Author: Dennis Reed

Dennis Reed Owner and Author @ BreatheBetterAir.org

Do Window AC Units Filter Smoke? Learn the Truth

“A window AC unit primarily functions to cool a room and may have an air filter to remove some smoke and other particles from the air.

But the amount of smoke that a window air conditioner can filter is minimal and it does not qualify it to be called a smoke remover or air cleaner.”

Do window AC units filter smoke?

Some window AC units have air filters that can help to remove smoke and other particles from the air, but it depends on the specific model and filter used.

But is important to check the specifications of the AC unit and its filter to determine its effectiveness in removing smoke.

Additionally, it is always good to keep window AC units clean and replace or wash the air filter regularly for optimal performance.

Window AC compared to smoke eater or exhaust fan

A window AC unit and a smoke eater or exhaust fan serve different purposes.

A window AC unit primarily functions to cool a room and may have an air filter to remove some smoke and other particles from the air.

A smoke eater or exhaust fan, on the other hand, is specifically designed to remove smoke and other pollutants from the air in a room or enclosed space.

Smoke eaters and exhaust fans can be used in a variety of settings such as restaurants, bars, and other commercial spaces where there is a lot of smoke or cooking fumes.

In terms of removing smoke, exhaust fan is the best option as it is designed for this specific task.

However, if you want to cool your room and also remove smoke, you can use both a window AC unit and a smoke eater or exhaust fan together.

Summary

Do window ACs filter smoke?

Window ACs do have a filter that capture particles as the indoor air is being pulled through the air conditioner to cool it before it is released,

Will the amount of filtration that a window air conditioner will supply is not on the level of a exhaust fan or smoke eater.

An exhaust fan is recommended to get rid of smoke inside of a house. The window air conditioner will only help and won’t hurt the ability of the exhaust fan to remove smoke from the air, so if you need to run the window AC at the same time because of the warm temperature in the house, you are safe to do so.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do Window Air Conditioners Interfere with Wi-Fi?

Do window air conditioners interfere with Wi-Fi

Window air conditioners can potentially interfere with Wi-Fi signals if they are operating on the same frequency as the Wi-Fi network.

This can cause a decrease in signal strength and result in slower internet speeds or dropped connections.

However, most modern Wi-Fi routers and devices are designed to operate on different frequencies than window air conditioners, so this is typically not a problem.

Additionally, if the air conditioner is not located close to the router or device, the interference will likely be minimal.

What to do…

If you are experiencing Wi-Fi issues, you can try moving the air conditioner further away from the router or device, or try changing the channel on your router to a different frequency.

What is more likely interfering with your Wi-Fi then the window AC?

There are many potential sources of interference that can affect Wi-Fi signals, so it can be difficult to determine the exact cause without further investigation.

Some common sources of interference include:

1.Other electronic devices:

Other devices that operate on the same frequency as your Wi-Fi network, such as cordless phones, microwaves, or baby monitors, can cause interference.

2.Physical obstructions:

Walls, furniture, and other objects can block or weaken Wi-Fi signals.

3. Distance from the router:

The further away a device is from the router, the weaker the signal will be.

4.Interference from other Wi-Fi networks:

Other Wi-Fi networks in the area can cause interference, especially if they are using the same channel as your network.

5. Overlapping channels:

If you are using an older router that does not support 5GHz or if your device does not support 5GHz, it could be that your router is set to 2.4GHz channel which is more prone to interference from other devices.

You should know that interference is not always the sole cause of weak or unstable Wi-Fi signal, it could be caused by a combination of factors or even an issue with the router itself.

It’s best to troubleshoot and eliminate each potential cause one by one.

 

Summary

Do window air conditioners interfere with Wi-Fi?

Though that there is the possibility that your Wi-Fi is on the same frequency as your Wi-Fi network, it is not probable.

There are many, more likely scenarios what could be interrupting your Wi-Fi reception.

Devices like microwaves and and baby monitors are known to interrupt Wi-Fi as well as cordless phones.

Other common problems include physical obstructions like walls and furniture that are blocking the Wi-Fi reception.

Distance from the router and other Wi-Fi networks in the area interfering with yours or all fairly common reasons too.

Finally you can easily check if the window AC is interfering with the Wi-Fi by moving the router to another area in the house that’s away from the window AC. That’ll tell you real quick if it’s the problem.

 

AC Window Vs Through the Wall. Is there a difference?

 

“A window air conditioner is an affordable and easy to install option for cooling a single room, but may be less energy efficient and more vulnerable to theft or vandalism. A through-the-wall air conditioner is a more permanent and secure option with better energy efficiency, but is more expensive.”

AC Window Vs Through the Wall

Are you looking to find out what are some of the pros and cons of using a window air conditioner instead of a through the wall air conditioner and vice versa?

In this article we lay out some of the biggest points to give you a starting place and a few things to think about so you can make a good decision.

Window air conditioners are an easy solution when you need to get air conditioning and to a specific room.

And even though they’re not exactly portable since they had to be installed and uninstalled if you decide to move them

You still do have the option if you decided to put the window AC in a different window.

But using an air conditioner through the wall is also a good idea especially when you think about the fact that you don’t ever have to deal with putting it up for a winter or that it’s completely sealed and not nearly as attractive as a break-in point for a burglar.

A window air conditioner is a unit that is installed in a window or a hole in a wall and is typically used for cooling a single room.

Some of the benefits of a window air conditioner over a Through the Wall AC include:

1. Affordability:

Window air conditioners are typically less expensive than other types of air conditioners, making them a cost-effective option for cooling a single room.

2. Easy installation:

Window air conditioners are relatively easy to install, and many models come with all the necessary hardware and instructions for installation.

3. Versatility:

Window air conditioners come in a wide variety of sizes and cooling capacities, making it easy to find one that is suitable for your specific needs.

A through-the-wall air conditioner is a unit that is installed in a hole in the wall and is typically used for cooling a single room.

Some of the benefits of a through-the-wall air conditioner include:

1 Permanent installation:

Unlike a window unit, a through-the-wall air conditioner is installed permanently, which means it will not need to be removed and stored during the off-season.

2. Better security:

 A through-the-wall air conditioner is less likely to be stolen or vandalized than a window unit, as it is installed in a more secure location.

3. Better energy efficiency:

Through-the-wall units have a better energy efficiency rating than window units, which can help you save money on your energy bills.

Disadvantages of window air conditioners compared to through the wall air conditioners

 

However, there are also some downsides to consider when choosing between a window air conditioner and a through-the-wall unit:

 

1. Window units are less expensive, but through-the-wall units have better energy efficiency rating

2. Window ACs are easy to install and remove, but through-the-wall units are permanent installation.

3. Window units may be more vulnerable to theft or vandalism, but through-the-wall units offer better security.

Ultimately, the choice between a window air conditioner and a through-the-wall unit will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. It’s recommended to consult a professional before making a decision.

 Is there any difference between a window air conditioner and a through the wall air conditioner other than the way they are installed?

Yes, window air conditioners tend to be cheaper than a through the wall air conditioner.

 Through the wall air conditioners also are built to look more sleek and to be more energy efficient.

You can install a window air conditioner through a wall but ultimately it will not be as energy efficient as purchasing a air conditioner that is intended to be installed through a wall.

 

Summary

 For a single room, a window air conditioner is less expensive and is a mobile option.
 But if you’re not going to be moving the window AC from room to room, 
But threw the wall air conditioner, Even though it might come at a higher cost, is more energy efficient and doesn’t pose the same risk of being attracted for burglars.

 

Why is My Window AC Not Cooling? Five quick tips

“The main reason a window air conditioner is not cooling is usually due to a problem with the refrigerant levels. Low refrigerant can be caused by leaks, and can prevent the unit from cooling the air properly.”

Why is My Window AC Not Cooling?

Even though the window air conditioner is convenient and it’s a pretty cheap way to cool a room, If it’s not working right it can be super frustrating and uncomfortable.

And if you don’t know what you’re looking for, it can be pretty scary or at least a bummer thinking you may have to purchase a new one.

But if someone were to give you a few things to look for, that maybe you could even fix yourself, that would probably make a decent article.

So let’s give it a go.

AC not coolingThere are a number of reasons why a window air conditioner may not be cooling effectively.

Here are 5 common causes and solutions to consider if you’re experiencing issues with a Window AC not cooling.

1. Dirty air filter:

 The air filter in your window air conditioner plays a crucial role in keeping the unit running efficiently.

The filter traps dirt, dust, and other particles from circulating through the unit and into the air you breathe.

A dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause the unit to work harder to cool the room.

To rectify this issue, check the filter regularly and replace it or clean it as needed.

2. Low refrigerant levels:

The refrigerant in your air conditioner is responsible for removing heat from the air.

If the refrigerant levels are low, the unit will not be able to cool like it’s supposed to.

Unfortunately when you’re talking about a window air conditioner, if there’s refrigerant leaking out then you most definitely have a problem that you may not be able to fix yourself.

Finding the leak and refilling the unit is something most people will need to call a professional for.

3. Obstructed air flow:

The filter is not the only part of the window AC that can get cluttered and cause the AC not to work right. The unit’s coils and fins need to be kept clear of debris in order for the unit to function properly.

If the coils and fins are dirty, or if the unit is blocked by furniture or other objects, the unit will not be able to Do its job right.

But fortunately, This issue just comes down to cleaning the coils and fins and making sure that the unit is not blocked.

Here’s an article we wrote about homemade coil cleaners made of things you probably already have around the house. Check it out.

4. Malfunctioning thermostat:


A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent your window air conditioner from cooling properly.

If the thermostat is not calibrated correctly or is not working properly, it can cause the unit to cycle on and off too frequently or not turn on at all.

To fix this problem, check the thermostat settings and ensure that it is functioning properly.

This is a issue that can be as easy as switching from on mode to “auto”. Or if the thermostat is not working correctly, you might have to call a guy in.

5. Faulty compressor:


 The compressor is the heart of the air conditioner and is responsible for circulating the refrigerant throughout the unit.

A faulty compressor can prevent the unit from cooling properly. If the compressor is not working, the unit will not be able to cool the room effectively.

If the compressor isn’t working, depending on the quality of the air conditioner and how much you paid for it in the first place, it may be Time to shop for a new one.

But like I said, if you have spent a lot of money on it, it’s a mechanical issue and it can definitely be fixed by the right person.

In summary,

There are a few reasons why a window air conditioner may not be cooling properly. Some common causes include a dirty air filter, low refrigerant levels, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

And it’s usually something that can be solved on your own.

A dirty air filter or debris and stuff around the coils, as well as just making sure the settings are right, or all easy things you could do very quickly to get your window air conditioner cooling again.

Hopefully the problem doesn’t turn out to be too substantial.

By understanding the common causes and taking steps to rectify them, you can help ensure that your unit is running efficiently and effectively.

Can You Drink Dehumidifier Water?

Can You Drink Dehumidifier Water? (Is It Really Safe?)

Finding a use for air conditioner and dehumidifier condensate is a popular idea. Many people are looking for ways to use the water to avoid wasting it.

Drinking dehumidifier water is not safe without first putting it through a water purification process because of the potential of high levels of dust mite concentrations and bacteria found in high humidity.

Ingesting dust mites can cause an allergic reaction that can result in watery eyes and sneezing, and more severe reactions like triggering asthma.

Studies also show that humidity droplets can collect bacteria and viruses from the air and act like a vehicle carrying the germs across a further span.

Since dehumidifier water is gathered from high humidity that has the potential of being full of dust mites and even bacteria and viruses, it is safe to say that drinking dehumidifier water should be avoided unless it goes through the proper sterilization process.

 Is Dehumidifier Water Safe?

Here are a few factors to consider before drinking dehumidifier water:

  1. Dehumidifier water does not go through the boiling process that distilled water does.
  2. High Humidity Droplets are a vehicle for air pollutants and allergens
  3.  Dehumidifier water is largely stagnant which facilitates the growth of bacteria
  4. Air conditioning condensate is a common factor in Legionnaires disease.

Dehumidifiers operate essentially like a air conditioner. Hot air is pulled in. Dragged across a series of refrigerated coils where it is cooled. The humidity in the warm air has no where to go once the air is cooled so it creates condensation.

The difference is that
the condensation from an air conditioner is driven outside via a pvc pipe where as the condensation created by a dehumidifier is captured in a container attached to the machine.

The amount of water captured in the container all from the humidity in the air can seem ridiculous, up to a couple of gallons a day.

Finding uses for the water seems to be a no-brainer. why would you throw the water out of the can be conserved and use for something else?

Is Dehumidifier water distilled?

Not exactly. Distillation is a process of boiling water into steam , then cooling the steam so that it returns back to liquid form. Whatever that doesn’t boil and turns to steam is filtered out.

The water that is created in the dehumidification process does not reach anywhere near the temperature to eliminate the impurities in it.

Even though the water from a dehumidifier comes from condensation,  the distillation process is not present to eliminate impurities from the water.

Humidity and Air quality

High Humidity is also known expedite mold growth and promote dust mite population. Humidity also houses VOCs like formaldehyde.

Higher moisture levels have a greater capacity to retain pollutants.
The extra moisture in the air has the ability to hold airborne particles including microbes.

In other words the water in the machine already has the potential of being polluted because of the air quality in the area in which it was collected from.

“Dehumidifier water is untreated stagnant water.”

Mold and bacteria can begin to grow in stagnant water in as little as 48 hours.

Dehumidifiers Pose a Threat Of Legionella

Legionella is a bacteria that is found in freshwater. According to the government website, one of the most common sources of infection comes from cooling towers. Structures they contain water in a fan is part of a centralized air cooling system.

Dehumidifiers certainly qualify.

Dehumidifier water is simply not safe to drink straight out of the dehumidifier tank without going through a water purification process.

Is it okay to water plants with dehumidifier water?

The water the captured in your dehumidifier is absolutely safe for plants. An independent test conducted by the WCS, concluded that there is no significant levels of heavy metals in dehumidifier water as long as there’s a prefilter present before the dehumidification process takes place.

Can you use the humidifier water in a battery?

Yes. But since the humidifier water is not properly distilled that are can be minerals and other debris in the water.
Be sure that you filter the water before you poured into the battery.

Can I give dehumidifier water to my pets?

No. Dehumidifier water is not drinkable. Even for pets. The humidity condensed in a dehumidifier contains airborne pollutants from smoke carcinogens, and other household chemicals, aerosols etc.

Summary.

You might get the idea of the water from a dehumidifier is safe to drink because it comes from condensation.

But there are a few things that you may not be thinking about that would say differently.

For instance the moisture that is turn the conversation and collected in your dehumidifier is able to hold and contain the airborne pollutants in your room or home.
Mold spores and dust mites thrive in high humidity.
Since the air that the water is collected from is not clean and there is no purification process involved in collecting the water, it only goes to prove that the water itself contains the same pollutants.

The water in a dehumidifier is not distilled in the classic since.
Distillation boils water into steam and then collects the condensate from the steam. Whatever does not steam is left out.
The water in a dehumidifier does not go through a boiling and steaming process that would cause the pollutants like bacterium and heavy metals to be left out.

Dehumidifier water is untreated standing water. Bacteria can begin to grow in the water in as little as 48 hours.

And since a dehumidifier works and runs much like a an conditioner, legionnaires disease is known to be common where are cooling coils are used and present with the fan.
Kind of sounds like a dehumidifier.

There are plenty of great uses for dehumidifier water, including watering your plants and even filling your batteries as long as you ensure that you have filtered the water,

But drinking the water, whether it be you or your pets is not a good idea.
Is it worse than tap water? That’s a different article.

What’s The Best Place To Put A Dehumidifier In A House?

“The best place to put a dehumidifier in a house is in a damp room or area, such as a basement or laundry room. It should be placed on a level surface and away from walls to allow for proper air circulation. It’s also important to make sure the room is properly sealed to prevent outside air from entering and diluting the dehumidifying effect.”

What’s The Best Place To Put A Dehumidifier In A House?

Dehumidifiers are essential appliances in many homes, especially in areas with high humidity levels. These devices help remove excess moisture from the air, which can prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, as well as reduce allergens and odors.

 But where is the best place to put a dehumidifier in a house?

 In this article, we will discuss four different locations and the pros and cons of each.

1.The Basement.

 Basements are often damp and musty due to their location below ground level, and they can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

 A dehumidifier in the basement can help reduce humidity levels and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms. Additionally, placing a dehumidifier in the basement can also help dry out any dampness on the walls and floors, which can prevent the development of structural damage.
One of the biggest benefits of having a dehumidifier in the basement is that it can create a more pleasant and healthy environment, and keep your stored items safe from the detrimental effects of high humidity.

2. Living Room

Another great place to put a dehumidifier is in the living room or family room. These rooms are often used for long periods of time and can become quite humid, especially in the summer. Placing a dehumidifier in the living room can help reduce humidity levels and improve air quality, making it more comfortable to spend time in…

Additionally, a dehumidifier in the living room can help reduce the amount of dust and allergens in the air, making it better for people with allergies or asthma. It can also reduce the chances of mold and mildew growing in this high traffic area of the house.

3. Laundry Room

The laundry room is another great place to put a dehumidifier. Laundry rooms often have a lot of moisture, due to the use of washing machines and dryers, as well as steam from ironing and hanging wet clothes…

This excess moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and musty odors, and can also cause damage to clothes and the room itself. A dehumidifier in the laundry room can help reduce humidity levels and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

4. Bedroom


Finally, consider the bedroom. Sleeping in a room with high humidity levels can lead to discomfort and poor sleep.

By placing a dehumidifier in the bedroom, you can create a more comfortable sleeping environment, and can help prevent the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria. In addition, a dehumidifier in the bedroom can also help reduce odors and improve the overall air quality in the room.

It can also prevent any potential allergies or asthma triggers for those who sleep in the room, making for a healthy and more restful sleep…

In conclusion,

The best place to put a dehumidifier in a house depends on the specific needs of your home. Each area of the house has its own challenges and benefits for using a dehumidifier, but by having one in the basement, living room, laundry room, and bedroom, you’ll be able to ensure a comfortable and healthy environment throughout the entire house.


Can One Dehumidifier Cover A Whole House?

“While one dehumidifier can pretty much effectively control humidity levels throughout an entire house, the unit’s size and the unique features of the space will influence its effectiveness. To optimize performance, it is advisable to select a dehumidifier with a large capacity tank, ensure that its coverage area is sufficient for your home, and position it in the area of the house with the highest humidity.”

Can One Dehumidifier Cover A Whole House?

Dehumidifiers are an important tool for controlling the moisture levels in your home, which can have a big impact on your comfort and your home’s overall health.

One of the most common questions people ask when they’re considering buying a dehumidifier is whether or not one unit can cover their entire house.

The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the size of your house, the humidity levels in your area, and the specific features of the dehumidifier you’re considering.

A dehumidifier’s coverage area is determined by its capacity, measured in pints per day.

 Generally, a dehumidifier with a higher capacity will be able to cover a larger area. A unit with a 30-pint capacity, for example, can typically dehumidify a space of up to 3,000 square feet, while a unit with a 50-pint capacity can handle up to 5,000 square feet.

However, it’s important to note that these coverage estimates are based on ideal conditions.
In reality, the humidity levels in your home will fluctuate depending on a variety of factors, such as the number of people living in the house, the number of pets, and the amount of cooking and showering that takes place.

  Additionally, certain areas of your home may be more prone to moisture and mold, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

If you’re considering buying a dehumidifier for your whole house, it’s a good idea to measure the square footage of each room and make note of any areas that are particularly humid. This will give you a better idea of the overall coverage you’ll need.

In case you find that your dehumidifier is not able to cover the whole house, there are a few things you can do to help it better control the moisture in your home:

1. Run your dehumidifier regularly: The more frequently you run your dehumidifier, the more moisture it will be able to remove from the air. If you’re concerned about your dehumidifier’s coverage area, try running it for longer periods of time during the day and night…

2. Keep windows and doors closed: When you’re running a dehumidifier, it’s important to keep windows and doors closed so that the unit can effectively control the humidity in your home…

3.Use exhaust fans: When you’re cooking or showering, the humidity in your home can quickly rise. In these situations, it’s a good idea to use exhaust fans to help remove moisture from the air…

4.Add a second dehumidifier: If you find that one dehumidifier isn’t enough to keep your whole house comfortable, consider adding a second unit to a particularly humid room or area…

5 Keep the house well-ventilated: Good ventilation is important in any house. Keep your windows open when possible and consider installing a ventilation system…

6.Keep the humidity out: If you live in a humid area, try to prevent excess moisture from entering your home by using door mats, sealing air leaks, and running air conditioners or fans when it is hot and humid outside…

It’s also important to note that there are other things you can do to help dry out your house and prevent moisture-related problems.

 

For example, you can:

1.Clean and maintain your gutters: If your gutters are clogged, they can cause water to seep into your walls, which can lead to mold and other moisture-related issues.

2. Check for leaks: Regularly check for leaks in your roof, walls, and plumbing to make sure that they aren’t causing moisture buildup in your home. If you do find a leak, have it repaired as soon as possible.

3. Fix any drainage issues: Make sure that water is draining away from your foundation and that your gutters and downspouts are working properly to prevent water from pooling near your home.

4. Maintain indoor plants: Indoor plants can absorb a lot of moisture from the air, so if you have many indoor plants, they can help keep your home dry.

Overall, whether or not a dehumidifier can cover your whole house depends on a variety of factors. If you’re concerned about the humidity levels in your home, it’s a good idea to measure the square footage of each room, make note of any particularly humid areas, and consider the specific features of the dehumidifier you’re considering.

 Additionally, there are many other things you can do to help control the moisture in your home and prevent moisture-related problems, such as maintaining your gutters and drainage, checking for leaks, and using a humidifier…

How Do You Know Whether a Room Needs a Dehumidifier?

“How do you know if your room needs a dehumidifier?

One way is to check for signs of excessive humidity such as musty odors, mold growth, or dampness on walls and floors. You can also use a hygrometer to measure the humidity level in the room which should be between 30-50%. If it is consistently above 50%, a dehumidifier may be necessary to reduce the humidity and prevent potential health hazards.”

dehumidifier is moldyHow Do You Know Whether a Room Needs a Dehumidifier?

Humidity is an essential element of our environment, but when it gets too high, it can lead to a whole host of problems. The air in our homes can become stuffy and damp, leading to musty odors, mold growth, and even health problems such as allergies and respiratory issues.

One way to combat high humidity levels is through the use of a dehumidifier. But how do you know if your room needs a dehumidifier? In this article, we’ll explore the signs of excessive humidity and the steps you can take to determine if a dehumidifier is necessary in your home.

One of the most obvious signs of excessive humidity is musty odors. If your home has a damp, musty smell, it’s a clear indication that the humidity levels are too high.
This smell can be caused by mold and mildew growth, which thrive in damp environments. If you notice mold growth on walls, floors, or in other areas of your home, it’s another indication that your humidity levels are too high.

Dampness on walls and floors is another sign of high humidity. If you notice that your walls or floors feel damp to the touch, it could be a sign that there is too much moisture in the air. This can lead to warping of wooden floors, peeling paint, and even structural damage over time.

In addition to these visual cues, you can also use a hygrometer to measure the humidity level in your room. A hygrometer is a device that measures the amount of moisture in the air. Ideally, the humidity level in your home should be between 30-50%. If the humidity level is consistently above 50%, it’s a good indication that you need a dehumidifier in your room.

What size Dehumidifier do I need?


If you’ve determined that your room needs a dehumidifier, you may be wondering how to choose the right one. The size of your room, the climate in your area, and your budget are all factors to consider when choosing a dehumidifier.

A small room in a moderate climate will require a smaller unit than a large room in a hot, humid climate. It’s important to choose a dehumidifier with a capacity that is appropriate for the size of your room.

Another important feature to look for in a dehumidifier is a built-in humidistat. A humidistat is a device that measures the humidity level in a room and automatically turns the dehumidifier on and off to maintain a comfortable humidity level. This can save you energy and money in the long run.

When using a dehumidifier, it’s also important to properly maintain the unit. Be sure to clean the filter regularly, and empty the water tank as necessary. A clogged filter can cause the unit to work less efficiently, and a full water tank can cause the unit to shut off prematurely.

In conclusion, 

Excessive humidity can lead to a variety of problems in your home, from musty odors to mold growth. By keeping an eye out for the signs of high humidity and using a hygrometer to measure the humidity level in your room, you can determine if a dehumidifier is necessary. And with the right dehumidifier and proper maintenance, you can keep your home comfortable and healthy all year round.

To determine if a room needs a dehumidifier, you can check for signs of excessive humidity such as musty odors, mold growth, and dampness on walls and floors. You can also measure the humidity level in the room using a hygrometer, which should ideally be between 30-50%. If the humidity level is consistently above 50%, a dehumidifier may be necessary to reduce the humidity and prevent potential health hazards.

 

 

 

Dehumidifier Energy Use: A Comparison to Other Household Appliances

dehumidifier energy use

Dehumidifier energy use:  a comparison two other household appliances.

Dehumidifiers? Expensive right?  More specifically what you can expect to get in terms of energy use with a dehumidifier?

Dehumidifiers are great appliances for helping you control indoor humidity regardless if it’s in your home at work or any other space.

Dehumidifiers work by drawing in air from the surrounding area, then removing the excess moisture and releasing it back as dry air into the room.

Musty odors, mold and mildew growth, or just having a sticky uncomfortable feeling are all issues that a dehumidifier can help you deal with.

They come in a host of different sizes and styles as to suit your different needs and different sized spaces. So you are certain to find one that suits your specific needs.

But, as you may have heard, dehumidifiers have a reputation of being energy hogs that can take a lot of money to run.

And in certain instances that can be entirely true.

This article is meant to give you an ideal of exactly how much energy you can expect to expend and how that compares to other types of appliances that you are already running in your home.

First of all, the energy use of a dehumidifier depends on the size of the unit and the humidity level of the surrounding environment in which it is being used. Generally, dehumidifiers use more energy than some appliances like a lamp or a small fan, but in comparison, they use much less energy than other appliances like a refrigerator or a clothes dryer.

To get a sense of how the energy use of a dehumidifier compares to other appliances, The easiest way is to look at the appliances energy label or the manufacturer specs. That information will give you an estimate of the appliances use in watts or kilowatts.

Here are some examples of how the energy use of a dehumidifier might compare to other appliances in your home.

1.A small dehumidifier with a 30 pint capacity might use about 250 Watts of power. That is about the same amount of energy that you use when you were running a medium size window air conditioner.

2. A larger dehumidifier that has a capacity range of more like 70 pints might well use 500 Watts of power a day. That would be on the same level as running a space heater throughout the day.

3. And a medium sized dehumidifier that collects about 50 pints The water a day uses around 350 watts of power. That’s about what your clothes dryer uses.

Overall, The energy use of a dehumidifier depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the dehumidifier, how high the humidity is at any time, and how long you use it for.

Here is a few helpful tips to reduce the amount of energy that your dehumidifier uses.

1. Try a smaller unit and set it to a lower humidity level. Then turn it off and it’s not in needed.

2. Use the dehumidifier and conjunction with other measures to reduce humidity.

Such as:

  • Seal up leaky windows and doors
  • Use exhaust fans in areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

This will reduce the amount of work that the dehumidifier has to do which was result in saving energy and lowering the cost of operation.

3. Turn the thermostat down.

The ambient temperature of a room can affect the amount of humidity in your home greatly. High temperatures are often filled with moisture whereas lower temperatures not so much.

4. Purchase a higher efficiency dehumidifier.

Just like any other appliance, dehumidifiers are made in a range of styles that include some that are inexpensive and use higher amounts of energy and dehumidifiers better made to be much more efficient and use less energy.

In closing

Using a dehumidifier is an effective way of controlling the humidity in your home or any other space and it can help alleviate many problems that are caused by high humidity. Problems like musty odors, mold, mildew growth, and other problems that are just annoying like frizzy hair and constant perspiration.

But it’s important that you be aware that dehumidifiers can use a significant amount of energy.

Especially if they are being used too long and too large of a space.

Although there are things you can due to get a better energy performance out of your dehumidifier, things like using a smaller dehumidifier for a smaller amount of time and just turning it off when you’re not using it.

And using it with other humidity lowering methods like using exhaust fans and turning down the thermostat.

Also fixing any leaky doors or windows that might be letting humidity get inside.

If you are just now in the market for the humidifier, you should consider buying a more energy efficient dehumidifier.

Hopefully some of these tips can’t help you save money and still maintain a comfortable humidity level in your home.

We appreciate your time and thank you for using some of it to read this article.

Humidity Blues? 11 Tips for Beating the Heat and Moisture

  1. Fixing moisture sources
  2. Using a dehumidifier
  3. Exhaust fans
  4. Closing windows and doors
  5. Air conditioning
  6. Moisture-absorbing plants
  7. Using a humidistat
  8. Drying laundry outside
  9. Mechanical ventilation system
  10. Cleaning gutters
  11. Proper insulation
 
 
 

  1. Fixing moisture sources


    When you’re trying to prevent high humidity in your home, identifying the source of the humidity is going to be at the top of your list.

Leaks and dampness are often caused by damaged pipes and plumbing.

Gaps or cracks in your foundation or walls are also high humidity points.

As well as any leaks in the roof.

Finding and fixing any of the above problems is The first step to reducing the high humidity in your house.

2. Using a dehumidifier

Other areas in the house that can suffer from high humidity or damp basements in bathrooms.

You may need to consider getting a dehumidifier to remove the excess moisture in these areas.

If you’re not familiar with dehumidifiers, they are machines that work by pulling air out of the environment and use a refrigerant to cool it down.

When the air cools the moisture condenses and either collects it into a tank or follows a hose outside depending on your dehumidifier and setup.

3. Exhaust fans

Another way to lower the humidity in your house is using exhaust fans in the areas where moisture is built up.

There’s a good chance you already have exhaust fans in a couple of the main humidity areas of your house.

Typically the kitchen in the bathroom or outfitted with the exhaust fans because they are identified as high humidity areas.

If you do not already have exhaust fans, they can be installed fairly inexpensively by a professional or you can do it yourself if you like taking on your own projects.

close the door4. Closing windows and doors

When the weather is particularly humid it’s a good idea to keep your windows and your doors closed to prevent any outside moisture from entering the home. The simple thing like keeping the doors shut can help keep the humidity more consistent inside.

5.  Air conditioning

Air conditioners unbeknownst to many people are also good at reducing humidity.
Similar to how a dehumidifier works, an air conditioner pulls the surrounding air and cools it off with refrigerated coils. The moisture usually follows a drain line outside. Running the air conditioner is a great way of reducing the humidity inside when the heat outside is the main perpetrator of the humidity.

6. Moisture-absorbing plants

Moisture absorbing plants are a way to naturally reduce the humidity in the air.

A couple of popular varieties of plants that are known for reducing humidity are snake plant which is also called mother-in-law’s tongue, and peace lilies.

7. Drying laundry outside

The laundry is also another huge source of humidity, especially running the dryer.

Avoid hanging wet clothes in the house and consider adding more ventilation to your laundry room to pull the humidity out when you’re doing laundry.

8. Mechanical ventilation system

A mechanical ventilation system can be used to reduce humidity in your home by exchanging indoor air without door air.

This is a more powerful version of using exhaust fans because it actually exchanges the air instead of just pulling it out.

9. Cleaning gutters

Keeping the gutters cleaned is also a good way of reducing humidity in your house. When gutters get clogged and damaged they can allow water to leak into your home and cause excess moisture.

10. Proper insulation

Insulation is also a great tool for keeping humidity down in your home. Installing proper installation can help prevent moisture from coming in your walls and your ceilings.
Ceiling up any gaps or cracks and adding insulation to your attic is a great way of keeping the humidity in check.

11. Using a humidistat

Use a hygrometer and a humidistat to keep the humidity consistent.
Some of the signs like static electricity and condensation on the windows are obvious signs that your humidity is too high, just going off of your frizzy hair is not exactly the best way to keep the humidity consistent in your home.

Consider purchasing a hygrometer to measure your humidity and a dehumidifier that is outfitted with a humidistat that will turn it on and off as needed to keep your humidity status quo.