I also went with a DeLonghi a few years ago, and apart from hosting a large ants' nest last year (see post #73
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/s...ad.php?t=36222 ) it's performed well. I haven't found a need to connect the external drain yet.
One possible trap for the unwary is that some models are not auto start, meaning that you could not use a timer at the wall socket to control the unit. If the control panel has conventional switches (rather than 'soft' electronic switches), it is more likely that it would be auto startable.
I have the latter version, but found that the microswitch that stops the unit when the water drawer is opened, could be used via a time switch to control the unit.
Another thing to bear in mind is that the dehumidifier does not work well below about 10 deg. C, so sometimes I need to preheat the air intake.
Chris