Dehumidification

The 3 Techniques for Dehumidifying Air

1. Compressor Dehumidifier:

   This is the most common technology in France. The device works similarly to a refrigerator. The air is drawn in by a fan and passes through an internal grille. This air is cooled by the compressor, creating a thermal shock. This temperature difference between the drawn air and the compressor causes water to condense and flow into the tank. Learn more about the compressor dehumidifier.

2. Peltier Effect Dehumidifier:

   This technology is similar to compressor dehumidifiers. The difference lies in the presence of two plates, one hot and one cold, within the device. The humid air is drawn in, and after a heat exchange, it condenses and drips into the tank. This technology is less efficient than compressor dehumidifiers but more eco-friendly and economical than chemical-based moisture absorbers, whose composition is often controversial.

   Both compressor and Peltier effect technologies have a limitation. To cool the air, the temperature must be ambient. At lower temperatures, the air cooled by the device may freeze. Most compressor and Peltier dehumidifiers are equipped with a defrost mode. Therefore, it is recommended to use these devices when the room temperature is around 15°C or higher. Below that, desiccant dehumidifiers are more effective as they work well at lower temperatures. Learn more about Peltier dehumidifiers.

3. Desiccant or Low-Temperature Dehumidifier:

   This system works by passing humid air through a silica gel wheel that absorbs the moisture. The water is then extracted from the wheel using a fan and flows into the tank. This technology is recommended for wine cellars or basements where room temperatures can often drop to 0°C. Learn more about desiccant dehumidifiers.

Removing Water from the Dehumidifier

Once the water is collected by the dehumidifier, it needs to be emptied. Several solutions are available:

1. The Tank:

All dehumidifiers are equipped with a tank to collect condensate. The tank capacity varies from one model to another.

2. Continuous Drainage:

Using a hose designed for this purpose, water flows downward by gravity. This method is ideal when you don't have time to empty the tank manually.

3. Lift Pump:

Some devices are equipped with a lift pump. If not, it is possible to purchase one separately. The lift pump allows water to be evacuated over longer distances and, most importantly, mechanically. You can even pump water from a basement to an upper floor.

Why Dehumidify?

When choosing an air dehumidifier, it is important to consider several factors to meet specific needs. Determining the humidity level and temperature of the area to be dehumidified is essential.

The size of the room is not always the most relevant criterion when choosing a device. A dehumidifier rated for 60 m² is effective if, for example, you want to reduce humidity from 70% to 55%. However, it is less efficient at reducing humidity from 90% to 50%, as this requires more dehumidification power. Note that the room sizes indicated by manufacturers always represent maximum surface areas. Similarly, a dehumidifier with a capacity of 20 liters per day can only reach this figure in a room with 90% humidity and a minimum temperature of 25°C. These are real but variable figures depending on climate and region.

Remotely Controllable Dehumidifier - Did You Know?

Some devices can be controlled remotely thanks to Wi-Fi functionality. However, only ALBERT from StadlerForm allows scheduled programming. This enables you to save energy by setting a start and stop time.

For more information on air dehumidifiers, visit our guide page on how to choose a dehumidifier.