How dehumidifiers can improve your hydroponic growing system

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil. Instead, a water-based nutrient solution is used. In recent years, this method of farming has become popular, especially in areas where conventional farming methods are not feasible due to space, or environmental limitations, a problem faced by many urban farmers.

In hydroponics, plants are grown in a controlled environment where temperature, humidity, light and nutrients are carefully regulated.

Maintaining ideal humidity levels is a crucial factor in successful hydroponic cultivation. High levels of humidity can cause mould and mildew to grow and spore, which could damage and kill the plants.

This is where dehumidifiers come into play. Ionmax dehumidifiers efficiently regulate humidity levels in hydroponic growing systems.

Benefits of using dehumidifiers for hydroponic growing systems

Overall, dehumidifiers can play a crucial role in ensuring optimal growing conditions for hydroponic plants which can result in healthier plants, higher yields and even reduced costs. Some of the benefits of using dehumidifiers in hydroponic setups include the following:

Prevents mould and mildew growth

When mould grows in a certain space, it spreads through the release of tiny mould spores which could settle on plants, potentially blocking the plant’s stomata, the small openings on leaves that help with respiration. Blockage of the stomata can cause poor respiration, decreased photosynthesis, and eventually stunted growth, wilting and yellowing of the leaves.

When dehumidifiers regulate humidity levels, it creates an environment less conducive to the growth of mould and more conducive to ideal hydroponics.

Improved plant growth and yield

High levels of humidity can lead plants to experience too much stress, which in turn, stunts their growth. Additionally, if there are already high levels of moisture in the air, the transpiration process may be disrupted, which can lead to waterlogging and suffocation of the plants.

Dehumidifiers help regulate and remove excess moisture from the air to help prevent these issues.

Easier humidity control

Ionmax dehumidifiers provide customers with an easy and cost-efficient method to control humidity levels within your hydroponic growing system. Simply plug your unit in, select your preferred humidity level and start running the unit. Optimal humidity ranges are between 45% to 85% depending on the crop that is being grown.

Humidity levels should gradually decrease as your plant matures. Selected Ionmax dehumidifiers come with a mobile phone pairing, allowing users to change the settings of their dehumidifiers remotely.

Saves energy and reduces costs

Dehumidifiers can help to reduce the load on air conditioning systems, which can result in significant energy savings while reducing power bills. By using a dehumidifier to maintain ideal humidity levels, you can create a more efficient growing system.

Best conditions for common herbs and plants

Different plants thrive at different humidity and temperature levels, so selecting the right dehumidifier depends on what you’re growing. Here are some common grow room plants and their ideal conditions:

Leafy Greens (Lettuce, Spinach, Kale, Cabbage)

Temperature: 16–24°C
Humidity: 50–70%
Dehumidifier Type: Desiccant (for cooler environments) or refrigerant (for warmer setups)

Herbs (Basil, Mint, Cilantro, Parsley)

Temperature: 18–26°C
Humidity: 45–65%
Dehumidifier Type: Refrigerant in warm rooms, desiccant in colder areas

Tomatoes, Peppers & Cucumbers

Temperature: 21–28°C
Humidity: 50–70%
Dehumidifier Type: Refrigerant (as these plants like warmth)

Will a dehumidifier’s heat affect plants?

Yes, both desiccant and compressor dehumidifiers add heat, but whether this is a problem depends on your setup:

Desiccant dehumidifiers

Increase room temperature by 3–5°C
Best for: Cool grow rooms (<15°C) or winter use
Solution: If heat is a concern, increase ventilation or use LED grow lights (which emit less heat than HID lamps).

Refrigerant/compressor dehumidifiers

Can increase temperature slightly but much less than desiccant models.
Best for: Warm grow rooms (above 20°C)
Solution: Use an exhaust fan to remove excess heat if needed.

How to choose the best dehumidifier for your hydroponic grow room

When selecting a dehumidifier for your grow room, several factors come into play, including climate, space size, and moisture output. Choosing the right unit ensures optimal humidity control, prevents mould growth, and supports healthy plant development.

Climate considerations

For cooler setups (<15°C): Desiccant dehumidifiers are the best choice as they operate efficiently at low temperatures.
For warm rooms (above 20°C): Compressor dehumidifiers work best, as they are more energy-efficient in warm conditions.

Space size & moisture output

Not all dehumidifiers are created equal—some are better suited for larger hydroponic setups.
Larger plants & hydroponics generate high moisture output due to transpiration, requiring a higher-capacity dehumidifier to maintain balance.
Industrial dehumidifiers offer higher extraction rates and larger coverage areas, making them ideal for large-scale hydroponic systems.

Drainage options

Most dehumidifiers come with a built-in tank that requires manual emptying.
For continuous operation, opt for a unit with a continuous drainage option—Ionmax dehumidifiers include a hose attachment for easy draining into a larger container or direct drain.

Precise humidity control

A humidistat-equipped dehumidifier allows you to set and maintain the ideal humidity range for your grow room.
Maintaining consistent humidity helps reduce plant stress and prevent mould.

Durability & build quality

Choose a durable dehumidifier that can handle the demands of constant use in a hydroponic system.
All Ionmax residential dehumidifiers come with an extended 4-year warranty for peace of mind.

Additional features to consider

Wheels & Portability for easy movement.
Mobile App Integration for remote monitoring.
Certifications – Ionmax dehumidifiers are National Asthma Council Approved and CHOICE Recommended, ensuring high standards.

To learn more about desiccant dehumidifiers, compressor dehumidifiers, humidity and indoor air quality, check out our popular resources below:

Visit our resources page to learn more about indoor air quality and to gain tips on how you can improve the air in your home.

Enjoy an extended 2+2 year warranty on all residential air treatment appliances, including desiccant dehumidifiers, when you buy with Ionmax today!