When to Use a Dehumidifier
Summertime is in full swing, and that means hot, humid weather is here to stay for a while. While many people may enjoy the summer weather, others find it difficult to deal with the extra humidity. If you are one of those people, then a dehumidifier may be the perfect solution for you.
In this guide, we will discuss when to use a dehumidifier, as well as some of the benefits that come with using one. Stay cool and dry this summer by using a dehumidifier.
How Does a Dehumidifier Work?
Dehumidifiers work by removing excess moisture from the air. This can be helpful in reducing humidity levels in your home, which can make it more comfortable for you to live in.
The energy efficiency of a dehumidifier varies depending on the size of the unit and the humidity level you are trying to achieve. However, most dehumidifiers use less energy than air conditioners, so they can be a cost-effective way to reduce humidity in your home.
There are two types of dehumidifiers: those that use a compressor, and those that use an absorption process.
- Compressor dehumidifiers - Compressor dehumidifiers work by cooling the air, and then passing it over a set of coils. The coils remove the moisture from the air, which is then collected in a tank.
- Absorption dehumidifiers - Absorption dehumidifiers work by using a material that absorbs moisture from the air. The most common type of absorption dehumidifier uses silica gel, which can be found in many products, such as shoe inserts.
When is the Best Time to Use a Dehumidifier?
The best time to use a dehumidifier is when the humidity levels in your home are high. This can be during the summer months, or in areas that experience high levels of humidity all year round. Here are some signs that you may need to use a dehumidifier in your home:
Step 1:
Your skin feels sticky or clammy
When the humidity levels are high, your skin can feel sticky or clammy. This is because there is too much moisture in the air, and your body is not able to sweat properly.
Step 2:
You are experiencing shortness of breath
High humidity levels can also cause shortness of breath. This is because the air is filled with water vapor, making the air slightly more difficult for your lungs to process and respirate.
Step 3:
Your home feels stuffy
A stuffy feeling in your home is another sign that the humidity levels are too high. When there is too much moisture in the air, it can make it feel like you are suffocating.
Step 4:
There is condensation on your windows
If you notice condensation on your windows, this is a sign that the humidity levels in your home are too high. Condensation happens when the air is unable to hold any more water vapor, and it starts to condense on surfaces.
Step 5:
Your clothes are sticking to you
It’s a gross sensation when you can feel the sweat on your skin, and it’s making you itch. Your hair can get frizzy and refuse to hold a style. If this feeling sounds familiar, it might be time to invest in a dehumidifier.
Step 6:
You can see mold or mildew growing in your home
Mold growth and mildew love humid environments. If you start to see mold or mildew growing in your home, it is a sign that the humidity levels are too high and you need to use a dehumidifier.
Take a look at our page that lets you compare the best basement dehumidifiers.
Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier
There are many benefits that come with using a dehumidifier in your home. Here are just a few of the benefits that you may experience:
- Reduced allergens - If you suffer from allergies, using a dehumidifier can help reduce the allergens in your home. This is because mold and mildew thrive in humid environments, as do dust mites. By removing the excess moisture from the air, you can reduce the amount of mold and mildew in your home, as well as dust mite activity, which can lead to reduced allergy symptoms.
- Improved air quality - The quality of the air in your home will also improve when you use a dehumidifier. This is because the dehumidifier will remove the excess moisture from the air, which can help reduce dust mites, bacteria, and viruses.
- Reduced utility bills - Using a dehumidifier can also help reduce your utility bills. This is because the dehumidifier will help to keep your air conditioner from having to work extra hard to keep your home cool and comfortable.
- Comfortable environment - By using a dehumidifier, you can create a more comfortable environment in your home. This is because the dehumidifier will help reduce the humidity levels, which can make the air less stuffy and more breathable.
- Pest control - One unexpected benefit of using a dehumidifier is pest control. Dehumidifiers can help reduce the amount of moisture in the drier air, which will make it difficult for pests, like cockroaches and ants, to survive.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
Does indoor air quality improve with a dehumidifier?
The quality of the air in your home will improve when you use a dehumidifier. This is because the dehumidifier will remove the excess moisture from the air, which can help reduce dust mites, bacteria, and viruses.
2
What relative humidity should I set my dehumidifier at?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. You will need to find the relative humidity level that works best for you and your home. However, most dehumidifiers have a range of 30% to 90%. If you are prone to allergic reactions, it’s also generally best to set it somewhere below 50%.
3
Do you need a dehumidifier if you have air conditioning?
No, you do not need a dehumidifier if you have air conditioning. However, using a dehumidifier can still be beneficial, as it can help reduce the humidity levels in your home and improve the air temperature quality.
4
Does the Environmental Protection Agency recommend dehumidifiers?
The Environmental Protection Agency does not specifically recommend dehumidifiers. However, they do recommend taking steps to improve the air quality in your home, which a dehumidifier can help with.
5
Will a dehumidifier pull moist or wet stains off of walls?
No, a dehumidifier will not pull moist or wet stains off of walls. However, it may help reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which can help prevent these types of stains from forming to begin with.
You need to use a dehumidifier when the humidity levels in your home are too high. This can be during the summer months, or in areas that experience high levels of humidity all year round.
There are many benefits to using a dehumidifier, including reducing allergens, improving air quality, and reducing utility bills. If you think you need a dehumidifier, make sure to purchase one that is the right size for your home. As always, feel free to contact a professional if you are unsure about which dehumidifier is the right one for you.