The usual signs of an excessively humid home environment are the presence of musty odours and water condenses, often on your pipes and windows. Cooking, using the dishwasher or washing machine and taking a shower all add moisture to the air. This can be troublesome, primarily if you reside in an area where humidity is too high.
To obtain optimal health and comfort for your family, having a balanced humidity level is a must. Consider that numerous issues may occur when the humidity level is too high or too low.
So what do you need to do about it? Worry not. A dehumidifier can be a great solution if the air inside your home is far from ideal.
Here are some tips on buying the best dehumidifier for your home.
Know Your Reason for Buying
It's important to list your reasons for purchasing a dehumidifier before checking the technical details. Do you need a humidifier for your entire home or a single room? Do you plan to use it all year round or during the cold months? What certain problems do you want your dehumidifier to fix?
You can choose the type of dehumidifier based on the season it will be mainly used. Thermo-electric, refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers are the three main types available.
There aren't many thermo-electric units available. All year long, desiccant dehumidifiers are prefered over refrigerants because they work better in lower temperatures.
Check The Capacity
Selecting the right size is essential to prevent overspending on a larger unit than what's required or to choose a smaller one that's insufficient for your needs.
Home dehumidifiers are classified depending on their capacities, corresponding to the space they will be used in. Larger units with a higher capacity are more effective in moisture removal and energy use.
Moreover, there are dehumidifiers designed specifically for basements and crawl spaces in case you'll be using the equipment in such areas.
Comparing three factors—capacity, moisture level and room size—will help you choose the ideal dehumidifier for your home.
Consider Placement Installation
The placement and installation of your dehumidifier are amongst the most important things to consider. You need to pick the right area where you want the unit placed in your home. Your decision regarding this matter can make a significant difference when talking about efficiency and comfort.
You'll be able to pick the best area if you follow these placement tips:
- The most suitable spot for a single dehumidifier is often in the middle of a large room or open space.
- Your dehumidifier should have at least 6 inches (15.24 cm) of clearance on all sides. This is according to manufacturer standards.
- Walls that divide the rooms are not included when calculating the coverage area of your unit.
- Don't be afraid to purchase additional units for several workspaces or rooms.
You may get the best choice by carefully choosing the best dehumidifier and placing it correctly.
Opt for a Defroster
Most dehumidifiers in Australia have a temperature range that should be adequate for most conditions. Be sure to opt for one that is good for low-temperature operations.
Also, low-temperature models can function effectively in an environment as low as -1.11 °C without the risk of coils freezing.
Shop and Compare
You can end up saving a lot by comparing before shopping. Do some research on several dehumidifier brands. From there, consider which one you think is more suitable for your needs.
You will make an informed purchase if you are familiar with dehumidifier types and their features.
Get One With Drain Hose Connectors
Drain hose connectors easily remove waste. This is convenient if you want to use your dehumidifier regularly, especially in places with high humidity, like the basement.
You spare yourself the hassle of constantly having to empty the water reservoir if there is a drain hose connector. However, you can look for a model with an automatic shutoff for when the water bucket is filled in case there's no floor drain available in the room.
Check for the Unit’s Bucket Size
Dehumidifiers with larger drip pans or tubs don't need frequent emptying, so consider the unit's bucket size. Such convenience, however, is an added expense. Dehumidifiers with larger water capacity and extraction features tend to be more expensive.
Consider the Noise Level
A dehumidifier in or close to a bedroom can be a nuisance due to its noise. However, not all dehumidifiers produce a loud sound. Some operate silently at lower humidity levels and with two-speed fans. They reduce energy expenses as well. So, before you make a purchase, it's a good idea to test the noise level first.
Opt for a Unit With Smart Features Like an Automatic Switch Off
Innovative dehumidifiers come with Alexa or app integration, an adjustable humidistat, a built-in hygrometer or a full tank indicator. With all these functions, it will be an excellent addition to your smart devices.
For example, when the tub is full and needs to be emptied, an overflow protection valve will signal the machine to switch off. This is an essential function for any model you want to have. The indicator light will also illuminate when the bucket is full.
Filters
The air filter protects the dehumidifier’s structural parts and also helps purify the dry air inside your home. Air won’t pass through if the air filter is clogged with dirt. Make sure the filter is clean, and cleaning can be done twice a month. Doing so allows you to replace filters less frequently.
XPOWER: The Best-Selling Dehumidifiers in Australia
You can achieve the best results for your home by doing thorough research before purchasing a dehumidifier. With different types of dehumidifiers offered in the market, you can choose the best unit for your specific needs to make your home or office indoor air clean and healthy.
If you’re looking to shop for the best-selling dehumidifiers in Australia, XPOWER has you covered. We sell high-quality air movers that improve your home’s air quality.
Feel free to call us at (03) 9460 5655.
