When to Buy a Desiccant Dehumidifier and When to Buy a Compressor Dehumidifier

Choosing the right dehumidifier can be daunting with various brands offering conflicting advice. At Aircare Appliances, we provide unbiased information on both desiccant and compressor dehumidifiers, helping you make an informed decision. Both types prevent mould and dampness by extracting moisture from the air, but their applications vary based on several factors.

Key Factors in Choosing Between Desiccant and Compressor Dehumidifiers

1. Temperature of the Space: Compressor dehumidifiers are ideal for rooms above 10°C, while desiccant dehumidifiers excel below 10°C.
2. Room Warming: Desiccant dehumidifiers can warm up a room by 10-12°C, making them suitable for colder spaces. Compressor dehumidifiers warm the air by about 2°C.
3. Drying Laundry: Both types can dry laundry, but desiccant dehumidifiers, with their higher airflow and warmer output, are slightly more effective.
4. Portability: Desiccant dehumidifiers are lighter and easier to move. However, many compressor dehumidifiers come with castors for easier mobility.
5. Running Costs: Compressor dehumidifiers are generally cheaper to run, while desiccant models provide additional warmth that can offset heating costs.
6. Noise Levels: Modern compressor dehumidifiers, like the `Prem-i-Air, are very quiet at 35-36dB, making them suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

Applications and Recomendations

Cold Conditions (Below 10°C)

Desiccant dehumidifiers maintain consistent performance regardless of temperature, making them ideal for conservatories, garages, or colder homes. Compressor models struggle below 10°C as they need to spend more time defrosting.

Recommendation: Use a desiccant dehumidifier for any space below 10°C.

Warm Conditions (Above 15°C)

All types of dehumidifiers work efficiently above 15°C, including smaller compressor models (10L or 12L).

Recommendation: Use either a desiccant dehumidifier or any size compressor dehumidifier for spaces above 15°C.

Drying Laundry

Drying laundry indoors can lead to condensation and mold. Both desiccant and compressor dehumidifiers help dry laundry faster and capture excess moisture. Desiccant models have an edge due to their warmer output and higher airflow.

Recommendation: For effective laundry drying, use a desiccant dehumidifier like the EcoAir DD3 Classic Mk3. For low-cost drying, consider a compressor dehumidifier with a dedicated laundry mode.

Noise Levels

Both types have become quieter over the years, but modern compressor models are now among the quietest options available.

Recommendation: For quiet operation, choose from the Ecor Pro DH800 or EcoAir ranges.

Air Purification

Some compressor dehumidifiers can be fitted with HEPA filters to double as air purifiers, removing dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air.

Recommendation: If air purification is important, select a compressor dehumidifier with HEPA filter capabilities.

Prem-I-Air EH1930 10 Litre Dehumidifier

The Prem-I-Air EH1930 10 Litre Dehumidifier is perfect for smaller spaces or rooms with moderate humidity levels. It's compact, efficient, and easy to move around, making it ideal for use in bedrooms, bathrooms, and utility rooms.

Features and Benefits:

• 10 Litre Capacity: Suitable for small to medium-sized rooms.
• Compact Design: Easy to fit in tight spaces.
• Energy Efficient: Low running costs.
• Quiet Operation: Minimal noise, perfect for bedrooms.
• Easy to Use: Simple controls for hassle-free operation.

The Eco Air DD3 Classic Mk3 is a highly efficient desiccant dehumidifier, perfect for colder environments. It provides consistent performance regardless of temperature and is excellent for use in garages, conservatories, and unheated rooms. This model has won the Which? Best Dehumidifier Award for its outstanding performance.

Features and Benefits:

• Desiccant Technology: Works effectively in low temperatures.
• Consistent Performance: Reliable moisture extraction in any temperature.
• Laundry Mode: Excellent for drying clothes indoors.
• Portable: Lightweight and easy to move.
• Award-Winning: Recognized by Which? for superior performance.

Each type of dehumidifier has its strengths:

• Desiccant Dehumidifiers: Best for cold rooms, drying laundry, and providing extra warmth.
• Compressor Dehumidifiers: Best for warm rooms, energy efficiency, and air purification.