What is a Dehumidifier and Why Do You Need One?
Humidity is an inevitable factor in our daily lives. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming and uncomfortable, especially when it affects the air quality in our homes. That’s where a dehumidifier comes in. In this blog post, we will discuss what a dehumidifier is, why you need one, and how to install it.
What is a Dehumidifier?
A dehumidifier is an appliance that reduces the amount of moisture in the air. It works by sucking in humid air and removing the moisture from it. The dry air is then released back into the room. Dehumidifiers come in different sizes and types, ranging from portable units to whole-house systems.
Why You Need a Dehumidifier
Prevents Health Problems
High humidity levels can lead to a variety of health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, and asthma. Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, and when they are present in the air, they can trigger allergies and other health problems. A dehumidifier can help reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Protects Your Home
Excessive moisture can cause damage to your home. It can lead to peeling paint, warped wood, and other forms of water damage. A dehumidifier can help protect your home from water damage by reducing the amount of moisture in the air.
Reduces Energy Costs
When the air is humid, it can feel warmer than it actually is. As a result, you may be inclined to turn up your air conditioner to compensate. A dehumidifier can help reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which can help you feel more comfortable at a lower temperature. This can help you save money on your energy bills.
How to Install a Dehumidifier
Choose the Right Size
The first step in installing a dehumidifier is to choose the right size. A dehumidifier’s capacity is measured in pints per day (PPD), which refers to the amount of moisture it can remove from the air in a 24-hour period. To determine the appropriate size, you need to consider the size of your room and the level of humidity. Field Controls offers three different sizes of whole-house dehumidifiers: a 60 PPD model that covers 11,000 cu. ft., an 85 PPD model that covers 15,000 cu. ft., and a 120 PPD model that covers 21,000 cu. ft.
Find the Right Location
Once you have chosen the right size, the next step is to find the right location. Ideally, you should place the dehumidifier in a central location, away from walls and other obstructions. This will allow it to work more efficiently and remove moisture from the entire room. Any whole house dehumidifiers should be installed by a licensed contractor so they can determine the ideal location for your house and install a vapor barrier.
Plug it in
After finding the right location, the next step is to plug in the dehumidifier. Portable dehumidifiers come with a power cord that can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet. Make sure that the cord is not kinked or tangled, as this can damage the cord and reduce the efficiency of the dehumidifier. If you are having a whole house dehumidifier installed, your HVAC contractor will place it in an ideal location close to a power source and connect it to power for you.
Set the Humidity Level
The final step in installing a dehumidifier is to set the humidity level. Most dehumidifiers come with a built-in humidistat that allows you to set the desired level of humidity. The recommended humidity level is between 30% and 50%. Setting the humidity level too low can cause the air to become too dry, which can lead to other problems, such as dry skin and static electricity.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, a dehumidifier is an essential appliance for anyone looking to improve the air quality in their home. It can help prevent health problems, protect your home from water damage, and reduce energy costs. Installing a dehumidifier is a straightforward process that involves choosing the right size, finding the right location, plugging it in, and setting the humidity level. Anyone that lives in a humid climate should consider installing a dehumidifier.
