Choosing a Dehumidifier

What is a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier takes the moisture out of the air. This is ideal for damp properties or properties that are in areas of high humidity. They are also useful for special conditions, for instance helping to dry a property after flooding. Moisture in the air can cause damage to a property by condensing against windows and walls, forming mold and causing wood to rot; it can generally form unpleasant living conditions. A dehumidifier removes excess water from the air by drawing air into the device. This is then condensed against a frozen coil inside the dehumidifier. The water then drains away and the dry air is returned the room. Dehumidifiers are categorized by the amount of water measured in pints or liters that can be removed in a 24-hour period. Dehumidifiers can either be permanently fitted so the water drains as it is collected, or they can be portable, which means that the reservoir needs to be emptied manually.

Useful Information to Gather Before Buying a Dehumidifier

Before buying a dehumidifier it is useful to work out in square feet the amount of space that is to be dehumidified and the type of climate or environment that it will be working in. This assessment should include any special conditions, for instance the climate might be relatively dry, however the dehumidifier is to operate in a laundry or other damp environment. The table on the AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) can help identify different types of environments.

Tips for Choosing a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier can be a substantial purchase. Picking the right one is essential to ensure that this is an investment that is well made. Choosing the right dehumidifier is dependant on many factors. These include:

Size of Room / Property

Dehumidifiers are available in a range of sizes, ranging from small machines that are suitable for a single room, to large, powerful dehumidifiers that can efficiently remove moisture from a vast area. Picking the right size for the area is important; this ensures that the machine works at its optimum level and is efficient to run. An underpowered dehumidifier will give a disappointing performance, while an overpowered machine might result in an atmosphere that is uncomfortably dry.

The humidity

Very damp and humid atmospheres will require a more powerful dehumidifier than drier environments. The supplier will be able to give specific advice depending on individual needs.

Purpose of Room/Area

Some dehumidifiers are noisy, so this needs to be taken into account when buying. While the noise is low and constant it can be intrusive. Quieter models are available so it is a good idea to ask to see and hear one in operation before buying. It is important to consider where the dehumidifier is to be sited and any health and safety implications that this will entail. The dehumidifier is typically plugged into an electrical socket, therefore the cable needs to be placed so it cannot be tripped over.

Ease of Removing Collected Water

An efficient dehumidifier will collect several pints of water a day, therefore the collection of the water is an important fact to consider. If it is not possible to manually empty the reservoir during the day, a dehumidifier that can be permanently plumbed in may be required. This is likely also to be necessary when a dehumidifier is being used in an empty building.

Cost of Running

Most supplier and manufacturers will have information about the running costs of a particular model. This is extremely important information to have, as the dehumidifier is likely to be running the vast majority of the time.

Energy Saving Dehumidifiers

When choosing a dehumidifier it is also a good idea to check out models that have the Energy Star certificate. In order to have the Energy Star mark, the manufacturer has stringent energy saving standards to meet. This results in significant savings in running costs and the Energy Star website suggests that a $30 saving can be made a year. Over the course of the lifetime of a dehumidifier the price of a new machine could be saved!

Buying Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers can be purchased from general appliance stores and online. There are many online retailers who offer a wide choice, and these include:

• Amazon.com - large choice of brands
• GEAppliances.com - Energy Star certified dehumidifiers
• air-n-water.com - wide selection of dehumidifiers

A well chosen dehumidifier can help provide a more pleasant living atmosphere and can give years of service.