Best Dehumidifiers of 2023 to Get Rid of Damp and Mouldy Smells
Are you regularly shopping for mould remover? A lot of us find dealing with damp and mould really annoying. Not only does it affect your personal health, but it also taints the decoration of homes and buildings. Visible damp patches on the ceiling, peeling wallpaper, black or green spots on the wall, crumbling plaster - you name it. Sometimes it may not just be physical damage, the musty smell that accompanies mould can be bad enough.
A lot of weather predictions state that the globe will get warmer in 2023. Apart from the temperature increase, let’s not forget it may result in extreme heat and humidity incidences becoming more common. The more humid it gets, the more important it is to monitor the humidity in your house or workplace. Excess moisture accumulates in the air when you hang wet clothes on radiators to dry or fail to maintain proper ventilation and temperature for a long period of time.
In general, if the indoor humidity levels go above 60% in the summer months and 50% in the colder months, you may experience excess humidity. In summer, moisture leaves you feeling sticky and uncomfortable, and you might witness the growth of mould and mildew. On the other hand, excess humidity may lead to condensation forming on surfaces in the colder months. Either way, it might affect your health and even the health of your home.
Having a well-ventilated room isn’t always enough, as there could be something else going wrong if you don’t maintain the humidity levels the right way. The most efficient and cost-effective solution to humidity problems is using a dehumidifier. Yet, there is a massive selection of machines available on the market, ranging from compact models for a tiny storage room to massive units for industrial spaces. Do you find it hard to navigate your head around them?
So, we have compiled a list of the best appliances to help tackle black spots, condensation, and mouldy odours once and for all! At Climate Dry, we stock a vast range of domestic and commercial units for you to choose from. Below is the list of our best 11 dehumidifiers of the year 2023.
2023’s Best Dehumidifiers:
Best Overall – Dri-Eaz The Cube Dehumidifier 43 litres
Best for Cost-Effectiveness – Olimpia Splendid AQUARIA Slim 14 P Dehumidifier
Best for Small Rooms – Master DH 720 Dehumidifier 20 Litres
Best for Large Rooms – Dri-Eaz BD1000 Building Dryer 48 Litres
Best for Pets & Laundry Drying – Woods MDK21 Compact Dehumidifier 20 Litres
Best Industrial Dehumidifier – Dri-Eaz DrizAir 1200 Dehumidifier 55 Litres
Best for Silent Nights – Dimplex EverDri10E Dehumidifier 10 Litres
Best for Bathrooms – Ecor Pro DH800 DryFan 220v Desiccant Dehumidifier 8 Litres
Best for Lofts, Basements, Crawl Spaces & Garages – Ecor Pro DH1200 220v Desiccant Dehumidifier 12 Litres
Best Desiccant Humidifier – Ecor Pro DH2500 DryFan 220v Desiccant Dehumidifier 35 Litres
Best Refrigerant Dehumidifier – Broughton Mighty Dry MD30 Dehumidifier 30 Litres
How we chose the best dehumidifiers
We sought advice from our specialists and sales assistants to evaluate factors like energy efficiency, drying capacity, affordability, energy consumption, noise level during operation, and what customers generally look for. It's important to note that the size of the dehumidifier doesn't necessarily determine its effectiveness. Consider the size of the space you need to dehumidify and pick the one with features that suit you the most. Suitability is all that matters!
1. Best Overall: Dri-Eaz The Cube Dehumidifier 43 litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: An all-around, versatile build that has considered everything - sizes, weight, control, efficiency, environment & cost-effectiveness.
Fine with: The power consumption is higher than the others.
Maximum Extraction: 43L/Day
Sound Level: ≤ 70dB
Power Consumption: 1544W (230V; approx. 52p per hour of use*)
The Cube was named the best for a reason. It is a versatile and high-performance dehumidifier that has a daily maximum extraction volume of 43 litres. With a wide operating temperature range of 1°C to 38°C, it is appropriate for a variety of temporary drying applications, for instance, fire and water damage restoration, structural drying and wet trade drying. The Cube is sturdy, compact, and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store in small, enclosed spaces.
An integrated digital humidistat and a control panel work together to display real-time inlet and outlet temperatures as well as relative humidity (RH). The combination offers precise and ongoing humidity control in four different languages. Additionally, the Dri-Eaz Cube has an automatic condensate pump-out feature that drains water through a 6-metre hose, allowing it to run unattended for continuous operation.
The Cube is simply the most efficient low-humidity dehumidifier in challenging conditions when compared with standard refrigerant dehumidifiers. It is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, making it a popular choice for those who want to manage lower humidity and vapour pressure.
2. Best for Cost-Effectiveness: Olimpia Splendid AQUARIA Slim 14 P Dehumidifier
Expert says:
Obsessed with: Easy-to-use, affordable, efficient - what more can you ask for?
Fine with: The removable water tank might be a bit small.
Maximum Extraction: 14L/Day
Sound Level: 42dB
Power Consumption: 262-293W depending on modes (220-240V; approx. 9-10p per hour of use*)
The Aquaria Slim 14 P is the perfect solution for those looking for a multifunctional dehumidifier on a limited budget. Measuring only 185mm thick, it is the slimmest dehumidifier in the Olimpia Splendid range, making it an ideal choice for spaces where space is at a premium. Equipped with a digital touch display and an anti-dust air filter, the Aquaria is easy to operate and can be customised to your specific needs. The rotating castors and built-in handles make it effortless to position the dehumidifier wherever you need it.
It still boasts various handy features given its low cost. Despite the relatively smaller water tank, it comes with a 24-hour on-off timer and an automatic shut-off with a full tank, not to mention a continuous draining mode if needed. Its electronic defrosting device prevents frost from accumulating on the coils and allows optimal performance in low-temperature environments. The Aquaria is also environmentally friendly. As it uses the natural cooling gas R290, it makes a great choice for those who want to make a positive impact on the planet.
3. Best for Small Rooms: Master DH 720 Dehumidifier 20 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: The UV Lamp is an excellent addition to any room.
Fine with: Poorer capacity at lower temperatures.
Maximum Extraction: 20L/Day
Sound Level: 48dB
Power Consumption: 390W (220-240V; approx. 13p per hour of use*)
The Master DH 720 can remove up to 20 litres of moisture from the air per day. Best suited for spaces up to 50m3 in size, it can be utilised in various areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and small offices. Its main purpose is to safeguard items from moisture damage by preventing the buildup of condensation, dampness, and mould. A side benefit is that it can be used to dry clothing and laundry as well.
This DH 720 is small and light, and it has a stylish white plastic casing that operates quietly. Even though the extraction capacity may drop to 6.7 litres at 20°C/60% RH, it has a precious UV lamp that functions to eliminate germs and bacteria to purify the air. Such a wonderful feature for a small indoor area! It also comes with an easy-to-use digital control panel that features a humidistat, timer, fan speed control, and a display for humidity and temperature.
4. Best for Large Rooms: Dri-Eaz BD1000 Building Dryer 48 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: A reliable, efficient dehumidifier thanks to the anti-clog design.
Fine with: It's the noisiest one among the bests.
Maximum Extraction: 48L/Day
Sound Level: 73.4dB
Power Consumption: 720W (110V; approx. 24p per hour of use*); 760W (230V; approx. 26p per hour of use*)
The dual-voltage BD1000 is a highly efficient dehumidifier that can remove up to 48 litres of moisture from the air per day. Boasting convenience, it automatically switches between voltage settings to accommodate both 110V and 230V power supplies. To make it more user-friendly, it features a rotary on/off switch and humidistat. Perfect for maintenance in large sites, such as construction sites, flood and fire restoration, humidity control, and wet trade drying.
The unit's hybrid construction features a rotomoulded cover and a steel chassis, making it robust and impact-resistant. The curved edges of the cover prevent accidental damage, while the polyethylene housing is easy to clean and does not rust or dent. It also has an automatic condensate pumpout that extracts water via a 12.2-metre hose, and an anti-clog design to make cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Additionally, the BD1000 is lightweight and portable and features integrated moving skids and semi-pneumatic wheels for easy transportation in bigger rooms. The BD1000 is nothing but a dehumidifier specifically designed for large spaces.
5. Best for Pets & Laundry Drying: Woods MDK21 Compact Dehumidifier 20 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: An nicely designed, energy-saving blow dryer for laundry and odour removal
Fine with: A little bit heavy for its size
Maximum Extraction: 20L/Day
Sound Level: 48dB
Power Consumption: 240W (230V; approx. 8p per hour of use*)
The Woods MDK21 compact dehumidifier is ideal for drying clothes and creating a comfortable climate in smaller areas such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and bedrooms. Similar to a hairdryer, it utilises a top-facing exhaust that expels warm air to dry clothes more efficiently and affordably than a tumble dryer. By removing excess moisture and unpleasant odours, it enhances the air quality in any room you place it in. It prevents bacteria and yeast from populating in hidden damp areas on your pet's body, which may cause overwhelming pet odours.
It also includes a timer that can be programmed for 1, 2, 4, or 8 hours to conserve energy. Additionally, you can set your desired humidity level, which ensures that the unit only operates when needed. Both functions are designed to automatically shut off the unit, keeping running time and expenses to a minimum. The MDK21 is the ultimate dehumidifier for every household thanks to its outstanding features for pets and laundry.
6. Best Industrial Dehumidifier: Dri-Eaz DrizAir 1200 Dehumidifier 55 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: The 3M™ HAF Filter may have just saved the day.
Fine with: It doesn’t have a humidistat.
Maximum Extraction: 55L/Day
Sound Level: 55dB (110V) or 60dB (230V)
Power Consumption: 737W (110V; approx. 25p per hour of use*); 690W (230V; approx. 23p per hour of use*)
The Dri-Eaz DrizAir 1200 is a durable and portable industrial refrigerant dehumidifier that removes up to 55 litres of water per day. It is available in both 110V and 230V power options, making it suitable for various domestic and commercial applications, such as drying out spaces after renovation or restoration from damage. It has long been a trusted dehumidifier in the hire industry for its build quality and efficiency.
This dehumidifier is user-friendly with an easy-to-use electronic control panel that features 2-hour counters, manual pump purge, and diagnostic tools. It also includes a 12-metre drain hose that enables you to pump water into any container, allowing the dehumidifier to run without your presence. Being compact and compactable, it can be easily moved between sites with its wheels, handle and loading skids. Its rotomolded polyethylene outer shell and 3M™ HAF filter provide incredible durability in demanding environments. Since the on-site air might carry more pollutants, the filter keeps the coils cleaner so that performance won’t be affected.
7. Best for Silent Nights: Dimplex EverDri10E Dehumidifier 10 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: Sweet dreams await with a 15-hour runback timer and low sound level.
Fine with: Only one fan speed is available.
Maximum Extraction: 10L/Day
Sound Level: 41.5dB (220-240V)
Power Consumption: 290W (220-240V; approx. 10p per hour of use*)
The EverDri10E is a highly effective and quiet dehumidifier designed to combat humidity in your home. It has an intuitive push-button control panel with a built-in humidistat and timer, making it easy to set your desired humidity level and operating time. The dehumidifier can be set to continuous mode to run regardless of humidity level until the water tank is full, or a hose can be attached for continuous drainage. Isn’t it perfect for drying laundry or, more importantly, a silent night?
A 15-hour runback timer ensures that the dehumidifier switches off automatically after the set time period, while a 15-hour delayed start feature allows you to programme the appliance to switch on at a later time. Either way, the EverDri10E is designed purely with your sweet dreams in mind, with a sound level of around 40dB, which is even quieter than the combination of a computer monitor and an air conditioner. In addition to the “white noise”, there are also a pre-filter and an active carbon filter to eliminate odours. So, sweet dreams it is!
8. Best for Bathrooms: Ecor Pro DH800 DryFan 220v Desiccant Dehumidifier 8 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: Moisture is vented away in a blink.
Fine with: Ducting installation may require extra work.
Maximum Extraction: 8L/Day
Sound Level: 49dB (220V)
Power Consumption: 350W (220V; approx. 12p per hour of use*)
As a durable desiccant dehumidifier, the DH800 is designed to work in harsh environments and prevent moisture damage 24/7. It has a wide operating temperature range (-20℃ to 40℃) and can extract up to 8 litres of moisture per day, which is equivalent to a 16-litre refrigerant dehumidifier at 18°C. The DH800 can be used as a portable machine or a fixed unit, and its compact size allows it to be installed in small spaces. You can set and maintain the required RH level using the integrated humidistat dial and automatic switch on/off feature.
It features a rotary wheel of desiccant material that absorbs moisture from the air and vents it out as water vapour without the need for an internal water tank. Despite the extra work of ducting, the work is worth it as you will never find a dehumidifier that suits tight spaces like a bathroom that much. It is suitable for managing humidity levels in the bathroom to prevent condensation, damp and mould or to dry clothing and equipment.
9. Best for Lofts, Basements, Crawl Spaces & Garages: Ecor Pro DH1200 220v Desiccant Dehumidifier 12 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: It operates efficiently in extremely cold conditions.
Fine with: Ducting installation may require extra work.
Maximum Extraction: 12L/Day
Sound Level: 52dB (220V)
Power Consumption: 500W (220V; approx. 17p per hour of use*)
What are the places with harsher conditions than a bathroom - as it says on the topic! Since they are larger than a toilet (presumably), you will need a stronger unit to cope with the moisture in them. The DH1200 is similar to the DH800, which is a small and lightweight desiccant dehumidifier. But it can remove up to 12 litres of moisture from the air per day despite the harsh conditions. It is suitable for residential and industrial use because of its wide operating temperature range of -20℃ to 40℃.
The dehumidifier comes with an all-steel construction and four anti-scratch plastic feet that allow it to withstand cold, damp environments. To suit confined spaces such as lofts and basements better, its 5-metre power lead ensures that no extension leads or additional cables are needed. Along with the 3-vent system that vents moisture away as water vapour and an integrated humidistat dial, the DH1200 will be your personalised dehumidifier for awkward spaces.
10. Best Desiccant Humidifier: Ecor Pro DH2500 DryFan 220v Desiccant Dehumidifier 35 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: Excellent water extraction even at extremely low temperatures.
Fine with: A little bit heavy for being portable.
Maximum Extraction: 35L/Day
Sound Level: 56dB (220V)
Power Consumption: 900W (220V; approx. 31p per hour of use*)
The DH2500 is about to show you its exceptional qualities as the best. It is a powerful and adaptable desiccant dehumidifier, capable of extracting up to 35 litres of moisture per day despite harsh conditions. It can operate efficiently at temperatures as low as -20℃ - both residential and industrial settings won’t be an issue at all. It can operate as a freestanding unit or as a ducted humidifier. In any case, it is simple to install and use. Simple controls and adjustable feet that can be used as anchor points for mounting make it the best candidate.
The DH2500 features a robust steel casing with an epoxy paint finish to ensure top-notch durability. Since it also features the 3-vent system that gets rid of moisture as water vapour, it does not have an internal tank that needs to be emptied. This versatile dehumidifier is suitable for a wide range of applications, including basements, lofts, garages, workshops, museums, libraries, factories, and more. More importantly, it can be left to run 24/7!
11. Best Refrigerant Dehumidifier: Broughton Mighty Dry MD30 Dehumidifier 30 Litres
Expert says:
Obsessed with: High performance coupled with outstanding durability from the rugged steel case.
Fine with: The colour may not fit all designs.
Maximum Extraction: 30L/Day
Power Supply: 230V
The MD30 is a dehumidifier built for heavy-duty use. With a 30-litre maximum extraction capacity, an excellent working temperature range of 5-35℃ and a sturdy steel frame, it’s sure to thrive in tough environments such as construction sites or flood and fire damage restoration areas, let alone typical applications like storage, damp prevention, and condensation control. Although refrigerant variations tend to perform better at a higher temperature when compared with their desiccant counterparts, the MD30 is here to prove it wrong.
To boost environmental friendliness, the dehumidifier adopts low GWP refrigeration technology and features a power-saving timer that automatically switches off the unit when not in use. Having considered that it’s made for heavier-handed use, it comes with an auto shutdown facility that stops the machine once the tank is full, so you can leave it running unattended. If you want it to work continuously, simply connect it with an uplift pump or connect it to a drain. The MD30 is great for commercial and industrial settings where durability and performance are critical. More importantly, it’s better for the environment after all!
ABCs of Dehumidifier
What are the Health Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier?
Taking care of the quality of our indoor air is often underrated in terms of our health. Bad air quality can cause a host of issues from breathing struggles to allergies. Higher levels of humidity in particular can cause problems with dust mites, mould, and other pests. Dehumidifiers can help to reduce this moisture, not to mention keep the air at a level that feels comfortable.
How Does a Dehumidifier Work?
Desiccant dehumidifiers draw wet air into the dehumidifier using a fan that passes over a desiccant moisture absorber, which is held on a slowly rotating wheel. The parts of the wheel not being used are heated up, which triggers the moisture in the air to condense and drip out into the water tank. Refrigerant dehumidifiers, also known as compressor dehumidifiers, use a fan to draw in air and pass it across cold coils, similar to the way a refrigerator functions. The moisture in the air condenses on the coils and drips into a water tank, where it is either collected or pumped out.
Which Dehumidifier Do I Need?
Desiccant dehumidifiers are great if you need a small dehumidifier or require a dehumidifier for cooler environments, such as garages or conservatories. They are quieter and more lightweight but less energy efficient, so many people opt for a refrigerant in warmer environments.
Good refrigerant dehumidifiers are generally very energy-efficient and can extract water very quickly. If you just need your dehumidifier for heated rooms, a refrigerant is a great option. Refrigerant dehumidifiers function less effectively in general in colder environments and are therefore more suitable for warm conditions.
Conclusion
It might not be an easy task to pick the right dehumidifier given there are so many choices on the market. You will need to consider the size of the space you need to dehumidify, room for storage, functions, and the type of technology. For instance, if you are looking for a dehumidifier to complete your bedroom setup so that you can sleep like a bay, you would want something like the Dimplex EverDri10E Dehumidifier. It may not have a big tank, but it’s good at saving energy and operates quietly.
On the other hand, you may want to consider the Olimpia Splendid AQUARIA Slim 14 P Dehumidifier if you are on a budget to get one for your home. With its intuitive designs, lower power consumption rate and high extraction capacity, this is going to be your best acquisition in 2023.
If you have a more flexible budget and need a dehumidifier for commercial uses, The Dri-Eaz The Cube, BD1000 and DrizAir 1200 have a maximum extraction amount of at least 40 litres per day. Depending on the size of the place and the power consumption rate you are after, you would be able to find one that suits your needs the most.
There isn’t the best choice. As long as the dehumidifier you have chosen suits your needs and improves your health and the health of the place in which it is placed, that is a perfect choice.
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* The cost of electricity per kWh is capped at 34p under the government’s Energy Price Guarantee announced in October 2022. Running costs are estimated using the capped price for reference only, despite variations in prices based on regions and contracts.
