When it comes to humidity, your location can make all the difference. Whether it’s a minor inconvenience or a serious problem, you don’t want to take any risks to your health and safety. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in a top-quality dehumidifier.
The best dehumidifiers come equipped with a hygrometer that continuously monitors the moisture levels in the air. They will automatically turn on when the levels exceed the desired limits, ensuring that your home stays at a healthy humidity level. You can also choose a unit with a programmable timer, so it only operates when you need it to.
When shopping for a dehumidifier, make sure to look for an Energy Star-certified model with a high-capacity tank that is suitable for the size of your room or home. This way, you can rest easy knowing that your dehumidifier is working efficiently and effectively to keep your home comfortable and safe.
What Can A Dehumidifier Do?
A dehumidifier is a device that removes excess moisture from the air. It works by pulling in humid air from your home, passing it over a cooled coil to remove the moisture, and then expelling the drier air back into the room.
By reducing the humidity levels in your home, a dehumidifier can help to prevent mold growth, which can cause health problems and damage to your home. It can also help to prevent musty odors, peeling wallpaper, and condensation on windows.
In addition to improving the air quality in your home, a dehumidifier can also make your home more comfortable by reducing the sticky feeling associated with high humidity. It can also help to lower your energy bills by making your air conditioning more efficient, as dry air feels cooler than humid air at the same temperature.
Overall, a dehumidifier is a useful tool for improving the air quality and comfort of your home, and for protecting your health and property from the harmful effects of excess moisture.
What To Consider When Choosing A Dehumidifier?
When choosing a dehumidifier, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best one for your needs. Here are some of the most important things to consider:
Room Size
To ensure that the dehumidifier you choose is effective in removing excess moisture from the air, it’s important to consider the size of the room or area you want to dehumidify. The capacity of a dehumidifier is usually measured in pints of moisture removed per day, so it’s important to choose a model with a capacity that is suitable for the size of the space you want to dehumidify.
If the dehumidifier is too small for the room, it may not be able to effectively remove all the excess moisture. On the other hand, if the dehumidifier is too large for the room, it may remove moisture too quickly, causing the air to become too dry.
To determine the appropriate capacity for your room or area, you can use a simple formula: multiply the square footage of the room by the recommended humidity level, and then divide by 50. This will give you the approximate capacity in pints per day that you need for your dehumidifier.
For example, if you have a 500-square-foot room and the recommended humidity level is 50%, the formula would be 500 x 50 / 50 = 500/50 = 10 pints per day. So, you would want to choose a dehumidifier with a capacity of at least 10 pints per day for this room.
By choosing a dehumidifier with the appropriate capacity for your room or area, you can effectively control excess moisture and improve the comfort and air quality of your home.
Capacity
The capacity of a dehumidifier refers to the amount of moisture it can remove from the air per day and is usually measured in pints.
To determine the appropriate capacity for your needs, you should consider the size of the room or area you want to dehumidify, as well as the relative humidity level. A larger room or higher humidity level will require a dehumidifier with a higher capacity.
For example, a small bedroom may only require a dehumidifier with a capacity of 30 pints per day, while a large basement or living area may require a dehumidifier with a capacity of 70 pints per day or more.
It’s also important to note that a dehumidifier with a higher capacity will usually be more expensive and consume more energy. Therefore, it’s important to choose a dehumidifier with a capacity that is appropriate for your needs to avoid wasting money on excess capacity or overspending on energy bills.
Overall, choosing a dehumidifier with the appropriate capacity is crucial to effectively remove excess moisture from the air and maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Controls
The controls on a dehumidifier can vary depending on the model and brand, but generally, most dehumidifiers will have basic controls that allow you to adjust the humidity level and fan speed.
The humidity level control allows you to set the desired level of relative humidity in the room. Some models may also have a built-in hygrometer that displays the current humidity level, so you can adjust the settings accordingly.
The fan speed control allows you to adjust the speed of the fan that circulates the air through the dehumidifier. Higher fan speeds can help to remove moisture from the air more quickly, but may also generate more noise and consume more energy.
Some dehumidifiers may also have additional controls, such as a timer that allows you to set the unit to turn on or off at specific times, or a defrost function that prevents the coils from freezing in colder temperatures.
It’s important to choose a dehumidifier with controls that are intuitive and easy to use, so you can quickly adjust settings as needed to maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Humidity Level
Maintaining the ideal humidity level in your home is crucial to preventing the growth of mold and mildew, reducing allergens, and improving indoor air quality. The ideal humidity level for most homes is between 30-50% relative humidity.
When choosing a dehumidifier, it’s important to consider the size of the space you want to dehumidify and the capacity of the dehumidifier. You also want to choose a dehumidifier with the ability to maintain your desired humidity level. Some models come with a built-in humidistat that measures the humidity level in the room and adjusts the unit accordingly.
It’s important to note that excessively low humidity levels can also have negative effects on your health, such as drying out your skin and respiratory passages. So, it’s important to find a balance and choose a dehumidifier that allows you to adjust and maintain a healthy level of humidity in your home.
Timer
Dehumidifiers with built-in timers can be very convenient as they allow you to set a specific time for the unit to turn on or off. This feature can help you save energy and money by running the dehumidifier only when it’s necessary.
For example, you can set the unit to turn on a few hours before you come home from work and turn it off when you leave in the morning. This way, you can ensure that the humidity levels in your home are always under control without having to worry about leaving the unit on all day.
Some dehumidifiers come with programmable timers that allow you to set different schedules for different days of the week. This feature is particularly useful if you have a busy schedule and need to adjust the unit’s operation according to your daily routine.
Overall, a dehumidifier with a timer can be a great investment for those looking to improve indoor air quality and maintain a healthy level of humidity in their homes.
Tank Size
The tank is where the dehumidifier collects the excess moisture it removes from the air in your home.
A larger tank size means you can go longer without having to empty it. This can be convenient if you don’t want to have to check and empty the tank every day or if you plan to use the dehumidifier in a larger room.
However, larger tanks also mean a heavier unit overall, so you’ll want to make sure it’s easy to move or has wheels. If the dehumidifier is difficult to move, you may have trouble emptying the tank when it becomes full.
Alternatively, some dehumidifiers come with a continuous drainage option that allows you to hook up a hose to the unit and drain the water directly into a drain or sink. This can be a convenient option if you don’t want to have to empty the tank at all.
A tank is where all the moisture that is extracted from the air is collected. The tank’s size varies from 10 to 75 pints, and it needs to be emptied once it’s full. Caroline explains that each model has a cubic foot per minute (CFM) rating that’s based on its capacity. The greater the capacity of the dehumidifier, the higher the overall CFM. If you choose a larger tank, you won’t need to empty it as frequently, but it will be heavier to carry when it’s full of water.
Noise Level
Consider the noise level of the dehumidifier, especially if you plan to use it in a living area or bedroom.
Some dehumidifiers can be quite loud, which can be a nuisance if you plan to use the unit in a living area or bedroom.
When shopping for a dehumidifier, look for the unit’s decibel (dB) rating, which measures the sound level. Generally, a rating of 50 dB or lower is considered quiet, while anything above 60 dB is considered loud.
If noise is a concern, look for dehumidifiers with lower dB ratings or those with quiet operation modes. Some units also come with noise-reducing features, such as insulated compressor compartments or vibration-reducing pads.
However, keep in mind that quieter units may have a lower capacity or be more expensive. It’s important to balance your noise preferences with your dehumidification needs and budget.
Energy-Efficiency
Look for an energy-efficient dehumidifier with an Energy Star certification to save money on your energy bills.
Dehumidifiers can use a significant amount of energy, which can lead to high electricity bills. When choosing a dehumidifier, look for models that have an Energy Star rating, which means they meet certain efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These models are designed to use less energy while still being effective at removing moisture from the air.
Additionally, consider the type of compressor used in the dehumidifier. A rotary compressor tends to be more energy-efficient than a reciprocating compressor. Look for models with a humidistat, which can help you control the humidity level and avoid over-dehumidifying your space, which can also save on energy costs.
Finally, be sure to clean or replace the air filter regularly, as a dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of the dehumidifier and cause it to use more energy.
Portability
Dehumidifier portability is important if you plan to move your unit from room to room or store it away when not in use. Some dehumidifiers are designed with caster wheels or handles, making them easier to move around. Other models are more compact and lightweight, making them ideal for smaller spaces or for those who have limited storage options. If portability is a key concern, be sure to choose a unit that is easy to move and store as needed.
Hose Connection
A dehumidifier with a hose connection allows you to drain the collected water directly into a floor drain, sink, or outside through a window, without having to manually empty the water tank. This feature can be very useful in areas with high humidity, such as basements, where a dehumidifier may need to run continuously for long periods of time.
Make sure that the unit has a built-in pump or gravity drain option, which allows for continuous drainage. Some models may require you to manually empty the water tank before switching to the hose connection, so check the product specifications before making a purchase.
Another consideration is the length and diameter of the hose that you will need. The diameter of the hose connection on the dehumidifier may vary by model, so make sure to check the product specifications to ensure that the hose you purchase is compatible.
Overall, a dehumidifier with a hose connection can be a convenient and efficient solution for controlling humidity levels in your home or office, especially in areas with high moisture.
Automatic Shut-off
The automatic shut-off feature is designed to turn off the unit when the water collection tank is full or when the desired humidity level has been reached. This feature helps to prevent the dehumidifier from overflowing and causing water damage to your floors and walls and also helps to save energy by not running the unit unnecessarily.
It is a great investment for controlling humidity levels in your home or office and can provide peace of mind by preventing water damage and reducing energy costs.
Adjustable Humidistat
A dehumidifier with an adjustable humidistat allows you to set the desired humidity level for your space. This feature is important because excessive humidity can cause mold growth, damage to your furniture, and other moisture-related problems, while overly dry air can lead to respiratory problems and discomfort.
With an adjustable humidistat, you can set the dehumidifier to maintain the humidity level within a specific range. The unit will automatically turn on and off as needed to maintain this level, which helps to save energy and prevent over-drying of the air.
Use Tips
To get the most out of your dehumidifier and combat dampness and humidity in your home, follow these tips:
- Clean the area before use: Using a dehumidifier in a dirty room can spread dust and clog the air filter. Vacuum the area before you use your dehumidifier for the first time, and keep it clean and dust-free.
- Avoid blocking the input or output: Keep your dehumidifier at least an inch or two from walls, curtains, and furniture to ensure proper airflow.
- Place near laundry space: Washing and drying clothes indoors can release a lot of moisture into the air. Placing a dehumidifier near your laundry area can help reduce humidity levels.
- Address the root cause of dampness: While dehumidifiers can help with dampness, they won’t fix the underlying issue. If you suspect a problem such as leaky pipes, it’s worth getting an expert to check it out.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your dehumidifier is working efficiently to keep your home comfortable and dry.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your dehumidifier can help it function properly and last longer. Here are some tips on how to maintain your dehumidifier:
- Clean the filter: The filter in your dehumidifier can collect dust and other particles over time, so it’s important to clean or replace it regularly. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for how often to clean or replace the filter.
- Empty the water tank: If your dehumidifier has a water tank, make sure to empty it regularly to prevent overflowing and damage to the unit.
- Clean the unit: Dust and debris can accumulate on the outside of the unit, so wipe it down regularly with a damp cloth.
- Check the drainage system: If your dehumidifier has a drainage system, make sure it is functioning properly and not clogged.
- Monitor the humidity level: Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity level in the room and adjust the dehumidifier settings as needed.
- Store the unit properly: If you’re storing your dehumidifier, make sure it’s clean and dry, and store it in a cool, dry place.
By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your dehumidifier works efficiently and effectively.
Will A Dehumidifier Help With Mold?
Yes, a dehumidifier can help with mold prevention and control. Mold thrives in moist environments, and a dehumidifier helps to reduce the moisture in the air, making it more difficult for mold to grow and spread.
When the humidity level in a room is high, above 60%, mold growth can occur within 24 to 48 hours. Running a dehumidifier in areas with high humidity levels, such as basements or bathrooms, can help to prevent mold growth by reducing the moisture content in the air.
However, it’s important to note that a dehumidifier alone may not completely eliminate existing mold. Mold remediation may be necessary to fully remove any existing mold growth, and it’s essential to address the underlying moisture issue to prevent future mold growth.
