Placing a dehumidifier in a corner or a crowded part of the room can cause it to overheat and stop working, according to advice from Which?. Simply relocating the appliance to give it ample space can make it more effective and dry clothes considerably faster.
Why placement matters
Patrick Gallagher from Which? explained: "Where you place your dehumidifier can make a big difference in how effective it is. Ideally, it should be placed in a central location in the room, away from walls and furniture. This allows the dehumidifier to circulate air evenly. Additionally, make sure the dehumidifier is not placed near any heat sources or vents, as this can affect its performance."
Dehumidifiers work by extracting moisture from the air, so water evaporates quickly from garments. Ensuring adequate airflow around the appliance helps accelerate the process. Positioning it beside a wall, drying rack, or another piece of furniture will obstruct airflow, as it requires at least 20 to 30 centimetres of space to remove moisture.
How to maximise performance
To get the best performance, place the dehumidifier in the centre of the room and maintain a good distance from the laundry to prevent it from getting dripped on. It is also vital to shut any windows before turning it on, as autumn rainfall means leaving windows open will allow excessive damp air to circulate inside.
Closing the room door is equally important, as dehumidifiers work more effectively in a confined space and will take longer to remove moisture from the entire house. Position the dehumidifier so the air from its vents flows towards your clothing, which should help them dry considerably faster.
Maintenance and shutdown tips
Cleaning the filter at least every fortnight prevents dust from clogging the machine and improves airflow, helping it run efficiently. You should also switch off the dehumidifier with its power button before unplugging it from the socket, as cutting the power at the wall can cause the fan to stop abruptly.
Allowing the fan to complete the machine's standard shutdown cycle helps it cool down properly and reduces the risk of the dehumidifier breaking down prematurely. Getting the best performance requires less than five minutes of attention, yet it can help you dry clothes more effectively without running the appliance longer than needed and pushing up your energy bills this autumn.
