Dehumidifers

About Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers are essential equipment for controlling moisture levels in workshops, storage facilities, construction sites, and domestic spaces throughout the UK. These powerful devices extract excess humidity from the air, preventing condensation, mould growth, and damage to materials, tools, and finished work. Whether you're a tradesperson drying out a newly plastered room, a builder working on a renovation project, or a workshop owner protecting valuable equipment, a reliable dehumidifier is crucial for maintaining optimal working conditions.

Our comprehensive range includes industrial-grade dehumidifiers from trusted brands such as Sealey, Draper, and Faithfull, designed to tackle demanding professional applications. From compact portable units suitable for smaller spaces to high-capacity industrial models capable of extracting 50 litres or more per day, we stock dehumidifiers to suit every requirement. Many of our units feature additional functionality, including air conditioning, heating, and air purification capabilities, providing year-round climate control for your workspace.

Modern dehumidifiers incorporate advanced features such as automatic humidity sensors, continuous drainage options, and digital controls for precise moisture management. Available in both 230V standard voltage and 110V site-safe variants, our dehumidifiers comply with UK electrical standards and are built to withstand the rigours of professional use in construction, restoration, and industrial environments.

Jargon Buster

• Extraction Rate: The amount of moisture a dehumidifier can remove from the air in 24 hours, typically measured in litres per day. Higher extraction rates are necessary for larger spaces or particularly damp environments.
• Humidistat: An automatic sensor that monitors ambient humidity levels and switches the dehumidifier on or off to maintain your desired moisture level, typically between 40-60% relative humidity for optimal comfort and protection.
• Refrigerant Dehumidifier: The most common type, which works like a refrigerator by cooling air to condense moisture. These are highly effective in warmer conditions and are ideal for most professional applications.
• Desiccant Dehumidifier: Uses moisture-absorbing materials rather than refrigeration. These units work more efficiently in colder environments (below 15°C) and are often preferred for unheated workshops or winter site work.
• Continuous Drainage: A feature allowing water to drain directly through a hose into a sink or drain, eliminating the need to manually empty the collection tank—essential for long-term or unattended operation.
• Auto-Defrost: Prevents ice build-up on refrigerant coils during operation in cooler temperatures, ensuring consistent performance without manual intervention.

Who Uses Dehumidifiers?

• Plasterers and Decorators: Accelerating drying times after plastering, rendering, or applying water-based paints and finishes
• Builders and General Contractors: Managing moisture in new builds, extensions, and renovation projects to prevent damp-related issues
• Flood and Water Damage Restoration Specialists: Rapidly drying properties following leaks, floods, or burst pipes
• Carpenters and Joiners: Protecting timber stocks and finished joinery from moisture damage in workshops and storage areas
• Vehicle Body Shops and Sprayers: Creating optimal conditions for paint curing and preventing moisture contamination
• Property Maintenance Professionals: Tackling condensation and damp problems in residential and commercial properties
• Warehouse and Storage Facility Managers: Protecting stored goods, equipment, and materials from humidity damage
• Tool Hire Companies: Offering climate control solutions to trade customers
• DIY Enthusiasts: Managing moisture in garages, workshops, and home improvement projects

How to Choose the Right Dehumidifier

Extraction Capacity: Match the dehumidifier's extraction rate to your space size and moisture level. As a general guide, units extracting 10-20 litres per day suit rooms up to 30m², whilst industrial models extracting 50+ litres per day are necessary for larger spaces, severe damp, or faster drying requirements on construction sites.

Operating Temperature: Consider where you'll use the unit. Refrigerant dehumidifiers work best above 15°C, making them ideal for heated spaces and summer site work. For unheated areas or winter use, desiccant models maintain efficiency in temperatures down to 1°C.

Power Supply: Standard 230V models suit workshops and indoor applications with mains power, whilst 110V site-safe variants are essential for construction sites where UK HSE regulations require reduced voltage equipment for safety.

Portability and Build Quality: Look for robust construction with carrying handles and castors for easy repositioning. Industrial units with metal housings withstand the knocks and bumps of site work better than domestic plastic models.

Tank Capacity and Drainage: Larger water collection tanks mean less frequent emptying, but continuous drainage options are invaluable for unattended operation or high-moisture environments where tanks would fill quickly.

Multi-Function Units: Consider combination units offering air conditioning, heating, or air purification if you need year-round climate control. These versatile machines provide excellent value for workshops and site offices.

Popular Accessories

• Drainage Hoses: Extended lengths for continuous drainage to sinks, drains, or external discharge points
• Hydrometers and Humidity Monitors: Standalone devices for measuring ambient humidity levels across multiple locations
• Air Movers and Fans: Complement dehumidifiers by improving air circulation and accelerating drying times
• Extension Leads and Site Transformers: 110V transformers and heavy-duty extension cables for site-safe operation
• Replacement Filters: HEPA and carbon filters for units with integrated air purification
• Moisture Meters: Essential tools for monitoring moisture content in walls, timber, and building materials

Safety Information

Always ensure dehumidifiers are positioned on stable, level surfaces with adequate clearance around air intake and outlet vents—typically 300-500mm—to prevent overheating and maintain efficient operation. Never operate units in areas with flammable vapours or gases, as electrical components may create ignition sources.

Regularly check and empty water collection tanks to prevent overflow, and ensure continuous drainage hoses are securely connected and positioned to drain freely. On construction sites, use 110V models connected through properly rated transformers in accordance with HSE guidelines for reduced voltage equipment.

Inspect power cables and plugs before each use, and never operate damaged equipment. Be aware that dehumidifiers can become heavy when water tanks are full—use proper manual handling techniques when moving units. Ensure adequate ventilation when operating in enclosed spaces, and follow manufacturer guidelines for filter maintenance to prevent reduced efficiency and potential fire hazards from dust accumulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size dehumidifier do I need for my workshop or site?

Calculate your space volume (length × width × height in metres) and match it to the extraction rate. For moderate humidity in heated spaces, allow 1 litre extraction capacity per 5m³. Double this for severe damp, unheated areas, or when rapid drying is required. A 20-litre unit typically suits a single-garage workshop, whilst industrial 50+ litre models are necessary for larger commercial spaces or active drying work.

How long does it take to dry out a room after plastering or flooding?

This depends on moisture levels, room size, temperature, and ventilation. With an appropriately sized dehumidifier, freshly plastered rooms typically dry sufficiently for decoration within 4-7 days, though full curing takes longer. Flood-damaged properties may require 1-3 weeks of continuous dehumidification. Use a moisture meter to monitor progress rather than relying on timeframes alone.

Can I leave a dehumidifier running unattended overnight or over weekends?

Yes, most industrial dehumidifiers are designed for continuous operation with built-in safety features including auto-shutoff when tanks are full. For extended unattended use, connect to continuous drainage to eliminate tank capacity limitations. Ensure the unit is on a stable surface, electrical connections are secure, and the area is well-ventilated.

Why does my dehumidifier ice up, and how can I prevent it?

Ice formation on refrigerant coils occurs when operating below 15°C, particularly in poorly insulated or unheated spaces. Choose models with auto-defrost functions, or consider desiccant dehumidifiers which work efficiently down to 1°C. Alternatively, provide gentle background heating to raise the ambient temperature above 15°C for optimal refrigerant dehumidifier performance.

Do I need 110V or 230V for site work?

UK construction sites typically require 110V reduced-voltage equipment for portable tools and appliances in accordance with HSE guidance, reducing the risk of serious electric shock. If you're working on active building sites, choose 110V models. For fixed workshop installations or domestic use with standard mains power, 230V units are appropriate and offer a wider choice of models.