A dehumidifier is an appliance that removes excess moisture from the air. These devices are often used in areas like basements and crawl spaces, where high humidity levels can lead to mold growth, musty odors and other issues related to poor air quality.
But what exactly does a dehumidifier do and how can it help your home? Here’s why you should consider a dehumidifier for basements and crawl space areas in your home.
What Is a Dehumidifier and What Are Its Benefits for Basements and Crawl Spaces?
A dehumidifier removes excess water from the air. It does this by drawing in humid air, cooling it, removing moisture (AKA water vapor) and blowing out dry air. Dehumidifiers come in all sizes, so you can find one to fit any home or budget.
The primary benefit of using a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces is that it helps reduce excess moisture; which is especially important in these areas that are prone to moisture issues. All of which can lead to mold growth and musty odors.
More: Moisture control is one of several keys to a healthy indoor space. Here are nine ways to combat moisture in your home →By keeping humidity levels low with a dehumidifier, you’ll enjoy clean air in these often-overlooked parts of your home.
Additionally, reducing humidity levels can help improve energy efficiency since moist air takes more energy to heat or cool than dry air.
Finally, using a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces can help protect the structural integrity of your home by preventing condensation build-up on surfaces like walls and floors.
The Different Types of Dehumidifiers and What Might Work Best for You
For larger areas such as basements or crawl spaces, desiccant (chemical absorbent) dehumidifiers provide more effective humidity control than conventional refrigerant models. Desiccants use chemical compounds such as silica gel or calcium chloride to absorb moisture from the air and require very little maintenance. Some models feature digital controls and timers so you can adjust settings as needed.
Portable evaporative dehumidifiers provide spot cooling in rooms or even entire buildings while removing excess indoor moisture at the same time. This type of dehumidifier relies on air passing through a wet filter which cools the air and releases it back into the room—perfect for keeping large spaces comfortable without additional AC units.
Whole-house dehumidifiers efficiently pull moisture out of the air in the entire home. Dehumidifiers are especially ideal for homes in humid climates where traditional refrigerant models aren’t efficient enough to keep up with demand. Whole house units are usually installed into existing HVAC systems for maximum efficiency and cost savings.
Commercial Dehumidifier for Basements and Crawl Spaces
Commercial dehumidifiers come in all shapes and sizes, with some featuring high-powered fans to draw out the most moisture possible.
They also have adjustable humidity settings, auto shut-off capabilities, adjustable fan speeds and filters for improved air quality.
By controlling the humidity level in your basement or crawl space, you can help protect your home from potential damage caused by moisture and reduce the risk of mold growth or other health hazards caused by excessive dampness.
How To Choose the Best Basement Dehumidifier for Your Home
When selecting a dehumidifier, it’s important to consider not only size but also energy efficiency ratings. Larger units tend to consume more energy while smaller ones may be less effective overall.
Top Dehumidifiers in 2023:
- AlorAir is the top overall choice and the top commercial dehumidifier available.
- This list from bob vila lists the top dehumidifier options you can buy online.
- You can find the best energy-efficient dehumidifiers here.
You should also take into account any possible health concerns, such as allergies or asthma issues, before making your decision. Certain models may be better suited for those suffering from respiratory issues than others.
With all these factors carefully weighed, you’ll soon be able to select the right model for your specific needs and take control over indoor humidity levels once and for all!
If you’re having trouble deciding or feeling overwhelmed, we can connect you with a local HVAC professional that’s more than happy to help.
