A dehumidifier It can prove to be a surprisingly effective solution not only against mold, but also against the sultry heat. And in some cases it can even be cheaper and healthy than an air conditioner. This is what emerges from a new comparative test published by the Swiss magazine Balancewho put to the test 10 basic models.
In Switzerland, according to the Federal Office of Public Health, one in four or five home presents visible humidity problems, such as mold or perennially mutual windows. In this context, a dehumidifier can make a difference. But which one to choose? SALDO tried to respond, testing ten devices in realistic conditions, with an ambient temperature of 20 ° C and 80%humidity.
The best dehumidifiers
The test was entrusted to the IPI Institute of Stuttgart and focused on four main criteria: dehumidification capacity, humidity reduction time (from 80% to 60%), energy consumption and noise level.
And the results leave no room for doubt: The best dehumidifier is also among the cheapest. The Kibernetik M16 model, Sold at a very competitive price, it has overcome the competition both in terms of efficacy and energy efficiency.
This dehumidifier stands out for its efficiency and discretion. In just 23 minutes he manages to reduce the humidity of the environment from 80% to 60%, proving quick and performing. Another point in its favor is silence: during the operation it emits only mild crews or hums, almost imperceptible, which makes it ideal also for environments in which maximum tranquility is required, such as the bedroom or study. Finally, it is very thrifty in consumption: in the test phase it absorbed just 89 WH, a value that makes it particularly suitable for those looking for efficient solutions also from an energy point of view.
Next to the Kibernetik winner, The Woods and Ecofort models have also behaved well, Although they took more time (35 minutes) to achieve the same result. However, their energy consumption remained contained and the noise was also judged acceptable.
The model of thelonghi He showed good technical performance but was penalized for an annoying hum, caused by irregular vibrations, especially depending on the positioning of the rollers. The manufacturer said he is working to improve this aspect.
Instead, the Interronic dehumidifier is bad, the most energetic and the least effective of the test.
The paradox that emerges from this investigation is that all devices employ the same basic technology (condensation via cold surface), but with very different returns.
In the following infographics you can see all the tested models.
How the test was conducted
The IPI Institute of Stuttgart (Germany) has tried ten basic dehumidifiers on behalf of the magazine Balancewith a price between 130 and 300 Swiss francs. The tests were conducted in the laboratory following precise criteria:
Save energy with intelligence
SALDO has also published a series of useful tips to use the dehumidifier efficiently, avoiding waste:
