Dehumidifier guide

Find the best dehumidifier to combat condensation, damp and mould growth in your home.

A white dehumidifier sitting in a bedroom.

Understanding dehumidifiers

A hand wiping away condensation on the inside of a window.

What is a dehumidifier?

A dehumidifier extracts excess moisture from indoor air, preventing condensation and damp issues. This promotes better indoor air quality, prevents mould and mildew growth, and protects your belongings.

Why should you buy a dehumidifier?

Health benefits of a dehumidifier

Purify air, reducing dampness, mould, and musty odours.
Ease allergies by eliminating dust mites and pollen.
Help asthma patients by regulating moisture for easier breathing.

How does a dehumidifier work?

Dehumidifiers operate by pulling room air through cold coils. As warm, humid air encounters these coils, it condenses into water droplets that collect in a tank. The air is then reheated before re-entering the room.

Best-rated dehumidifiers

Dehumidifier features

Here are some features to consider when choosing a dehumidifier for your home.

Litre capacity

A dehumidifier's capacity is measured by the amount of moisture it removes in a day. Choose a model with a higher litre capacity if your space is prone to dampness and ensure effective moisture control.

Meaco Arete One 12L Dehumidifier & Air Purifier.

Noise level

Some models of dehumidifier are louder than others. So, if you're planning on running a dehumidifier in a quiet environment such as a bedroom or nursery, look for one with a noise level under 45 decibels.

Laundry drying

A dehumidifier with a laundry mode efficiently removes moisture from your clothes so that they dry more quickly. This is especially useful in the winter months when it’s often too cold to hang clothes outside.

Meaco Dry Arete One 20 Litre Dehumidifier sitting in a garage.

Low temperature operation

Dehumidifiers operating in cold spaces like basements or garages need frost control to prevent ice buildup. Without it, performance may suffer, or the unit might shut down entirely due to the accumulated ice.

Choosing the best dehumidifier for your home

What size dehumidifier do I need?

To determine the ideal dehumidifier size, assess the size and moisture level of your space. Generally, spaces with moderate humidity need a unit extracting 10 to 20 liters daily. For smaller areas like laundry rooms or closets, opt for a lower capacity model.

How much does a dehumidifier cost to run?

The cost to run a dehumidifier varies depending on its energy rating, size and usage. Some models are more energy efficient than others, providing the same amount of dehumidification while using less electricity.

Are dehumidifiers energy efficient?

Energy-saving benefits of a dehumidifier

From helping to reduce central heating usage to drying clothes, a dehumidifier can have several energy-saving benefits. Most new models also have an auto shut-off feature for optimised energy usage. Pick the right size and maintain it regularly for increased energy efficiency and lower bills.

View our energy efficiency tips page

Still not sure?

These frequently asked questions might help:

What are the side-effects of using a dehumidifier?

Since dehumidifiers make the air dry, using one may not be a good idea if you have dry skin conditions or breathing issues. It's best to check with your GP if you're not sure.

Will a dehumidifier heat my room?

While a dehumidifier releases heat, it's not significant enough to cause sufficient heating.

Can I leave a dehumidifier on all night?

Yes, you can use a dehumidifier all night to maintain a comfortable humidity level. Make sure to read the company's safety guidelines for proper usage.

Are dehumidifiers suitable for babies? Can I use one in a nursery?

You can use a dehumidifier in a nursery, but ensure that you're thoroughly following all the safety guidelines. Keep it out of reach of children. It's important to regularly clean and maintain the dehumidifier to prevent bacteria and mould growth.

Are dehumidifiers noisy?

Dehumidifiers come with various noise levels, which vary depending on size, capacity and fan speed. There are quiet models available too with noise reduction features. Ensure you check the noise level specifications before purchasing.