Dantherm DH120 Dehumidifier with Defrost & LPHW Heating – 164L/Day Capacity 🌊

Powerful Professional Pool Dehumidification with Integrated Heat Recovery

Transform your indoor swimming pool environment with the Dantherm DH120 – a premium floor-standing dehumidifier engineered specifically for swimming pool halls, health clubs, spas, and commercial aquatic facilities. This powerhouse unit removes up to 164.3 litres of moisture per day while simultaneously recovering heat energy to warm your pool hall, creating the perfect balance of comfort, efficiency, and protection.

Unlike basic dehumidifiers, the DH120 doesn’t just extract moisture – it cleverly converts that moisture’s latent energy into valuable heat, reducing your heating bills and accelerating the drying process. The factory-fitted 15.9kW LPHW (Low Pressure Hot Water) heating coil integrates seamlessly with your existing boiler system or air source heat pump, eliminating the need for separate heating equipment.

Why Pool Owners Choose the Dantherm DH120:

✅ Prevents Structural Damage – Stops mould, mildew, corrosion, and moisture damage before they start

✅ Cuts Energy Costs – Heat recovery technology delivers free warmth back to your pool hall

✅ Built for Harsh Environments – Aluminium housing with cataphoresis-painted coils resists chlorine corrosion

✅ Precise Control – Electronic humidistat maintains your ideal humidity level (40-80% RH)

✅ Flexible Operation – Two fan speeds (Comfort & Boost) adapt to changing conditions

✅ Year-Round Performance – Built-in defrost function operates down to 5°C

✅ Eco-Friendly – R454C refrigerant with lower global warming potential

📋 Technical Specifications

Specification	DH120AX (Dehumidifier Only)	DH120AX/L (With LPHW Heating)
DEHUMIDIFICATION PERFORMANCE
Moisture Removal Capacity (per hour)	3.9 litres/hr	3.9 litres/hr
Moisture Removal Capacity (per day)	94 litres/day	94 litres/day
Maximum Daily Capacity	164.3 litres/day	164.3 litres/day
HEATING OUTPUT
Heat Recovery Output	6.5 kW	6.5 kW
LPHW Air Heating Output	N/A	15.9 kW
Total Combined Heat Output	6.5 kW	18.6 kW
LPHW Flow Rate	N/A	23.3 litres/min
LPHW Pressure Drop	N/A	4.6 m head
LPHW Operating Temperature	N/A	55°C (water temp)
AIR HANDLING
Air Flow Rate	1200 m³/hr	1200 m³/hr
Fan Speed Modes	2 (Comfort & Boost)	2 (Comfort & Boost)
Noise Level @ 3m	56 dB(A)	56 dB(A)
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS
Power Supply	230V / 50Hz	230V / 50Hz
Required Fuse Rating (Motor Rated)	16 Amp	16 Amp
Nominal Running Current	9.7 Amp	9.7 Amp
Full Load Amps (FLA)	12.5 Amp	12.5 Amp
Power Consumption (Nominal)	2.13 kW	2.13 kW
Compressor LRA	35.5 Amp	35.5 Amp
PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS (WALL MOUNT)
Width	1408 mm	1408 mm
Height	860 mm	860 mm
Depth	365 mm	365 mm
CONTROL FEATURES
Humidistat Range	40% – 80% RH	40% – 80% RH
Humidistat Type	Electronic	Electronic
Defrost Function	Standard (operates to 5°C)	Standard (operates to 5°C)
Control Interface	User-friendly dashboard	User-friendly dashboard
INSTALLATION
Condensate Drain Connection	16 mm	16 mm
Drainage Method	Direct drain	Direct drain
Installation Type	Floor-standing	Floor-standing
CONSTRUCTION
Housing Material	Aluminium	Aluminium
Coil Protection	Cataphoresis-painted coils	Cataphoresis-painted coils
Refrigerant Type	R454C	R454C
Corrosion Resistance	High (pool environment rated)	High (pool environment rated)

Performance figures based on air at 30°C and 60% RH, pool water at 28°C, and boiler water at 80°C

🏊 Pool Hall Sizing Guide

Selecting the right dehumidifier capacity is crucial for effective moisture control. The DH120’s 164-litre daily capacity makes it ideal for:

Pool Hall Volume	Pool Surface Area	Suitability	Estimated Control
Up to 350 m³	Up to 25 m²	✅ Excellent	Full humidity control
350 – 500 m³	25 – 35 m²	✅ Very Good	Effective control in most conditions
500 – 650 m³	35 – 45 m²	✅ Good	Adequate for moderate use pools
650 – 800 m³	45 – 55 m²	⚠️ Marginal	Consider during design phase
Over 800 m³	Over 55 m²	❌ Insufficient	Recommend DH75/DH110 or multiple units

Factors Affecting Dehumidification Requirements:

• Pool water temperature (warmer = more evaporation)
• Pool hall air temperature
• Number of swimmers and usage frequency
• Pool surface area (larger = more evaporation)
• Building insulation quality
• Ventilation rates
• External weather conditions

💡 Pro Tip: For pools with heavy usage (health clubs, hotels, therapy pools), consider oversizing by 20-30% to maintain comfort during peak times.

📄 Downloads & Documentation

Complete Product Information & Specifications

📄 Dantherm Swimming Pool Dehumidifiers Product Brochure (opens in new tab) Comprehensive technical catalogue featuring the complete Dantherm dehumidifier range including DH35, DH65, DH75, DH110, and DH120 models. Contains detailed specifications, installation dimensions, through-the-wall mounting options, LPHW heating configurations, electrical requirements, and performance data for all conditions. Essential reading for installers, pool designers, and facility managers. 14 pages.

🌟 Key Features & Benefits

🛡️ Corrosion-Resistant Construction

Aluminium Housing with Cataphoresis-Painted Coils

Swimming pool environments are among the most corrosive indoor spaces due to chlorine and moisture. The DH120 is purpose-built with an aluminium chassis and specially treated coils that resist corrosion far better than standard steel units. Cataphoresis painting (e-coating) provides exceptional protection, ensuring long service life even in harsh pool chemistry conditions.

Benefit: Longer equipment life, fewer maintenance issues, and reliable operation year after year

🎯 Electronic Humidistat Control

Precise Humidity Management (40% – 80% RH)

Set your ideal humidity level and let the DH120 maintain it automatically. The electronic humidistat continuously monitors conditions and adjusts operation to keep your pool hall comfortable while preventing condensation on windows, walls, and structural elements.

Benefit: Perfect comfort levels, reduced energy waste from over-dehumidification, and protection from under-humidified air

⚡ Dual Fan Speed Operation

Comfort Mode & Boost Mode

Comfort Mode: Quieter operation for normal conditions and occupied periods Boost Mode: Maximum dehumidification for rapid moisture removal after heavy use or during humid weather

Switch between modes via the user-friendly dashboard to balance performance and noise levels based on your needs.

Benefit: Flexibility to match operation to conditions, energy savings during low-demand periods

🔥 Factory-Fitted LPHW Heating Coil

15.9kW Air Heating Capacity

The DH120AX/L model includes a large-capacity Low Pressure Hot Water heating coil designed for 55°C water temperature. This integrates perfectly with modern condensing boilers and air source heat pumps, providing substantial air heating without separate fan heaters or radiators.

Combined with the 6.5kW heat recovery from dehumidification, you get 18.6kW total heating – enough to keep medium-sized pool halls warm and comfortable.

Benefit: Simplified installation, reduced equipment count, lower capital costs, and unified humidity/temperature control

♻️ Heat Recovery Technology

Free Heating from Moisture Removal

Unlike basic dehumidifiers that waste the energy in moisture, the DH120 captures the latent heat from condensation and returns it to your pool hall as warm, dry air. This “free heat” reduces boiler run time, lowers energy bills, and accelerates drying after cleaning.

Benefit: Significant energy savings, reduced carbon footprint, and faster recovery to ideal conditions

❄️ Built-In Defrost Function

Reliable Operation Down to 5°C

The automatic defrost system allows the DH120 to operate effectively in cooler pool halls and during winter months without ice buildup on coils affecting performance. This is essential for pools that maintain lower air temperatures or have periods of reduced heating.

Benefit: Year-round reliability, no manual intervention required, consistent performance in all seasons

🌍 R454C Eco-Friendly Refrigerant

Lower Global Warming Potential

The DH120 uses R454C refrigerant, a next-generation A2L refrigerant with significantly lower GWP (global warming potential) compared to older R410A or R407C refrigerants. This future-proofs your investment against upcoming refrigerant regulations.

Benefit: Environmental responsibility, regulatory compliance, and long-term serviceability

🔧 User-Friendly Installation & Operation

Floor-Standing Design with Direct Drainage

The DH120 is designed as a floor-standing unit that doesn’t require complex wall mounting. The 16mm condensate drain connection allows direct drainage to waste, eliminating the need for condensate pumps in most installations. The modern dashboard provides clear status information and simple controls.

Benefit: Lower installation costs, easier maintenance access, and intuitive operation for staff

💰 Running Cost Estimates

Understanding the operating costs helps you budget for pool hall operation and compare heating/dehumidification options.

Electricity Consumption – Dehumidification

Operating Mode	Power Draw	Cost per Hour (£0.24/kWh)	Daily Cost (8 hrs)	Monthly Cost (240 hrs)
Continuous Operation	2.13 kW	£0.51	£4.08	£122.40
Comfort Mode (typical)	~1.8 kW	£0.43	£3.44	£103.20
Boost Mode (intermittent)	2.13 kW	£0.51	Variable	Variable

Electricity cost based on UK average rate of £0.24 per kWh (Nov 2025)

Heat Recovery Value

The DH120 returns 6.5kW of heat continuously during operation. This offsets heating costs:

Metric	Value	Annual Saving
Heat Recovered	6.5 kW continuous	~15,600 kWh/year (8hrs/day)
Value @ £0.24/kWh (electric)	£1.56/hour	£3,744/year
Value @ £0.06/kWh (gas)	£0.39/hour	£936/year

LPHW Heating Costs (DH120AX/L Model)

When the 15.9kW LPHW heating coil is operating:

Fuel Type	Cost per Hour	Daily Cost (4 hrs heating)	Monthly Cost (120 hrs)
Gas Boiler (£0.06/kWh)	£0.95	£3.80	£114.00
Oil Boiler (£0.08/kWh)	£1.27	£5.08	£152.40
Air Source Heat Pump (£0.15/kWh)	£2.39	£9.56	£286.80

⚠️ Important Note: These are estimates only. Actual costs vary significantly based on pool usage, hall insulation, outdoor temperature, humidity levels, and how you operate the equipment. Use these figures as a guide for budgeting.

💡 Cost Saving Tip: Combine the heat recovery with good pool covers when not in use. This can reduce dehumidification requirements by 30-50%, cutting both electricity and heating costs substantially.

⏱️ Performance Expectations

Humidity Reduction Times

How quickly will the DH120 reduce humidity in your pool hall?

Pool Hall Volume	Starting Humidity	Target Humidity	Estimated Time to Target
300 m³	75% RH	60% RH	4-6 hours
300 m³	70% RH	55% RH	6-8 hours
500 m³	75% RH	60% RH	7-10 hours
500 m³	70% RH	55% RH	10-14 hours
650 m³	75% RH	60% RH	10-14 hours
650 m³	70% RH	55% RH	14-20 hours

⚠️ Disclaimer: These are theoretical estimates based on the unit’s 164L/day capacity and typical pool hall conditions (30°C air, 28°C water). Real-world performance depends on many factors including ongoing evaporation rate, air circulation, building tightness, external humidity infiltration, and number of swimmers. Initial dehumidification of a new or poorly controlled space may take significantly longer.

Ongoing Moisture Management

Once your pool hall reaches target humidity:

• Light Use (private pool, 1-2 swimmers daily): DH120 maintains ideal conditions with minimal run time
• Moderate Use (family pool, therapy pool, 3-6 swimmers daily): DH120 provides excellent control
• Heavy Use (health club, hotel pool, 10+ swimmers daily): DH120 maintains control but may run continuously during peak seasons

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What size pool hall is the DH120 suitable for?

The DH120 is ideal for pool halls up to approximately 350-500 m³ volume with pool surface areas of 25-35 m². For larger spaces, consider the Dantherm DH75 (86.4L/day) or DH110 (108L/day) models, or multiple DH120 units for very large facilities. The actual capacity needed depends on pool temperature, usage levels, and building characteristics – warmer pools and heavy usage require more dehumidification capacity.

Do I need the LPHW heating coil version?

If you have an existing boiler system or air source heat pump and want to simplify your pool hall’s climate control, the DH120AX/L with LPHW heating is highly recommended. It eliminates the need for separate radiators or fan heaters, provides more even heating, and integrates humidity and temperature control in one unit. The base DH120AX model (without LPHW) still provides 6.5kW of heat recovery, which may be sufficient for well-insulated pool halls in mild climates.

How noisy is the DH120 during operation?

At 56 dB(A) measured at 3 metres, the DH120 operates at a noise level similar to normal conversation or a quiet air conditioning unit. In Comfort mode, the fan speed is reduced, lowering noise further. Most pool owners find the sound level unobtrusive, especially in active pool environments where splashing and conversation mask the unit’s operation.

Can I install the DH120 myself?

While the DH120 is designed for straightforward installation, we strongly recommend professional installation by a qualified HVAC technician or pool engineer. The unit requires:

• Proper electrical connection (230V, 16A motor-rated fuse)
• Condensate drainage plumbing (16mm drain connection)
• LPHW pipework connections (DH120AX/L model only)
• Correct positioning for optimal airflow
• Humidistat calibration and commissioning

Professional installation ensures safe operation, optimal performance, and maintains warranty coverage.

What maintenance does the DH120 require?

Regular maintenance is essential for long life and efficient operation:

Monthly: Check and clean air filters, inspect condensate drain for blockages Quarterly: Clean coils if visible dust/debris accumulation, check refrigerant connections for corrosion Annually: Professional service including refrigerant pressure check, electrical connections inspection, coil deep cleaning, and control system verification

Well-maintained DH120 units typically provide 10-15 years of reliable service in pool environments.

What humidity level should I maintain in my pool hall?

For indoor swimming pools, the ideal relative humidity is typically 55-65% RH at an air temperature 1-2°C warmer than the pool water. This provides comfort for swimmers while preventing condensation on windows, walls, and structural elements. Lower humidity (50-55% RH) may be needed in very cold climates to prevent condensation on cool exterior walls. The DH120’s electronic humidistat makes it easy to maintain your target level.

How does the heat recovery work?

When the DH120 removes moisture from the air, it condenses water vapour back into liquid form. This condensation process releases latent heat energy – the same energy that was used to evaporate water from the pool in the first place. The DH120 captures this heat and uses it to warm the dry air before returning it to the pool hall. This is “free” heat that would otherwise be wasted, reducing your heating bills while improving comfort.

Can the DH120 cope with cold pool halls in winter?

Yes. The built-in defrost function allows the DH120 to operate effectively down to 5°C air temperature. The automatic defrost cycle prevents ice buildup on the evaporator coils that would reduce performance. However, maintaining pool halls at very low temperatures increases condensation risk on cold surfaces and makes swimmers uncomfortable. Most pool halls maintain air temperatures of 28-32°C year-round for comfort.

What’s the difference between R454C and older refrigerants?

R454C is a next-generation A2L refrigerant with significantly lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to older refrigerants like R410A or R407C. It’s part of the industry’s transition to more environmentally friendly refrigerants required by European F-Gas regulations. R454C provides excellent performance while reducing environmental impact. Your DH120 will remain serviceable for many years as R454C becomes the new standard.

How much condensate water will the unit produce?

At maximum capacity, the DH120 can produce up to 164 litres of condensate water per day – that’s approximately 164kg of water that would otherwise remain as moisture in your pool hall air causing problems. In practice, production varies based on operating conditions. The unit connects to drainage via a 16mm connection, and the water can be plumbed directly to waste or, in some installations, recycled back to the pool to replace evaporation losses (after appropriate filtration and testing).

Can I control the DH120 remotely or integrate it with building management systems?

The DH120 features a user-friendly dashboard for local control of humidity setpoint and fan speed selection. For integration with building management systems (BMS) or remote monitoring, contact your supplier about available control options. Some installations may benefit from aftermarket humidity sensors connected to BMS systems, though the DH120’s built-in electronic humidistat is highly accurate for standalone operation.

What warranty does the DH120 come with?

Dantherm dehumidifiers are backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty and supported by a nationwide network of service engineers. For warranty terms, conditions, and to locate your nearest service centre, please contact your supplier or visit the Dantherm website. Regular professional maintenance is typically required to maintain warranty coverage.

🛠️ Installation Requirements

Electrical Requirements

• Power Supply: 230V / 50Hz single-phase
• Fuse Rating: 16 Amp motor-rated fuse (essential – standard fuses insufficient)
• Full Load Amps: 12.5A nominal
• Compressor Starting Current: 35.5A LRA (locked rotor amps)
• Cable Sizing: Minimum 2.5mm² cable recommended, consult qualified electrician for final sizing based on cable run length

⚠️ Important: Motor-rated fuses are essential to handle compressor starting surge current. Do not use standard BS1361 or BS1362 fuses.

Plumbing Requirements

Condensate Drainage:

• 16mm drain connection (overflow-style fitting)
• Must drain to waste via gravity fall – minimum 1:40 gradient recommended
• Condensate trap may be required depending on drainage configuration
• In some cases, condensate can be returned to pool after appropriate treatment

LPHW Connections (DH120AX/L model only):

• LPHW flow and return connections for heating coil
• Flow rate: 23.3 litres/minute
• Pressure drop: 4.6m head
• Designed for 55°C water temperature from boiler/heat pump
• Motorised 3-way valve may be required for temperature control (consult installer)

Physical Installation

Space Requirements:

• Unit dimensions: 1408mm (W) × 860mm (H) × 365mm (D)
• Allow minimum 300mm clearance on all sides for airflow and maintenance access
• Floor must be level and capable of supporting unit weight plus water in coils
• Position away from swimmer activity areas and splashing zones

Airflow Considerations:

• Avoid obstructing air inlet or discharge
• Do not position directly opposite pool surface if possible (indirect air circulation preferred)
• Ensure good air circulation throughout pool hall – may require additional air circulation fans in large spaces

Commissioning

Professional commissioning should include:

1. Verification of electrical connections and earthing
2. Refrigerant charge verification
3. Condensate drainage test
4. LPHW heating coil commissioning (if fitted)
5. Humidistat calibration and setpoint programming
6. Air flow verification
7. Noise level measurement
8. Handover and user training

🎯 Who Should Choose the DH120?

Perfect For: ✅ Domestic swimming pools (6m × 3m to 8m × 4m typical) ✅ Therapy pools and hydrotherapy facilities ✅ Small hotel pools and B&B pools ✅ Small health club pools ✅ Spa facilities with pool areas ✅ Pool buildings up to 500m³ volume ✅ Facilities requiring integrated LPHW heating

Consider Alternatives If: ❌ Your pool hall exceeds 650m³ or pool area exceeds 45m² (consider DH110 or multiple units) ❌ You need through-the-wall mounting to locate unit outside pool hall (consider DH75/DH110 TTW models) ❌ Your pool has extremely heavy usage (commercial leisure centre) requiring constant maximum capacity ❌ You need wall-mounting rather than floor-standing (consider DH35/DH65 wall-mount models)

💡 Pro Tips for Optimal Performance

Maximise Efficiency:

• Use a pool cover when pool not in use – reduces evaporation by 30-50%
• Maintain pool hall air temperature 1-2°C above pool water temperature
• Keep pool water temperature at lowest comfortable level (typically 28-30°C)
• Ensure good air circulation throughout pool hall space
• Set humidistat to 60% RH as starting point, adjust based on condensation presence

Reduce Running Costs:

• Run dehumidifier during off-peak electricity periods when possible
• Use Comfort mode during normal conditions, Boost mode only when needed
• Combine heat recovery with pool covers for maximum savings
• Maintain regular filter cleaning schedule – dirty filters reduce efficiency significantly

Extend Equipment Life:

• Schedule professional annual maintenance including coil cleaning
• Keep area around unit clean and free from debris
• Monitor for unusual noises or reduced performance – early intervention prevents major failures
• Ensure condensate drain remains clear and flowing freely
• In coastal locations, consider more frequent coil inspection due to salt exposure

📞 Technical Support & Ordering

The Dantherm DH120 is a professional-grade dehumidifier backed by comprehensive support from Dantherm and the nationwide Certikin service network.

Need Assistance?

• Technical specifications and sizing guidance
• Installation planning and requirements
• Spare parts and consumables
• Service and maintenance support
• Warranty information

Stock & Availability: Contact your nearest Certikin stockist for current pricing, stock availability, and delivery timescales.

🏆 Why Choose Dantherm?

Dantherm is a leading manufacturer of climate control equipment with decades of experience in swimming pool dehumidification. Their products are:

• Proven Reliable: Thousands of installations in demanding pool environments
• Engineered for Purpose: Specifically designed for corrosive pool hall atmospheres
• Energy Efficient: Heat recovery technology reduces running costs significantly
• Professionally Supported: Nationwide service network and 2-year warranty
• Future-Proof: R454C refrigerant complies with current and upcoming regulations
• ISO 9001 Certified: Quality management systems ensure consistent manufacturing standards