Basement Dehumidifiers

Different Basements Have Different Needs

Because of its location, the basement of a home may be the area most prone to moisture and humidity. You can solve the problems caused by excess humidity through waterproofing, but it is also recommended that you purchase your own basement dehumidifier.

To put it simply, the dehumidifier can extract the moisture from the air, thus lowering its humidity levels. Through this, molds and fungi will be discouraged to grow.

This is how it works when you look inside the dehumidifier: a fan will push moist air inside the machine, first passing through a cold coil made of metal. Cooled air cannot hold moisture as effectively, thus the moisture is released and collected into a basin. The moisture-free air will then exit the machine through the warm coils, also made of metal, to restore it to its original temperature.

There are some things you need to consider before getting your own dehumidifier. First, consider the size of the room you’re putting it in. Studies have evaluated the different brands, and it showed that Santa Fe humidifiers work best for areas that have a square footage of 1,500 to 2,500.

For basements that are 800 to 1,100 square feet, the Millennium low-temp dehumidifier is the most recommended. They come at relatively lower prices and can bring moisture down to around 50 degrees.

According to experts, while larger dehumidifiers may require more energy when they’re started, they can prove to be more efficient in the long run because they can eliminate moisture more quickly. Small units, on the other hand, may use less electricity once started, but they need to run for longer periods of time.

When buying a dehumidifier, you may also need to decide between a portable and a permanent machine. Portable units are recommended for homes that do not experience humidity throughout the year. When not used in the basement, you can move it to different parts of the house. For places that are usually cold and damp, the dehumidifier as a permanent fixture is more suitable. Be sure to empty the reservoir of water when the machine indicates that it is almost full.

The air dehumidifier also needs to be maintained so that it can use energy more efficiently. The unit’s coils might get dirty with dust and smoke over time, hampering the processes of the machine. Clean them regularly. Check the guarantees and warranties of your units. Some machines offer up to one-year guarantee for the whole unit, and a 5-year warranty on selected parts like the compressor, evaporator, and condenser.