How to choose your dehumidifier
Choosing the right dehumidifier can make a big difference to your home's air quality and comfort. Whether you're looking to control excessive humidity in a specific room or solve more widespread moisture problems, it's crucial to understand the different types of dehumidifiers, their specific capabilities and features. This in-depth guide will walk you through the steps involved in choosing the dehumidifier that best suits your needs.
1. Understanding dehumidificationneeds
Before buying a dehumidifier, it's essential to determine your specific dehumidification needs. Ask yourself the following questions:
Room size: How big is the room or space you want to dehumidify? Some dehumidifiers are designed for small rooms, while others are better suited to larger spaces such as basements or entire houses.
Humidity level: What is the current humidity level in the room? Some models are designed for very high humidity levels, while others are better suited to maintaining a constant humidity level under normal conditions.
Specific problems: Are there any specific humidity problems, such as mold or condensation, that you'd like to resolve?
2. Types of dehumidifier
There are two main types of dehumidifier: compressor dehumidifiers and absorption dehumidifiers. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages:
Compressor dehumidifiers: This is the most common type, and uses a compressor to cool the coils and extract moisture from the air. They are effective in normal to warm temperature conditions and are well suited to standard domestic use.
Absorption dehumidifiers: These models use an absorbent substance such as silica gel to extract moisture from the air. They are often quieter and work better at lower temperatures, making them ideal for cold environments or specific applications such as motorhomes or small rooms.
3. Dehumidification capacity
The dehumidification capacity of a unit is measured in pints of water per day (PPD) or liters per day (L/day). This indicates the amount of moisture the unit can extract from the air in 24 hours. It's important to choose a dehumidifier with sufficient capacity for the space you wish to treat.
Small dehumidifiers: For small rooms or targeted areas, such as closets or bathrooms, a dehumidifier with a capacity of 20 to 30 PPD may be sufficient.
Medium dehumidifiers: For larger spaces like basements or large rooms, you'll probably need a dehumidifier with a capacity of 30 to 50 pints per day.
Large dehumidifiers: For commercial applications or very damp homes, consider a dehumidifier with a capacity of over 50 pints per day.
4. Additional features to consider
In addition to dehumidifier capacity and type, here are a few additional features to consider when making your choice:
Adjustable hygrostat: A hygrostat lets you set the desired humidity level, and allows the dehumidifier to operate automatically to maintain that level.
Continuous drain function: Some models, such as the LIBRA dehumidifier, offer continuous condensate drain via a hose, which is convenient for prolonged use without having to manually empty the tank.
Air filters: Dehumidifiers with built-in air filters can help capture allergens, dust and other airborne particles.
Control features: Some dehumidifiers offer remote control capabilities via a mobile app or advanced control panel.
5. Care and use considerations
To ensure efficient operation and prolong the life of your dehumidifier, follow these maintenance tips:
Clean filters regularly: Dirty filters can obstruct airflow and reduce dehumidifier efficiency.
Empty the water tank: Empty the water tank regularly to prevent overflow and ensure that the dehumidifier continues to operate correctly.
Position correctly: Place the dehumidifier in a central area of the room for optimum air circulation and best results.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dehumidifier involves considering several factors, including room size, dehumidifier type, dehumidification capacity and additional features. By understanding your specific needs and comparing different options, you can find the appliance that best meets your requirements for humidity control and improved indoor air quality.
Explore our range of dehumidifiers and find the one that's perfect for your home or workspace. For personalized advice or more information on our products, contact our team today.
The Protech Allergies team