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 Recommendations

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.

Moderate Conditions (10°C to 15°C)

Both desiccant dehumidifiers and large compressor dehumidifiers (20L or 25L) perform well in this temperature range.

Recommendation: Use a desiccant dehumidifier or a large compressor dehumidifier for spaces between 10°C and 15°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.

Energy Consumption

While desiccant dehumidifiers provide additional warmth, compressor models are more energy-efficient overall. For example, the Prem-i-Air EH1932 Low Energy 12L Dehumidifier runs at just 4p/hour.

Recommendation: For low energy costs, opt for a compressor dehumidifier.

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.

Recommended Dehumidifiers

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.

Prem-I-Air EH1934 20 Litre Dehumidifier 

For larger spaces or homes with significant humidity issues, the Prem-I-Air EH1934 20 Litre Dehumidifier offers powerful moisture extraction. It's suitable for living rooms, basements, and larger areas where high humidity is a concern.

Features and Benefits:

• 20 Litre Capacity: Ideal for larger rooms and heavy-duty use.
• High Extraction Rate: Efficient moisture removal.
• Energy Efficient: Economical operation.
• Portable: Comes with castors for easy movement.
• Digital Display: Easy monitoring of humidity levels.

Eco Air DD3 Classic Mk3 

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.

Ecor Pro DH800 

The Ecor Pro DH800 is a versatile and powerful dehumidifier suitable for various applications, including residential and commercial spaces. Its robust design and efficient performance make it a reliable choice for maintaining optimal humidity levels.

Features and Benefits:

• High Capacity: Capable of extracting a significant amount of moisture, suitable for large areas.
• Energy Efficient: Designed for economical operation, saving on energy costs.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand demanding environments.
• Compact and Portable: Easy to move and install in different locations.
• Quiet Operation: Minimal noise, ensuring it doesn't disrupt daily activities.

Summary

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.

At Aircare Appliances, we offer a wide range of high-quality HVAC products and dehumidifiers to suit all your needs. Still unsure? Visit www.aircareappliances.co.uk, email us at sales@aircareappliances.co.uk, or call us at 03301656200. We're here to help you find the perfect dehumidifier for your needs!