The Ultimate Guide to Picking the Best Dehumidifier for your Home

Looking to control excess moisture, improve air quality, or prevent mould in your home? If so, a dehumidifier could be the solution. But how do you choose the right one? This easy-to-follow guide will help you find the perfect dehumidifier while offering useful tips on placement, usage, and maintenance.

Here are the main reasons you might need a dehumidifier:

• Humidity levels over 60% – The ideal humidity is around 30-50%.
• Condensation – Noticeable on windows, walls or ceilings.
• Musty smells – A clear sign of mould or mildew growth.
• Water damage – Rotting wood or structural damage from moisture.
• Allergies and respiratory issues – High humidity can worsen symptoms.
• Damp basement – Common area for excess moisture to accumulate.
• Poor ventilation – Particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, or basements without ventilation.

These are key indicators that a dehumidifier can help improve air quality and protect your home from moisture damage.

1. What Does It Do?

A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air, making your home less humid and more comfortable. Our compressor dehumidifiers work like a mini fridge. They pull in air, pass it through a filter, and over cold coils. This cools the air, causing moisture to condense into a water tank. The dry air is then warmed and sent back into the room, keeping your space comfortable and moisture-free. If your home feels clammy or smells musty, a dehumidifier is your best bet for combating excess humidity, preventing mould, and improving air quality.

2. How Much Does a Dehumidifier Cost to Run?

Wondering how much a dehumidifier will add to your electricity bill? On average, dehumidifiers use between 300-700 watts of power. Running a 500W unit for 8 hours a day will cost about £0.98, depending on your electricity rate (Oct 1st - Dec 31st 2024 = 24.5p per kWh in the UK).

3. What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need?

Picking the perfect dehumidifier is all about extraction rate, not physical size. This is the amount of moisture a unit can remove in a 24-hour period, usually measured in litres per day (L/day). For example, a 12L dehumidifier extracts 12 litres of water daily under ideal conditions. The trick is to match the extraction rate to your room size and humidity level.

What About Tank Size?

While extraction rate tells you how much moisture the dehumidifier can pull from the air, tank size is how much it can hold before you need to empty it. Most domestic dehumidifiers have a water tank capacity of 2L right up to 6L for larger spaces or heavy moisture. If you don’t want to empty the tank often, you can opt for a model that has a continuous drain option with a hose attached for waste water.

Room Size vs. Dehumidifier Capacity

Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right dehumidifier size for your space:

If your space has visible condensation or very high humidity (e.g. damp basements), opt for a larger-capacity dehumidifier like our 30L Dehumidifier. While extraction rates are based on perfect conditions, real-world performance varies with temperature and humidity levels. For slightly damp spaces, a smaller unit will work just fine, but it’s always smart to size up if in doubt.

A good dehumidifier will keep your space dry, comfortable, and fresh, so picking the right size for your home is key!

4. Where Should I Place My Dehumidifier?

The best place to position a dehumidifier is where moisture tends to accumulate the most - basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms are prime locations. Make sure it’s away from walls and furniture for optimal airflow. If you’re using it in a bedroom or living area, place it centrally in the room, and always close doors and windows to stop humid air from entering.

5. How Long Should I Leave a Dehumidifier On?

Most people run their dehumidifiers for 6-8 hours daily to maintain comfortable humidity levels (ideally between 30-50%). Some models come with built-in humidistats that automatically shut off the machine once the desired humidity is reached, saving you energy and effort.

6. Do Dehumidifiers Help With Allergies?

Absolutely! Mould thrives in humid environments, and keeping humidity levels below 60% makes it difficult for mould to grow. Additionally, reducing humidity helps eliminate dust mites and other allergens, providing relief for people with allergies or asthma.

7. Can a Dehumidifier Help Dry Paint?

Yes! A dehumidifier speeds up drying by removing moisture from the air, making it ideal for drying clothes, carpets, and freshly painted surfaces. Some models even come with a dedicated 'Laundry Mode' to help with indoor clothes drying, reducing drying time and preventing musty smells. In humid conditions, where drying can take much longer, a dehumidifier is especially useful for quickly drying carpets and paint, ensuring a faster and more efficient process.

8. How Do I Maintain a Dehumidifier for Smooth Running?

To keep your dehumidifier performing at its best, regular maintenance is key. Clean or replace the air filter every few weeks, empty the water tank often (or buy one with continuous draining), and wipe down the exterior to prevent dust build-up. These simple tasks will help prolong the lifespan of your unit and ensure it works efficiently.

9. Can I Use a Dehumidifier as an Air Conditioner?

Yes, you can! In fact, using an air conditioner and a dehumidifier together can be particularly effective during hot, humid months. The air conditioner cools the room, while the dehumidifier removes excess moisture, creating a comfortable living environment. For even better air quality, some dehumidifiers come equipped with HEPA filters, which not only remove moisture but also purify the air by capturing allergens and dust. If you're looking for a solution that combines both moisture control and air purification, check out our 20L Dehumidifier with Air Purifier.

10. Tips for Getting the Most From Your Dehumidifier

• Keep doors and windows closed to concentrate moisture removal.
• Clean the filters regularly to maintain efficiency.
• Set the humidity level between 30-50% for the best comfort.
• Use the continuous drain option (if available) to avoid emptying the water tank.
• Place the unit in the most humid room, such as a bathroom, basement, or laundry room.

Conclusion

A dehumidifier can improve air quality, prevent mould, and make your home more comfortable all year round. Whether you’re dealing with a damp basement or want to control humidity in a laundry room or bedroom, choosing the right dehumidifier is crucial. Follow this guide to pick the perfect model for your needs and ensure your home stays fresh and dry.