectiveness of the devices drops rapidly and, depending on your needs, might be a false economy to buy.
Most decent dehumidifiers can be picked up for around the £160 and, in most cases, will fit the majority of needs.
3 Portability
Will you dehumidifier stay in one place in the home? Or will you move it around? For example, will you use it to dry your bathroom in the evening after everyone has showered and then use it to help dry washing in the day?
Refrigerant dehumidifiers are easily the heaviest you can buy and weigh in at around 11kg on average. Although the more powerful units such as the Meaco 25L Dehumidryer tips the scales at a whopping 15kg.
When you compare this to desiccant models which can weigh as little as 6kg the difference is apparent and it is easy to see which kind is the most portable.
Another factor aside from weight, which plays a role in portability is the presence of a decent carry handle. The best-designed handles fold flat on the unit when they are not in use and are very easy to grip.
Some feature small recessed grips which you can use to pick up the unit. These aren’t the best to use. Not only does it feel like the dehumidifier is going to slip out of your hands you are hunched over and shuffling as you move the unit.
Lastly, check to see if the device comes with any casters on the base if it is a heavy unit. These may not always look the most aesthetically pleasing but they are a real life saver and make moving even the heaviest units between rooms a breeze.
4 The Size Of Your Home
The size of your home plays a role in how effective and how powerful a dehumidifier you’ll need. You will also need to take into account the severity of the humidity problem your home has and the target relative humidity you want to achieve in your home. Around 50%RH to 60%RH is considered the most ideal for UK homes.
Typically dehumidifiers measure their effectiveness in litres of water extracted over a 24 hour period. The higher this number the more powerful, and therefore more quickly, it will be able to deal with your humidity problem.
The problem with this measurement is that most manufacturers test their units in temperatures and humidity conditions which are just not applicable to the UK.
The most frequent test conditions quoted by manufacturers are at 30 degrees and 80% RH, and the UK is not known for its tropical climate!
You also need to bear in mind that as the temperature drops so does the effectiveness of compressor dehumidifiers. Whereas desiccant dehumidifiers provide relatively consistent performance no matter the temperature. This means a desiccant model quoted at extracting 7 litres of water per day can outperform a compressor model quoted at extracting 12.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Believe it or not however most of the time the damp and condensation problems in our home our problems we cause.
During the course of a day, the average home produces up to 24 pints of water which needs to go somewhere. The home can absorb a certain amount however, the excess condenses on surfaces causing damp patches, mould, and mildew. In these situations, a dehumidifier is your best friend.
They can easily suck up the excess moisture from showering, cooking, drying washing and even breathing (yes, we exhale water when breathing!). Preventing the horrible fusty odours and unsightly mould patches excess humidity can cause.
If you’re unsure what dehumidifier is right for you we’d recommend checking out the [amazon link=”B07FKM4XWC” title=”MeacoDRY ABC” /], it’s a great all-rounder without a heavy price tag. However, if you’re prepared to pay a little more we recommend looking at the [amazon link=”B01DNZ2A5G” title=”25L” /] or [amazon link=”B008BZVCVM” title=”DD1″ /], which represent an excellent performance compressor and versatile desiccant dehumidifier respectively.