Low Energy Dehumidifier

Why choose a low energy dehumidifier?

Dealing with condensation on the windows? Are you suffering from musty smells or constantly drying clothes indoors because the weather’s doing its usual thing? You’re not alone. Fortunately, low energy dehumidifiers help sort all that out, without hitting your energy bills hard.

These units are designed to just quietly beaver away in the background. They remove moisture from the air while using far less electricity than you might expect. The result? A warmer, drier home that's altogether more comfortable, healthier and cheaper to heat.

What about running costs?

Most people looking for a low energy model really just want something that’s cheap to run. Fair enough. After all, who wants to chuck money away, especially when energy prices are completely bonkers?

So, what should you look for? Start with the wattage. A rating of 150W or 180W gives you a solid clue as to how much electricity it’s using. Just multiply that with your energy tariff, and you'll get a rough idea of how much it’ll cost you to run (you can find models that run for as little as 4 pence an hour).

Next, check for smart features, like a humidistat or automatic shut-off. These let you run the unit only when needed. No point having it on full blast if your air’s perfectly dry. Lastly, ask yourself: Is this the most energy efficient dehumidifier for my space? Choosing wisely now means fewer costs later.

How to match size to your space

Getting the wrong size dehumidifier is a common mistake. If it’s too small, it’ll run constantly and can’t keep up; too large, and you’re wasting power. The key figure to look at is the daily extraction rate. How many litres of moisture it can pull from the air in a day?

Smaller rooms like bedrooms or flats might only need a 10L to 12L model. Meanwhile, larger spaces like hallways, utility rooms or whole downstairs areas might need 20L or more.

You’ll also want to know if the dehumidifier uses a compressor or desiccant. Compressor models tend to work better in heated rooms, which is the situation for most homes in the UK.

Desiccant types are better for garages, cellars or other unheated spaces. It’s also smart to check the room size recommended by the manufacturer. Some write it in square metres, others by how many bedrooms. Either way, it’ll help you get the right fit.

Which features actually make a difference?

The right features can make day-to-day life easier, especially if you’re using the unit regularly. If you’re drying clothes indoors (which many of us are for most of the year), look for a dedicated laundry mode. It speeds up your drying no end, without you having to bash the tumble dryer.

Quiet operation is another big win. Anything under 40dB is spot-on if you want to run it overnight or in a home office. Portability matters, too. Castors, a sturdy handle and a lightweight design make it easy to move from one room to another.

If you’re using it in a damp area like a cellar or utility room, you’ll want continuous drainage, so you don’t have to keep emptying the tank. And smart controls like digital displays, timers and app connectivity means you can just set it up and go about your day.

Some models even come with HEPA or carbon filters, which help clean the air while dehumidifying. Ideal if you’ve got pets, allergies or just want the air to feel fresh.

Comparing top models

When you’re comparing brands, don’t just look at the headline figures. For instance, with Meaco 12L or 20L low energy dehumidifiers, you want full details. The wattage in different modes, the estimated running cost per day, how loud it is and whether it suits your room size. Tank capacity is worth noting as well. Larger tanks mean fewer trips to the sink, or you could look for one that supports continuous drainage.

Is now a good time to buy?

If damp, mould or indoor drying are regular issues in your home, a dehumidifier is a smart investment for the long-term. With energy bills being what they are, investing in an energy efficient dehumidifier can save you both hassle and money.

It'll protect your property, help your heating crack on better and just make everyday life that little bit nicer. And if you choose the right model now, you won’t need to think about it again for years.

Not sure which model suits your home best? Our dehumidifier buying guide breaks it all down. It’s packed with simple tips to help you choose the right size, type and features for your space, without overcomplicating things.