Dehumidifiers

How to Differentiate Types of Dehumidifiers Based on Technical Specifications?

Dehumidifiers have long been familiar in households, offices, and warehouses. However, when it comes to choosing one, most people feel confused and overwhelmed by the numbers and technical specifications provided by manufacturers. This article compiles the most frequently asked questions from users and explains them clearly so you can easily distinguish between different types of dehumidifiers and select the right product for your actual needs.

How much capacity is enough for home use?

Dehumidifying capacity is the first and most important factor. This specification, measured in liters per day (L/24h), indicates how many liters of water the machine can remove from the air in 24 hours.

Under normal conditions, bedrooms or small living rooms only require machines with a capacity of 10–20 L/day to maintain humidity at 50–60%. For larger spaces such as family living rooms, small offices, or classrooms of about 40–60 m², you should choose machines with a capacity of 25–30 L/day for effective results.

If you live in an area with a humid climate throughout the year, you should consider a capacity slightly higher than average. On the other hand, in dry regions, there is no need to invest in an oversized unit. For warehouses, production plants, or document storage rooms, dehumidifying capacity may reach several hundred liters per day. This is necessary to prevent mold that could damage goods and equipment.

A common mistake is thinking, “The higher the capacity, the better.” In reality, a unit with excessively high capacity consumes more power and is underutilized. Determining the right capacity is the wiser choice.

Why does room size matter when choosing a dehumidifier?

Capacity and room size always go hand in hand. Most manufacturers provide recommended room size for each model. This is not just marketing information but the result of actual testing.

A unit with a capacity of 20 L/day may be suitable for a bedroom of about 20–30 m², but it will be ineffective in a 60 m² living room. The machine would need to run continuously, consuming more electricity, shortening its lifespan, and still failing to stabilize humidity. Conversely, buying a 50 L/day unit for a 20 m² room would be wasteful, as the excessive capacity increases both electricity bills and upfront costs without adding benefits. A typical example is the FujiE HM-620EB (20 L/day), which performs well in spaces of 20–30 m², suitable for bedrooms or small workrooms.

Meanwhile, if your space ranges from 40–80 m², a model like the Kosmen KM-20N (30 L/day) would be more appropriate, ensuring the machine does not operate under strain. For warehouses or large offices of around 100 m², users often choose the Harison HD-60B (60 L/day) thanks to its high capacity and flexible design with mobile wheels.

A golden rule is to calculate the actual room size and add about 10–15% so the machine can operate comfortably without overload. This helps you maintain a balance between performance and cost.

Are dehumidifiers noisy, and what noise level is acceptable?

Noise level, measured in decibels (dB), directly affects user comfort.

For household models, noise levels range from 40–50 dB, similar to light rainfall or whispering, which is acceptable for bedrooms or study rooms. For medium-capacity units (30–40 L/day), the noise level increases to 50–60 dB, suitable for offices where the background sound of fans or air conditioners is already common.

Industrial units, however, often generate 70–72 dB, similar to a large fan or a small engine. This is not an issue in warehouses or factories but would be disturbing in living spaces.

Is it necessary to choose a dehumidifier with air filters and deodorization?

Many people wonder whether it is worth investing in additional features such as air filtration and deodorization. The answer depends entirely on your purpose.

In households, especially those with children or the elderly, combining dehumidification with air purification brings dual benefits. Filters can trap dust and bacteria while removing unpleasant odors, making the living environment both dry and fresh. This feature is also very useful in closed offices where air conditioning creates a stuffy atmosphere.

However, in warehouses, factories, or other spaces where only moisture control is required, these extra features are not truly necessary. In such cases, you should focus on a high-capacity, energy-efficient, and easy-to-maintain unit. Spending extra on air purification would increase costs without delivering tangible benefits.

How can you tell if you’ve chosen the right dehumidifier?

There are several ways to check. The simplest is to monitor humidity levels after use. If the machine maintains humidity at 50–60% without running 24/7, the capacity is appropriate.

You should also check your monthly electricity bill. A properly sized machine will consume a reasonable amount of energy without a significant increase. In addition, acceptable noise levels, a dry and comfortable environment, and the absence of mold on clothes, wooden furniture, or documents are all signs of a correct choice.

If the unit frequently shows error alerts, fails to reach the desired humidity, or becomes bothersome due to noise, those are clear signs that you need to reconsider your choice.

Conclusion

Understanding technical specifications will help you confidently distinguish between different dehumidifiers and select the right one. Capacity, room size, noise level, and additional features are the four core factors to consider. Instead of choosing based on instinct or relying solely on advertisements, equipping yourself with this knowledge ensures you buy a unit that meets your needs, saves costs, and lasts for years.