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The best dehumidifiers enhance home comfort, air quality, and can aid in managing allergies and certain health conditions. If you live in a humid area or have damp issues in your home then a dehumidifier is an absolute necessity.
Dehumidifiers vary in size, function, method, capacity, and overall effectiveness. Whether you require a robust unit for larger spaces or a compact one for your apartment, our list caters to all needs.
Our list is updated monthly to reflect the latest dehumidifiers in the Australian market and those that are out of stock.
TL;DR: The Best Dehumidifier for Most People π
An incredibly effective, energy-efficient, quiet, and stylish dehumidifier that can extract 10L of moisture per day all at a very reasonable price point given the quality and effectiveness.
This powerful dehumidifier will dry rooms up to 125mΒ³ with ease, has a large 1.8L water tank, will act as an economical clothes dryer, and has a drainage pipe for no more manual water collection! π
Below is a distilled selection of the best dehumidifiers we reviewed while looking at 33 different units over the course of a few weeks.
The Best Dehumidifiers in Australia
The best dehumidifiers based on moisture extraction, size, and moisture extraction capability:
- Best Overall Dehumidifier: Ausclimate Cool Seasons Premium 10L Desiccant Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Medium sized Room: AIRGJOB 70-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Mould: Ausclimate NWT Large 35L Dehumidifier
- Best for Most People: Shinco 10L Portable Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Closet: Hitworker 35oz Dehumidifiers for Home
- Best Small Dehumidifier for Boat: Hysure Portable Air Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Baby Room: De’Longhi DEX-SERIES Multipurpose Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Basement: Ausclimate NWT Medium 20L Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Dust Mites: Arovecβ’ AroDry-900 Upgraded Dehumidifier
- Best Value Dehumidifier: Colaze 1800ML Electric Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Low-temperature Conditions: Hysure X3 Smart Dehumidifier
- Best Dehumidifier for Apartment: Miguo Dehumidifier
1. Best Overall Dehumidifier: Ausclimate Cool Seasons Premium 10L Desiccant Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Antibacterial filter for a clean and healthy environment
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability
- Has a laundry mode for drying clothes
- Automatic shutoff when the tank is full
What customers say:
βGreat product. Best money spent. This has reduced the moisture build-up in our cold climate home. The doors are now closing properly and no moisture build-up on the windows. Also great for those miserable winter days where we have to hang our washing up insideβ¦ββFaledorf
The Ausclimate Cool Seasons Premium 10L Desiccant Dehumidifier, produced by one of Australia’s top manufacturers of air purifiers and dehumidifiers, is a reliable high-performance unit that won’t disappoint in any way. It performed incredibly well in our tests and significantly reduced the humidity levels, quickly and quietly.
Plus, this equipment is specially designed for Australian weather conditions, so rest assured it wonβt fail you. It can greatly assist you during the rainy season and can also be used in humid areas. Despite its size, this dehumidifier packs a lot of power and will allow you to extract moisture from your room in just a few hours, depending on how humid the air is.
Setting it apart from many competitors, the Ausclimate Cool Seasons Premium dehumidifier functions efficiently even in cooler conditions. It ran smoothly at low-temperature conditions without giving us any problems. The 3-litre water reservoir on this unit has an anti-spill design, so it wonβt damage your floors. Besides, the auto-shutoff function will automatically kick in when the water level rises beyond a certain level.
The package includes a 1.2-metre hose for use in the dehumidifier’s continuous drainage mode. Connecting the hose is very easy, as we were able to make a leakproof connection in less than ten minutes. And because Ausclimate cares about your health, the AU1910DD features a Nano-silver filter that can help eradicate airborne bacteria, viruses, and other microscopic particles.
Moreover, it is approved by The National Asthma Council Australia, making it an ideal choice for people with breathing issues. In optimal conditions, this dehumidifier can remove up to 10 litres of water daily. Whatβs more, the laundry mode can help you dry your clothes within the shortest time possible.
With the auto-restart feature in place, the dehumidifier can power on itself when power is restored after an outage. The dehumidifier also boasts automatic swinging louvres, ensuring controlled airflow.
2. Best Dehumidifier for Medium sized Room: AIRGJOB 70-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Auto drainage for user convenience
- Easy-to-use control panel for quick customisation
- Continuous dehumidification for optimum performance
- Automatic defrost function
What customers say:
βPurchased this for my garage to keep tools and equipment from rusting. Garage is approx. 3500 square feet. When I turned it on, humidity was 88%. In a day and a half, it was 43%…β-Ken
Ranked second among the best dehumidifiers in Australia, the AIRGJOB 70-Pint Energy Star Dehumidifier excels in all aspects of a premium dehumidifier. It’s adept at dehumidifying medium-sized areas up to 3500 sq ft, fitting the needs of many households.
Take advantage of its digital humidity sensor which provides real-time and incredibly accurate readings. Combine this with the automatic dehumidification control and your space will maintain 45% to 55% room humidity, depending on your preference.
To add to its list of features, it has an auto defrost function for optimal performance when used in cold conditions. But that is not all; this unit features a built-in humidity sensor that will ensure the amount of water vapour in the air around you is within the preferred limits.
It also boasts a large 4-litre tank, minimising the need for frequent emptying. This dehumidifier is not as noisy compared to most units in its class, so you can place it in your bedroom without much disturbance.
3. Best Dehumidifier for Mould: Ausclimate NWT Large 35L Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Great for water damage restoration
- Very large 6L water tank
- Approved by National Asthma Council Australia
- Designed specifically for use in NZ and AU
- Can remove up to 35L of moisture per day
- Shuts off automatically when the tank is full
What customers say:
βGreat value for money and does an excellent job of eradicating the excessive moisture in the air. I love that itβs so easy to use and can run for hours without needing to be emptied.β- Joanne Stokes-Belle
For homes prone to excessive moisture and mould, the Ausclimate NWT Large 35L Dehumidifier is an efficient solution, running seamlessly for two hours without needing to empty the tank.
The rather large 6L tank helps you remove as much moisture as possible during each operation. And you donβt have to worry about overflows since it shuts off when the tank is full. So if youβre running this dehumidifier and it shuts off abruptly, it means it’s time to empty the tank.
If you donβt want to be bothered with constant tank-emptying, which is something that may happen when youβre using this machine for water damage restoration, you can always use the continuous drainage hose. This 1-metre hose helps you operate the device for as long as you need without worrying about it shutting off when the tank is full since it siphons the water to your nearest drain.
With its multi-functionality and castor wheels, this machine is easily movable. Effortlessly transfer it to the laundry room for drying clothes or to the bathroom for post-shower dehumidification.
However, its compressor operation does result in noticeable noise, which can be a downside. This compressor, however, is what gives it the extra moisture-sucking power that it has. It may seem like a compromise, but if you want to dehumidify your bedroom, you should do this during the day since the noise this dehumidifier creates while in operation can keep you awake throughout the night.
Nonetheless, this machine effectively eliminates issues like mould, airborne allergens, and the warmth from high humidity. Its effectiveness in doing its job makes up for whatever loud noises it generates while itβs running. You can say goodbye to musty smells, damp clothes, and high-humidity days in your home when you have this trusty dehumidifier around.
4. Best for Most People: Shinco 10L Portable Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Built-in humidity sensor for optimum moisture extraction
- Auto defrost function for enhanced performance in low-temperature conditions
- Customisable dehumidification settings for user convenience
- Removable water tank for easy emptying
What customers say:
βThe dehumidifier was instrumental for me during the 2022 NSW rainy summer. The house was at 90% humidity level, and in a couple of days, we managed to go down to about 76%…ββBassem Kattan
The Shinco 10L Portable Dehumidifier is equipped with a reservoir tank that can hold up to 1.8 litres of water, allowing the machine to operate for extended periods without the need for emptying.
This dehumidifier is known for its smart features and adaptability. Suitable for various rooms, it also has a reservoir sensor that automatically shuts the machine off when filled to capacity. Also, there is a level indicator that will allow you to manually check the amount of water that has been collected. When the tank is full, you can remove it for emptying. Alternatively, you can switch to ceaseless drainage mode for uninterrupted dehumidification.
To do this simply attach a hose to the drainage hole at the back of the dehumidifier and allow the machine to run for as long as you want without any worries. The dehumidifier is equipped with a humidity sensor that will let you know the amount of moisture in the air inside your home. This feature will help you take the guesswork out of the dehumidification process.
But that is not all; the auto defrost function will ensure the dehumidifier remains operable when the temperature plummets to low levels.Β Although its temperature range is rated from 5Β°C to 32Β°C, Shincoβs dehumidifier is more efficient when the temperature is above 15Β°C. This equipment can effectively dehumidify spaces that are up to 12m2 wide.
Finally, it has a memory function that will save the settings currently in use. With this feature in place, you wonβt have to reconfigure the machine after a power outage.
5. Best Dehumidifier for Closet: Hitworker 35oz Dehumidifiers for Home
Why we like it:
- Small, sleek, and portable
- Effective for use in rooms of up to 285sqft
- Very quiet 30dB sleep mode
- Removes up to 450ml of water per day
- Has a high capacity 1000ml clear water tank
- With auto shut-off function
What customers say:
βI bought this dehumidifier for use in the bathroom and found it’s really efficient to get rid of the fog after shower. Also, I don’t need to turn on the exhaustion fan to reduce the humidity, which sucks in freezing cold air from outsideβ¦β-Bonnie
For a sleek and efficient closet dehumidifier, consider the Hitworker 35oz Dehumidifier. Its compactness ensures discretion in any room, while its portability offers flexibility in placement.
Aside from its small and diminutive size, this dehumidifier is one of the quietest units that we tested. It has two working modes β normal and sleep β and operates at a low 30dB to 39 dB. This quiet operation is due to the use of semiconductor refrigeration technology, which removes the need for very noisy compressors.
This device’s advanced technology ensures energy efficiency, providing a comfortable environment without the burden of increased electricity bills. It’s an effective solution to combat the drawbacks of high-humidity spaces.
Beyond its impressive features, this dehumidifier is simple to use and maintain. Given its 1000ml tank and 450ml daily extraction rate, you’ll only need to empty it every couple of days, contingent on ambient humidity.
The filter at the back is also easy to remove and clean, helping prevent any blockages to airflow caused by dust and dander. Simply press down the catch, pull back, and voila, you can now wash the machineβs filter.
A standout feature of this dehumidifier is its memory function. The built-in chip remembers your settings, so there’s no need to reset after emptying the tank.
This device also boasts a 7-colour RGB LED display, which can be turned off at your preference. Its auto shut-off feature prevents overflows, and when the tank needs emptying, the LED flashes red as a reminder.
6. Best Small Dehumidifier for Boat: Hysure Portable Air Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- One-button control for easy operation
- Energy-efficient for low electricity consumption
- Auto power off for mess-free dehumidification
- The washable filter can help you save on costs
What customers say:
βThis dehumidifier is so worthy buy for me. Since my room is damp I used to get mould so quickly on my walls but after using this dehumidifier just for a few days, I can see a huge difference alreadyβ¦ββSuman
The Hysure Portable Air Dehumidifier is both lightweight and compact, effectively dehumidifying rooms up to 20m2. Its space-saving design makes it ideal for boats, and it features a removable 2-litre water tank for easy emptying.
Like most desiccant dehumidifiers in its class, the βHysure T8PLUS will shut down automatically when the reservoir tank is full, meaning the water wonβt spill all over the place during the dehumidification process.
The unit signals a 2000ml water level with a yellow power indicator light. Its energy efficiency and environmental friendliness make it a top pick for cost-conscious users.
Made from durable yet lightweight materials, this dehumidifier is easily portable between rooms. Its integrated handle enhances user convenience.
Additionally, the Hysure Portable Air Dehumidifier features a dependable, washable filter, enhancing your home’s air quality without frequent replacements.
With its 750ml daily dehumidification capacity, the machine is suitable for bedrooms, closets, wardrobes, and other humid areas, including motorhomes. Its Peltier technology ensures a quiet operation.
7. Best Dehumidifier for Baby Room: De’Longhi DEX-SERIES Multipurpose Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Sophisticated design
- Ergonomic handle
- Transparent 2.1L tank
- Also works as an air purifier with its 2-action filtration system
- Easy to operate with front-facing controls
- Multi-purpose functionality
What customers say:
βI was very happy with this Machine. Itβs relatively quiet, easy to use, the tank is small but copes very well and not too heavy to move from room to room.ββAnne O.
When you want to improve air quality inside your home, and not just remove excess moisture, the De'Longhi DEX-SERIES Multipurpose Dehumidifier is your best bet. Rated by the National Asthma Council’s Sensitive Choice Program for use in smaller rooms, this device not only dehumidifies rooms but also helps eliminate allergens in the air, making it a great option for baby rooms.
Yes, this dehumidifier is a great addition to any home, especially those that have occupants that suffer from allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. The anti-allergy function of this device helps clean the air while removing moisture at the same time.
How does this machine eliminate allergens and neutralise bacteria in the air? This is achieved via the double-action filtration system that is added to it. Such a feature lets you improve air quality in the room itβs placed in with its anti-allergen filter and anti-dust filter.
Also worth noting is the design of the device. Itβs so sleek and stylish that you donβt have to even think about hiding it behind the couch or keeping it hidden anywhere. And with an ergonomic handle, itβs easy and comfortable to carry from one place to another.
One feature that may seem problematic to some is the 2.1L tank, which can easily fill up since this machine does have a 14L per day capacity for removing humidity. This is remedied with a continuous drainage hose that lets you use the device for extended periods without worrying about the tank filling up. Just point the other end towards a handy drain and youβre good to go!
Beyond its primary functions, this dehumidifier serves as an efficient clothes dryer, eliminating the challenges of musty odours and dampness from indoor drying.
Oh, and did we forget to mention that this dehumidifier is relatively quiet? This means you can use it while you sleep since it generates a gentle humming sound that can be easily likened to white noise, which can sometimes help induce and improve sleep.
8. Best Dehumidifier for Basement: Ausclimate NWT Medium 20L Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Slim design
- Has wheels that allow easy transfer from room to room
- Can be used in rooms of up to 30sqmtr in size
- With a 12-hour timer and LCD display
- From the makers of high-quality dehumidifiers
- Made specifically for use in Australia and NZ
What customers say:
βLike most people in our city suffering through a prolonged wet season, we had a mild problem. We chose the dehumidifier because of past reviews, and are happy with the choice. We let it run 24/7 to remove moisture from our 100-year homeβ¦ββ Roya G
For basements up to 30 square meters, especially during highly humid days, the Ausclimate NWT Medium 20L Dehumidifier proves to be an effective solution.
Equipped with a compressor, this dehumidifier efficiently extracts moisture from the air. While it operates with a noticeable sound, its effectiveness is evident, especially in situations like post-shower humidity in bathrooms or after heavy rainfalls in basements.
While the compressor contributes to its noise level, the machine’s design is optimized for basement use. A standout feature is its 3.5L tank, which, given its compact design, offers impressive capacity, making it ideal for tasks like water damage restoration.
A notable addition to this device is the continuous drainage hose, which allows you to use the dehumidifier for extended periods without having to worry about draining the tank. This is a great feature to have when you need to use it to dry out a room that got flooded. Just direct the other end of the 1-metre hose to a nearby drain, turn it on, and let it do its work.
Other features that come with this machine include an easy-to-use LCD display for controlling its settings, a 12-hour timer, and dual fan speed. It also comes with castor wheels for easy mobility, an auto-shut-off feature for when your tank is full, and a shiny, smooth outer case that can be easily cleaned with a wipe-down.
On rainy days when indoor clothes drying is necessary, this dehumidifier excels. Doubling as a clothes dryer, its efficient compressor can extract up to 20L of moisture daily.
9. Best Dehumidifier for Dust Mites: Arovecβ’ AroDry-900 Upgraded Dehumidifier
Β Why we like it:
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to move around
- Great for small spaces of up to 15 sqm or 160 sqft
- Super quiet and very efficient
- Can remove up to 300ml of moisture daily
- Huge water tank can hold up to 900ml of water
- Has an auto-shut-off function for user convenience
What customers say:
βThis product is great. It collects water from any room and it’s not noisy at all. It takes about 2 days for it to be full, but it does work well. I just keep it plugged in all day. Also removing the water is very simple and easy.β-Pearson
The Arovecβ’ AroDry-900 Upgraded Dehumidifier stands out as a top-tier moisture-removing device. It proficiently lowers room humidity, targeting and eliminating microscopic organisms like dust mites that flourish in such conditions.
With its capability to extract up to 300 millilitres of moisture daily, this device is instrumental in preventing mould, mildew, and the spread of dust mites, thereby reducing allergens in your space.
Aside from effectively eliminating excess moisture in the air, this gadget is very quiet. You donβt have to worry about humming noises or any loud sounds coming from it, allowing you to sleep soundly even while itβs running.
Thanks to its Peltier technology, the AroDry-900 functions without a compressor, ensuring a quiet and energy-efficient operation.
The dehumidifier also boasts a sizable water tank, auto-shut-off mechanism, fullness indicator, and portability. These features collectively ensure convenience, prevent overflows, and facilitate easy relocation as needed.
Since itβs capable of storing up to 900ml of water, you wonβt have to bother with draining it daily. And even when you do forget to empty it, you donβt have to worry about it overflowing since it shuts off when it reaches its capacity. Also, it tells you when you need to empty it since it has an LED fullness indicator that alerts you to this.
Its compact size is also one of its most notable features since it lets you place it almost anywhere β under your desk, in your wardrobe, or even in a corner of your caravan. Wherever you need to eliminate the excess moisture, even when thereβs limited space, this dehumidifier can be easily used.
If youβre using it in a nursery or kidsβ room, it also has a nightlight feature that lets you leave a small light on. This is great for when your kids require a bit of illumination when they sleep.
10. Best Value Dehumidifier: Colaze 1800ML Electric Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Incredibly energy-efficient operation
- Capable of removing 1.8L of moisture per day
- Ideal for average-size rooms
- Sleek aesthetic design
What Customers Say:
“I needed to lower the humidity in my condo due to health issues. Since I live in a 3rd floor condo, a full-size dehumidifier would be too large to fit in my limited space and too noisy for my downstairs neighbors to endure. This unit is the perfect size for my needs.” – KShaw
The Colaze 1800ML Electric Dehumidifier Β costs a little less than some of the other dehumidifiers, but don’t let that put you off! This guy is excellent in smaller spaces like apartments and can help you out in numerous ways.
Given its affordable price, this dehumidifier boasts an impressive list of features. It efficiently removes 1.8 litres of moisture daily, ensuring a comfortable environment, quicker clothes drying, mould prevention, and allergy alleviation.
Equipped with features like auto-humidity settings, three dehumidification levels, a timer, and a built-in night light, this dehumidifier offers exceptional value. Its position in the list is primarily due to the absence of an air purifier function and its limited capacity.
However, if you have a small apartment or room and just need a dehumidifier, this could be the best dehumidifier for you!
11. Best Dehumidifier for Low-temperature Conditions: Hysure X3 Smart Dehumidifier
Why we like it:
- Super powerful for quick dehumidification
- No compressor from quiet operation
- Auto-defrost function for low-temperature conditions
- Swing function for controlling airflow
What customers say:
βWe’ve had a lot of rain in Sydney recently so it’s been very humid. This is perfect for removing moisture from the air, drying clothes and keeping the air in our house healthyβ¦ββNathan M
The Hysure X3 Smart Dehumidifier is designed to enhance indoor air quality year-round. Notably, its performance remains consistent even in temperatures as low as -5β, ensuring reliable operation in colder months, as evidenced by our uninterrupted use throughout June.
Additionally, it is lightweight and equally portable, making it super convenient. Plus, this dehumidifier is compact, meaning it wonβt take up a lot of space in your room. With this dehumidifier, you can remove excess moisture in large rooms that measure up to 45m2.
Best of all, the Hysure X3 offers three humidification levels that you can choose from based on the size of the room and moisture level. But it doesnβt end there; there is an auto-humidity setting that will intuitively adjust the humidity level, allowing for hands-free operation.
Also, you can make use of the 1.5m hose that comes with the dehumidifier. This equipment can run continuously without overheating, so you wonβt experience any difficulty when extracting moisture from large humid rooms. The fact that it is lightweight and also has a handle means you can carry it to wherever you may need it without straining yourself.
More to this, the filter on this machine is washable and durable. That being said, you can use it multiple times without lowering its level of efficiency. If you are looking for a high-quality dehumidifier that can withstand sub-zero temperatures, the Hysure X3 is the way to go.
The dehumidifier boasts a specialized cloth dry function, efficiently removing moisture from clothes with minimal electricity consumption. Its 2.5-litre reservoir minimizes the frequency of emptying, adding to user convenience.
12. Best Dehumidifier for Apartment: Miguo Dehumidifier
The Miguo Dehumidifier, with its compact size and capacity, is tailored for rooms up to 15 square meters, making it an ideal choice for small apartments.
While it took up to four runs to achieve optimal results, the unit’s compact size offers excellent value for money. Especially in smaller spaces, its performance stands out, even if it’s not the top dehumidifier in the market.
Boasting a 300 ml/day moisture extraction rate, this dehumidifier excels in dryer environments but remains effective in humid settings when used in smaller rooms.
Perfect for very small rooms, laundry spaces, or office cubicles, this dehumidifier might not be the choice for those seeking to elevate the entire home’s air quality. In such cases, one of the list’s first three dehumidifiers would be more appropriate.
Unlike the Hysure above, this unit is very quiet, so won’t cause any distractions or noise pollution. So if you’re in the market for a small, portable, and quiet dehumidifier, this one could be for you!
How We Researched the Best Dehumidifiers in Australia
We chose 12 dehumidifiers from leading Australian brands and assessed them for humidity control, energy efficiency, and noise. Our 25 square metre basement served as the testing ground, with all vents sealed and its window securely shut.
We raised the room’s humidity using the Ionmax ION90, one of our highest-rated humidifiers, chosen for its substantial water tank. Multiple 90-minute sessions brought the humidity to 85%, a figure verified with our digital hygrometer.
After setting the room’s humidity, we ran each dehumidifier for two hours, assessing them at their minimum and maximum settings. They consistently lowered the humidity from 85% to a bracket of 35%-50%.
We later tested the dehumidifiers during the rainy season in Melbourne (which admittedly is large parts of the year!) and got almost similar results. The Ausclimate Cool Seasons Premium 10L Desiccant Dehumidifier did a great job at keeping the humidity level below 50% even when running at its lowest setting, while the Hysure X3 Smart Dehumidifier performed well at extremely low temperatures.
Using the data that we collected during the research process, we ranked the dehumidifiers based on how they performed in different areas.
Dehumidifiers: Buying Guide
Dehumidifiers not only ensure a comfortable environment but also offer health benefits. While top-tier dehumidifiers can be pricey and intricate, this guide aims to demystify their claims, drawing insights from peer-reviewed scientific literature.
What to Look for When Buying a Dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers are relatively complex products with a few different considerations that everyone should pay attention to, let’s take a look at them.
Automatic Humidity Detection (Humidstat)
A humidistat will monitor the current moisture and allow the device to extract the moisture until it meets the designated moisture level that you have set. This is a critical feature that all of the best dehumidifiers should have since it facilitates a critical function of dehumidifiers – accurately monitoring and reducing the air moisture measurably
Effectiveness in Different Climates
High levels of humidity are present in a range of different climates and are not limited to just high or low temperatures. Make sure that the dehumidifier that you buy is suited to the climate you live in. The majority of dehumidifiers are effective in lower temperatures, where some dehumidifiers’ performance will suffer. If you live in a climate with temperatures frequently hitting 10-15 degrees Celcius, you may want to speak to the manufacturer to get performance metrics relevant to that temperature.
Air Purification
Some of the top dehumidifiers are 2-in-1 units that also include an air purification function. Typically they are not as effective as stand-alone air purifiers but do serve a useful purpose and should be considered when buying an expensive dehumidifier.
Water Tank Capacity
The size of the water tank will determine how often you will need to empty it. With some dehumidifiers extracting multiple litres a day you may find yourself emptying the tank more often than you want.
Continuous Drainage
Continuous drainage solves the issue of emptying the water tank by using a drainage tube to empty the moisture directly into a drain. This is very useful if you plan on running it constantly and don’t want to constantly empty the tank.
Portability
If you plan on taking the dehumidifier from room to room, then you may want to opt for one that is lightweight and compact. Some of the larger units also sit on wheels to make it a little easier to move around.
Noise Levels
Some units are quite noisy and will distract you or impact your sleep. The best dehumidifiers include a sleep mode, which is dramatically quieter. Some of the smaller units are quiet by default due to a lack of overall power.
What are Some of the Common Claims of Owning a Dehumidifier?
Here will look at the claimed benefits of owning a dehumidifier according to the literature.
Do Dehumidifiers Help Chronic Asthma?
The jury is still out on how effective dehumidifiers are at alleviating asthma, with one such study published in 2013 concluding the following:
There is currently scanty evidence (only one trial originating from Scotland) to indicate whether dehumidifiers are of clinical benefit to patients with asthma.
Do Dehumidifiers Reduce House Dust Mites?
A contributor to asthmatic symptoms is the presence of dust mites. It is claimed that dehumidifiers reduce house dust mites (HDM) but this is up for debate, with one study concluding the following:
Neither the dehumidifier nor the behavioral intervention had a major effect on HDM counts or allergen levels. However, the study did have a number of limitations relating to size, timing of intervention, and running of the dehumidifiers. The secondary data analysis may indicate some effect of dehumidification, but clearly, this effect was small. There is a need for more information on the effects of reducing ambient humidity on the distribution of HDM within their habitats.
Do Dehumidifiers Extract Pollutants from the Air?
This is another common claim made by manufacturers and it does have a basis in the scientific literature. It has been shown in the following study that humidifiers are an effective means of collecting pollutants from an indoor space. The study concludes the following:
The GC-EI-TOF-MS chromatograms obtained for the extracts of dehumidifier water samples contain a large number of semi-volatile compounds. Variations among sampling places, and the reasonable agreement of data obtained in the same room, with different dehumidifiers, confirm that condensed water samples are useful for qualitative analysis of the chemical composition of indoor areas.
How do Dehumidifiers Work?
There are three main types of dehumidifiers, each using a different method to extract moisture, let’s take a quick look at each of them:
Thermo-electric dehumidifiers
Uncommon and not very effective. These types of dehumidifiers take advantage of the Peltier effect which simply put converts electricity into a temperature difference. This is a relatively complex effect that is explained in more detail here.
Desiccant rotor dehumidifiers
These types of dehumidifiers work by using a desiccant, which is a substance that helps to absorb moisture). It typically rotates and collects moisture at one point and is then dried with a heating element at another part of the rotation.
Refrigeration dehumidifiers
This is the most common type of dehumidifier on our list and also the most effective. It uses the tried and tested method of drawing in air, cooling it down to extract the moisture, then reheating the air and blowing the air back into the room.
Dehumidifier FAQs
Dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air making them a useful appliance in a variety of situations. Too much moisture can cause issues with your personal health and also compromise building structure in extreme cases.
You should use a dehumidifier if you notice any of the following:
- Condensation on windows, walls, or ceilings
- Noticeably “sticky” airΒ
- Damp wood or plaster
- Household mold, especially in the bathroom or kitchen
- An increase in allergy symptoms including skin rashes
- That “damp “smell
- Or if you just want a more comfortable living environment
Β
Last update on 2023-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Each dehumidifier will have slightly different requirements so make sure to check the manufacturers’ guides, but there are common steps:
- Filters: Dehumidifiers use filters to extract pollutants and as a result, they require regular cleaning and sometimes replacements. These filters are often coated in dust or mold and should be thoroughly wiped and vacuumed. Then wash with warm water and wait until completely dry before reinserting
- Coils:Β Dehumidifiers use coils to cool the air and capture the condensation. These coils will need cleaning from time to time to remove hair, dust, and other unwanted elements. Use a combination of clothes, brushes, and vacuums to get these as clean as possible.
- Catch bucket: The water collected has to go somewhere and that’s the catch bucket. This requires regular cleaning with anti-bacterial solutions like bleach. Just make sure all of the bleach is removed prior to putting it back.
- The outside of the unit: Occasionally wipe the outside to minimise the amount of dust and hair that falls into the unit.
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