Dehumidifier Buying Guide
Everything you need to know to choose the perfect dehumidifier for Irish weather
As someone living in Ireland, I know firsthand how tricky it can be to deal with dampness, condensation, and slow-drying laundry. This guide is built on research I did while trying to solve those same issues — to help you choose the right dehumidifier without hours of Googling. If you'd rather not empty the tank daily, look for models with a hose for continuous drainage.
Table of Contents
Size Matters
Choosing the right size dehumidifier is crucial for optimal performance and energy efficiency. The size of your dehumidifier should be based on both the physical dimensions of your space and the humidity levels you're dealing with.
Room Size Guide
When selecting a dehumidifier, the first consideration should be the size of the space you need to dehumidify. Here's a detailed breakdown of room sizes and recommended dehumidifier capacities:
| Room Size | Recommended Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Small Rooms (up to 45 square metres) | 5-10 litres/day | Bedrooms, small offices, or bathrooms |
| Medium Rooms 45-90 square metres) | 10-15 litres/day | Living rooms, kitchens, or master bedrooms |
| Large Rooms (90+ square metres) | 15-20 litres/day | Open-concept spaces or basements |
| Whole House Systems | 25+ litres/day | Comprehensive humidity control across your entire home |
Humidity Levels
Understanding your humidity levels is essential for choosing the right dehumidifier. Here's what you need to know about different humidity ranges:
| Humidity Level | Range | Common Locations | Recommended Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Humidity | 50-60% | Well-ventilated spaces | Basic dehumidifier |
| Moderate Humidity | 60-70% | Basements or coastal areas | More powerful unit |
| High Humidity | 70%+ | Tropical climates or poorly ventilated spaces | High-capacity dehumidifier |
| Extreme Humidity | 80%+ | Flood-prone areas or during severe weather | Commercial-grade unit |
Capacity Tank
The water collection tank is a crucial component of your dehumidifier. Understanding tank capacities and features will help you choose a model that fits your needs and maintenance preferences.
Tank Sizes and Features
Dehumidifier tanks come in various sizes, from compact 1-gallon models to large 6-gallon units. The size you choose depends on:
- How often you want to empty the tank
- Your physical ability to lift and carry the tank
- Available space in your room
- Whether you plan to use continuous drainage
Important Tank Features
Modern dehumidifiers come with various tank features designed for convenience and safety:
- Easy Removal: Look for tanks that slide out smoothly and have comfortable handles
- Water Level Indicator: Helps you know when it's time to empty the tank
- Anti-Spill Design: Prevents accidental water spills during removal
- Auto-Shutoff: Automatically stops the unit when the tank is full
Daily Extraction Rate
The daily extraction rate is one of the most important specifications to consider when buying a dehumidifier. This measurement tells you how much moisture the unit can remove from the air in a 24-hour period.
Understanding Extraction Rates
Dehumidifiers are rated by their moisture removal capacity in litres per day. Here's what different rates mean:
| Category | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Light Duty | ~5–10 litres/day | Small spaces with moderate humidity |
| Medium Duty | 20-30 pints/day | Average-sized rooms with higher humidity |
| Heavy Duty | 30-50 pints/day | Large spaces or areas with high humidity |
| Commercial Grade | 50+ pints/day | Industrial or commercial applications |
Factors Affecting Performance
Several factors can influence a dehumidifier's actual performance:
- Room temperature and humidity levels
- Air circulation and ventilation
- Frequency of door/window opening
- Drying laundry indoors or using unvented appliances
Sample Model Comparison
After researching and testing different options available in Ireland, I've gathered a list of some of the most popular dehumidifier models based on performance, energy use, and practicality for Irish homes. These aren't sponsored picks — just real examples to help you compare what's out there.
| Model | Extraction rate | Room Size (sq.mr) | Noise | Power consumption | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimplex 10L EverDri10E | 10L | 50 | 45 dB | 245W | ~150 € |
| DeLonghi Tasciugo AriaDry 12L | 12L | 55 | 33-48 dB | 285W | ~190 € |
| Black+Decker BXEH60014GB 20L | 20L | 25 | 40 dB | 420W | ~280-320 € |
| Logik L10DH24 | 10L | 50 | 45 dB | 245W | ~150 € |
| Meaco Meacodry Arete One 12L | 12L | 55 | 38 dB | 151W | ~230 € |
| Meaco Meacodry Arete Two 25L | 25L | 4-5 bed houses | 38-50 dB | 250W | ~400 € |
Note: Prices and specifications are subject to change. Always verify current prices and features before making a purchase.