Category: Dehumidifiers

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How Does a Dehumidifier Work in a Basement?

How Does a Dehumidifier Work in a Basement?

A dehumidifier is an essential appliance for controlling moisture levels in damp basements. Here’s how a dehumidifier works to reduce humidity and prevent mold growth in basement spaces:

The Refrigeration Process

A dehumidifier works by pulling moist air over a set of cold coils, which causes the moisture to condense and drip into a collection tank. The refrigeration process works like this:

  1. A fan pulls air from the room over a set of cold evaporator coils, which are part of a sealed refrigeration system.
  2. When the warm, moist air contacts the cold coils, the moisture condenses and drips into a collection tank.
  3. The now dehumidified air is reheated and circulated back into the room, while the water collects in the tank for easy disposal.

How Moisture is Removed

The key to a dehumidifier’s operation is cooling the air below its dew point. Here’s a more in-depth look at the dehumidification process:

  • Air contains water vapor which exerts a pressure called vapor pressure. The more water vapor, the higher the vapor pressure.
  • When air is cooled, its capacity to hold water vapor decreases. The temperature at which condensation occurs is called the dew point.
  • By cooling air below its dew point, water vapor condenses from the air onto the cold coils as liquid water.
  • This lowering of vapor pressure reduces the relative humidity of the air.

Dehumidifier Capacity

Dehumidifier capacity refers to the amount of moisture it can remove from the air in a given period, usually measured in pints per day. Capacity depends on:

  • Coil surface area – More coil surface area allows more moisture condensation.
  • Airflow rate – More airflow exposes more air to the coils.
  • Basement size – Required capacity increases with basement square footage.
  • Outside air humidity – More moisture in the air requires more dehumidification.

Choosing a model with suitable capacity for your basement’s conditions is key to effectively controlling humidity.

Maintenance Tips

To keep a basement dehumidifier operating at peak efficiency:

  • Frequently empty the collection tank and clean any filters.
  • Clean dust and debris from the coils with a brush or vacuum.
  • Make sure the air intake and exhaust are clear of obstructions.
  • Have the refrigerant charge checked by an HVAC technician annually.

Proper dehumidifier maintenance helps ensure moisture levels are properly controlled and basements remain dry and comfortable.

FAQ

What size dehumidifier do I need for my basement?

Choose a dehumidifier that can extract at least 10-12 pints of water per 1000 square feet of basement space. Larger capacity is better for very damp basements.

Where should the dehumidifier be placed?

Place the dehumidifier in the dampest part of the basement, at least 6-8 inches from walls. Make sure it has room for air intake and is level for proper drainage.

How do I drain a dehumidifier automatically?

Use a condensate pump or gravity drain kit to automatically drain the dehumidifier into a sink or floor drain rather than emptying the tank.

What humidity level should my basement be?

Ideal humidity range for basements is around 45-50%. Higher than 60% can cause mold/mildew growth.

How much electricity does a basement dehumidifier use?

A typical 50-pint dehumidifier uses around 350-500 watts. Running it 24/7 costs $30-40 per month depending on electricity rates.

What’s the difference between a compressor and desiccant dehumidifier?

Compressor models remove moisture using cold coils. Desiccant types use material that adsorbs water vapor from the air.

Should I get a smart dehumidifier for my basement?

Smart dehumidifiers with humidistats and app controls maintain ideal humidity automatically. They prevent over-drying and save energy.

In Summary

Dehumidifiers control humidity in damp basements by condensing water vapor from the air as it passes over chilled coils. Proper sizing, placement, maintenance and settings optimize the ability to prevent mold and mildew growth. Smart humidistat controls provide added convenience and efficiency. When shopping for a dehumidifier, be sure to consider your specific basement conditions and moisture issues.

For more information, check out this useful resource from the Environmental Protection Agency: How to Control Moisture in Your Home

Can a Dehumidifier Dehydrate You? Everything you need to know

Can a dehumidifier dehydrate you? Everything you need to know

Using a dehumidifier can potentially lead to dehydration if the humidity levels in your home become too low. Here’s what you need to know about dehumidifiers and dehydration.

How dehumidifiers work

Dehumidifiers remove moisture from the air by pulling air through an evaporator coil, which condenses the moisture into water that collects in a tank. The dehumidified air is then released back into the room at a lower humidity level.

Ideal humidity levels

The ideal indoor humidity range for health and comfort is generally between 30-50%. Below 30%, the air becomes too dry and can lead to dehydration symptoms like dry skin, sinus irritation, itchy eyes, and more.

Risk of dehydration

Using a dehumidifier reduces humidity, so there is a risk of dehydration if the humidity drops too low. Factors that increase dehydration risk include:

  • Running a dehumidifier continuously or at very high settings
  • Using a dehumidifier in a small, enclosed space
  • Failing to drink enough water daily
  • Certain health conditions like asthma or allergies

Preventing dehydration

To avoid dehydration from a dehumidifier:

  • Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity and keep levels between 30-50%
  • Run the dehumidifier only when needed to control humidity
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day
  • Use a humidifier to add moisture back if needed
  • Treat any medical conditions contributing to dehydration

Signs of dehydration

Watch for these signs that humidity may be too low:

  • Thirst
  • Fatigue
  • Dry skin or irritated sinuses
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Dark yellow urine

If you experience these, turn off the dehumidifier and drink plenty of water. Add moisture back into the air with a humidifier if needed.

FAQ

Is it bad to run a dehumidifier all the time?

Yes, running a dehumidifier continuously can lower humidity too much and lead to dehydration symptoms. It’s best to use a hygrometer and only run it as needed to control humidity.

What humidity level is too low?

Indoor humidity below 30% is generally considered too low. At this level, dehydration symptoms may occur.

Do dehumidifiers dry out your skin?

Yes, very dry air from a dehumidifier can cause dry, itchy skin. Keeping humidity between 30-50% helps prevent this.

Can dehumidifiers cause sinus problems?

Low humidity can irritate sinuses and worsen sinus symptoms. Use a hygrometer to keep humidity above 30% to help prevent sinus irritation.

Should you run a humidifier and dehumidifier at the same time?

You can, but take care not to over-humidify or over-dehumidify. Monitor humidity levels and adjust each appliance as needed.

What is the ideal humidity for sleeping?

The ideal sleeping humidity is 30-50%. Too dry and it can affect sleep quality and health.

Can dehydration cause anxiety?

Yes, dehydration can cause anxiety symptoms like increased heart rate, dizziness, and restlessness. Be sure to stay hydrated.

The bottom line

Dehumidifiers can potentially lead to dehydration if humidity drops too low. Monitor levels with a hygrometer and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Adjust dehumidifier settings and use a humidifier as needed to keep humidity within a comfortable 30-50%.

Learn more about ideal humidity levels from the EPA.

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.

Dehumidifier Smells Musty?

Does Your Dehumidifier Smell Musty?

Musty is a word that describes the smell of mold.

When your dehumidifier smells musty, it is almost more than certain that it has mold and bacteria growing in the water or the filter and you need to give the whole unit a thorough disinfecting.

Dehumidifiers like their cousin, the humidifier have a predisposition for becoming moldy because of standing water.

And dehumidifiers even more so.

dehumidifier is moldy



Why?

1.  The Dark

The fact that dehumidifiers are collecting water into a basin that is dark makes them more likely to grow mold and bacteria even faster. Low light and dark are essential for mold to grow.

2. Collect airborne contaminants

Dehumidifiers also have the added component of removing airborne germs like bacteria, molds, spores, and pollen from the air which go into the water tank and are allowed to grow and populate till the tank is emptied and cleaned.

3.  Not visible

Unlike a humidifier that usually has a clear basin that you can see the water and get a visual idea of whether it is getting dirty, dehumidifiers collect water into a bucket that you cannot see.

And in this case, out of sight, out of mind, can mean that mold and bacteria can get a stronghold.

With all this in mind you can see that a dehumidifier has an even greater predisposition to growing bacteria and mold inside of the water than a humidifier.

This is a very serious situation when it is not taken care of in a timely manner.

Inhaling bacteria that has grown on water can make you very sick.

Legionnaires disease and Pontiac fever to a lesser degree or diseases that are caused by breathing in water grown bacteria.

Legionnaires disease is responsible for death in many people, especially the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.

Whether you’re talking about a dehumidifier, a humidifier, or an evaporative cooler, these types of appliances are prone to becoming germ farms.

And they all require a stricter attention to keeping them clean because of that fact.

Exception?

There is one caveat to helping you keep a dehumidifier cleaner longer. That is to run a continuous hose from it so that the water does not collect in the dehumidifier but goes outside.

But regardless, even with the continuous hose, they need to be cleaned often to ensure that they are kept safe and healthy.

how to clean a dehumidifier



How to Clean Your Dehumidifier

Routine cleaning of the dehumidifier is essential for keeping it from developing germs and bacteria and also for running efficiently.

The main components that you want to dial in on when cleaning a dehumidifier are:

  • The water basin
  • The filter
  • The coils
  • outside

1. The water basin

Arguably the most important part of cleaning a dehumidifier is keeping the water basin and around it disinfected.

Bacteria can begin to grow in water in as little as 48 hours. And since dehumidifiers have all the criteria; low light, dust, and moisture, for mold to flourish,
Special attention should be given to the water basin to ensure that it is kept clean and disinfected thoroughly and often.

Fortunately it’s not a tough job.

a. unplug the machine

No use risking the chance of being shocked regardless.

To clean the water basin on your dehumidifier, simply take the basin off and dump the water out.

Using cleaning vinegar, which is a little more acidic than regular white vinegar, completely scrub out the basin and rinse it.

Add a couple of cups of vinegar back into the basin and fill it up. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes.

Dump the vinegar out, rinse it out with warm water and allow it to completely dry.

2.  The filter

Dehumidifiers are almost identical to window air conditioners in their mechanics.
And if the filter is allowed to get dirty enough to inhibit the airflow, the machine will not do its job properly.

To clean the filter, simply pull it out and knock off the loose material into the trash.

To take a cleaning brush and scrub the rest of the debris out of the filter.

Knock it off again, into the trash.

At this point, if the air filter is particularly dirty, canned air can be used to blow the filter out even further.

And if it’s still grimy after that, wash it under the faucet using warm water.

If you end up having to clean the filter with water, be careful to let it dry completely before you reinsert it.

Since water is one of the components of mold taking root.

3. The coils

The coils are less likely to be dirty and are not considered an essential part of routine maintenance. But they can still get dirty over time.

If the coils on your dehumidifier or window AC get dirty. The machine will not run as efficiently and use more energy.

Dirty coils can also cause the machine to freeze up quicker.

To clean the coils, a can of coil cleaner can make the job very easy.

Coil cleaner foams up similar to bathroom cleaner. Simply spray the coil cleaner all over the coils, let it foam up and sit.

After it has sat for the amount of time that the direction says, wash the coils off with warm water, preferably with the spray bottle, and let it completely dry.

4. Outside

Wipe the outside thoroughly with cleaning vinegar. Sure to get into the nooks and crannies where water can get access to and eventually cause bacteria to grow on the outside of the machine.

Recap

Does the dehumidifier smell musty?

A musty smell is almost always certainly an indication that there is mold somewhere in the vicinity.

When you smell that mustiness coming from your dehumidifier, then the most logical reason is that it has mold and bacteria growing or starting to grow in the water or even around the water basin.

Since dehumidifiers pull moisture out of the air that is filled with bacteria and allergens like mold spores and dust mites,

The moisture that is collected inside of the dehumidifier has a chance of developing mold and bacteria even faster than just standing water on its own.

And you couple that with the fact that it is dark inside of the basin, you have all the ingredients for mold and bacteria to take root faster.

Bacteria growing on standing water can be dangerous to breathe.

Legionnaires disease is caused by inhaling a certain bacteria that has grown on water.

So keeping the water basin emptied and thoroughly cleaned on a dehumidifier is very important.

Fortunately it’s a job that you can do with some household items like a scrub brush and some vinegar.

   And if the area where you have your dehumidifier can accommodate it, you can skip the water basin all together and hook up a continuous hose. So that the water coming into the machine goes outside instead of collecting into a bucket.

 
 

Can You Run a Dehumidifier with the Window Open?

Should you run a dehumidifier with a window open?

 

A dehumidifier requires that a room be sealed off, at least windows and doors closed to function optimally. Letting outside air in while the dehumidifier is running dilutes the process and introduces new moisture that increases the amount of energy it takes and decreases the effectiveness.

Opening the window in lieu of running the dehumidifier is an option if the humidity inside the room is higher than the humidity outside.

For instance, you’ve recently taken a steamy shower and you want to air out the room. Opening the window or turning on the extraction fan is a better option than running a dehumidifier.

Other similar indoor humidity problems can be related to running an evaporative air cooler or simply washing clothes and dishes.

These are usually temporary humidity problems that can be alleviated by letting some fresh air in.

But typically the indoor humidity is relative to the outdoor humidity. A rainy season outside will cause the indoor humidity to rise as well.

Hot humid temperatures outside will gravitate inside.

“Opening a window while you’re using the dehumidifier when the outdoor humidity is as high or more than the indoor humidity, you have zero chance of decreasing the humidity indoors with a dehumidifier.”

Indoor humidity problemsIn fact you will get a better result out of your dehumidifier if you take steps to seal up the windows and doors even further while you’re using a dehumidifier.

Most indoor humidity problems are related to the outdoor humidity affecting the indoor humidity levels.

Basements for instance, are usually built directly next to dirt that has a heavy moisture content. That is why the basement usually seems damp compared to other rooms.

Concrete walls can develop cracks where moisture can seep in from the ground and depending on your style a basement, pipes can be exposed and introducing moisture if there is any leakage.

Other areas like crawl spaces beneath the house can be continuously moist which has a direct effect on the moisture level inside of the house because of moisture coming up beneath the floor.

  A typical problem with crawl spaces is water in the yard that has etched out a ravine running to underneath your house. Broken gutters or dirty stopped up gutters can also be a cause of water seeping under the house instead of being directed out from the house.

Crawl space encapsulation is a process that uses a barrier to keep moisture from the ground from keeping moisture that is in the ground from humidifying your house through the floor.

Crawl space encapsulation can also include putting a large industrial dehumidifier beneath the house to extract the moisture.

But if the indoor humidity is much higher than the outdoor humidity, then you need to locate the source of the moisture and take steps to stop it.

Anywhere you have a leak, you have extra moisture in your home. A broken pipe, gaps in your windows or doors, or a leaky ceiling can all be a continuous source of humidity inside the home that if not fixed will cause the humidity to be high indoors.

  And running a dehumidifier even though it may be necessary to maintain a good comfort level in the meantime is only an expensive Band-Aid till you get the problem fixed.

Indoor humidity problems.

 

Humidity can do a number on the indoor structure of your house.

Window sills can warp and rot, wood flooring can expand as well as warp as well become creaky.

Ceiling texture can start cracking and flaking off and wallpaper can start coming loose.

And though very important, more important is the fact that your air quality can be compromised and cause allergies, headaches, fatigue, and even other more serious symptoms if mold has been allowed to take root and become part of your ambient air makeup.

How do you know?

How do you measure the humidity in your home?

Of course humidity is a relative term that means one thing to a person living in Arizona and quite another thing for a person living in Florida.

Certain climates especially if they are near the ocean are going to naturally have a higher level of humidity in the air.
And your personal comfortability meter is going to be a lot higher.

But if you are used to living in a dry climate and you take a vacation to the ocean, you may be completely overwhelmed by the humidity level.

So comfortability is not necessarily the best measuring stick for what is acceptable indoor humidity.

To be more exact and to keep an indoor relative humidity that is not only healthier but better for your home, you have to have a way to measure it.

The hygrometer is a gauge that usually comes in the form of a digital thermo hygrometer that you can install on a wall to be able to keep up with your indoor relative humidity level.

These little tools are inexpensive and can be placed in multiple locations throughout your house as a way to gauge where the higher humidity is coming from.

How do you measure the humidity in your homeWhat should the humidity level be inside your house?

 

The national library of medicine says that most health issues related to humidity can be curbed by keeping the indoor relative humidity between 40 and 60%.

The homeowners association says that the humidity should be between 30 and 60%.

So the ideal humidity to try to achieve inside the home is about 50%.

Dehumidifiers typically come with a built-in hygrometer and humidistat to gauge the indoor humidity so that the machine will run until the set humidity is reached.

Humidifiers can be purchased with built-in hygrometers and humidistats as well when the indoor humidity has dipped below 30 to 40%.

Recap

Can you use a dehumidifier with the window open?

To increase the effectiveness of a dehumidifier, close any windows and doors to the room that you are trying to reduce the moisture in.

Since the outdoor humidity is generally one of the main causes for excessive humidity indoors, opening a window with the dehumidifier running will only cause a never-ending cycle of extracting humidity from the air. And cause the energy hog dehumidifier to be even more expensive to run.

  If on the other hand, the fresh air outside is dryer than the air inside, then opening the windows in lieu of running the dehumidifier could be the better option.

Extraction fans in the bathroom and kitchen as well as the washroom will reduce the humidity without running a dehumidifier as a necessity also.

If the indoor relative humidity is consistently higher than the outdoor humidity, then you are more certainly looking at an indoor problem such as a leak from a pipe.

Fixing the issue is the only solution at that point.

If the outdoor humidity is continuously high then reducing the exposure indoors by sealing the house and fixing any issues with moisture and water humidifying from beneath the house is the key.

Maintaining an indoor relative humidity between 40 and 60% is the main objective.
You can use a hygrometer and even place them throughout your house to measure your humidity and gauge where the higher humidity levels are sitting in your home.