Dealing with high humidity levels in your home can be both uncomfortable and potentially harmful to your health and property. This is where a dehumidifier comes into play as an effective solution. There are a lot of different types of dehumidifiers and you want to know that it is what is best for your home. In this article, learn about dehumidifiers, if they use a lot of electricity, choosing the right one, and reducing humidity in the home.
Let’s learn more about dehumidifiers and help get your house on its way to lowering the humidity!
What is the Purpose of a Dehumidifier?
The purpose of a dehumidifier is to reduce and maintain the level of humidity in the air, primarily for health or comfort reasons. It also helps eliminate musty odors and prevent the growth of mildew. By removing excess moisture from the air, a dehumidifier can help prevent the growth of mold, dust mites, and other allergens, ultimately improving indoor air quality.
Do Dehumidifiers Use a Lot of Electricity?
While dehumidifiers do consume electricity, their usage varies based on size, type, and model. Some may use considerable energy, especially when running continuously. Modern dehumidifiers are designed with efficiency in mind. Energy Star-certified models use 15-30% less energy compared to non-certified models, making them an energy-efficient option.
To improve the efficiency of your dehumidifier, ensure regular maintenance such as cleaning the air filter, positioning it in the right place, and using a unit appropriate for the space size.
What is the Cost of Using a Dehumidifier?
The cost depends on the unit’s power consumption, the local cost of electricity, and how often the device is used. It’s important to choose an appropriately sized dehumidifier for your space to keep costs down. When purchasing a dehumidifier, consider factors like the size of the area you want to dehumidify, the specific features you need, energy efficiency, and whether you prefer a portable or stationary unit.
Can You Reduce Humidity in the Home Without a Dehumidifier?
Yes, you can reduce humidity by ventilating your home regularly, using exhaust fans, taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using plants that absorb humidity.
Alternatives to a Dehumidifier
While dehumidifiers are effective at reducing excess moisture in the air, several alternatives can help manage humidity levels:
- Ventilation: Increase airflow in your home by opening windows and using exhaust fans, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathroom where moisture is commonly generated.
- Air Conditioning: Air conditioners not only cool the air but also remove moisture. Ensure your AC unit is properly maintained for maximum efficiency.
- Desiccants: Materials such as silica gel, calcium chloride, or charcoal briquettes absorb moisture from the air. These can be placed in closets, drawers, or other small spaces prone to dampness.
- Houseplants: Some plants, like Boston ferns and peace lilies, can absorb moisture through their leaves. Placing these around your home can help reduce humidity naturally.
- Baking Soda: It has natural absorbing properties and can be placed in bowls around the home to help soak up moisture.
- Rock Salt: An inexpensive and natural way to dehumidify. Create a dehumidifier using rock salt within a bucket to attract and absorb water from the air.
- Soil Amendments: If you have houseplants, mixing charcoal into the soil can help absorb excess moisture.
Health Risks of High Humidity Levels
High humidity levels can lead to a host of health problems. Moist environments are breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and dust mites, which can trigger allergies and respiratory issues such as asthma. Excessive moisture can also cause heat exhaustion or heatstroke because it hinders the body’s ability to cool itself through perspiration.
Benefits of Maintaining Ideal Humidity Levels
Maintaining ideal humidity levels, typically between 30% and 50%, is crucial for several reasons:
- Healthier Air Quality: It reduces the potential for allergens like mold and dust mites.
- Comfort: Proper humidity levels make the air feel cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- Preservation of Property: It prevents damage to woodwork, electronics, and musical instruments caused by warping or corrosion.
- Energy Efficiency: Your HVAC system can run more efficiently in properly humidified air, potentially lowering energy costs.
- Wellness: It can improve skin hydration and prevent dry mucous membranes, reducing susceptibility to infection
Other Ways Dehumidifiers Can Help In the Home
Now that you know about dehumidifiers and the electricity they use, it is a good time to learn more about dehumidifiers in the home.
One of those ways is humidifiers can cause mold. We know that dehumidifiers are made to control the moisture in the home, but if the moisture is still too high in the home, mold may grow. Also, if the dehumidifier isn’t cleaned well, mold will grow. Maintenance is always key to allow the dehumidifier to work efficiently.
Another is the film on the inside of house windows. This is caused by moisture getting into the home, excess heat, exposure to water, and old age of windows. A dehumidifier can help with the moisture control as well.
Lastly, is the growth of mold in the home. You can ventilate areas, upgrade filters, and also consider not using carpet in the basement. Again, a dehumidifier will come in handy to help control moisture levels.
When to Call a Professional
If there are signs of significant mold growth or if adjusting the humidity does not alleviate allergy symptoms, it might be time to consult a professional to assess the situation. A professional can assess the moisture levels in the home and offer solutions to fix the problem.
Take a look below at the video about simple humidifiers.
Conclusion
In summary, a dehumidifier is an asset for controlling humidity levels in your home, leading to a healthier environment and potentially lower energy costs. Whether you opt for this appliance or explore alternatives, managing indoor moisture is crucial for your comfort and well-being. Call Enviroquest Home Inspections for a mold inspection and complete home inspections in Harrisburg, PA.