Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air, helping to reduce damp and mould, improve air quality, and support general health — especially for those with allergies. However, it is important to use them safely. 

There are two main types of dehumidifiers: 

  • Refrigerant (compressor) models draw in moist air and pass it over cold coils. The moisture condenses on the coils and collects in a water tank or drains away. These units work best in warmer temperatures and are generally more energy-efficient in such conditions. 
  • Desiccant dehumidifiers use an absorbent material to capture moisture from the air. The material is then gently heated to release the moisture, which is collected or vented. Desiccant types perform better in cooler or unheated environments but may use more energy overall. 
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Key points

  • All dehumidifiers sold in the UK must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug. 
  • Avoid buying second-hand dehumidifiers. 
  • Allow air to circulate freely around the appliance. 
  • Empty the water tank after each use and before moving it. 
  • Keep filters and vents clear of dust and debris build-up. 

Buying a dehumidifier

  • Buy from a reputable retailer or directly from a known manufacturer, rather than third-party online sellers, as unverified products may not meet UK safety standards.
  • Avoid buying second-hand dehumidifiers which may not comply with current regulations. 
  • Look for safety markings such as UKCA or CE, and features such as auto shut-off, eco modes, or smart app controls which allow you to monitor and adjust humidity and timers remotely. 
  • Register your dehumidifier so you can be contacted if there is a safety recall. Registration also makes it easier to arrange repairs or replacements if needed. 

Using a dehumidifier safely

  • Place your dehumidifier where air can circulate freely away from walls, furniture, and curtains. Keep windows and doors closed while it’s running for best performance. 
  • Don’t balance smaller units on edges of counters or tables where they could fall. 
  • Keep the cable tidy and out of reach of children and pets. 
  • Empty the water tank after each use (where required) and before moving the unit. 
  • Keep air inlets and outlets clear of dust and debris to prevent overheating or airflow restriction. 
  • Clean or replace air filters as advised by the manufacturer. Check and clean drainage trays or hoses regularly to prevent blockages. 
  • Avoid running your dehumidifier overnight or while you’re away from home unless the manufacturer specifies it is safe for unattended use.
  • Unplug the dehumidifier when not in use and disconnect it before cleaning or maintaining it. 
  • If you notice a burning smell, unusual noises, or signs of overheating, switch it off immediately and contact the retailer or manufacturer.

Stay safe with electrical products

Check plugs and sockets

Don't ignore burn marks, ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) sounds, fuses blowing, circuit-breakers tripping, or if it feels hot to touch.

Unplug and contact the retailer, manufacturer, or a qualified repair technician. 

Protect with an RCD

An RCD (residual current device) in your consumer unit (fusebox) protects you from electric shocks if a product is faulty.

If you don’t have RCD protection, use an RCD plug on the socket where the product is plugged in.

Fit smoke and heat alarms

Ensure there is at least one smoke or heat alarm per floor in your property. Fit enough alarms to cover all areas where a fire could start.

Test alarms at least once a month. Replace them every ten years or when the replace by date is reached.

Selected FAQs

If you’re unsure about an appliance or product, you’re not alone. These FAQs bring together expert advice and answers to the questions people ask us most, so you can feel more confident at home.

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:

  • for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
  • at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
  • at least every 5 years for a business

The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.

Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here:

  • 3 years for a caravan
  • 1 year for a swimming pool

Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.

First, you need to find out whether the electrician you used is actually registered. To do this, contact the operator of the scheme they have claimed to be part of, and they will tell you whether this is the case. If they are registered, the scheme operator can guide you through their complaints procedure.

If you find out the electrician misled you and is not registered, you should report this to your local Trading Standards Department as they are breaking the law. We would also recommend that you get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out on your home; this will assess any work that has been undertaken and will act as sufficient documentation to certify that work. This needs to be carried out by a registered electrician and unfortunately will be an added cost for you.

Additional info

A dehumidifier can help manage damp by reducing moisture and preventing mould growth.

However, it does not fix the underlying causes of damp, such as condensation, rising damp, or structural leaks. If damp problems persist, investigate and repair the root cause. 

Has your electrical product been recalled?

Electrical products are recalled more regularly than you might think, but the response rate to a recall is often worryingly low. This means there are potentially millions of recalled electrical items still in UK homes.

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