With the introduction of our Cool-Seasons Desiccant Dehumidifier range, some of us might be a little confused whether a Cool-Seasons Desiccant or a classic NWT Compressor Dehumidifier is the right choice. So we decided to put together this handy little guide to help you work out which might be right for you.
Compressor vs Desiccant: an unbiased view (we sell both!)
Compressor dehumidifiers (also called refrigerant) have been used to dry out our homes for more than 40 years. Over this period, they have performed very well, building a reputation as a reliable energy efficient method of removing large volumes of excess moisture.
However, Desiccant-type dehumidifiers are also becoming quite popular in Australia.
So, how do you choose – ‘Compressor’ or ‘Desiccant’ dehumidifier?
In general terms, the Compressor dehumidifier still retains the position as top performer, particularly when the indoor temperature is around 20°C or above.
But if your indoor temperature is consistently below 20°c, then consider the Desiccant dehumidifier as a great option. They may be rated as having a lower overall moisture removal capacity, but they really do perform well at their rated capacity in those lower winter temperatures.
Selecting the right model will depend on why you want to use it, when you use it, how you use it and where you live in Australia.
Why should I use a dehumidifier?
Most of our customers purchase dehumidifiers to stop moisture related problems such as mould, dust-mites, condensation and musty odours etc.
Some of the issues are property related: protection of our valued and treasured possessions such as furnishing, clothing, footwear, camera equipment, electronics, etc.
Other issues are health related – a strong need to stop allergens such as mould and dust-mites before they grow, breed and then become airborne and affect our family’s health.
When should I use a dehumidifier?
“When is the best time to dry the home – wait for winter”?
No, don’t wait for winter. Most homes get a build-up of indoor moisture through the summer and autumn months. So, we suggest you get started early; remove all that excess moisture in the warmer months and then do follow-up drying through your wetter/colder months of winter.
Having said that, some parts of Australia have wet summer months and dry winter months – keep reading for more help.
How do you use a dehumidifier?
You might be surprised that you do not have to run the dehumidifier every day to combat these common problems. Turning your dehumidifier on just once a week or so is generally enough to manage it. BUT, make sure to do the deep-down ‘structural’ drying first.
Where should I use a dehumidifier?
So, now that we’ve discussed the WHY, the WHEN, the HOW, we can now help you decide the right type of dehumidifier for your area in Australia:
Sydney, Northern NSW, WA, NT & QLD
An Ausclimate NWT Compressor Dehumidifier type may be the preferred option for these areas because of high rainfall season of summer and autumn.
As example: even though Sydney has its fair share of rain in winter, it’s often during the warmer wet months that moisture builds up in the home. Then, why do you notice the excess moisture in winter and not the previous months?
Why?… because, as it becomes colder we tend to close our doors and windows: therefore, trapping the excess built up of moisture inside the home. Once we turn the heater on, mould starts appearing, windows have condensation and that musty odour is back.
If you keep your home dry during the previous wetter months, it’s quite likely you won’t see such a problem the following winter.
Melbourne, VIC, Southern NSW, Tasmania & SA
An Ausclimate Cool-Seasons Desiccant Dehumidifier type of dehumidifier may be the preferred option because these are typically cooler climates where the moisture problems are more confined to the winter months.
Generally, in the southern States, indoor room temperatures are consistently cooler than our northern neighbours: therefore, an Ausclimate Cool-Seasons Desiccant type dehumidifier may be the better option.
Others areas around Australia
The above regions all have areas that don’t fit nicely with the above options. There will be many areas where either Compressor or Desiccant or both may operate very effectively. Consider issue other issues such as local geography, elevation, bushland, shade, air movement, winds/breezes and of distance from the coast. These are all factors that influence your choice, including the architecture of your own home.
Also, it is important to note that it is the indoor room temperature and not the outside temperature that has a large bearing on selecting the right type of dehumidifier. Do you generally use a heater when operating a dehumidifier? Or would you consider using a Compressor dehumidifier with a heater option, such as the NWT All-Seasons 35L Compressor Dehumidifier.
A fair bit to think about!
Ausclimate: Best service, best quality, best prices.
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