In terms of dehumidification, there is little difference between a dehumidifier and an air conditioner. The former uses hot and cold coils, while the latter only needs cold coils to operate.
In order to clarify the differences between a dehumidification system and an air-conditioning system, it may be useful to explain them to you.
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What is the difference between the two?
The operation of a cellar dehumidifier (for example) is based on the use of hot and cold coils. When air is drawn into the system, it passes through the cold coils so that the moisture condenses and is collected in the water tray. Once the moisture is released, the air moves to the warm coil to be brought back to room temperature and then released into the immediate environment.
The air conditioner, on the other hand, consists only of cold coils. As the air flows through its cold coil, it removes moisture and cools the air in the room. Unlike a dehumidifier, the air conditioner has a system to remove the heat generated by the cooling chemicals. This system is essential if you do not want to generate more humidity as a result of the contact between two streams of warm and cold air.
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Given the small difference (in terms of dehumidification) between these two devices, the real question is whether you also want to cool the air or not. A air conditioner will allow you to combine these two functions, but will not be suitable for a bathroom or a cellar. A dehumidifier, on the other hand, can be installed anywhere, although it will not be of much help during hot weather.
The choice may be quite simple if the humidity in your home is concentrated in your living room or kitchen (poorly insulated home). In this situation, an air conditioner will certainly be the most suitable to meet your needs. However, it is not uncommon for the wettest rooms to be your cellar or shower room. In this case, a cold-generating appliance will simply be useless and your choice will naturally be a dehumidifier.
Is it worthwhile combining a dehumidifier and an air conditioner?
Is a dehumidifier useful with air conditioning? For those who are wondering, the answer is no. There is no need for a dehumidifier if you already have an air conditioner. However, for rooms that are not covered by your air conditioning system, such as your bathroom and basement, a dehumidifier may be worthwhile.
If you are looking for dehumidifiers, you should know that they have different dehumidification capacities and are available in different sizes. It is therefore important to consider your choice carefully before purchasing your appliance. For small rooms, we advise you to choose the small units, as they have a dehumidifying capacity adapted to this type of surface, whereas the larger units will be more suitable for a cellar or a garage.
In any case, keep in mind that a excess moisture can damage your appliances as well as other items such as books, clothes, electronics and more. To preserve your home, ventilate as often as possible and use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to prevent mould and moisture from invading your home.