When I started searching for the best energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK, I wanted something that could run for hours without hiking up my electricity bill. After unboxing and testing several models over weeks, I realised how important energy efficiency truly is—not just for saving money, but for keeping the home comfortable all year round. A dehumidifier isn’t something you use once in a while; it often runs daily, especially in damp UK weather. So, choosing an energy-efficient one really makes a big difference in the long run.
From my experience, the need for buying the best energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK comes down to two key things—performance and cost. You want a machine that removes moisture effectively without wasting energy.
I noticed that some cheaper models either ran constantly without much result or consumed too much power. The better ones, though, quietly balanced strong performance with minimal energy use. That’s what truly sets the best ones apart—they do their job efficiently without adding to your monthly expenses.
Over time, I also learned that the type of dehumidifier matters a lot. When I tested both, I could feel the difference—compressors were steady in warm rooms, while desiccants worked brilliantly where the air was colder.
After weeks of running tests and comparing results, it became clear that the most energy-efficient dehumidifiers aren’t just about low power consumption—they’re about smart design, quiet operation, and the right fit for your space. For anyone living in the UK’s often humid climate, choosing the right model is more than just a purchase—it’s a comfort upgrade that pays for itself over time.
Best Energy Efficient Dehumidifier UK At A Glance
| Energy Efficient Dehumidifiers | Power / Energy Use | Customer Satisfaction Ratings | Reasons to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| MeacoDry Arete Two 12 L | 136 W | 96% | Extremely low running cost, very quiet, smart features, 2-in-1 dehumidifier + air purifier |
| electriQ 20 L Low-Energy Smart | 225 W | 92% | Big tank, powerful moisture removal, excellent for drying clothes fast |
| Pro Breeze 12 L Low Energy | ~180 W (0.18 kWh) | 89% | Affordable, lightweight, easy to use, very energy efficient |
| Dryzone 12 L Dehumidifier | — | 87% | Great price, doubles as air purifier, simple controls |
| Meaco Low-Energy 20 L | 219 W | 94% | High extraction, fewer tank empties, perfect for bigger homes |
| Meaco DD8L Desiccant | 330–650 W | 91% | Performs brilliantly in cold rooms where others fail, great for winter & drying clothes |
Exploring The Right Kind of Energy Efficient Dehumidifier UK
When I started exploring the right kind of energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK, I realised how much small features can impact performance and running costs. I began by checking the wattage on each model I tested—it’s the easiest way to understand how much power it uses. For example, some of the newer compressor models like the MeacoDry Arete Two cost as little as 3–4p per hour to run, which really impressed me. Over time, I found that even small differences in wattage can add up, especially when the unit runs for hours every day.
Another thing I paid close attention to was the Energy Factor (litres per kWh). It basically shows how much water the dehumidifier can remove for every unit of power it consumes. The higher the number, the better the efficiency. From my testing, models with a higher Energy Factor not only worked faster but also stayed cooler and quieter while operating.
I also found smart and timer modes extremely useful. I could set the dehumidifier to run only when humidity levels were high, which prevented unnecessary energy use. In colder months, auto-defrost was another key feature—it kept the machine running smoothly without freezing up.
Through this testing phase, I noticed that build quality matters a lot. Cheaper dehumidifiers may look fine at first, but over time, they often became noisy or less effective. In contrast, UK-specific models designed for our local climate handled humidity fluctuations much better.
Lastly, I preferred models with automatic controls instead of manual ones. Automatic humidistats saved me time and effort by adjusting themselves as the room conditions changed. After trying different options, I learned that choosing the best energy-efficient dehumidifier UK is really about finding a smart, reliable, and durable unit that delivers great performance without wasting energy.
Best Energy Efficient Dehumidifier UK: Tried and Tested Models
Why you can trust Top Best Dehumidifier UK: Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
MeacoDry Arete Two 12L Dehumidifier & Air Purifier
When I purchased the MeacoDry Arete Two 12L Dehumidifier & Air Purifier, I could instantly tell it was built with serious attention to detail. From unboxing to setting it up, everything felt premium and well thought out. After using it for weeks, I genuinely believe it’s one of the best energy-efficient dehumidifiers in the UK. It doesn’t just remove moisture—it runs smartly, quietly, and with impressive energy control.
One thing I really liked was the Wi-Fi and app control. It allowed me to manage everything straight from my phone. I could schedule it to run during off-peak hours, which helped save energy and reduced my electricity costs noticeably. For anyone who’s conscious about energy bills, this feature alone makes the Arete Two worth it.
The airflow performance was another highlight. With its adjustable louvre and extra fan speed, I could target damp areas more effectively. It dried laundry faster and kept the room fresh without feeling too dry. The dual function as an air purifier made a visible difference too—I noticed the air felt cleaner and lighter after a few days of use.
In terms of build quality, the Arete Two feels solid and well-engineered. It’s designed for UK homes, which means it performs just as well in cooler months as it does in warmer ones. The energy efficiency is genuinely impressive—it uses minimal power while still maintaining consistent humidity levels.
While it costs a bit more upfront, I found the value completely worth it. It’s reliable, quiet, and easy to operate. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK that balances performance, smart control, and long-term savings, the MeacoDry Arete Two 12L is a top-tier choice that genuinely delivers on its promises.
electriQ 20L Low-Energy Smart Dehumidifier
When I bought the electriQ 20L Low-Energy Smart Dehumidifier, I was immediately impressed by how powerful and feature-packed it felt right out of the box. After setting it up, I could tell it was built for bigger spaces and homes that struggle with serious dampness. Despite its capacity, it still manages to stay impressively energy-efficient, which is exactly what I wanted. It costs around 7.2p per hour to run — not bad at all for a 20L dehumidifier that handles large rooms effortlessly.
What really stood out for me were the smart features. With Wi-Fi control, I could easily manage it from my phone, turning it on or adjusting the settings even when I wasn’t home. The HEPA and carbon filters worked beautifully to keep the air feeling clean, while the UV sterilization added an extra layer of freshness I could actually notice after a few days. It felt like I wasn’t just controlling humidity — I was improving my indoor air quality altogether.
The 5L water tank was another big advantage. I didn’t have to empty it constantly, even with heavy use. For larger areas or homes with persistent moisture issues, this makes a huge difference. The unit feels solid and well-built, and even though it’s a bit heavier, I see that as a sign of quality rather than a drawback.
After weeks of testing, I can honestly say it’s one of the best energy-efficient dehumidifiers in the UK for bigger rooms. It combines power, intelligence, and air purification in one smart package. The electriQ 20L is perfect if you’re looking for a reliable, feature-rich solution that tackles dampness effectively while staying energy-conscious — truly a great investment for any UK home.
Pro Breeze 12L Low Energy Dehumidifier
When I purchased the Pro Breeze 12L Low Energy Dehumidifier, I wanted something simple, efficient, and affordable to run — and it truly lived up to my expectations. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell it was designed for everyday home use without unnecessary extras. After testing it for several weeks, I found it to be one of the most energy-efficient dehumidifiers in the UK for medium-sized rooms.
Its performance and energy efficiency really impressed me. It runs quietly and only costs around 5p per hour, which is perfect for long daily use without worrying about electricity bills. It managed to reduce condensation on my windows and control humidity levels consistently, especially during damp weather. For a compact, low-energy model, it delivers excellent moisture removal without any struggle.
What I like most about the Pro Breeze 12L is its simplicity. There’s no need to deal with Wi-Fi apps or complex settings — I just plug it in, set my desired humidity level, and let it do its job. It’s easy to operate, and the controls are straightforward, which makes it great for anyone who just wants something that works. The design is clean and practical, and even though the water tank is smaller, it’s very easy to remove and empty.
The build quality feels sturdy, and it’s light enough to move from room to room whenever needed. I’ve used it in bedrooms, the living area, and even in a small home office — and it’s handled each space with ease. Overall, I’d say the Pro Breeze 12L Low Energy Dehumidifier is perfect for anyone looking for a dependable, energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK that keeps moisture under control without costing much to run. It’s simple, effective, and excellent value for money.
Dryzone 12L Dehumidifier
When I purchased the Dryzone 12L Energy Efficient Dehumidifier, I wanted something lightweight, affordable, and easy to use — and it delivered exactly that. After unboxing it, I could immediately tell it was built for convenience and everyday use. Over the weeks I’ve used it, it has proven to be a reliable and energy-efficient dehumidifier for UK homes, especially for bedrooms, small living areas, and home offices.
The HEPA air filter was a pleasant surprise. It doesn’t just remove moisture; it also purifies the air at the same time. I could actually feel the difference after a few days — the air felt cleaner, fresher, and more comfortable to breathe. The simple interface makes it very easy to operate. I didn’t have to go through a long manual; everything is clearly labelled, and the auto shut-off function works perfectly when the tank fills up. It’s the kind of plug-and-play dehumidifier that just gets the job done without any fuss.
In terms of energy efficiency, it runs smoothly while keeping power consumption low. I kept it running for long hours, and it hardly made a dent in my electricity bill. For anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to control humidity, this model makes complete sense.
Yes, the 2.2L tank is smaller, but I actually didn’t mind emptying it — it’s quick and effortless. The build feels solid despite its compact size, and it’s easy to move between rooms when needed.
Overall, I’m really happy with how well the Dryzone 12L Dehumidifier performs. It’s affordable, energy-efficient, and refreshingly simple to use. If you want a no-nonsense, energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK that doubles as an air purifier and keeps your home comfortable, this one is definitely worth buying.
Meaco Low Energy 20L Dehumidifier
When I purchased the Meaco Low Energy 20L Dehumidifier, I was looking for something powerful enough to handle my whole home — and it truly delivered. From unboxing to everyday use, it impressed me with its strong performance and energy efficiency. After testing it for several weeks, I can confidently say it’s one of the best energy-efficient dehumidifiers in the UK for larger homes or heavy damp problems.
The extraction rate is excellent. It quickly pulled out excess moisture from multiple rooms, even during damp and rainy days. What I love most is how efficiently it runs — it costs around 6.5p per hour, which is great considering its large capacity. For a dehumidifier this powerful, that level of energy efficiency really stands out. I could keep it running for long hours without worrying about energy bills.
The 4.8L water tank is another big advantage. I didn’t have to empty it often, even when humidity levels were high. It’s also easy to remove and clean, which makes the overall experience hassle-free. The build quality feels solid, and although it’s slightly heavier, it gives a sense of durability and strength. I usually keep it on the ground floor where it works perfectly for the entire area.
The operation is simple — no complicated setup or unnecessary smart features, just straightforward controls that make it easy to use. It’s not whisper quiet, but for the amount of moisture it removes, the noise level feels completely acceptable.
Overall, I found the Meaco Low Energy 20L Dehumidifier to be a dependable, efficient, and powerful choice. It’s perfect for larger homes or anyone dealing with serious dampness. If you’re looking for a high-performance, energy-efficient dehumidifier in the UK, this model is absolutely worth buying.
Meaco DD8L Portable Low Energy Desiccant Dehumidifier
When I bought the Meaco DD8L Portable Desiccant Dehumidifier, I was specifically looking for something that could handle cold areas in my home, like the garage and utility room. After unboxing and setting it up, I immediately noticed how different it felt compared to the usual compressor dehumidifiers I had used before. It worked beautifully even in chilly conditions, which makes it one of the most energy-efficient dehumidifiers in the UK for unheated spaces.
What really impressed me is how well it performs in low temperatures — it works perfectly even down to 1°C. While many compressor dehumidifiers struggle or freeze up in cold rooms, this one kept running smoothly and consistently. It also gives off a gentle warmth while operating, which actually helped to take the chill out of the air. I even used it for drying clothes indoors, and it did a surprisingly good job — the air it released was warm and helped speed up drying naturally.
The performance and energy efficiency really stood out during my testing. It runs at around 7.5p per hour, which is quite reasonable considering its desiccant technology and the comfort it adds to cold spaces. The design is compact and easy to carry around, so I could move it from one room to another without any trouble.
Even though it doesn’t come with Wi-Fi or smart controls like some newer Meaco models, I actually appreciate its simplicity. The controls are clear, responsive, and easy to use. It’s one of those devices that just works the way you want it to.
Overall, the Meaco DD8L Portable Desiccant Dehumidifier is perfect for garages, caravans, or cold UK homes. It’s powerful, reliable, and comfortably warm — truly a smart, energy-efficient dehumidifier worth every penny.
How We Test
When we test the best energy-efficient dehumidifiers in the UK, we focus on real-world performance rather than just technical specs. Every model we review is personally unboxed, set up, and tested over several weeks in different room conditions — from damp bedrooms and living rooms to cold garages. This hands-on testing helps us see how each unit performs in typical UK weather, where humidity levels often change from day to day.
We start by checking energy efficiency using wattage and running cost estimates. We track how much power the dehumidifier consumes per hour and calculate the cost of continuous use. Models that perform well while keeping electricity usage low earn higher ratings. We also consider the Energy Factor (litres per kWh) — the higher this number, the more water a dehumidifier removes for each unit of energy consumed.
Next, we test moisture extraction performance. We run each dehumidifier in high-humidity environments to measure how quickly it reduces moisture levels. For large rooms, we pay close attention to airflow speed and tank capacity, while for smaller models, we focus on portability and quiet operation.
We also test real-life usability — how easy it is to empty the tank, adjust humidity levels, and move the unit around. Smart features like Wi-Fi control, timer modes, and auto shut-off are checked to see if they genuinely help save energy or are just marketing add-ons.
Finally, we evaluate noise levels and build quality. Energy-efficient dehumidifiers should run quietly enough for bedrooms and feel durable enough for long-term use. By combining these results, we can confidently recommend the best energy-efficient dehumidifiers UK homeowners can rely on — models that strike the perfect balance between performance, comfort, and cost-effective operation.
FAQ’s: Best Energy Efficient Dehumidifier UK
What is the most economical dehumidifier to run?
Low-energy compressor dehumidifiers are the most economical to run, as they use very little power. Models like the Meaco 12L Low Energy or MeacoDry Arete Two 12L cost only a few pounds per hour. Larger units can also be cost-effective in big rooms because they reach target humidity faster.
What is the most energy-efficient way to run a dehumidifier?
For energy-efficient use, keep doors and windows closed, set the humidity to 30–50%, and place the dehumidifier centrally or near the dampest area. Regularly empty the tank and clean the filters to maintain performance. These steps help the unit remove moisture faster while using less electricity.
How much does it cost to run a dehumidifier 24 hours a day in the UK?
Running a dehumidifier 24 hours a day in the UK typically costs £3 to £15, depending on wattage and your electricity rate. A standard 200–500W unit usually costs £3.12 to £7.35 daily. Energy-efficient models sit at the lower end, helping reduce long-term running costs.
Do dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity?
Dehumidifiers use different amounts of electricity depending on their wattage and size. Small models typically use 100–750W, while larger units can exceed 1,500W. A 200W dehumidifier running eight hours a day costs only a few pence. Bigger units use more power, especially in very humid spaces.
How many hours a day should you run a dehumidifier?
Most homes need a dehumidifier running 6–12 hours a day to keep humidity between 30–60%. The exact time depends on room size, moisture levels, and unit capacity. In very damp conditions, it may need longer. Many modern models automatically cycle on and off to maintain your chosen humidity.
Danny
Danny has hands-on experience testing dehumidifiers in real British homes, focusing on performance, energy use, and noise levels. His goal is to help UK homeowners find the most reliable and efficient models backed by real testing and honest reviews.
Derek
Derek brings years of expertise in home appliance testing, combining data-driven analysis with real-life use in UK homes. He focuses on air quality, build quality, and overall user comfort to help readers make confident, trustworthy buying decisions.
Alex Testing Expert
Alex spends hours testing different dehumidifiers in everyday home settings, paying close attention to moisture removal, design, and usability. His practical insights and honest feedback help readers choose models that truly fit their lifestyle and home needs.