MeacoDry Arete® Two Dehumidifier and Air Circulator
Model: 10L / 12L
Aretae: Greek goddess of "Excellence in all things"; in Ancient Greek Mythology
Instruction Manual
Thank you for choosing Meaco
Thank you for choosing Meaco. After the success of the Arete® One range, we've built the Arete® Two: a range of combined dehumidifiers and air purifiers for customers who want even more control over the humidity in their home. This dehumidifier blends into your home without compromising on its performance. This manual contains important information on the use and care of your dehumidifier. Please take some time to read this manual to take full advantage of its many benefits and features.
Safety information
Important safety instructions
- ⚠️Keep children away: Do not allow children to play with or around this dehumidifier. Ensure it is inaccessible to children when not attended. It is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised or instructed by a responsible person.
- ℹ️Keep unit grounded: Always operate with a grounding plug and a grounded electrical outlet to reduce the risk of shock or fire.
- Protect power cord from damage: Never operate with a damaged power cord. If damaged, it must be replaced by a cord of the same type and amperage rating.
- Extension cords: Must be grounded and able to deliver appropriate voltages.
- Handle with care: Do not drop, throw, or crash the dehumidifier. Rough treatment can damage components or wiring.
- Run on a stable surface: Always operate on a stable, level surface to prevent falls and injury.
- Keep air intakes clear: Do not clog or block air intakes by placing the unit too close to curtains, walls, or other obstructions. This can cause overheating and fire hazards.
- Keep electrical components dry: Never allow water inside electrical components. If they become wet, dry them thoroughly before use. Consult a qualified electrician or Meaco engineer if in doubt.
- Domestic use only: This dehumidifier is designed for domestic use only.
The operator must make the operating instructions available and ensure the user understands the manual.
Refrigerant Safety (R290)
The MeacoDry Arete® Two uses R290 refrigerant gas, which complies with European Environmental Directives and has a low greenhouse effect (GWP).
- This dehumidifier uses approximately 35 (10L) / 45 (12L) grams of R290 refrigerant, which is flammable. It is part of a sealed system and must only be serviced by a trained Meaco engineer.
- Do not use or store in rooms smaller than 4m² to prevent fire or explosion hazards if refrigerant leaks and contacts an ignition source.
- Do not use in rooms with continuous ignition sources (e.g., open flames, gas fires, hobs, cigarettes).
- If installed, operated, or stored in a non-ventilated area, the room must be designed to prevent refrigerant accumulation and ignition risks.
- R290 refrigerant gas is odourless.
- Do not puncture the unit during or after its working life. Dispose of according to local recycling regulations.
- If there is any damage, do not use the unit and contact Meaco or your retailer.
- Always keep the dehumidifier upright and leave it standing upright for six hours before using it upon receipt.
Failure to comply with these instructions could result in fire, damage to property, serious injury, or potentially death.
Individuals operating on the refrigerant circuit must have appropriate certification for handling flammable refrigerants.
Servicing should only be carried out by a Meaco approved engineer using original Meaco parts.
WEEE Disposal
This marking indicates that the product should not be disposed of with household waste. Separate items for recycling to promote sustainable reuse of material resources. Contact your retailer or local government for details on environmentally safe recycling.
Declaration of Conformity
Meaco declares that this radio equipment complies with Directive 2014/53/EU and relevant statutory requirements. The full text of the EU and UK declarations of conformity is available at: www.meaco.com/pages/compliance-data.
Wiring instructions
If changing the plug, note the mains lead wire colours:
- Blue: Neutral
- Brown: Live
- Green and yellow: Earth
As wire colours may not match plug terminal markings, proceed as follows:
- BLUE wire: Connect to terminal marked 'N' or BLACK (NEUTRAL).
- BROWN wire: Connect to terminal marked 'L' or RED (LIVE).
- GREEN/YELLOW wire: Connect to terminal marked 'E' or GREEN/YELLOW (EARTH).
- Ensure the cord grip is correctly positioned and fastened.
- Only use the same fuse as fitted in the original product. If in doubt, contact Meaco or a qualified electrician.
Example wiring for a Standard British Plug:
Note – The Earth Terminal is marked with the letter E or ? [earth symbol].
Diagram shows a standard British plug with terminals labeled N (Neutral, Blue wire), L (Live, Brown wire), and E (Earth, Green/Yellow wire), with a fuse holder.
Register your Meaco warranty
Your Meaco dehumidifier comes with a free five-year manufacturer's warranty covering parts and labour from the date of purchase. Register online to activate your warranty. As a thank you, you will be entered into a monthly prize draw to support the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.
Where to find your dehumidifier's serial number
Diagram shows a product label with fields for Model, Product name, and Serial number, alongside CE and Made in P.R.C markings.
The serial number can be found on the rating label on the back of your dehumidifier.
Keep your purchase receipt safe for warranty claims.
Ways to register your Meaco warranty
- Register online: Visit www.meaco.com/pages/register-your-warranty
- Register by phone: Call Customer Service on 01483 234900 (Monday - Friday 9am - 5:30pm).
Meaco App
Control your dehumidifier with the Meaco app. Scan the QR code to install or download from the App store or Google Play. Open the app and follow instructions to create an account and pair your dehumidifier.
Connecting your dehumidifier to your Meaco app
- Plug the dehumidifier into the mains and press the power button.
- Hold the Smart Laundry button down for 2 seconds.
- The WiFi indicator ? will light up.
- In the Meaco app, press the '+' button and then 'Add device'.
- The app will search for nearby devices; your dehumidifier will appear, click 'Add'.
What's included
Carefully unpack the dehumidifier. Keep all packaging materials away from children. We recommend flat packing and keeping the box for future use.
Diagrams show the dehumidifier unit, a HEPA filter, and a hose adaptor.
- MeacoDry Arete® Two Dehumidifier and Air Purifier
- Free H13 HEPA Filter
- Hose adaptor
- Instruction manual
Product identification
Diagrams show the front, side, and rear views of the dehumidifier with numbered callouts for:
- Handle
- Air outlet
- Water tank
- Louvre
- Hose adaptor
- Castors
- Combined dust filter and case
- Cable tidy
- Air inlet
- H13 HEPA filter
Important! Remove the plastic bag around the H13 HEPA filter before use.
To lift the handle, use two hands, one on each side.
The hose adaptor (found inside the lid of the water tank) can be connected to a standard garden hose for continuous drainage.
First steps
When you first receive your dehumidifier, follow these steps carefully:
- Check the dehumidifier and packaging for any transport damage. Inform the sender immediately if damage is found.
- Leave the dehumidifier to stand for six hours before turning it on. This allows any refrigerant that may have moved during transit to settle.
- Choose a location for your dehumidifier. It is designed to be placed close to a wall.
- Remove the plastic bag around the H13 HEPA filter and insert it in the back of the dehumidifier to enable air purification. For further instructions, see page 18.
- Plug the dehumidifier into the mains and turn it on using the Power Button. Allow it to gauge the humidity level for the first 10 minutes.
- Open the louvre to allow air to move freely.
- Refer to page 10 for correct settings for your dehumidifier usage.
Dehumidifying your house
Use your dehumidifier to maintain an optimum humidity level throughout your house or flat. Moisture will migrate towards the dehumidifier, reducing humidity.
Recommendations:
- Situate your dehumidifier in a central area (e.g., a landing or hallway).
- Keep your dehumidifier running 24/7.
- Keep all internal doors open.
- Keep external doors and windows closed.
- Use Smart Humidity Mode to set a target of 55%RH.
- Open the louvre.
- Insert the H13 HEPA filter for air purification.
To reduce humidity in a particular room, use the same settings but keep doors and windows closed.
Using your dehumidifier to dry your laundry
Dehumidifiers are efficient for drying laundry quickly and cheaply.
Recommendations:
- Situate your dehumidifier in the same room as your laundry.
- Place the dehumidifier close to your laundry, but not so close that water could drip onto it.
- Keep all doors and windows closed.
- Use Smart Laundry Mode to run the dehumidifier continuously for 6 hours.
- Open the louvre and direct airflow towards your laundry.
- Use an air circulator to circulate dry air and reduce drying time.
Display readings
When the dehumidifier is on, the chase display shows the current and target humidity levels. The current humidity is shown by bars below the line; the target humidity is the figure circled above the line.
Operation
When first plugged in, the dehumidifier will beep once, and the power and timer buttons will light up. All control panel buttons require a short, firm press. The louvre must be open during use.
Control panel
Diagram shows the control panel with indicators for humidity levels (WET to DRY), power, laundry, WiFi, lock, and timer. Buttons include Power, Smart Humidity/Variable Humidistat, Continuous, and Timer. A digital display shows humidity targets and timer settings.
- ON/OFF: Press the power button to turn the dehumidifier on or off.
- Smart Humidity Mode: Sets a default target humidity of 55%RH.
- Variable Humidistat: Press the Smart Humidity Mode button to scroll through target humidity options: 70, 65, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40. The selected target will be displayed with a circle around it.
- Continuous: The dehumidifier runs continuously and only turns off when the water tank is full, regardless of humidity level.
Once the target humidity level is reached (within 3%), the dehumidifier stops. The fan runs every 30 minutes to check humidity. If humidity increases by more than 3% above the target, dehumidification resumes.
If the current humidity is within 15% of the target, fan speed defaults to low. If it's 15% or more above the target, fan speed defaults to medium.
Air Purification Mode
Hold the smart humidity button down for 2 seconds to enter Air Purification Mode ?️. The air purifier indicator will show. The dehumidifier will purify air but not dehumidify. This mode is useful when dehumidification is not required. Hold the button for 2 seconds again to return to Smart Humidity Mode.
Important! If an H13 HEPA filter is installed, the dehumidifier will always be purifying the air, even without Air Purification Mode selected.
Smart Laundry Mode
Press the Smart Laundry Mode button ? to enter. This mode sets a target humidity of 35%RH and high fan speed for 6 hours, after which the unit turns off. Press the timer button to adjust the time. Press the Smart Humidity button or turn the unit off/on to stop Smart Laundry Mode.
If humidity drops to 32%RH within the 6 hours, the compressor stops, but the fan continues. If humidity rises to 38%RH, the compressor restarts. This cycle continues until the 6-hour timer is up.
Hold the smart laundry button for 2 seconds to enter WiFi mode ?. See page 6 for further instructions.
Timer
Use the timer button ⏰ to set an ON or OFF timer. Press until '00 hrs' to remove.
- Timer On: In standby mode, set the timer for 1-24 hours for the unit to turn on (e.g., 'on 03 hr'). A one-second pause is needed to set.
- Timer Off: When the unit is on, set the timer for 1-24 hours for it to turn off (e.g., '03 hr OFF'). In Night Mode, the interface turns off. A one-second pause is needed to set.
Night Mode
Press the Night Mode / child lock button ? once to enter Night Mode. Fan speed reduces to low (if previously high), buttons do not beep, and display lights turn off (Night Mode indicator turns off 3 seconds later). Press any button to wake the display. Press the button twice to exit Night Mode.
Child Lock
Hold the Night Mode / child lock button down for 2 seconds to lock the control panel ?. No settings can be changed, and the unit cannot be turned off. The dehumidifier will beep once, and the child lock indicator will light up. Hold the button for 2 seconds again to remove child lock.
Indicators
- Dehumidifying Indicator: Lights up when the compressor is running and dehumidifying. Turns off when checking humidity or defrosting.
- Water Tank Full Indicator: Lights up when the water tank is full. The unit runs in fan-only mode for 3 minutes before stopping. It will beep five times (except in Night Mode). The unit stops until the tank is emptied and reinserted.
- Air Purification Indicator: Lights up when the dehumidifier is in Air Purification (AP) mode.
- Child Lock Indicator: Lights up when child lock is enabled.
- Heart Indicator ❤️: Recommends a target humidity level of 55%RH.
- WET Indicator: When switched off and plugged in (Standby mode), lights up if relative humidity is above 70%, indicating high humidity and the need to turn the unit on.
- The WET and DRY indicators show which end of the %RH scale is currently active when the unit is switched on.
Water tank
The dehumidifier collects water via the water tank or continuous drainage (see page 15). When the water tank is full, the unit turns off, beeps five times (except in Night Mode), and the water tank full indicator lights up. To empty, place hands in the side recesses, hold the tank, and pull horizontally. Use the pouring holes to empty the water; the tank does not need to be removed.
The collected water can be used for non-edible plants only.
Water tank float
A float inside the water tank measures the water level and triggers the sensor to turn off the dehumidifier when full. The float must not be removed, or the dehumidifier will not run.
Continuous drainage
Continuous drainage allows water to be drained without emptying the tank, ideal for unattended use in garages or second homes. The right-angle adaptor, found in the lid of the water tank, fits a standard garden hose (ID: 12.5mm). Ensure the hose runs downwards without kinks or blockages for gravity drainage.
Diagram shows the top of the dehumidifier with a circular opening and a right-angle hose adaptor inserted, indicating where a garden hose would connect for continuous drainage.
Setting up continuous drainage:
- Remove the water tank.
- Remove the right-angle adaptor from the water tank lid and push it onto the spout (located on the left-hand side where water drips out).
- Attach the hose to the spout.
- Insert the water tank back into the dehumidifier.
Maintenance
Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance. Always unplug the dehumidifier before cleaning and do not allow it to get wet.
Cleaning the exterior
Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. For heavy dirt, use a slightly damp cloth. Never spray the device with water.
Cleaning the dust filter
Diagram shows the dust filter and its case, with an arrow indicating they are combined.
The dust filter is a life-long filter, designed to last. It may become clogged with dust and dirt particles. Clean it at least every two weeks (failure to do so may invalidate the warranty).
- Remove the dust filter by sliding the filter case to the left. The dust filter is built into the case and cannot be removed separately; you may need to remove the H13 HEPA filter first.
- Clean the dust filter with a vacuum cleaner nozzle or soapy water (no hotter than 40°C). Rinse and dry completely before reinserting.
Replacing the H13 HEPA filter
The dehumidifier includes a free H13 HEPA filter for air purification. This is optional; the unit will dehumidify without it but not purify the air. Using the HEPA filter can reduce noise by 4-5 decibels.
- The H13 HEPA filter is not life-long and needs replacing when it turns from white to grey (roughly every 3 months, depending on usage).
- The HEPA filter can be vacuumed periodically to remove dust.
- To insert/replace, place the H13 HEPA filter inside the combined filter case and dust filter, then slide the assembly into the dehumidifier.
- Replacement H13 HEPA filters can be purchased from meaco.com.
Cleaning the water tank
To clean the inside of the water tank, simply remove the water tank lid.
Storing
If the dehumidifier will not be used for a long period:
- Run the dehumidifier in Air Purification Mode for a few hours to dry the internals, minimizing mould growth during storage.
- Unplug the unit, empty the water tank, and allow both to dry completely (this may take a couple of days).
- Use the cable tidy on the back to wrap the cable.
- Clean the filter and store the device in a dust-free location away from direct sunlight, preferably covered with plastic.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter a problem, check the table below. If the problem persists, contact Meaco.
Error | Action |
---|---|
Dehumidifier indicator is not displayed | The dehumidifier is checking the humidity level to see if it has risen above the set target. |
Buttons do not beep when pressed | The dehumidifier is in Night Mode ?. Press the Night Mode button twice to exit. |
There are no lights on the display | The dehumidifier is in Night Mode ?. Press the Night Mode button twice to exit. |
The dehumidifier does not dehumidify / collects little water |
|
The dehumidifier works but reduces the humidity level insufficiently / there is little water in the water tank |
|
The windows were clear and now the condensation has returned | This is likely due to a drop in outside temperature making windows colder. Use a lower target setting and run the dehumidifier 24 hours a day. |
The condensation on my windows will not go, even when the dehumidifier is in CO mode | The surface temperature of the windows is too low. This is common with single-glazed windows and when outside temperatures drop below freezing. As outside temperatures rise, running in CO mode 24 hours a day should clear condensation. |
The dehumidifier is blowing out warm air | The dried air is passed over heating coils as part of the dehumidification process. This is normal. |
The dehumidifier is blowing out cool air | The dehumidifier does not cool the air; it may feel cooler due to airflow, similar to a fan. This is normal. |
The dehumidifier is noisy | Clean the dust filter and/or replace the H13 HEPA filter. Ensure the dehumidifier is placed on a flat surface; it may be noisier on wooden floors than carpet. |
Night Mode is on but the fan speed hasn't changed | The fan speed change in Night Mode is subtle. To hear the difference: 1) Set to Smart Laundry Mode, wait a minute. 2) Change to Night Mode. |
Dirt on carpet | If using on a carpet made from man-made materials, static can attract dust, causing marks. This is normal and can be cleaned with standard carpet cleaner. |
E1, E2, L2 | Please contact Meaco. |
L3 | The environment is too warm. Ensure the dehumidifier is used in 40°C or less. |
L4 | The environment is too cold. Ensure the dehumidifier is used in 5°C or more. |
Specifications
10L | 12L | |
---|---|---|
Dimensions (HWD) | 492 x 319 x 237 mm | 492 x 319 x 237 mm |
Nett Weight | 10.7 kg | 10.9 kg |
Extraction rate (27°C and 60%RH) | 6 L per day | 7.5 L per day |
Extraction rate (30°C and 80%RH) | 10 L per day | 12 L per day |
Noise level (Low fan speed) | 35 dB | 35 dB |
Noise level (Medium fan speed) | 38 dB | 38 dB |
Noise level (High fan speed) | 44 dB | 44 dB |
Power consumption (at 27°C and 60%RH) | 152 watts | 155 watts |
Air flow (Low fan speed) | 80 m³ per hour | 80 m³ per hour |
Air flow (Medium fan speed) | 100 m³ per hour | 100 m³ per hour |
Air flow (High fan speed) | 140 m³ per hour | 140 m³ per hour |
Auto-restart | Yes | Yes |
Power supply | 220 - 240 V, 50 Hz | 220 - 240 V, 50 Hz |
Operating temperatures | +5°C to + 35°C | +5°C to + 35°C |
Refrigerant | R290 / 35 g | R290 / 45 g |
Water tank size | 2.5 L | 2.5 L |
Warranty terms and conditions
There is a five-year manufacturer's warranty on your dehumidifier from the date of delivery. Within this period, all manufacturing defects will be repaired free of charge (excluding wear and tear on filters and the water tank).
The following applies:
- Repairs or replacements during the warranty period do not extend or restart the warranty period.
- The warranty is invalid if the dehumidifier has been opened, tampered with, or fitted with non-genuine components by unauthorized persons.
- Components subject to normal wear and tear (dust filter, HEPA filter, hose adaptor) are not covered.
- The warranty is valid only with the original, unaltered, and date-stamped purchase receipt.
- Damage caused by actions deviating from the manual or by neglect is not covered.
- Faults caused by dirt or third-party products (e.g., a Smart Plug) are not covered.
- Using a third-party switching device will invalidate the warranty.
- Accidental damage is not covered.
- Claims for compensation, including consequential damage, will not be entertained.
For the full list of warranty terms and conditions, visit: www.meaco.com/warranty-terms.