For example, a 500 square foot room that smells musty and feels damp would require a 40-45 pint dehumidifier. Consult a buying guide to determine the proper size for your needs. [2] X Research source Dehumidifiers can accommodate up to 44 pints (20. 8197 liters) per 24 hours in a space as large as 2,500 square feet (232. 257 square meters).
If you need dehumidifying in multiple rooms in your house, you might consider ducting a dehumidifier into your HVAC system instead of buying a single room unit.
Adjustable Humidistat: This feature allows you to control the level of moisture in the room. Set the humidistat to your ideal relative humidity level. Once it reaches this level, the machine will automatically shut off. [4] X Trustworthy Source Energy Star Program run by the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy focused on educating consumers about energy efficiency Go to source Built-in Hygrometer: This instrument reads the humidity level in the room, which helps you accurately set the dehumidifier to maximize water extraction. Automatic Shut Off: Many dehumidifiers will automatically shut off when they reach the set humidity level, or when the water reservoir is full. Automatic Defrost: If a dehumidifier is overly used, frost can easily build up on the machine’s coils. This can damage the components of the dehumidifier. An automatic defrost option will keep the machine’s fan running to melt the frost.
Obvious signs that you need to use a dehumidifier are when the windows are covered in condensation, mold is visible, or you see moist or wet stains on the walls or ceiling. However, you may also need to use one if the room smells musty or feels damp or stuffy. [5] X Expert Source Victor BelavusAir Conditioning Specialist Expert Interview. 6 May 2020. A dehumidifier is necessary if you have experienced flooding in your home. Use a dehumidifier constantly to help remove excess moisture from the air.
Maintaining indoor humidity within the 40%-60% range helps fight respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, because it reduces the number of infectious pathogens in the air. [8] X Expert Source Victor BelavusAir Conditioning Specialist Expert Interview. 6 May 2020.
A dehumidifier works in tandem with air conditioning units, making your AC work more efficiently and keeping the room more comfortable and cool. This can also potentially result in reduced electricity costs.
Desiccant dehumidifiers are effective for cold spaces. If you do need to dehumidify a cold space, you can purchase a dehumidifier specially made for working at lower temperatures.
Aim for about 6-12 inches of airflow space around all sides of your dehumidifier. [11] X Research source
Keep the hose away from electrical outlets and cords to prevent electric shock. Use the shortest hose possible. Someone might trip over a long hose.
Dehumidifiers can also be used on a boat while the boat is moored to a dock.
You may want to hire a professional to install a dehumidifier into your HVAC system.
Always unplug the dehumidifier by pulling the cord at the plug. Never yank on the cord to pull it out. Do not allow the cord to become bent or pinched.
You will be able to set the amount of humidity that you desire on your dehumidifier when you plug it in.
If you are dehumidifying the bathroom, consider where additional moisture can come from. Keep the toilet lid down so that your dehumidifier isn’t drawing water from the toilet.
Unplug your machine before dumping out the water. Monitor your reservoir tray every few hours if it is particularly humid. Check your machine’s manufacturer instructions to determine the approximate frequency for dumping the tray.
Clean this part of the dehumidifier on a regular basis, aiming for at least every 2 weeks. Add an odor-eliminating tablet if there is a smell that remains in the reservoir. These tablets are available at home supply stores, and dissolve in water as the reservoir fills up.
Dust and clean the coils on the dehumidifier every few months to keep them free from dirt that can circulate through the machine. Use a cloth to wipe the dust away. Check the coils for any ice build-up as well. If you find any ice, make sure your dehumidifier is not resting on the floor, as this is where the coolest room temperature will be. Rest it on a shelf or chair instead. [16] X Research source
The air filter is typically located in the grill area of your dehumidifier. Remove it by opening the front panel and taking out the filter. Some dehumidifier manufacturers recommend much more frequent air filter checks, depending how frequently you use the machine. Check your manufacturer’s instructions for specifics regarding your machine.
