Condensation on windows, damp laundry on the radiators and musty smells can be common place in the home during winter. A dehumidifier can help create a more comfortable living environment and prevent damage to wooden floors and doors in your home. Check out the blog below, we look at the benefits of a dehumidifier, what size is required, features and more.
During the colder months, many of us keep the windows and vents shut. As the days get wetter and colder, the option to dry clothes outside becomes impossible. If you don't use a tumble dryer, you may have a clothes rack or use the radiators in your home to help dry clothing. This can cause a build-up of moisture in certain rooms of your home. This is especially evident in high traffic rooms such as bedrooms, utility rooms, bathrooms, kitchen and living rooms.
All this combined can result in:
- condensation on windows
- musty odours
- damp patches on walls or ceilings
- increased risk of mould
- a cold uncomfortable feeling in the home
A dehumidifier works by extracting excess moisture from the air and holding it in a removeable container. They help to maintain a healthy humidiity level in the room they are placed. A dehumidifier can be used throughout the year, but they are especially effective during winter.
For many people, purchasing a dehumidifier isn't considered until they have visible signs of condensation or damp damage. However, excess moisture can affect comfort, air quality and the condition of your home before it has any obvious visual signs. It is especially important in homes with babies, pregnant women, elderly or people with respiritory issues. If any of the below conditions fit your situation, then a dehumidifier could make a noticable difference in your home this winter.
Your windows regularly steam with condensation.
An obvious sign of excess moisture and poor ventilation in a room is condensation on the inside of your windows. If you are regularly waking up to damp windows, this is because the mositure cannot escape from the room. This is common in Irish homes in winter as warm air meets the cold window surface. If this is infrequent, you can simply wipe away the excess moisture. If this is happening regularly, it can cause damage to your paint, window frames, blinds, curtains and surrounding walls. It can also cause mould build-up on your window sills and frames. A dehumidifier will remove some of the excess moisture in the air, before it settles on the cold surfaces. In a bedroom situation, you can opt for a dehumidifier that has an integrated air purifier.
You use drying racks or clothes horses indoors.
For many Irish households, indoor drying is a necessity during winter and spring months. Every wash load adds moisture to the air, often leading to condensation, fogged-up windows and a damp feeling around the home. It can also cause damage to wooden floors, doors and architraves. If your clothes horse becomes a permanent fixture in the sitting room, spare room or utility room during winter, a dehumidifier can help manage the additional moisture released into the air.
Rooms feel damp or stuffy
Does a bedroom, spare room or utility room feel particularly cold during winter? This could be caused by trapped moisture. Poor airflow, limited heating and reduced ventilation can all contribute to humidity build-up This frequently happens in rooms that are rarely used or kept closed during winter. It can also be a common issue with older extenstions, as outer walls can let in cold and damp.
Best Overall
This MeacoDry Arete One dehumidifier is a premium powerful home solution. It combines a large capacity dehumidifier and air purifier. It has a large water tank which is perfect for larger family spaces. The H13 HEAP filter purifies the air of dust, pollen, mould spores and allergens. Making this model ideal for homes with allergy sufferers.
Features:
- Dry clothes in 6 hours with Smart Laundry Mode
- Low running costs of just 7c/ hour
- Two-in-one dehumidifier and air purifier with H13 HEPA filter
- Designed for peace and whisper-quiet: just 38 dB
- Free 5-year manufacturer’s warranty included
Best Compact
This Swan Activair dehumidifier in the perfect entry-level model for homes looking to reduce humidity in a smller space. It has two speed settings which can remove up to 10 liters of moisture per day. There is also a draining hose for continuous use.
Features:
- 24 hour-timer
- Carbon filter for removing odours from your home
- Humidity sensor
- Built-in child lock
Easy to Use
This Meaco dehumidifier is a simple to use home appliance. It has a compact size and understated appearance so it is easy to fit into most rooms. This model is ultra quiet, winning the Quiet Makr Award. So it is perfect for a bedroom or home office. You can also add a drainage hose to have continous usage.
*Note, the drainage hose is not included and must be purchased seperately
Features:
- Quiet Mark award winner at only 36dB, perfect for bedrooms
- Simple button operation
- Automiatic shut-off
- Includes a free two-year manufacturer’s warranty
You have picked your perfect dehumidifer and it has been unvoxed. Now, how can you maximise performance? Check out our tips below to get the most out of your new appliance.
- Keep doors and windows closed while operating
- Position the unit away from walls
- Empty the water tank regularly
- Use laundry mode when drying clothes indoors
- Clean filters according to manufacturer guidelines
- Place the unit close to the source of moisture, where possible
