Basements and other damp areas of your home can cause significant issues if left untreated. Many of us need to rely on a dehumidifier to alleviate moisture problems before they occur. With these simple tips, you can get more efficiency and effectiveness from your dehumidifier.
Empty the reservoir often
One of the most common mistakes is simple to avoid. A damp room might require that you empty your dehumidifier more often than you think. Don’t be afraid to check out the water level daily, and it’s always a good idea to empty the chamber long before it fills to the brim. It’s easier to manage, plus you don’t risk spilling that stinky wastewater on yourself. Another idea? Consider using the drain hose feature if you can easily channel the water flow into a drain.
Location, location, location
Just like real estate, the position of your dehumidifier unit can make all the difference when it comes to performance and efficiency. Make sure to place the unit as centrally and unobstructed as possible. If you are trying to air out a room with doors and windows, it’s a good idea to shut everything to maximize the moisture removal potential. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, always place your dehumidifier unit far away from curtains and furniture.
Control the humidity level
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the relative humidity control if your unit is programmable. Depending on your climate and the seasonal weather, you may want to adjust your unit periodically to reflect the changing conditions. Typically, your relative humidity should be 30-50% but may depend on where you use it and what else sits in that room. Musical instruments, clothing, wood furniture, and other valuables may need more or less humidity than average.
Clean before you dehumidify
Dehumidifiers rely on air currents to get the job done. An unfortunate side effect of their running operation is dust in the air. It’s always a good idea to vacuum and sweep the room before you fire up your unit. This preparation might seem unnecessary, but it will greatly reduce the potential for dust in the air. It will also extend the life of your dehumidifier, and your unit will run with greater efficiency.
Timing is everything
Most modern dehumidifiers perform better in certain conditions over others. It’s counterintuitive, but they often dry out the air more effectively when there is extra moisture present. You can “hack” your dehumidifier by using it right after a shower or drying your clothes next to it. If you live in an area with time-based energy tariffs or smart metering, you might consider running it at night or on weekends to reduce the operating expense.
Hopefully, you can increase the performance of your dehumidifier and save on your energy costs. Excess moisture isn’t just bad for your home – it’s bad for you and your whole family. Mould is very dangerous to human health, and it’s unpleasant to smell and see inside your home. With a quality dehumidifier and these helpful tips, you can quickly improve the quality and safety of your indoor air in damp rooms and basements. Good luck!
