Meaco/Morphy Richards After a scarily dry summer, it’s safe to say we’ve all let our guards down. Our collective amnesia about the shock of the changing seasons happens every year, but this year, we need to lock in even more than ever. In case you missed it, Super El Niño is coming, which means you’ll need to hold tight to your brollies because there will be more wind, rain, and storms in the months ahead. That’s not only going to be a pain on your daily commute, but it could also spell something much more inconvenient: damp and mould finding their way into your home. Unfortunately, we don’t control the weather, but one thing we can do is help you control the impact of wet weather on your home. The secret? Dehumidifiers, according to B&Q’s Energy Saving Expert Paul Carroll. “Dehumidifiers are a great way to protect your home from moisture and mould, as they remove the excess water in the air that can lead to condensation and damp problems,” Carroll explains. “Condensation is formed when a drop in temperature causes moisture to condense and form on cold surface areas. If left untreated, this condensation is what leads to damp.” What are the benefits of dehumidifiers? Not only can dehumidifiers help with keeping your home damp-free, they can also help protect against germs and keep your electricity bill down, too. “Dehumidifiers also protect against dust, bacteria and germs, so a great addition to any home – especially during these colder months,” says Carroll. “Plus, lower humidity levels can make your home easier and cheaper to heat, and can help laundry dry quicker, too.” The best dehumidifiers to shop now What to consider when buying a dehumidifier Extraction rate Bigger homes will require a higher extraction rate. B&Q has a great guide for figuring out what extraction rate you need for the size of your home. Tank capacity A water tank of 3.5L is ideal, according to B&Q, as it will be large enough that you don’t have to empty it every day – or even several times a day. Controls You’ll also want to think about whether you want your dehumidifier to run all day, be controlled manually, or use a smart control to turn itself on when your home needs it. This can also help keep energy costs down. FAQs about dehumidifiers What type of dehumidifier should I buy? There are two types of dehumidifier: compressor/refrigeration and desiccant. According to Carroll, compressor/refrigeration will work best for everyday use in homes that are between 10 and 22°C. What is the difference between air purifiers and dehumidifiers? While air purifiers filter the air to remove small particles like dust, pollen, and smoke, dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air. How do you know if you need a dehumidifier? There are a few signs to look out for to tell if you need a dehumidifier. Look for telltales that there is excess moisture in your house, such as if you have lots of condensation on your windows, or if there’s a musty smell in your house. However, most homes can benefit from a dehumidifier in the winter, especially in damp conditions. Related... It's Cosy Season! These Quilts And Throws Are Perfect For Hibernating This Winter Stay Dry And Stylish With The Top Waterproof Rain Coats For Men And Women 11 Everyday Waterproof Shoes And Boots That Aren't The Classic Wellies