Last Updated: February 26, 2024
Dehumidifiers are a great help to the people who have a humidity problem. High humidity is as bad as low humidity and as harmful for the home environment, like it for your health.
There are mainly 4 types of dehumidifiers, and all of these are effective means of bringing the excess humidity to the right level.
Let’s talk a little about these different types of dehumidifiers.
a. Heat Pump Dehumidifier
Heat pump dehumidifier consists of a fan, heat pump, and heat coils. Using these components, it gets the room humidity level down to the optimal level.
In this dehumidifier, first, the air gets sent past the heat exchange oils that are extremely cold, with the help of the fan. Here, the moisture condenses and is collected. This type of dehumidifier can be quite expensive.
b. Dehumidifying Ventilator
Dehumidifying ventilator uses an exhaust fan to expel the air towards outside. Using a sensor and an exhaust fan, placed in the crawlspaces, basements, and attics mostly; these dehumidifiers bring the humidity down to appropriate levels.
c. Homemade Dehumidifiers
You can also make a dehumidifier using simple household items, and it is categorized as a Homemade Dehumidifier. It is ideal if the area you want to dehumidify is small, or if you’re looking for a temporary solution. The dehumidifier generally uses Charcoal, road Salt, or a special de-icing salt.
There is one other type of dehumidifier, the fourth type, which you can use is desiccant dehumidifier, and we’re going to discuss the top options for you in that type in today’s article. So, let’s get started.
What is a Desiccant Dehumidifier?
A compressed refrigerant is used with the compressor based dehumidifiers to cool metal coils, also called evaporator coils. Whereas, the working of desiccant dehumidifiers is quite different. Instead of cold evaporative coils, these dehumidifiers use a chemical called Desiccant.
Types of Desiccant dehumidifiers
Desiccant dehumidifiers can be categorized mainly into 4 categories. These are
1. Disposable desiccant dehumidifiers
These dehumidifiers are smaller in size. They have little desiccant material, which is redundant after use. That’s why they’re called disposable desiccant dehumidifiers.
Used for smaller spaces, this type of dehumidifiers absorb very little moisture per day. These are the low priced, disposable dehumidifiers for smaller areas.
2. Rechargeable desiccant dehumidifiers
This type is very similar to the disposable desiccant dehumidifiers in their capacity. The difference here is that this type of dehumidifiers can be recharged and used again. These are a very cost-effective solution for smaller areas.
3. Consumer Grade desiccant dehumidifiers
It is the type of desiccant dehumidifier mostly used by the homeowners. These are closer to the compressor based dehumidifiers, in terms of performance. These are expensive than the previous two models but are still affordable. These are the most widely used desiccant dehumidifiers by homeowners.
4. Commercial desiccant dehumidifiers
These are used by contractors involved in construction. The commercial desiccant dehumidifier is effective in keeping the materials and air dry at the highest and the lowest of temperatures. That is why they are more successful in the industrial setting instead of the compressor based dehumidifiers.
Working of a desiccant dehumidifier
Firstly, the air with excess humidity enters the process zone of the rotor, which comprises 75% of the rotor, and here the desiccant material absorbs the excess moisture.
Afterward, the humid air gets pulled in by the recharge zone of the rotor, which makes up for its 25 %, through the condenser in front of the dehumidifier. The moisture first gets transferred from the desiccant to the hot air passing through the rotor with the help of the heater. In the next step, moisture gets transferred to the condenser by the process of condensation.
How we selected our top picks
In the later part of the 20th century, the dehumidifier market was dominated by refrigerated dehumidifiers. However, desiccant technology has improved considerably over time, making it a strong alternative for removing moisture from the air. Desiccant dehumidifiers are more effective than refrigerant models – especially in cooler climates.
To ensure that you have the best selection of desiccant dehumidifiers, we have considered several factors such as moisture extraction rate, energy consumption, noise level, drainage facility, washable filters, and auto shutdowns also accommodated dehumidifiers in a number of budget ranges and room sizes.
Best desiccant dehumidifiers (Reviews)
1. EcoAir DD1 CLASSIC MK5 Desiccant Dehumidifier
This desiccant dehumidifier is a popular option and features eco-friendly E7 technology. It has a slick design and performs very efficiently. Smart design and numerous convenient feature make it the right choice for your home.
Now let’s go through some of the most notable features of this dehumidifier.
- It is a compactly designed dehumidifier that works efficiently restoring the right humidity level of the room. It is also helpful in indoor laundry drying, mold control, bacterial growth, and condensation. The ergonomic design ensures minimal spillage and better handling. The device also features tank removal option, anti-drip tank with lid and handle, night light option, and 3D Louvre.
- The Eco E7 technology used in DD1 is incredible. It can sense the ambient temperature and humidity level, and automatically toggles between the full power, economic power, and the standby modes. It is very energy efficient device, and saves you a lot of cost.
- The device also has an antibacterial filter and ionizer, which purify the air and reduce asthma and allergy symptoms to enhance the air quality.
- For safety purposes, the device has features like tilt protection, over-drying protection, and auto-restart function.
Let’s look at the specifications.
- The device weighs 6 Kg.
- Its overall dimensions are 17.5 x 29 x 47.5 cm.
- The capacity of the dehumidifier is 7L.
- The volume capacity of the device is 2L.
2. Meaco Portable Compact Dehumidifier DD8L
DD8L is a compact desiccant dehumidifier from Meaco, which is ideal for winter. This multi-award-winning device might be the solution to your problems. Let’s find out a little more about this dehumidifier.
Features
- The dehumidifier is compactly designed and works efficiently to remove the excess moisture. It is a perfect option for cold climates, like below 10-degree Celcius, as it produces warm air as it dehumidifies the room.
- It is an energy-efficient solution and has received numerous British and international awards. It is a tried and tested device, effective in preventing mold growth, bacterial growth, dampness, and condensation.
- This device has an anti-bacterial filter as well as an ionizer. It runs quietly (below 39 dB) on low fan speeds.
Now, let’s have a look at the specifications.
- This item weighs 7.4 Kg.
- The overall dimensions of this product are 18 x 35 x 50 cm.
- The device has the capacity of 8L, and it can cover 250 square feet.
3. De’Longhi DNC65 Dehumidifier – White
It is a compact and beautiful dehumidifier that you’ll appreciate. From De’Longhi, comes a high-efficiency device that has quiet functioning.
Features
- It is a compact and lightweight model and is very easy to handle. You can place it and move it around, as per your requirement.
- The device has three power levels and can also operate at a whisper-quiet level. The swing function is ideal for even distribution of air.
- The tank capacity of the device is two-liter, and it has an eight-hour shut-off timer. It is an ideal option for rooms up to 55 cubic meter.
- The device has a separate ionizer and cloth dryer option. It also has an anti-bacterial filter that cleans the air of dust and bacteria.
Now, let’s have a look at the specifications.
- The device weighs 6.5 Kg.
- Its overall dimensions are 28.9 x 17 x 47 cm.
- It is ideal for areas up to 55 cubic meters.
- The device has 2-liter tank capacity.
4. EcoAir DD322 Classic Desiccant Dehumidifier
One of the biggest domestic dehumidifiers on the market, EcoAir DD3 is an efficient device with high output. It has an elegant design that goes well with any surrounding. It ensures your comfort and, is very easy to handle.
Here’re the features of the device
- It has an elegant and handy moving design. It is easy to move, and you can easily control the relative humidity in your home environment. The D-3 design is perfect for a bedroom or baby’s nursery.
- It consumes low energy, which helps in bringing down the electrical bill in winters. Using the laundry mode, the RH of the house drops, and less central heating is required.
- The tank capacity of the device is 3.5 liters, and there’s also a 1. 2-meter continuous drainage hose. There’s an easy to clean, silver filter.
The specifications of the device are as follows
- The dehumidifier weighs 9.5 Kg.
- Its overall dimensions are 416 x 520 x 186 mm.
- The tank capacity of the device is 3.5 Liters.
- This device can remove 10-liter moisture per day.
5. Pro Breeze10L Desiccant Dehumidifier
This Pro Breeze product is a high-performance device and is ideal for colder temperatures.
Features
- The device has an ergonomic design and can remove up to 10l of moisture per day in temperatures as low as 1-degree Celcius. The device features an automatic humidity sensor and can provide optimal performance in lower temperatures.
- The device features a three-liter tank. You don’t have to worry about the spillage, thanks to the auto shut off option. There’s also a drainage hose included for continuous use.
- The digital control panel makes operating the device easier. You can set your desired humidity level using the in-built humidity sensor. You can also set airflow in any direction, using the swing air outlet. There’s also an auto-off timer.
The specifications of the device are as follows.
- The device weighs 7.8 Kg.
- Its overall dimensions are 21.3 x 31.7 x 49.9 cm.
- The tank capacity is 3 Liter.
- It can absorb up to 10-liter moisture every day.
These are few of the best desiccant dehumidifier options available for you at the moment. Depending on your requirements, you can decide which one is the right choice for you.
Comparison of the best Desiccant Dehumidifiers
| Product Name | Weight | Tank Capacity | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| EcoAir DD1 CLASSIC MK5 Desiccant Dehumidifier | 6 Kg | 7 Liter | Buy |
| Meaco Portable Compact Dehumidifier DD8L | 7.4 Kg | 8 Liter | Buy |
| De’Longhi DNC65 Dehumidifier | 6.5 Kg | 2 Liter | Buy |
| EcoAir DD322 Classic Desiccant Dehumidifier | 9.5 Kg | 3.5 Liter | Buy |
| Pro Breeze10L Desiccant Dehumidifier | 7.8 Kg | 3 Liter | Buy |
FAQs
Q – What is a desiccant dehumidifier?
Desiccant dehumidifiers are electrical appliances that remove moisture from the air using a hygroscopic substance called a desiccant. One example of desiccant is silica gels, typically found in packages that contain dry items. Desiccant dehumidifiers are generally used in extreme conditions, such as frigid environments, where compressor dehumidifiers aren’t viable options.
Q – How a desiccant dehumidifier works
A small amount of the air enters the unit and is redirected to be used as “reactivation air.” This reactivation air is warmed and transferred over the desiccant wheel, typically made of silica gel. As warm air holds more moisture than cool air, the reactivation air absorbs moisture and vents it from the unit using ducts. A heater inside the machine “renews” the desiccant material. This allows the device to extract water using the same wheel repeatedly.
Q – How long do desiccant dehumidifiers last?
Effective at extracting moisture in a much shorter time, desiccant dehumidifiers can last three to five years without any significant issues.
Q – Will a desiccant dehumidifier smell or put off an odor when it’s in use?
A: Desiccant dehumidifiers can potentially give off a pungent odor. This occurs because the desiccant material also absorbs odors contained within the same air, such as cigarettes, cosmetics, building materials, hair sprays, and new furniture. Please note that the smell generated by the desiccant dehumidifier is not due to the absorption of that odor but rather the heating up of that odor when the desiccant material is first being used or recharged. Note that this smell isn’t harmful and should only be temporary.
Q – When should you use a desiccant dehumidifier? What rooms are desiccant dehumidifiers best for?
Desiccant dehumidifiers are ideal for extremely cold areas or spaces that need to be kept at specific (very low) humidity levels. Some places where you can use a desiccant dehumidifier include the unheated basement, boats, garage, commercial freezers/refrigerators, grow rooms, etc.
Q – What are the benefits of desiccant dehumidifiers?
Desiccant dehumidifiers work well in extreme temperatures (-4 to 104 degrees) and low humidity areas where traditional dehumidifiers are ineffective. In addition, they can maintain healthy humidity levels in homes without heat or other unheated spaces like garages, campers, commercial freezers/refrigerators, etc. Another significant benefit is that there’s no draining as the moisture is exhausted from the units through ducts.
Q – How do desiccant dehumidifiers expel moisture?
Most desiccant dehumidifiers are ducted and vent out moisture through an air stream. It’s known as a “reactivation” air stream that pushes moisturized air out of the unit and through ducts to another location.
Q – Are desiccant dehumidifiers reliable?
Desiccant dehumidifiers don’t rely on cooling coils, providing consistent performance at low and high temperatures. If you need to dehumidify environments that regularly drop below 10 degrees Celsius, a desiccant is almost always the more practical choice.
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