Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Dehumidifying System
Generally, high humidity has adverse effects on both air quality and electronics. High humidity levels may damage your electronics and even your clothing. You may also find high humidity uncomfortable.
A dehumidifier can help reduce excess humidity. Like other household appliances, dehumidifiers come in different sizes and capacities. For small rooms, a portable dehumidifier may serve the purpose, while larger rooms may require a more powerful unit.
Is It Essential?
A dehumidifier can be useful if your home has excess humidity. An air conditioner may not adequately dehumidify laundry rooms or basements, so a dehumidifier can help in these areas.
It helps maintain an appropriate relative humidity level in your house. Aim for a relative humidity level between 30% and 50%, adjusting as needed to prevent condensation. Dehumidifiers also release some heat into the room during operation, though the amount depends on the unit and operating conditions.
How a Dehumidifier Operates
A compressor-based dehumidifier draws humid air over cold coils. Moisture condenses on the coils and drips into a collection tank or drains through a hose. Some models include a pump to remove the collected water. The unit then returns drier air to the room.
Types of Dehumidifiers
There are two main types of household dehumidifiers: those with compressors and those that use a desiccant material.
Dehumidifiers With Compressors
Dehumidifiers with compressors offer different moisture-removal capacities depending on the model. To remove humidity, they draw air from the room through a filter and pass it over cold coils. Water condenses on the coils and drips into a collection tank or drains through a hose.
Compressor-based dehumidifiers generally work best in warmer conditions. Check the manufacturer’s minimum operating temperature before using one in a cold room.
Dehumidifiers Without Compressors (Desiccant Dehumidifiers)
These machines use a desiccant material, such as zeolite, to capture moisture from the air. Desiccant dehumidifiers may consume more energy than compressor-based models, depending on the operating conditions.
Desiccant dehumidifiers can suit rooms with inadequate heating because they generally maintain their performance better at lower temperatures. Check the model’s operating temperature range before purchasing.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an essential factor to consider when purchasing a dehumidifier. Look for ENERGY STAR certification and compare energy-efficiency ratings between models. An efficient unit can help reduce electricity costs, though your savings will depend on the model, how often you use it, and your electricity rate.
Noise Level
Manufacturers measure noise levels in decibels (dB). As with an air conditioner, consider how much noise a dehumidifier produces, especially if you plan to use it in a bedroom or living area.
Compare noise ratings at equivalent fan speeds. A unit’s noise level can vary depending on its size, settings, and operating conditions.
Determine the Size You Need
Before purchasing a dehumidifier, measure the width and length of the space you want to dehumidify. Use these measurements to calculate the room’s square footage.
Manufacturers typically express a dehumidifier’s capacity as the number of pints of moisture it can remove in 24 hours under specified test conditions. Room size alone does not determine the capacity you need. Also consider how damp the space is, the temperature, ceiling height, and whether the area has open connections to other rooms.
Use the manufacturer’s sizing guide to choose a suitable capacity for your space and moisture conditions.
Drainage Feature
Continuous drainage allows the unit to remove collected water through a hose without requiring you to empty a tank repeatedly. This feature is particularly useful in areas with persistent high humidity.
Check whether the unit requires a nearby drain below the outlet or includes a pump that can move water upward.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance can help your unit work efficiently and last longer. Dehumidifiers can accumulate dust, which may clog the air filter and reduce performance.
Reduced efficiency can increase energy consumption and electricity costs. Check and clean the filter regularly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Ease of Use
Choose a system that you can operate easily. Controls and features may differ from one brand to another.
Along with ease of use, check the unit’s humidity settings. Many models allow you to select a target relative humidity (RH), though the available range differs by model.
Warranty
A warranty is an important consideration when purchasing an appliance. Ask the manufacturer or seller about the warranty’s terms. Check which defects it covers, how long coverage lasts, and whether any exclusions apply.
Important Points to Keep in Mind
Check the air filter regularly and keep it clean. As mentioned earlier, a dirty filter can reduce performance. To help control indoor humidity, keep downspouts clear and ensure that exhaust fans and vents work properly.
Always unplug the machine before cleaning it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when removing and emptying the water tank.
Final Thought
Excess humidity can cause discomfort, and a dehumidifier can help address it. Before purchasing a unit, compare brands, capacities, features, and operating requirements to find one that suits your space.
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