Refrigerant vs. Desiccant - Which is Best for Your Home?

With so many dehumidifiers available, it can sometimes be tricky to decide which particular type to go for. Should you choose a refrigerant (compressor-based) model, or might a desiccant unit be better suited? The answer depends on several factors, from the notorious unpredictability of the UK weather to the temperature of the room you wish to dehumidify and even your tolerance to noise. Let's take a closer look at the key advantages and drawbacks of each type.

Link to Refrigerant DehumidifiersRefrigerant Dehumidifiers

Refrigerant dehumidifiers function by cooling the air, a similar process to the way condensation forms on windows during chilly mornings. The dehumidifier pulls in moist air and passes it over cold metal coils, causing the moisture to condense into droplets, which then collect in a tank or are drained away. After the moisture is extracted, the air is gently reheated and pushed back into the room, keeping it dry and comfortable without significantly impacting the temperature of the room.

These types are a popular choice in the UK and they really shine in larger spaces with significant humidity levels. Plus, when compared to desiccant dehumidifiers, refrigerant models are often more energy efficient in warmer environments. However, a big drawback is that the compressor can be quite noisy, making them less ideal for quiet areas like bedrooms.

Link to Why Choose a Refrigerant Dehumidifier?Why Choose a Refrigerant Dehumidifier?

• Great for Warmer Rooms: When temperatures are consistently above 15°C (59°F), refrigerant dehumidifiers work efficiently, making them well-suited for most homes.

• Fast Moisture Reduction: If you need to tackle excess moisture quickly—such as in a damp basement—these models are highly effective.

• Energy Efficiency: Particularly in warmer conditions, refrigerant models consume less electricity compared to their desiccant counterparts.

• Lower Running Costs: Since they work more effectively in moderate to warm temperatures, the energy costs are often lower when the temperature hovers above 20°C (68°F).

• Variety in Design: Available in various styles, including portable or in-wall units, they offer flexibility for different home settings.

Link to Considerations for Refrigerant DehumidifiersConsiderations for Refrigerant Dehumidifiers

• Not Built for Cold: Below 15°C, refrigerant dehumidifiers lose much of their efficiency. At these temperatures, they struggle to condense moisture on the cooling coils, and frequent defrosting can further hamper performance.

• Noise Factor: The compressor and fan can generate noticeable noise, which may not be suitable for bedrooms or other noise-sensitive areas, though newer designs are striving to minimise this issue.

Link to Desiccant DehumidifiersDesiccant Dehumidifiers

Desiccant dehumidifiers operate by using an absorbent material, often silica gel, to draw moisture from the air. Once this material becomes saturated, the unit heats it up, releasing the trapped water vapor and restarting the cycle.

Link to Benefits of Desiccant DehumidifiersBenefits of Desiccant Dehumidifiers

• Perfect for Cold Areas: Desiccant models excel at temperatures as low as -4°C (25°F), making them ideal for basements, garages, and other unheated spaces.

• Quiet by Design: Without a compressor, these units are generally very quiet, often operating at under 40 dB—perfect for spaces where silence is golden, such as bedrooms or offices.

• Low Maintenance Needs: Fewer mechanical components mean less upkeep and a longer lifespan, making them a convenient choice.

• Adds Warmth: While working, desiccant dehumidifiers release mildly warmer air, which can help raise the temperature by 10-15°C—particularly useful in chillier rooms.

• Easy to Install: Lightweight and frequently wall-mountable, desiccant dehumidifiers are simple to set up, even where traditional drainage isn’t feasible.

Link to Downsides of Desiccant DehumidifiersDownsides of Desiccant Dehumidifiers

• Higher Energy Use in Warmer Climates: Since desiccant units use a constant heating element, they tend to consume more energy in warm conditions compared to refrigerant dehumidifiers.

• Not as Quick to Remove Moisture: While effective for maintaining lower humidity, desiccant models aren’t ideal for rapidly reducing high humidity levels and perform better in smaller spaces or moderately humid rooms.

Link to Quick Reference GuideQuick Reference Guide

Link to Making the Right Choice for Your HomeMaking the Right Choice for Your Home

To choose the perfect dehumidifier, consider these key aspects:

• Room Temperature: If you’re dealing with a colder area, such as a basement or garage, a desiccant model is likely your best bet. For typical home environments with warmer temperatures, a refrigerant dehumidifier is generally more efficient.

• Space Size and Humidity Level: Refrigerant dehumidifiers are more suitable for large spaces or areas with high moisture. For smaller rooms or those with moderate humidity, desiccant dehumidifiers work just fine.

• Noise Sensitivity: If noise is an issue, such as in a bedroom or an office, desiccant models offer a quieter solution.

• Energy Consumption: In warmer environments, refrigerant models will help keep energy bills down, whereas desiccant units are more efficient in colder climates.

• Initial Budget: Refrigerant models tend to be less expensive upfront, while desiccant models may be more versatile and require less maintenance over time.

• Temperature Extremes: For places subject to dramatic temperature shifts, desiccant dehumidifiers can handle the variability better.

• Installation Needs: If the space is hard to access or lacks standard drainage options, a desiccant dehumidifier’s lightweight and versatile design makes it easier to install.

Link to ConclusionConclusion

Whether you opt for a refrigerant or desiccant dehumidifier depends on the unique conditions of your home and your preferences. Refrigerant models offer much more efficiency in warmer environments in addition to rapid moisture removal. On the other hand, desiccant units really shine in quiet, cold settings, providing versatility with minimal maintenance. By carefully considering factors like room temperature, humidity level, noise preferences, energy usage, and your budget you will be able to find the best solution for creating a comfortable, healthy indoor environment.