How to Find a Dehumidifier

Humidity can play havoc in your home as well as in your lungs. On its own it is actually good for us, but the problems arise when excess humidity causes mold and fungi to start growing in homes, throwing spores into the air we breath. A whole range of health problems can arise, as well as damage to the actual structure of our home. Dehumidifiers can stop all that by decreasing the level of moisture in the air and in the physical components of our houses or work places.

Instructions

How to Find a Dehumidifier

1. 

   Dry out your whole house. If you have a moisture problem and notice that your paint is peeling or drywall is damp, then a whole house humidifier will solve most of your problems. Maybe only your basement is damp. If this is the case, using a dehumidifier in your basement will reduce moisture in the rest of the house. If one room is adding too much moisture, selecting a small one room dehumidifier is possible. The size unit you get will be dependent on the square footage of the area you wish to dry out. Aim for a unit that will over-compensate rather than under-compensate for the area required.

2. 

   Listen to the unit. If it runs noisily, you probably won't want it operating in your living room. However, if it is going to be sitting in your basement, then the noise level is not so important.

3. 

   Check to see if it has automatic shutoff. This is pretty standard now, but you certainly do not want it spilling water all over your floor if you neglect to empty the collection bucket. Many people prefer to use the drain hose so it can drain directly into a floor drain and not be interrupted by a full bucket.

4. 

   Make sure it has the energy efficient label on it. If this is something that you are going to be running constantly, it should be as efficient as possible. There will be enough information on the label to determine how much electricity it will draw. Running a dehumidifier can be expensive. There is quite an electricity draw when the compressor kicks on to cool the coils the air flows over.

5. 

   Analyze the different options that a dehumidifier can have. Ask if it has washable filters. There is an amazing amount of dust in the air that will collect in the filter over time. The ability to remove and wash a filter means there is just one less thing you have to purchase. What kind of controls does it have? Digital controls with the option of lowering or raising the humidity percentage of the air are nice. The ability to decide the cycle length when you want it to run for different times, allowing it to defrost if necessary and avoid shutdown is handy. Casters for wheeling it around are important for mobility if necessary. All of these are options that may or may not be important to you, but should be considered.

Tips & Warnings

• If you live in an area that causes you to use air conditioning 9 to 12 months out of the year, an air conditioner should work just fine.