Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our products and services.
What is a dehumidifier, and how does it work?
A dehumidifier is a device designed to remove excess moisture from the air, helping to reduce humidity levels. It works by drawing in humid air, cooling it to condense the moisture, and then releasing the dry air back into the room.
What size dehumidifier do I need?
Determining the right size dehumidifier for your needs depends on several factors including the size of the area you want to dehumidify and the humidity level in that area. Here are some guidelines to help you choose:
1. Room Size
Small rooms (up to 300 sq. ft.): Ideal for bathrooms, small bedrooms, and closets.
Capacity: 20-30 pints
Medium rooms (300-500 sq. ft.): Suitable for larger bedrooms, kitchens, or small basements.
Capacity: 30-50 pints
Large rooms (500-1,000 sq. ft.): Perfect for large living rooms, large basements, or open floor plans.
Capacity: 50-70 pints
Very large spaces (over 1,000 sq. ft.): Best for entire homes, large basements, or commercial spaces.
Capacity: 70+ pints
2. Humidity Levels
Slightly Damp (50-60% humidity): Areas where you notice dampness during humid seasons.
Add 5 pints to the recommended capacity for the room size.
Moderately Damp (60-70% humidity): Areas with visible dampness and a musty odor.
Add 10 pints to the recommended capacity for the room size.
Very Damp (70-85% humidity): Areas with wet spots on walls and floors.
Add 15 pints to the recommended capacity for the room size.
Wet (85%+ humidity): Areas with standing water, water leakage, or frequent mold and mildew.
Add 20-25 pints to the recommended capacity for the room size.
Example Calculation
If you have a large basement (800 sq. ft.) that is very damp (70-85% humidity):
Base capacity for 800 sq. ft. = 50-70 pints
Additional capacity for very damp conditions = +15 pints
Total recommended capacity: 65-85 pints
Other Considerations
Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star-rated dehumidifiers for better energy efficiency.
Drainage Options: Some dehumidifiers come with continuous drainage options, which can be useful for very damp areas.
Noise Level: Consider the noise level if you plan to use the dehumidifier in a living area.
Portability: If you need to move the dehumidifier between rooms, look for models with wheels and handles.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right size dehumidifier that will effectively control the humidity levels in your space.
What should I set my dehumidifier at?
Setting your dehumidifier to the right humidity level is important for maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment. Here are some general guidelines for setting your dehumidifier:
Ideal Humidity Levels：
45-50%: This is generally considered the optimal indoor humidity level for most homes. It provides a comfortable environment and inhibits the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites.
30-40%: During colder months, you might want to set the humidity level slightly lower to prevent condensation on windows and other surfaces.
50-60%: In very warm or humid climates, you might need to set the dehumidifier a bit higher, but try to keep it below 60% to prevent mold growth.
Specific Recommendations
Basements and Crawl Spaces: These areas are prone to higher humidity levels. Aim for a setting of 30-50%.
Living Areas and Bedrooms: Generally, a setting of 40-50% is comfortable and effective.
Bathrooms and Laundry Rooms: These areas often experience higher humidity due to showers and washing machines. A setting of 40-50% should be sufficient.
Steps to Set Your Dehumidifier
Initial Setting: Start by setting the dehumidifier to 40-50%. This is a good middle-ground setting to begin with.
Monitor and Adjust: Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in the room. Adjust the settings accordingly if needed.
Seasonal Adjustments: Adjust the settings based on the season. In winter, you might set it lower (30-40%), and in summer, you might need it slightly higher but still below 60%.
Considerations
Energy Efficiency: Setting your dehumidifier at a slightly higher humidity level (e.g., 50% instead of 40%) can save energy.
Health Concerns: Very low humidity levels (below 30%) can cause dry skin, irritated respiratory passages, and static electricity. Very high levels (above 60%) can encourage mold growth and dust mites.
Summary
For most homes, setting your dehumidifier to maintain a humidity level between 45-50% is ideal. Adjust the settings based on specific room conditions and seasonal changes to achieve the best comfort and efficiency.
How to dehumidify a basement?
Dehumidifying a basement involves addressing moisture sources, improving ventilation, using a dehumidifier, sealing cracks, and employing moisture-absorbing materials. Regular maintenance and monitoring are key to keeping your basement dry and free from mold. By following these steps, you can create a healthier and more comfortable basement environment.
Why should I use a dehumidifier?
Using a dehumidifier can help prevent mold and mildew growth, reduce allergens, and improve the overall comfort of your home by maintaining optimal humidity levels. It can also protect your furniture, electronics, and other belongings from moisture damage.
Does a dehumidifier cool a room?
A dehumidifier’s primary function is to reduce the humidity levels in a room, which can make the environment feel cooler and more comfortable. By removing excess moisture from the air, a dehumidifier can help your body cool itself more efficiently, as lower humidity levels enhance the evaporation of sweat from your skin. This can create a sensation of coolness even if the actual room temperature hasn’t changed significantly.
However, it’s important to note that most dehumidifiers emit a small amount of heat during their operation. This is because the process of removing moisture involves the air passing over hot coils, which can result in a slight increase in the ambient temperature of the room.
In summary, while a dehumidifier will lower the humidity and make you feel cooler, it may also raise the room temperature slightly due to the heat generated during its operation.
Is dehumidifier water distilled and can I drink it?
Dehumidifier water is not safe to drink because it may contain harmful contaminants, bacteria, and chemicals. While it is not suitable for consumption, it can be used for various non-potable purposes around the house. For drinking water, always use water from a safe and clean source. It is however great to use for watering plants.
Why does my dehumidifier blow hot air?
Dehumidifiers blow hot air as a by-product of the moisture removal process, which involves both cooling and heating phases. The heat generated by the compressor and fan is expelled along with the processed air. This is a normal operation and helps improve the dehumidifier’s efficiency in maintaining optimal humidity levels.