Do you constantly struggle to maintain a healthy home environment? Do you occasionally experience musty smells and paint cracks? We have just the solution for you—a quality dehumidifier.
In this article, we've compiled the nine best dehumidifiers in Australia to help you decide which best suits your needs. This comes after hours of research, comparing and evaluating various products. Ready to improve your home? We'll start with our top three picks.
Our Top Picks
If you’re short of time, here are our top three picks:
AusClimate Cool Seasons Dehumidifier
Best overall dehumidifier for Australians with a nano-silver filter, 10 L daily capacity, and a 1°C to 40°C operating temperature range.
DeLonghi Tasciugo AriaDry
Best dehumidifier and air purifier with E12 filter, 21 L daily capacity, 2°C to 30°C operating temperature, and three ventilation speeds.
Ionmax Dehumidifier ION612
Best energy-efficient dehumidifier with a nano-silver filter, laundry mode, 7 L per day capacity, and 1°C to 40°C temperature range.
9 Dehumidifiers for Aussie Homes and Offices
For our analysis and comparisons, we evaluated each product's performance, energy efficiency, capacity, and additional features to provide comprehensive insights for informed decision-making.
1. AusClimate Cool Seasons Premium 10L Dehumidifier
Best Overall Dehumidifier for Australians
Power: 730 Watts
Operating temp: 1°C - 40°C
Warranty: 2 years
The Cool-Seasons Premium 10L Desiccant Dehumidifier is the best in Australia for dealing with moisture or humidity in your home, particularly in areas that get chilly or aren't warm during the winter. It is intended for areas with open floor plans up to 50 sqm.
As a desiccant dehumidifier, the AusClimate Cool Seasons Premium operates more effectively in colder climates and may be more effective in unheated areas than compressor dehumidifiers. It functions well when the winter cold reaches a low of 1°C and has a remarkable performance in hot environments of up to 40°C, making it adaptable.
The multi-functional dehumidifier also has a laundry setting to help you dry clothes more quickly in colder weather. This is convenient, especially during the winter when drying your laundry can be challenging. The dehumidifier has a nano-silver filter to eliminate germs and extra features like a 12-hour schedule, a 3-litre water tank capacity, an auto-restart feature, and a constant draining system.
Pros
- Efficient in cold climates
- Auto-shut-off when the tank is full
- Includes laundry mode
- Ideal for 50 sqm rooms
Cons
- Tricky water tank removal process
2. DeLonghi Tasciugo AriaDry Pure Dehumidifier
Best Dehumidifier + Air Purifier
Power: 490 Watts
Operating temp: 2 - 30°C
Warranty: 2 years
Despite its sleek and compact design, the DeLonghi Tasciugo AriaDry Pure 21L 2-n-1 Dehumidifier & Air Purifier is one of the most heavy-duty dehumidifiers on our list. Its water tank holds 5 litres, making it a good option for larger rooms measuring up to 90 cubic metres. The unit weighs 13.5 kg, which is reasonable considering its size and capacity. For added convenience, it has integrated handles and 360° rolling castors.
DeLonghi's large capacity allows it to remove 21 litres of moisture within a day. It features a HEPA filter with a dust filter that traps different allergens, helping to enhance the general air quality in your house. However, because it is only an E12 filter, it cannot remove more visible odours, such as tobacco or smoke. For this, dedicated air purifiers with activated carbon filters should be considered.
DeLonghi's Tasciugo AriaDry has three ventilation speeds and a laundry mode to dry clothes quickly. This feature is handy if you rely solely on the weather to dry your laundry. With its specific laundry function, reliable draining system, and relatively compact proportions, the dehumidifier is an excellent all-arounder at an affordable cost.
Pros
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Wi-Fi and app connectivity
- Safe, non-toxic R290 refrigerant gas
- Doubles as an air purifier
- Features a laundry mode
Cons
- Inadequate E12 filter
- 2m cable length
3. Breville All Climate Dehumidifier
Best Dehumidifier for Closets or Laundry Areas
Power: 650 watts
Operating temp: 5 - 40°C
Warranty: 1 year
The Breville All Climate dehumidifier also doubles as a laundry dryer. It's designed for medium-sized spaces such as bathrooms and laundry areas and works well in warm and cold climates. The dehumidifier's water tank capacity is 2 litres, which isn't the biggest on our list, but it gets the job done. It's just a bit of work, as you must drain the bucket once a day or more.
Like DeLonghi's Tasciugo AriaDry, Breville's Dehumidifier has three fan speeds and a SensAir system to control the humidity level. This system is ideal for whatever humidity you are comfortable with. You can set it up automatically so the dehumidifier works or stop at your desired humidity. You also get an ionisation filter to eliminate any air impurities.
The only downside is that it doesn’t have a visible water level line or a humidistat, so you have to check it regularly to know when to empty the bucket. On the other hand, the Breville All-Climate dehumidifier is notably quieter than other models, with a noise level of less than 50 dB.
Pros
- Carries 8 liters per day
- Strong laundry mode for quick drying
- SensAir system controls humidity levels
- Portable and easy to move
Cons
- Not ideal for larger rooms
- No visible water level
4. Dimplex 20L Premium Dehumidifier
Best Dehumidifier for Silent Operation
Power: 420 W
Operating temp: 5 - 32°C
Warranty: 2 years
The Dimplex 20L dehumidifier is perfect for medium-sized rooms and has a maximum noise level of 46 dB. Its touch control panel and many useful features make it simple to use. The appliance protects your space and even your fabrics and furniture against mould and mildew buildup. It absorbs up to 10 litres of moisture daily and has a 5-litre tank capacity.
Dimplex's dehumidifier has a humidistat to set the humidity in the room to your desired level. Its automatic shut-off function turns off once you reach that level and restarts when the humidity in your room goes above that level. The dehumidifier can also run continuously or set to a timer. The highlight of this unit is its quiet mark approval.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Portable design
- Energy-efficient
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Sensor bar can be inconsistent
5. Omega Altise OADE20 Dehumidifier
Best Value Dehumidifier
Power: 390 Watts
Operating temp: 5°C - 32°C
Warranty: 2 years
Another robust option is the Omega Altise OADE20 dehumidifier. Its UV light purification system draws out air impurities, making the space healthier and allergen-free. The ioniser and TI20 indicator help protect your living space from mould growth and musty odours.
Like other dehumidifiers, the Altise OADE20 has an automatic humidity controller to turn the humidity range of your unit on or off when it reads above or beyond that range. It also comes with a washable filter, making cleaning and maintaining the unit easier.
The home appliance has a higher extraction rate, given its larger water tank capacity of 3.7 litres. It can extract up to 20 litres of moisture daily. Though larger than the average dehumidifier, this unit is easy to move around, as it is designed with castors and a handle.
Pros
- Portable and easy to move
- UV light air purifying system
- Ioniser indicator
Cons
- Only 2 fan settings
6. Arovec AroDry 900 Dehumidifier
Best Dehumidifier for Small Rooms
Power: 60 watts
Operating temp: 50°C
Warranty: 2 years
The Arovec AroDry 900 Air dehumidifier removes up to 300 ml of moisture per day and has a water tank capacity of 900 ml, making it convenient for spaces up to 15 sqm. It weighs 0.9 kg and is equipped with whisper-quiet technology that produces up to 30 dB of noise while operating. This makes it the quietest, smallest dehumidifier on our list.
Arovec's AroDry has an auto-shutoff system that powers the unit down once its water tank is full and has an LED light indicator that flashes when the unit's water tank needs to be drained. You also get filters that act as allergen eliminators to make the air much healthier.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Portable and user-friendly
- Operates quietly compared to rivals
Cons
- Best for less damp environments
- Frequent tank emptying
7. Mitsubishi Electric MJ-EV38HR-A Dehumidifier
Best Dehumidifier for Larger Rooms
Power: 500 Watts
Operating temp: 5°C - 35°C
Warranty: 2 years
The Mitsubishi Electric MJ-EV38HR-A features inverter technology, an energy-efficient compressor, and air purification with a PM2.5 filter. Its big tank holds up to 5.5 litres of water and has a daily moisture removal capacity of 38 litres. The dehumidifier has a child-lock feature and three multi-dimensional airflow swings in its fan setting. On its low settings, it is impressively quiet.
Another feature that makes the Mitsubishi Electric MJ-EV38HR-A a good purchase is its intelligent laundry system, which is perfect for those without a laundry dryer at home. The device regulates the airflow rate while monitoring the room's humidity. The unit automatically shuts off after estimating how long it will take for the clothes to dry. Mitsubishi's laundry mode lasts about an hour on average and up to about 12 hours.
Pros
- User-friendly screen
- Excellent dehumidifier controls
- Remarkably quiet (max 48 dB)
- Easy-to-empty design
Cons
- Limited timer settings
- No suitable for full-day operation
- Difficult to move around
8. Hysure Air Dehumidifier
Best Cheap Dehumidifier
Power: 45 Watts
Operating temp: 30°C
Warranty: 2 years
The Hysure house dehumidifier has dimensions of approximately 92.4 x 102 x 148.8 inches. It has a HEPA air filter that provides unparalleled air filtration quality through a three-stage filtration system that includes an active carbon filter, a HEPA filter, and a pre-filter to capture larger particles (like animal dander). The Hysure dehumidifier can eliminate even the smallest allergens from the air, resulting in a better, more breathable environment.
The Hysure house dehumidifier and air purifier will dehumidify your residence by removing about 750 ml of moisture daily. Since this dehumidifier is small, we recommend it for rooms measuring 10 to 20 square metres, such as bedrooms, kitchens, laundry areas, basements, and even small closets and lockers. It's also whisper-quiet at night for additional comfort.
Pros
- Affordable
- Air purifier and dehumidifier
- Compact and portable design
- Auto shutoff
Cons
- Less powerful
9. Ionmax Dehumidifier ION612
Best Energy-Efficient Dehumidifier
Power: 360 - 620 watts
Operating temp: 1°C - 40°C
Warranty: 2 years
Another highly rated dehumidifier on the market is the Ionmax ION612, an energy—and cost-efficient model. Ionmax is easy to operate, includes an 8-hour timer, and has a laundry mode that helps you dry your laundry quickly. The device can also extract up to 7 litres of moisture daily, making it perfect for everyday use to maintain optimal humidity levels.
We chose it as the most energy-efficient because while lesser energy consumers exist, like the Hysure Air Dehumidifier, they don't match the dehumidification capacity of the Ionmax Dehumidifier ION612, which also has a quiet operation (34 - 47 dB), even when used at its maximum setting.
Additionally, the dehumidifier includes a continuous drain option that enables you to keep it running without constantly clearing the water reservoir and a three-directional adjustment for broad area coverage. Still, its water tank capacity of 2 litres is one of the lowest on our list.
Pros
- Fold-down handle for easy carrying
- Silent operation even on max setting
- Continuous drainage system
- Portable
Cons
- Small water tank
When Is It Appropriate to Use a Dehumidifier?
The primary reason to use a dehumidifier is when indoor humidity levels are consistently high, typically above 50-60%. A dehumidifier reduces excess moisture in the air and benefits areas prone to dampness, such as basements, crawl spaces, or bathrooms. It prevents the growth of mould, mildew, and musty odours, which otherwise lead to structural damage and health issues.
Similarly, if you have any allergies or respiratory problems, using a dehumidifier can bring relief since it reduces the presence of allergens like dust mites and mould. During hot and humid summers, using a dehumidifier in your living spaces can significantly improve comfort and reduce the feeling of stickiness. Plus, in case of water damage from leaks, floods, or burst pipes, a dehumidifier helps dry out the affected area promptly.
Finally, a dehumidifier helps preserve musical instruments, artwork, and essential documents. These items are sensitive to excess humidity and can be damaged without proper humidity control.
Dehumidifiers vs. Air Conditioners
Dehumidifiers and air conditioners serve different purposes. Dehumidifiers reduce humidity by extracting excess moisture. They do not significantly change the room's temperature and are suitable for use in areas with high humidity but moderate temperatures.
Conversely, air conditioners cool the air by removing heat and moisture. They reduce temperature and humidity effectively, making them ideal for hot and humid climates.
Mark Thompson
Do I Need a Dehumidifier if I Have Air Conditioning?
Air conditioning may help reduce indoor humidity. However, air conditioners alone aren't sufficient to control humidity levels in areas with exceptionally high humidity, particularly in the northern and northeastern parts of the country.
Is It Cheaper to Run a Dehumidifier or an Air Conditioner?
Dehumidifiers are generally less expensive to run than air conditioners. Air conditioners cool the air and remove moisture, which requires additional energy. In contrast, dehumidifiers focus solely on moisture removal, which is more energy-efficient.
To determine the cost difference more accurately, compare the energy ratings or power consumption specifications of the dehumidifier and air conditioner models you are considering. Also, consider your climate, the severity of humidity issues, and how frequently you'll use each appliance.
How to Choose the Right Dehumidifier?
When searching for the right dehumidifier for your home or office, here are a few important considerations you should keep in mind:
#1. Consider the Space for Dehumidification
When choosing a dehumidifier, you must remember the size of the room where you will use the machine. You must pick the right size to fully maximise its function so the machine can do its job smoothly.
Likewise, we recommend measuring your area before purchasing a dehumidifier. It is better to buy a slightly bigger or more powerful dehumidifier than one underpowered.
Dehumidifiers Size Guide
- Small: 12-16 L (20 - 25m²)
- Medium: 20-25L (30 - 38m²)
- Large: 35 - 50 L (50 - 105m²)
#2. Consider the Humidity Level in Your Space
Consider the humidity of the room and the weather situation in which you plan to use the dehumidifier. A good humidity level ranges between 30% and 60% in all rooms of your house. Anything above or below this range can be unhealthy and lead to respiratory discomfort or other issues.
Use a hygrometer to measure the humidity of your room. It's the most accurate method. However, you can also try alternatives like the wet and dry bulb thermometer or ice cube method.
#3. Examine Available Options
When choosing which dehumidifier to purchase, it is essential to consider the additional features and functionality of the model to fully maximise the unit. Here are some of the features that you should consider when buying a dehumidifier:
- Humidistat: A built-in humidistat lets you set a specific humidity range for your dehumidifier.
- Auto-Restart: Dehumidifiers with an auto-restart feature automatically resume operation after a power outage.
- Portability: Whether you prefer a large or small dehumidifier, prioritise one that’s easy to move.
- Energy Efficiency: Choose an energy-efficient dehumidifier to run continuously without significantly impacting your electricity bill.
#4. Compare Product Options
Compare the prices of different dehumidifiers available on the market to get the most out of your investment.
Choose the dehumidifier with the most valuable features for your room condition within your budget. To give you an idea, dehumidifiers usually cost between $100 for smaller and more than $1,200 for bigger models. So, make sure that you get the most out of your purchase.
7 Alternative Methods to Reduce Humidity at Home
These practical measures can help you create a more comfortable and humidity-controlled environment in your Australian home:
- Ventilate: Open windows and doors during dry weather to improve ventilation. We also recommend using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom to remove moist air.
- Air Conditioning: Use air conditioners to cool and dehumidify the air. Use the "dry" or "dehumidify" mode if available.
- Fix Leaks: Regularly inspect and promptly fix any leaks to prevent mould and mildew growth.
- Dry Clothes Outdoors: Whenever possible, dry your clothes outdoors to prevent excess moisture indoors.
- Cook with Lids: When cooking, use lids on pots and pans to contain steam and reduce indoor humidity.
- Shower Wisely: Use exhaust fans during and after showers, and keep the bathroom door closed to prevent moisture from spreading.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Ensure proper seals around windows and doors to prevent humid outdoor air from entering your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about dehumidifiers in Australia.
How does a dehumidifier work?
Dehumidifiers draw humid air through a fan and pass it over cold coils. As the air cools, moisture condenses into water droplets. These droplets collect in a water tank or are directly drained from the unit. The now drier air is reheated and released back into the room, effectively lowering the humidity levels.
How often do I need to empty the humidifier water tank?
Depending on the circumstances, you must empty your dehumidifier bucket between twice daily and once every two days. Once filled, a dehumidifier's water tank must be emptied before it can continue to function. The size, style, and type of dehumidifier all affect how frequently the unit needs to be emptied.
What happens if I don’t empty my dehumidifier tank?
If dehumidifiers are not emptied, they cannot continue gathering moisture from the air until the empty water tank. Usually, dehumidifiers are equipped with sensors that will automatically shut off the unit once the tank is full to avoid any overflowing of excess water.
How often do I need to clean my dehumidifier?
Clean your dehumidifier at least once every three weeks. Unless you are pumping the water straight into a different drain, all of the moisture from the air ends up in the dehumidifier's bucket.
This means that when your dehumidifier is used frequently, its filtration system becomes dirty quickly and requires cleaning every three weeks to maintain effectiveness.
Mark Thompson
Final Note
Given Australia's wide range of climate conditions, it is safe to say that a dehumidifier is a must for every home. Choosing the right model will help create a healthier living space and protect your rooms’ structural integrity.
If you're in doubt, go with the AusClimate Cool Seasons Premium 10L Dehumidifier—the National Asthma Council Australia Sensitive Choice approves it. Still, consider your use case and unique requirements to choose the one that offers your money’s worth.
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