Compressor Dehumidifiers

What is a Compressor Dehumidifier?

A compressor dehumidifier works like a small fridge. A fan pulls in humid air, a refrigerated coil cools it so the moisture condenses into the water tank, and the drier air passes over a warm coil and back into your room. Compressor dehumidifiers work best in heated rooms and typically offer lower operating costs and greater capacity compared to desiccant models, which suit colder spaces. Our range runs from compact 6L models to 30L-a-day units from Meaco, Devola and Honeywell.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Compressor Dehumidifier

When buying a compressor dehumidifier, there are several key factors that can impact its performance and your satisfaction. By balancing these factors, you'll be able to find the right model for your room.

Capacity

First, make sure the dehumidifier's capacity matches the size of the space you want to dehumidify. This is important, as it can determine whether your room stays dry or remains damp. As a guide, 12L dehumidifiers suit a flat or one or two damp rooms, 20L dehumidifiers suit a family house, and 25L dehumidifiers or larger suit bigger properties and persistent damp.

For more guidance, check out our article: What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need?

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is another important consideration, especially with rising energy costs in the UK. An efficient dehumidifier can help you save on electricity bills. The models in this range draw from about 100W for the smallest units to about 400W for a 30L unit, so check the wattage on each product page. Noise level also matters, especially in a bedroom. The quietest models here run at 32 to 38 dB.

Maintenance

Consider the maintenance requirements of the unit. Easy cleaning and simple operation will save you time and help prolong the lifespan of the dehumidifier. 

For tips on maximising the efficiency of your device, visit our blog: How to Get the Most Out of Your Device.

Features to Look for in a Compressor Dehumidifier

Choosing the right compressor dehumidifier comes down to the features you will use every day.

Air Purification

Air quality plays a significant role in your home’s atmosphere, and many compressor dehumidifiers come with built-in air purifiers. These devices feature filters that remove dust, pollen and other particles from the air. The Devola 20L Compressor Dehumidifier & Air Purifier with HEPA Filter is one example. With HEPA filtration capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns, it cleans the air while it dries it.

For more on air purification, explore our Air Purifier Buying Guide.

Dehumidifiers for Laundry Drying

Compressor dehumidifiers also dry laundry indoors faster than an airer alone. The Meaco Arete range has a dedicated laundry mode: the unit lowers the humidity, then switches to fan-only mode, to dry your clothes. See all our laundry mode dehumidifiers.

Small and Portable Compressor Dehumidifiers

Portable models suit smaller spaces, as they can be easily moved from room to room. Weight matters if you move the unit often: the models in this range weigh from 7 kg to 16 kg, and about half have castors. The Devola 8L Compact Compressor Dehumidifier weighs 7 kg and has a laundry mode and a built-in timer.

Compressor or Desiccant Dehumidifier? 

Choose a compressor dehumidifier for rooms you heat, such as bedrooms, living rooms and bathrooms. At normal room temperatures it removes more water for each unit of electricity than a desiccant model. Choose a desiccant dehumidifier for unheated garages, sheds and conservatories in winter, because it keeps removing moisture in the cold, where a compressor model removes less. Our Dehumidifiers Buying Guide compares the two in more detail.

Which Compressor Dehumidifier Is Best? 

The best compressor dehumidifier depends on the room and on what matters most to you: 

• Quietest running: the MeacoDry Arete One 6L runs from 32 dB, for a bedroom or a small flat.
• Longest warranty: the MeacoDry Arete One 12L, 20L and 25L models come with a 5-year warranty.
• Most water removed: the Honeywell TP 30L extracts up to 30 litres a day, for larger houses and persistent damp.
• App control: the MeacoDry Arete Two 20L connects over Wi-Fi and works with Amazon Alexa.

Why Choose AirCon Centre for Your Compressor Dehumidifier?

At AirCon Centre, we have over 10 years of experience with dehumidifiers. We carefully select our dehumidifiers to ensure they effectively tackle humidity issues. Plus, we offer free UK mainland delivery on all orders*.

FAQs

Q: How does a compressor dehumidifier work?

A: It draws in humid air, cools it using refrigerated coils, and condenses the moisture into water. The dry air is then reheated and released back into the room.

Q: Do compressor dehumidifiers heat the room? 
A: Slightly. The compressor and the warm coil give off a little heat, so the air that comes out is a little warmer than the air that goes in.

Q: Are compressor dehumidifiers effective in cold temperatures?

A: Compressor dehumidifiers work best in heated rooms. Several models in this range list a working range of 5°C to 35°C and defrost automatically, but they remove less water as the room gets colder. For cold, unheated spaces, a desiccant dehumidifier is the better choice.

Q: What size compressor dehumidifier do I need?

A: The size depends on your room’s floor area and humidity levels. Larger or damper spaces may require a model with higher water extraction capacity.

Q: Are compressor dehumidifiers noisy?

A: The models in this range run at between 32 and 53 decibels (dB). Some models offer a quiet mode for noise-sensitive areas.

Q: How energy-efficient are compressor dehumidifiers?

A: Compressor dehumidifiers are energy-efficient, especially in warm conditions. The models in this range draw between about 100W and 400W, depending on size.

Q: How often do I need to empty the water tank?

A: This depends on the humidity level and the dehumidifier’s capacity. Larger tanks or models with continuous drainage systems require less frequent emptying.

Q: What maintenance is required for a compressor dehumidifier?

A: Regularly clean the water tank, replace or clean the air filter, and inspect the coils for dust or debris to maintain optimal performance.

Q: How long do compressor dehumidifiers last?

A: With proper care, a compressor dehumidifier can last 5-10 years. Regular maintenance is key to extending its lifespan.

Q: Can I leave a compressor dehumidifier running overnight?

A: Yes, most compressor dehumidifiers are designed for continuous operation and have features like auto shut-off when the tank is full, making them safe to use overnight.

Q: Can a compressor dehumidifier help reduce mould and mildew?

A: Yes, by lowering humidity levels, compressor dehumidifiers prevent the growth of mould, mildew, and dust mites, improving air quality and reducing allergens.

Q: Do compressor dehumidifiers improve air quality?

A: Yes, by reducing excess moisture, they help prevent allergens like mould and dust mites, making your indoor environment healthier and more comfortable.