High humidity can cause a range of issues for homeowners—impacting both the condition of the home and the health of its occupants. For this reason, dehumidifiers have become an increasingly common addition to Australian households, offering a simple yet effective solution to managing excess moisture.
But how do you know if a dehumidifier is right for your home?
As the name implies, a dehumidifier works by removing moisture from the air, helping to maintain a balanced indoor environment. Managing humidity levels in your home can significantly improve indoor air quality, help prevent mould growth, and create a more comfortable living space overall.
Here are six common signs that suggest it may be time to invest in a dehumidifier:
1. Persistent Musty Odours in the Home
A damp, musty smell—especially common in older homes or properties that have been closed up for extended periods—can be an indicator of excess moisture or underlying mould. Mould and mildew produce a strong scent even in small quantities due to their low odour threshold.
By actively reducing indoor humidity, a dehumidifier helps to prevent mould, mildew, and condensation, which are common sources of these unpleasant odours. Choosing the right-sized dehumidifier for your space ensures effective results and a fresher-smelling home.
2. Someone in the Home Suffers from Asthma or Allergies
Excess humidity creates a breeding ground for mould, dust mites, and bacteria—triggers that can worsen asthma symptoms or cause allergic reactions. Dehumidifiers help reduce airborne irritants by maintaining an optimal indoor humidity level.
For those with respiratory sensitivities, it’s advisable to look for dehumidifiers approved by the National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice Program.
Even for those without asthma, reducing indoor mould can improve overall health and wellbeing, helping to relieve symptoms such as itchy eyes, congestion, and general fatigue.
3. You Live in a High-Humidity Climate
Many regions in Australia experience elevated humidity levels, particularly during the warmer months. Humidity above 60% can make indoor spaces feel sticky, uncomfortable, and harder to cool efficiently.
A quality dehumidifier not only monitors current humidity levels but also helps regulate them, aiming for the optimal range of 40–60% relative humidity. As a result, your home will feel more comfortable year-round.
Moreover, reducing humidity can improve energy efficiency. Your air conditioner won’t need to work as hard, making it easier to achieve and maintain your desired indoor temperature.
4. Concerns About Mould Growt
If you’re noticing recurring mould spots or find it difficult to ventilate areas of your home—such as bathrooms, laundries, or apartments with limited windows—a dehumidifier can be a practical solution. It helps remove the excess moisture that mould depends on to grow.
For minor infestations, a dehumidifier may be sufficient to prevent further issues. However, larger or persistent mould problems should be addressed by a professional mould remediation specialist.
5. Ongoing Pest Problem
Humidity doesn’t just encourage mould—it also attracts pests. Cockroaches, ants, silverfish, and other insects thrive in warm, moist environments, which is why pest issues often worsen during humid months.
Lowering your home’s humidity with a dehumidifier can help deter these unwanted guests. It can also reduce the presence of dust mites, which are known to trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues.
6. You Regularly Dry Clothes Indoors
Drying laundry indoors, especially in winter, can increase indoor humidity and contribute to mould or condensation issues. Using a dehumidifier as a clothes-drying aid is a simple and effective solution.
While it may not be as fast as a tumble dryer, placing clothes near (but not on) a dehumidifier will gently extract moisture from your garments without adding excess humidity to the room. It’s a safer and more energy-efficient option for small laundries or enclosed spaces where moisture builds up quickly.
