Why a Dehumidifier? Benefits & Areas of Use
Humid air in living spaces often leads to health problems such as allergies and respiratory diseases. It can also damage furniture and building structure. Basements, bathrooms, new buildings, and poorly insulated old buildings are particularly susceptible. A high-quality dehumidifier ensures a healthy indoor climate, effectively prevents mold, and thus protects health and property in the long term.
For special applications you’ll find suitable solutions for vehicles in our Car Dehumidifier Guide.
Dehumidifier Test Stiftung Warentest & Ökotest – What Do the Experts Say?
Dehumidifier Test Stiftung Warentest Results 2024/2025: Stiftung Warentest rates dehumidifiers mainly by dehumidification performance, energy efficiency, and noise. Test winners in recent tests were mostly compressor-based condensation units, as they are most efficient at normal room temperatures. A clear recommendation is the Comfee MDDF-20DEN7*, which received the best overall rating in several tests.
- Dehumidification 20 L/24 h – for rooms up to 40 m² (≈80 m³)
- App control incl. Alexa; smart auto mode 45–55% RH
- 3 L tank, 3 speeds, water level indicator & 4 castors
Dehumidifier Test Winner Ökotest: Ökotest places special emphasis on energy consumption and harmful substances. Test winners here were energy-saving models without problematic materials in their construction. The recommendation is the Meaco DD8L Junior*, which performed well in several categories.
- Desiccant unit ~8 L/day – ideal for basement, garage, RV & boat
- Meaco Control Logic; 4 modes; 1/2/4/8 h timer; optional drain hose
- 2 L tank, 3 speeds, auto mode – quickly tackles mold and musty air
Key findings from recent tests:
- Condensation units are most efficient at 20-25°C (apartment, office)
- Adsorption units excel at low temperatures (basement, unfinished buildings)
- Noise below 40 dB is recommended for bedrooms
- Automatic hygrostats save up to 40% energy
The Best Models 2025 – Recommendations by Room Type
| Room Type | Model | Room Size | Noise Level | Performance | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Value | Comfee MDDF-20DEN7* | up to 40 m² | quiet ~41 dB | 20 L/day | Hygrostat, app control |
| Small Room | Meaco DD8L Junior* | up to 20 m² | very quiet <40dB | 8 L/day | energy-saving, compact |
| Large Room | Klarstein DryFy* | up to 50 m² | medium ~45 dB | 20 L/day | app control, timer |
| Bedroom | MeacoDry Arete 12L* | up to 25 m² | extremely quiet 35dB | 10 L/day | especially quiet, efficient |
| Basement | Comedes BTR 50* | up to 50 m² | medium ~52 dB | 51 L/day | robust, high performance |
| Car | WENKO Car Dehumidifier* | car interior | silent | granules | reusable |
Special Applications: Dehumidifier Test for Special Rooms
Bathroom Dehumidifier Test
Special features: Bathrooms need units that can handle high humidity and temperature fluctuations.
- Bathroom test winner: Meaco DD8L Junior* (works reliably even at high humidity)
- Alternative: Peltier dehumidifiers for small windowless bathrooms (e.g., Pro Breeze Mini)
Basement Dehumidifier Test
Special features: Basements are often cool and damp – many compressor units fail here.
- Basement test winner: Comedes BTR 50* (works even at low temperatures)
- Alternative: Adsorption dehumidifiers for unheated basements
Dehumidifier Test for Small Rooms (under 20 sqm)
Special features: Compact units with low energy consumption are needed.
- Small room test winner: Meaco DD8L Junior* (optimal for 15-20 sqm)
- Budget option: Mini dehumidifiers with Peltier technology (e.g., Pro Breeze Mini)
Dehumidifier Test under 100 Euros
Budget recommendations for price-conscious buyers:
- Comfee MDDN-10DEN7*: About €100, 10L/day, up to 40sqm
- Pro Breeze Mini*: About €35, Peltier technology, up to 10sqm
- Granule dehumidifier: €10-30, chemical dehumidification, reusable, for cars (e.g. WENKO Auto-Entfeuchter*)
Tip: For larger projects or water damage, see our Dehumidifier or Building Dryer Guide.
Buying Guide – What Really Matters
Room Size and Dehumidification Performance
- Small rooms (up to 20 m²): 8-10 liters/day (e.g., Meaco DD8L Junior*)
- Medium rooms (up to 35 m²): 10-16 liters/day (e.g., MeacoDry Arete 12L*)
- Large rooms (up to 50 m²): 20-25 liters/day (e.g., Klarstein DryFy*)
Energy Consumption and Electricity Costs
Modern units use about 150-300 watts. Units with hygrostat regulate automatically and reduce electricity costs to about €5-10 per month with 4-6 hours of daily use.
Noise Level
- Bedrooms/offices: ≤40 dB (MeacoDry Arete 12L*)
- Living areas: up to 45 dB (Klarstein DryFy*)
- Basement/storage: 45-50 dB (Comedes BTR 50*)
Extra Features
- Timer function
- App remote control
- Automatic hygrostat
- Continuous operation via drain hose
- Air filter (e.g., HEPA)
Application Tips – Get the Most Out of Your Dehumidifier
Optimal Placement
Place the unit centrally in the room, at least 30 cm from walls and furniture for optimal air circulation.
Proper Ventilation
Air out for 5-10 minutes in the morning and evening to support the dehumidifier.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Empty the water tank regularly and clean the filter every 1-2 weeks to prevent mold.
Quick Takeaways
- Choose a dehumidifier suitable for your room size.
- Match noise level to the place of use.
- Modern units are energy-saving and convenient.
- Regular maintenance increases efficiency and lifespan.
- Adsorption units are best for cool rooms.
FAQ
Which dehumidifier is especially quiet for bedrooms? Meaco DD8L Junior* with only 35 dB.
Which units are good for basements? For basements, building dryers like the Comedes BTR 50* are especially suitable. These units are robust and powerful, ideal for cool and damp environments.
How high are the electricity costs of a dehumidifier? About €5-10 per month with 4-6 hours of daily operation.
Is a drain hose useful? Yes, for longer operation it saves emptying the water tank.
Are mini dehumidifiers effective for cars? Yes, they reliably prevent fogged windows.
What does Stiftung Warentest say about dehumidifiers? Stiftung Warentest recommends condensation units for normal room temperatures and rates energy efficiency as an important criterion.
Which dehumidifier is the best under 100 euros? The Comfee MDDF-12DEN7* offers the best value in this price range.
Do dehumidifiers work at low temperatures? Adsorption dehumidifiers work efficiently even below 15°C, compressor units lose performance in the cold.
How do I test the efficiency of my dehumidifier? Use a hygrometer to measure humidity before and after operation – a reduction of 10-20% is normal.