A whole house dehumidifier is an air-conditioning system designed to remove excess moisture from the air for residential or commercial applications. It removes humidity from the entire space, not just one room.
It can be used to reduce mold, mildew, and other allergens from the air and also help reduce dust, odors, and any problems associated with high levels of humidity in the air. The dehumidifier works by drawing in air from the outside and filtering it through a fan and evaporator coil, where moisture is extracted.
The cooled and dehumidified air is then returned to the space, creating a healthier environment. Whole house dehumidifiers come in various types and sizes, and many models also feature a humidistat to help regulate the humidity level.
In addition, some dehumidifiers can be controlled with a smartphone or other home automation system, allowing you to monitor and adjust the humidity levels in your environment more easily.
How big of a whole house dehumidifier do I need?
When determining the size of dehumidifier that you need for your home, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the square footage of your home. Generally, a 5,000 square foot home requires a 70 pint dehumidifier, while a 2,000 square foot home requires a 30 pint dehumidifier.
Additionally, consider the climate and weather of your area. If you live in a rainy or humid climate, you will likely need a larger capacity dehumidifier. Consider the insulation of your home as well.
Poorly insulated homes require a larger dehumidifier than homes that are well insulated. Finally, consider how damp or wet areas of the home are, as these areas will require a more powerful dehumidifier to address the moisture issue.
An HVAC contractor or indoor air quality professional can help you determine the size of dehumidifier that you need by evaluating the moisture in your home.
Do dehumidifiers use a lot of electricity?
Dehumidifiers do use electricity, but the amount is dependent on the size, model, and usage of the unit. A typical dehumidifier will use about 750 watts when in use and a few watts when in standby mode.
It is important to note that a bigger dehumidifier will use more electricity than a smaller one, so it is important to consider the size of the unit you need when purchasing.
In terms of efficiency, some dehumidifiers are Energy Star certified, which means they use up to 25% less energy than regular models. Additionally, some models have a humidistat feature, which allows them to automatically turn themselves on and off based on the amount of humidity detected in the room, thus saving electricity.
To get an accurate estimate of the amount of electricity a dehumidifier would use, you should consult the manufacturer’s manual or the product page. It will provide the wattage of the unit and the recommended room size for optimal usage.
Can you buy too big of a dehumidifier?
Yes, you can buy too big of a dehumidifier. Generally, when selecting the size for your dehumidifier, it is important to consider the size of the space where you’re using it. If the dehumidifier is too large, it will not cycle off as frequently which can lead to wasted energy and raise your utility bills.
Additionally, purchasing a dehumidifier that is too large can draw in too much moisture at one time and make it difficult to regulate the humidity levels. Some areas with mild humidity issues may need a smaller, portable unit while large areas with more moisture issues will require a larger, more powerful unit.
For best results, use the manufacturer’s guidelines to determine the appropriate size for the space.
How many square feet does a 70 pint dehumidifier cover?
The exact number of square feet a 70 pint dehumidifier can cover will depend on a variety of factors, including the conditions in which the dehumidifier is being used. Generally speaking, most 70 pint dehumidifiers are recommended for room sizes up to 1000-2000 square feet.
However, since larger spaces and higher levels of moisture in the air can decrease the efficacy of a dehumidifier, it is important to take into consideration the overall humidity levels, airflow, and insulation of the space when determining how many square feet a 70 pint dehumidifier can adequately cover.
Additionally, if the coverage area contains multiple rooms, a slightly larger unit might be appropriate to ensure that the entire area is maintained within desired humidity levels. Ultimately, it is always best to contact your local dehumidifier retailer or a qualified HVAC technician to ensure you are able to select the correct-sized dehumidifier for your specific environment.
What size dehumidifier do I need for 1200 square feet?
When selecting a dehumidifier for a space of 1200 square feet, it is important to consider several factors such as the environment in the area, the amount of moisture present, and the desired humidity level.
Generally an area of 1200 square feet would require a 70-pint dehumidifier to effectively reduce humidity levels. If there is an excessive amount of moisture in the air or the desired humidity level is especially low, then a larger capacity dehumidifier should be chosen.
It is important to note that humidity levels over 50% are considered poor for home health and can cause damage to wood and fabrics and promote the growth of mold and mildew. Additionally, dehumidifiers for larger areas will likely require empty pan reservoirs more frequently or continuous drainage.
If the area is especially humid, such as in a basement or garage, a 150-pint or larger capacity dehumidifier may be needed to effectively reduce humidity levels and provide adequate air circulation.
Do I need two dehumidifiers in my basement?
It depends on the size of your basement and the level of humidity. If your basement is small, a single dehumidifier may be sufficient. However, for larger spaces, two dehumidifiers may be necessary to effectively reduce the moisture and eliminate any musty smells.
Also, the severity of the humidity level should be taken into consideration. If the humidity is very high, multiple dehumidifiers may be needed to bring it down to a healthy level. Ultimately, it is best to assess the moisture level with a hygrometer to determine if one or two dehumidifiers are needed.
How much is a dehumidifier?
The cost of a dehumidifier can vary depending on its features, size, and brand. Generally, small portable models start at around $50, while whole-house models range from $200 to $500. Higher end models that are larger or come with additional features such as digital controls, will cost more.
Desiccant dehumidifiers, which use a chemical process to absorb moisture, cost more than refrigerant dehumidifiers, which utilize a refrigerant-based system. Additionally, the cost of a dehumidifier may increase or decrease depending on whether additional items such as hoses, filters, and other accessories are included.
What is the dehumidifier for the whole house?
A whole house dehumidifier is an integrated device that pulls moisture from the air in your entire home to improve air quality, reduce mold and mildew buildup, and prevent structural damage caused by excessive moisture.
It is designed to run consistently, usually in conjunction with your air conditioning or heating system, and can be linked to a humidity-controlled switch, usually located in your basement or crawlspace.
The dehumidifier extracts the moisture and pulls it outside or through a designated drain hose. Dehumidifiers are an effective way of not only controlling moisture levels throughout your home, but also reducing other allergens, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
They work best in crawlspaces, basements, and other areas that are prone to excess moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Not only do these devices help to reduce mold and mildew, they’re also beneficial to those with asthma and other respiratory issues.
How much does it cost to add a dehumidifier to HVAC?
The cost to add a dehumidifier to HVAC vary depending on several factors such as the size of the system, the type and brand of the unit, and the complexity of the installation. Generally, the range for a new installation starts at around $800 to $2,000 or more.
Along with the cost of the unit itself, installation usually requires additional costs for materials and labor. The total cost also depends on the sizes and types of ducts, electrical wiring, and weatherproofing required to properly install the dehumidifier.
Installing a dehumidifier to an existing HVAC system is usually cheaper than installing a new system, as it requires fewer new parts. Replacing an existing humidifier or simply adding a dehumidifier may cost around $500 – $1,500.
Additionally, many factors can affect the cost of installation such as the type and condition of existing ducts and vents, the size of the area to be dehumidified, and the required materials and labor.
The best way to be sure of the cost of a dehumidifier installation is to contact a professional HVAC installer. They can help you assess the best system for your needs and provide a quote for the installation.
How do I know if my basement is too humid?
While it may not be possible to visually tell if the humidity in your basement is too high, there are some quick ways you can test it. The first is to purchase a hygrometer, which measures the levels of humidity in your home.
Place the hygrometer in the affected area and wait an hour or two for the reading to indicate the humidity level. If the reading is above 60%, then your basement is too humid.
Another way to test the humidity levels in your basement is to check for condensation on the walls. Look for condensation around any windows and on the walls. If condensation is present, it is likely that the humidity is at a dangerous level.
Finally, use your nose to test the humidity levels in the basement. If you notice any musty or damp smells, this is an indication of high humidity levels. If any of these signs are present, then taking action to reduce the humidity levels in your basement is important.
Will a dehumidifier work for multiple rooms?
Yes, a dehumidifier can be used to help manage humidity levels in multiple rooms. Depending on the size and design of your house or other space, you may need multiple dehumidifiers. When determining which size and type of dehumidifier is suitable for multiple rooms, be sure to consider the square footage of the area, the existing humidity levels, and whether you’re trying to achieve a comfortable environment for humans or humidity control for a specific purpose, like reducing moisture levels to prevent damage to items stored in the space.
Selecting multiple dehumidifiers with different capacities and settings can help you achieve the desired effect. For instance, you could pair one large capacity dehumidifier with one or more mid- or low-capacity units designed to target specific areas.
If you have multiple connected areas, consider either mounting the machines to the walls or obtaining wheeled units for ease of mobility. Very large spaces may benefit from installing a dehumidification system, like a built-in HVAC dehumidifier.
You may also want to consider using portable dehumidifying solutions in areas like basements or small rooms, as these can be easily moved from one room to another. Dehumidifiers tend to require very little maintenance and can be a relatively inexpensive option to help combat high humidity levels in multiple rooms.
Where is the place to put a dehumidifier in your house?
The best place to put a dehumidifier in your house is in the area of your home that has a higher relative humidity level. In general, basements, laundry rooms, and bathrooms tend to have higher humidity levels due to their location and the activities that typically take place in these areas.
To determine the exact area within your home that needs a dehumidifier, you should use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity levels. You should focus on placing the dehumidifier in the area or areas of your home with the highest relative humidity levels.
Avoid placing the unit close to any vents or other sources of warm air that will likely increase the humidity level. Additionally, the dehumidifier should be placed away from any direct sources of sunlight or other heat sources to ensure the unit is operating effectively.
Is it better to buy an oversized dehumidifier?
It depends on your individual needs. If you need to dehumidify a large space and want to do it quickly, then an oversized dehumidifier might be a good investment. However, oversized dehumidifiers can be more expensive, louder and consume more energy, so you will want to consider these factors when making your decision.
Additionally, if you do decide to buy an oversized dehumidifier, be sure to consider the size of the space to be dehumidified so that your dehumidifier is not too big for the room. Finally, be sure to regularly maintain and clean the dehumidifier so that it is functioning optimally.