Buying Tips for Basement Dehumidifiers

A lack of air moisture (low humidity) or too much moisture is responsible for causing discomfort and various health problems. The recommended relative humidity level is between 40 - 60 percent. High humidity increases the growth of mold, mildew, dust mites, microbes, insects, and other pests in the house.

Humid air is also not favorable for getting sound sleep or for laundry drying. Home dehumidification refers to removal of excess water vapor or moisture from the air in order to reduce the humidity level inside the house. In other words, dehumidifiers keeps the rooms dry and comfortable.

In extremely humid conditions, adequate dehumidification is necessary to maintain healthy environmental conditions. Considering this, home dehumidifiers are an essential home equipment, especially in areas with humid climatic conditions.

Also in comparison to other rooms, the basement is darker and colder, which are favorable factors for the growth of microbes. As these rooms lie below the ground level, these rooms are sensitive to dampness and humidity.

Like other dehumidification machinery, a basement dehumidifier is installed with a fan, heating pump, and cooling coil. The fan draws in the moisture from air over the heat pump, condenses the water vapor to water through the cooling coil and collects it into a holding tank.

The collected water is then removed through a drain hose installed in the unit. In case drain hose is not installed in the machinery, the collected water should be removed manually.

These equipment are available in a wide variety of designs and technologies.

These machines are available in two types, namely, portable unit, and installed unit. Portable unit can be easily set on your own, whereas installed unit should be fixed by a qualified professional.

It should be borne in mind that the effectiveness of the portable variant is lesser than that of an installed one. Regarding the cost, the portable unit is comparatively cheaper than an installed unit.

While buying one, make sure you examine the drying capacity, operating temperature, and energy efficiency according to the requirements of the room. In addition, the size of the appliance should be such that it can fit in the space properly.

• Always opt for those which have a built-in on/off humidistat, so that you can set the humidity level as per the requirements of the room. Usually an indicator light is used for easy monitoring of the humidity level.
• Another important feature is the operating temperature.

• Some machines do not function when the temperatures falls down to a certain level. For use in every season, you can select one that operates even at low temperatures.
• Some of the essential added features, are a built-in pump for automatic draining of water. With such a feature, there is no need to empty the buckets manually.

• Proper maintenance is a basic requirement for optimum performance, energy efficiency, and durability of the machinery.
• Some maintenance tips are, changing the water, cleaning internal filters, and monitoring the coils (at least once in every four months).

These tips about basement dehumidifiers should help you to understand the various factors that you need to look at, and make an informed decision while purchasing one.