Desiccant dehumidifiers vent moisture away and therefore can work at low temperatures without the risk of frost damage. A refrigerant dehumidifier is a traditional technology. An LGR (low grain refrigerant) refrigerant dehumidifier is a more modern technology that maximises water extraction and saves energy.

All refrigerant dehumidifiers rely on the fact that they create a cold surface for water to condense on. Water can freeze so they stop working just above freezing.  Desiccant dehumidifiers keep on working below freezing.

A refrigerant dehumidifier is also susceptible to heat damage. If used in warm temperatures too long it will shorten the lifespan of the dehumidifier considerably.

Desiccant dehumidifiers can work at higher temperatures but are also limited to prevent internal damage to components.

The water extraction of refrigerant dehumidifiers follows an extraction curve.  The curve for desiccant dehumidifiers is more of a straight line.