Investing in our home and health can have extremely beneficial results, especially long-term. While it may seem hard to put forth the money and research in the beginning, adding things to increase the air quality and reduce the risk of mildew and mold development will increase health and safeguard your home and property. In this article we will examine what a dehumidifier is, what it can do for your home and health, and if it might be a worthwhile expenditure for your situation.
A dehumidifier is a device that removes excessive moisture from the air in a specific area, such as a home, a basement, or an RV. It accomplishes this by extracting the water from the air. This appliance is especially beneficial in humid environments, or in rooms with significant condensation, such as a kitchen, bathroom, or basement. Indoor humidity levels should be kept below 60%, and preferably between 30-50% to prevent pests and fungal growth. High levels of moisture attracts cockroaches and dust mites, and encourages mold growth. Purchasing a dehumidifier can offer many perks to your health, comfort levels, and home maintenance. Here are six reasons why you might consider investing in a dehumidifier.
Inhibits Mold and Mildew Growth
Moisture damage and excessive moisture in the air causes many issues, including mold and mildew proliferation. This fungal growth can cause numerous health problems such as allergies, headaches, mycotoxin poisoning, respiratory issues, wheezing, irritation, and more. Employing the use of a dehumidifier will help maintain healthy humidity levels in your home, which will arrest mold and mildew growth and spread, and will benefit the health of your home and yourself. This will also prevent damage to furniture, clothing, rugs, and more. The condensation on windows that high humidity levels often cause will also be prevented, which will reduce the risk of damage to windows and trim. Any condensation can be damaging to the home.
Mold contamination is a serious concern, so any prevention or precautions to prevent mold from residing in your home can pay dividends to you and your home’s longevity. Dehumidifiers are one of the first steps in mold prevention. If you ever have leaks or flooding, it is important that you quickly dry out your home with a dehumidifier, as well as fans, etc.
Reduces Odors
You may have been in a home or building that you noticed had a musty or unpleasant smell. These odors are often the result of high humidly levels, and consequently mold or mildew issues. Prevention is the best option and least hassle, and having a dehumidifier remove that excess moisture from the environment will result in a fresher and cleaner smelling residence. Ideally keep a dehumidifier in a basement if you have one, as they are often the most common places of moisture and musty smells.
Improves Air Quality
Poor air quality is often the result of high humidity levels. These excessive amounts of moisture in the air can contribute to serious respiratory concerns such as allergies and asthma. If you suffer from allergies and asthma, or other respiratory issues, a dehumidifier can improve the air quality by maintaining healthy humidity levels and filtering our pollutants. It can also improve the air circulation and reduce pollutants. You may want to invest in a HEPA air filter in addition to a dehumidifier to amplify your results and further improve the air quality.
Reduces Pests in the Home
Pests such as dust mites, termites, and cockroaches are attracted to moisture and water damage. Bacteria and dust mites can proliferate with moisture in the air. Damp wood will entice termites and carpenter ants to come chew on your home. Reduce your risk of inviting unwanted guests by using a dehumidifier to lower the humidity and moisture levels. This will increase the longevity and comfort of your home. Bacteria and dust mites will no longer be able to spread. An efficient and powerful dehumidifier will reduce the amount of dust in your home.
Boosts Comfort Levels
Humidity can increase the amount of distress from heat, as well as cause stickiness and sweating. This can feel very uncomfortable and draining. Summertime discomfort with heat and higher moisture levels can be remedied indoors with a quality air dehumidifier. This will provide a more pleasant and enjoyable environment in your home, allowing relaxation and relief without feeling sticky or clammy.
Saves on Energy Costs
A humid building is harder cool. Humidity levels are generally higher during the spring and summer months. If you run an air conditioning unit in the warmer months to maintain enjoyable temperatures in your home, you may be making your unit work harder and use more energy when there is high levels of humidity. This can be reduced by running a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier can reduce the load on your air conditioning, and result in it running more efficiently. In addition, the dehumidifier will make the home more comfortable and less sticky a degree or so higher, thus you can turn down the thermostat and help lower energy costs.
How to Choose a Dehumidifier
You will want to be sure to purchase a dehumidifier model that is appropriate for your needs. This will depend on the size of the area you would like to maintain. There are many options and you will want to research a quality dehumidifier that will be adequate and will last. Things to consider when purchasing a dehumidifier: pint capacity, collection tank/drainage, air filters, noise level, portability, automatic or manual controls, and low temperature operation (especially beneficial when considering dehumidifies for basements, crawl spaces, or other cool spaces). A dehumidifier is an investment, so make sure you are investing in one best suited for your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways you may benefit from having a dehumidifier in your home. With the perk of preventing issues like mold and mildew, and benefitting your respiratory health and comfort, eliminating or preventing odors, improving the air quality, feeling more refreshed in the home, and saving on energy costs, it may be a wise investment.