Money expert Martin Lewis has advised households to replace their tumble dryers with dehumidifiers for drying clothes indoors, potentially saving up to £215 on energy bills. With energy costs remaining a concern this winter, the Money Saving Expert founder described tumble dryers as 'demon appliances' due to their high running costs, which can reach £1 per hour for some models.
Speaking on The Martin Lewis Podcast, he explained that a typical 200W dehumidifier costs about 7p per hour to run, based on an average electricity rate of 34p per kilowatt-hour. In contrast, tumble dryers consume significantly more energy, making them far more expensive to operate. Dehumidifiers also help prevent moisture-related issues such as mould, condensation, and musty smells.
Several dehumidifier models were highlighted as cost-effective alternatives. The Pro Breeze 12L, priced at £139.99, features a laundry drying function and a 12-litre tank. The Devola 20L model, at £149.99, includes an air purifier and a whisper-quiet mode at 38dB. The EcoAir DD1 7L, costing £199.99, offers the quietest operation at 34dB and includes a companion app.
Lewis emphasised that while dehumidifiers require an upfront investment, they are cheaper than running a tumble dryer and more economical than dealing with mould damage. He urged households to consider the switch ahead of upcoming energy announcements.
