Chris Michael, air treatment expert and managing director of Meaco, said: “2022’s energy price increases led more consumers to switch off their central heating and avoid using the tumble dryer last winter than ever before.

“The consequences of this have been increased levels of damp and mould in the home which are not only unsightly and expensive to remove, but can also pose a health risk. Dehumidifiers have been a popular inexpensive solution to stop increased moisture in its tracks before it causes damage.

“There are also further benefits that a dehumidifier can provide during summer to improve quality of life, the fabric of the home and even to keep consumers cool during hot, sticky weather.”

1. Remove humid air to aid sleep

The UK can experience high levels of humidity during the summer, creating hot and sticky conditions.

This can cause discomfort indoors, especially when trying to sleep.

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According to the expert, a dehumidifier removes both hot and cold moisture in the air, which means that it is perfect to use during the summer months.

2. Dry washing on wet days

The expert said: “While warmer temperatures provide the opportunity for many to dry clothes outside and improve ventilation at home, it is rare for a UK summer to be completely free of rainy days.

“What’s more, some households don’t have the option to hang clothes outside. In these instances, clothes will still need to be dried on airers inside the home which can increase moisture levels in the air.

“This combined with warmer temperatures creates a perfect environment for mould to grow and spread. Unfortunately, an open window won’t do much to decrease moisture levels as the outside temperature will either be similar or warmer than inside, so cooler air cannot enter the house to warm up and dry the air inside the home.

“By using a dehumidifier to help dry washing in the home, consumers can decrease moisture levels and keep mould at bay during summer, when it can grow fast.”

3. Keep mould at bay

In some instances, moisture levels are high in a home even without the addition of drying wet washing.

Moisture is in the air around everything and comes from a range of daily activities such as bathing, cooking and even breathing.

The expert added: “It is in these situations that a dehumidifier is critical to avoid mould from forming, which can create damp smells or mildew, and even damage soft furnishings.”

4. Manage hay fever symptoms

For hay fever sufferers, the summer months bring cold-like symptoms which can make day-to-day life tricky.

Some dehumidifiers feature a HEPA filter, which means that the dehumidifier not only removes moisture from the air, but also cleans it and makes it healthier.

The expert continued: “A HEPA filter traps most bacteria, pollen and some virus particles, protecting households from viruses and allergies like pollen.

“The dual function of these dehumidifiers provides households with greater value and saves on potentially purchasing a separate air purifier to relieve hay fever symptoms in the home during the summer.

“Dehumidifiers can cost as little as 5p per hour to operate, and investing in an energy efficient one over other similar products on the market can save households up to nearly £150 a year.”

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Post source: Express