A dehumidifier is a machine that takes moisture, or water, out of the air. It does this by using a fan to pull in the damp air from the room. This damp air then touches cold metal coils inside the dehumidifier.

Just like how water droplets form on the outside of a cold drink, the water in the air turns into liquid when it touches the cold coils. This water then collects into a bucket or pan that is inside the dehumidifier.

At the same time, the air, which is now much less damp, is made warm again and sent back into the room. The machine keeps doing this until the room has less moisture in the air. By taking moisture out of the air, a dehumidifier helps to make a room more comfortable and reduces the chance of mold growing.

A dehumidifier is used to control and reduce the level of humidity in the air, typically for health or comfort reasons, or to prevent the growth of mildew and mold. High levels of humidity can lead to discomfort, particularly in warmer seasons, and may contribute to allergies and respiratory conditions.

You may want to use a dehumidifier in the following situations:

• Living in a Humid Climate: If you live in a region where the climate is often hot and humid, a dehumidifier can help by removing excess moisture from the air, creating a more comfortable living environment.
• Damp Rooms: Rooms in the home, such as basements or bathrooms, can become damp due to their lack of ventilation. This can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which a dehumidifier can help prevent.
• Preventing Damage to Possessions: Humidity can cause damage to items like furniture, clothing, and electronics. Using a dehumidifier can help protect these items by maintaining a more suitable environment.
• Health Reasons: People with allergies or respiratory conditions may find that a dehumidifier helps by reducing the presence of allergens in the air like mold spores and dust mites, which thrive in damp conditions.
• Comfort: High humidity can make the air feel heavier and warmer than it actually is. By reducing humidity, a dehumidifier can help create a more comfortable living environment.
• Prevent Condensation on Windows & Walls: During cold weather by using a dehumidifier you can prevent condensation forming on windows and walls. This will also reduce damaged that this causes to window sills, paint, and wallpaper

The size of the dehumidifier you need relies on two factors: the size of the space you want to dehumidify and the extent of dampness in that space. A compact, portable dehumidifier could be suitable for a small bedroom or an office, but a larger space like a spacious basement or a whole house would demand a larger unit. Usually, dehumidifiers are rated by how many litres of water they can remove from the air in a 24-hour period or the coverage are in square meters.

To measure the size of a room:

1. Measure the length and width of the room in meters
2. Multiply the length by the width

This gives you the area of the room in square meters. eg 5m x 4m = 20m²

For slightly damp rooms you can select a dehumidifier a suitable coverage area. The larger the room the larger capacity unit you need. However if the room is very damp, emits a very musty odour, or visibly mouldy, a larger capacity unit may be needed.

A dehumidifier and a humidifier are both household appliances designed to regulate the humidity levels within a space, but they serve opposite functions. Understanding the difference between the two is essential for ensuring a comfortable and healthy living environment, especially in regions with extreme moisture levels or during certain seasons.

Here's a breakdown of their primary differences:

• Function:
  • Dehumidifier: Removes excess moisture from the air, reducing humidity levels.
  • Humidifier: Adds moisture to the air, increasing humidity levels.
• Usage:
  • Dehumidifier: Used in areas or seasons with high humidity levels, such as tropical climates or during rainy seasons. They help in preventing mould growth, dampness, and musty odours in homes.
  • Humidifier: Used in areas or seasons with dry air, like desert regions or during winter. They can alleviate symptoms related to dry skin, respiratory problems, or static electricity.
• Health Implications:
  • Dehumidifier: Can reduce allergens in the air, such as mould and mildew, providing relief for individuals with allergies or asthma.
  • Humidifier: By maintaining optimal humidity levels, it can help soothe issues like dry skin, irritated throat, and dry nasal passages.

When deciding between a dehumidifier and a humidifier, it's crucial to assess the needs of your living environment. Monitoring the humidity levels and understanding the benefits of each appliance will guide you in making an informed decision for the health and comfort of your home's occupants.

Types of Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers are essential appliances designed to reduce and regulate humidity levels within spaces, promoting healthier living conditions. Depending on the method of extraction and the environment in which they're utilised, there are several types of dehumidifiers available on the market.

Here's an overview of the main types of dehumidifiers:

• Refrigerative (or Compressor) Dehumidifiers:
  • Function: These units use a refrigerated coil and a fan. The fan pulls moist air into the unit, cools it down, and condenses the moisture into water, which is then collected in a container.
  • Best For: Most common in residential settings and work best in higher temperature environments with moderate humidity levels. Tend not to work well in cooler climates or winter conditions
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers:
  • Function: These devices contain a desiccant material that naturally absorbs moisture from the air. Once saturated, the dehumidifier uses heat to remove the moisture from the desiccant.
  • Best For: Effective in both high and low temperatures and in very dry conditions. They are especially suited for cooler climates or winter use.

When selecting a dehumidifier, consider the size of the area, the average temperature and humidity levels, and the primary reason for dehumidification. This will ensure you choose a unit that effectively meets your needs.