Determine the room size

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

Please enter values in meters (m)

length (m)

width (m)

How do I choose the right model:

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.

For a given technology the litre rating is only indicates the relative water extraction capacity (based on ideal lab conditions). This does not reflect how much water it is going to extract in real world conditions. The tank gives you a much better idea of how much water it is going to extract.

So for example a 6L Dessicant Dehumidifier has less drying capacity than say a 10L Dehumidifier.

Similarly a 10L Desiccant Dehumidifier may outperform a 25L Compressor Dehumidifier during winter as Desiccant Dehumidifiers are much more effective in colder temperatures.

How do I choose the right technology?

Dehumidifiers are classified based on the technology used to extract moisture from the air - they may be classified as Desiccant, Compressor, or Thermo-electric.

Dessicant Dehumidifiers

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Desiccant dehumidifiers are devices that absorb moisture from the air using a desiccant material, similar to the silica gel found in sachets with electronic goods or vitamin bottles. Here's how they work:

Moisture Absorption: Air circulates through the dehumidifier, and moisture is absorbed by the desiccant material.
Moisture Release: The desiccant material is heated to release the moisture into the dehumidifier's water tank.
Temperature Range: They perform consistently over a wider range of temperatures, particularly in colder environments. Ideal for rooms where the air temperature may fall below 15°C.

Compressor Dehumidifiers

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Compressor dehumidifiers operate similarly to refrigerators, utilising the same technology to create a cold surface. Here's how they function:

Condensation Process: Warm air is drawn into the dehumidifier and directed over the cold surface. As the warm air hits the cool surface, condensation forms, and water is extracted from the air.
Efficiency: For optimal performance, compressor dehumidifiers require a significant temperature difference between the warm air and the cold surface.
Temperature Sensitivity: These dehumidifiers are less effective in cooler temperatures or winter conditions due to the reduced temperature differential. They are best suited for use in warmer climates.

Thermo-electric Dehumidifiers

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Thermo-electric dehumidifiers utilise the thermoelectric effect to convert electricity into a temperature difference across a Peltier module. Here's how they operate:

Thermoelectric Effect: Electricity is used to create a temperature difference across a Peltier module.
Condensation Process: Similar to compressor-based dehumidifiers, they extract water by condensing warm air on a cool surface.
Efficiency: The created temperature difference facilitates the dehumidification process.

Why is high humidity a problem at home?

It can cause a variety of issues:

Mould and Mildew
Window Condensation
Discomfort
Breathing problems
Allergies

Why do I need a Dehumidifier?

To help prevent mould and inhibit dust mites' activity
Assist those with asthma and breathing difficulties
Comfort in humid/hot sticky climates
Manage damp in homes due to leaks and poor ventilation
Manage moisture in the bathrooms
Manage mildew in wardrobes
Dry clothes (in Asia dehumidifiers are frequently used as an alternative to a tumble dryer)

For more details, visit our comprehensive Australian Dehumidifier Buying Guide.

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4		7%
3		1%
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1		2%

Philips Humidifier Australia