Dehumidifiers

How Do They Work and Who Should Care
Dehumidifiers use a fan to pull air over two sets of refrigerant-filled coils, which pull moisture from the air and drip it into a tank, taking that sticky feeling out of the air! For people suffering from allergies and asthma, be aware that higher humidity levels can breed dust mites, mildew, and mold, which may worsen these conditions, or for the people who just want that additional comfort…enter dehumidifiers.

Location, Location, Location
Noise could be an issue when dealing with dehumidifiers. If you are sensitive to noise or are worried about disturbing the sleep of babies or small children, location is key. A typical dehumidifier will generate between 55 and 67 decibels of noise from a range of 4 feet. By comparison, loud conversations, street traffic and vacuum cleaners produce noise at similar decibel ranges. While low-capacity dehumidifiers tend to be quieter than higher-capacity options, they are also less economical and less efficient.

Energy Standards Certified…Yes Please
An Energy Star certified dehumidifier removes the same amount of moisture as a similarly sized conventional unit, but uses 15% less energy. In fact, the annual energy saved by an Energy Star qualified dehumidifier could power your Energy Star qualified refrigerator for 4 months!

Size Matters
An especially wet basement, or large area, would benefit from a larger model, removing moisture quickly and efficiently in the toughest of situations. For smaller areas or damp spots, a medium capacity model will do the job.

Timing Is Everything
New models appear in late spring and early summer, and most sales and in-store promotions occur from June through August. You might find closeout deals in the fall and early winter.

Existing Problems…Don’t Have Them
Even the best dehumidifier probably won’t work effectively if too much outside moisture seeps into your home. Begin by checking that gutters aren’t clogged and that downspouts are directing rainwater at least 3 feet away from the house. Grade your property so that rainwater flows away from the foundation. Keep the duct for your clothes dryer properly vented to the outside, making sure that it isn’t clogged or leaking. Run an exhaust fan or open a window when showering, and squeegee or wipe down shower walls afterward. When cooking, use a range hood or exhaust fan that vents outdoors. In the basement, check the plumbing for leaks and condensation. For a damp, rather than leaky basement, applying a waterproof coating (when walls are dry) may help. Use silicone caulking to seal small gaps in the foundation, and hydraulic cement for cracks. More extensive problems may require a sump pump, excavating and waterproofing exterior foundation walls, and installing drains outside.