Moisture Problems? Buy a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are very beneficial during the summer months when humidity is high and dampness abounds. Moisture problems in a basement or other naturally damp areas of a home can cause a considerable amount of damage including mold and mildew, and mold and mildew causes musty odors. A dehumidifier is a worthwhile investment if you have noticed moisture or odor problems in your basement, so consider buying a dehumidifier to help remove dampness and odors caused by excess moisture.

What to Look for When Purchasing a Dehumidifier

If you’re in the market for a dehumidifier, there are many considerations to be aware of. Dehumidifiers are not all alike, and some don’t have the options necessary for efficiency and dependability. Don’t buy the lowest price dehumidifier available. Spend a little more, and to avoid problems, buy a dehumidifier that will preform as well as expected.

Look for a dehumidifier that defrosts automatically so the coils don’t become covered in frost. Most dehumidifiers these days have this feature, but be aware of all the options before making a final decision. Also, the dehumidifier you chose should have a switch that automatically shuts the unit off when the container is full. For efficiency, the dehumidifier should also have a control that allows it to run only when necessary. If humidity and moisture isn’t present, the unit shouldn’t be running.

Dehumidifier Efficiency

Besides having built-in options and controls to avoid overflows and wasted electricity, a dehumidifier should also have the option of automatic drainage. This allows you to hook up a hose to the container so the dehumidifier can flow into a basement drain or sump pump pit. The dehumidifier won’t run efficiently if it automatically has to shut down because the container wasn’t emptied.

If you want your dehumidifier to run as efficiently as possible, keep the windows closed. Just as you wouldn’t run an air conditioner or furnace with the windows open, a dehumidifier also cannot preform properly with the windows open.

It’s also important to keep your dehumidifier clean. It won’t work efficiently if the coils are dirty. In addition, the evaporator fan can become clogged with dirt and dust as well, and to avoid operational problems, the unit should be cleaned at least once a year.

Cleaning Your Dehumidifier

As with any electrical appliance, it’s important to unplug your dehumidifier before cleaning. After unplugging the unit, allow the coils to dry completely. Help the coils dry a little faster by wiping them with a rag. After the coils are completely dry, attach a narrow wand or similar attachment to a vacuum cleaner, and vacuum the coils and evaporator fan. In addition, vacuum any other visible locations to keep your dehumidifier running smoothly and efficiently all summer long.