Dehumidifiers are essential household appliances designed to maintain optimal humidity levels in indoor spaces. Excess moisture can lead to a variety of issues, including mould growth, unpleasant odours, and damage to furniture and structures. This FAQ aims to address common questions regarding the functions, benefits, and maintenance of dehumidifiers, helping you make an informed decision about whether this device is right for your home. Whether you’re new to the world of dehumidifiers or seeking specific advice, this guide will provide valuable insights to enhance your understanding and ensure a comfortable living environment.
What does a dehumidifier do?
A dehumidifier effectively removes moisture from the air to lower relative humidity levels.
What is relative humidity?
Relative humidity refers to the amount of atmospheric moisture in the air. If you've vacationed in a hot location with large bodies of water, such as oceans, lakes, or swamps, you may have experienced that sticky, sweaty sensation outdoors, which is indicative of high humidity levels.
Why would you want to reduce relative humidity in your home?
Excessive relative humidity can harm both your health and homes. It promotes mould and mildew growth, which can worsen allergies, trigger respiratory issues, and potentially lead to significant structural damage. High humidity levels pose serious risks.
To read more about this, check out our Top Tips on How To Prevent Condensation On Windows.
How does a dehumidifier prevent mould and mildew?
By reducing moisture levels in your home, the dehumidifier creates an environment that restricts the growth of mould and mildew spores, which thrive in damp conditions.
Where does too much relative humidity come from?
Humidity comes from various everyday activities, such as taking a shower, boiling pasta, or even simply breathing and talking.
What is the ideal humidity for my home?
We suggest maintaining a relative humidity level of 45-55% for optimal comfort. Most dehumidifiers come equipped with a humidistat that displays the current humidity in your environment.
What size dehumidifier do I need?
The appropriate dehumidifier size depends on the area you wish to dehumidify and the level of moisture that needs to be eliminated. For individual rooms and small homes, we generally recommend 12L units. For larger homes or spaces, or rooms with significant ongoing moisture, we suggest opting for larger units, such as the 20L or 25L models.
More on this in our What Size Dehumidifier do I Need.
How long does a dehumidifier take to work?
The time it takes for a dehumidifier to work effectively varies based on factors like unit size, humidity levels, and room dimensions. Usually, you’ll see noticeable results within a few hours of continuous use. For best results, let it run for at least 24 hours to significantly reduce moisture. Larger spaces or very high humidity may require more time to reach the desired level.
Can dehumidifiers dry clothes?
Yes, many dehumidifier models feature a dedicated laundry mode, which can save you up to £150 annually! Check out our Dehumidifier vs Tumble Dryer: Which is Best for Your Home article for more details.
Do dehumidifiers cost a lot to run?
Not at all! Our dehumidifiers are very energy efficient. For example, this Devola 12L will cost you about 4p per hour, and the Devola 20L will cost about 8p per hour.
These prices are based on the July 2024 price cap.
Can I use the water that collects in the water tank?
Please refrain from drinking this water, as it is unsafe for both you and your pet. While you could use it to water plants or for your iron, we recommend simply disposing of it.
Where is the best place to site my dehumidifier?
For a room with significant dampness, position your dehumidifier there. If your goal is to dehumidify the entire house, place the unit in a central location, such as a hallway or landing, for optimal effectiveness.
What’s the difference between a compressor dehumidifier and a desiccant dehumidifier?
A compressor dehumidifier removes moisture from the air by condensing it through a compressor and refrigerated coils. The condensed water collects in a tank, while dry air is released from the top. In contrast, desiccant dehumidifiers use a moisture-absorbing wheel instead of a compressor.
So, why choose one over the other? A compressor dehumidifier is effective for most applications but can be less efficient in cooler environments. Meanwhile, a desiccant dehumidifier works well in lower temperatures, making it ideal for spaces like conservatories, garages, or garden rooms.
How much water does a dehumidifier remove?
This depends on the dehumidifier's power, the room temperature, and the air's relative humidity.
How often do I have to empty my dehumidifier?
The frequency of emptying a dehumidifier primarily depends on its operating conditions. Depending on the season and ambient factors, you may need to empty the tank anywhere from daily to weekly. Most of our dehumidifiers feature tanks that hold between 2 to 4 litres. Additionally, they come equipped with an automatic shutoff function that activates when the tank is full, ensuring you won’t have to worry about potential malfunctions caused by excess water.
Why are dehumidifiers listed as 12 litres or higher if they only hold 2 or 4 litres of water?
This refers to the amount of moisture that can theoretically be removed in a 24-hour period, rather than the capacity of the tank. If you want to operate the dehumidifier continuously without the concern of tank saturation, consider using a continuous drainage option.
What is continuous drainage?
Some of the dehumidifiers we sell come with a hose for continuous drainage. This feature allows the dehumidifier to operate without interruption by bypassing the water tank and directing the collected water straight out through the hose. Be sure to place the hose where the water can drain properly, such as into a drain or a bucket.
How long will it take to get the moisture under control?
A properly sized dehumidifier for your space can typically reduce humidity levels to your desired point within a few days to a week, provided there are no specific damp issues. However, this timeframe changes if the room has been flooded; in such cases, multiple dehumidifiers may be necessary, along with air movers and other specialized equipment. This type of work is best handled by professionals specializing in water damage restoration.
Investing in a dehumidifier can significantly enhance your indoor air quality and comfort, while also protecting your home from excess moisture. By understanding your specific needs you can choose the right dehumidifier and ensure it operates effectively, ultimately leading to a healthier living environment.