A dehumidifier is a device that removes excess moisture from the air, helping to maintain ideal humidity levels. Reducing excess humidity helps prevent mold growth, dampness, and musty odors, creating a healthier indoor environment.
How Does a Dehumidifier Work?
A dehumidifier works by drawing in moist air, removing excess moisture, and then releasing drier air back into the environment.
Room dehumidifiers can extract 30-70 pints of moisture from the air each day, while whole-house units can remove up to 100 pints daily. The exact amount of water removed depends on factors such as the dehumidifier’s capacity and the humidity levels in your home.
Most models let you set your preferred humidity level. Once your set levels are reached, the dehumidifier automatically shuts off and turns back on when the humidity rises above those levels.
When Should You Use a Dehumidifier?
Use a dehumidifier when indoor humidity exceeds 55%. It is especially useful for homes in humid climates, tightly insulated houses, or those showing signs of moisture damage.
Portable units work well for small areas like bathrooms or garages, or catering to short-term problems, such as drying an area after water leakage. However, if high humidity affects multiple rooms or persists year-round, a whole-house dehumidifier is a better option.
Types of Dehumidifiers
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Refrigeration Dehumidifiers
These dehumidifiers work by drawing humid air from the room, which is then passed over the cold coils inside. The collected moisture is condensed into water droplets and collected into a built-in water tank. The dry air is circulated back, helping maintain balanced humidity levels and improving overall comfort. They are available as both portable and whole-house systems.
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Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Desiccant dehumidifiers use a different method of moisture removal than refrigerant dehumidifiers. They use a moisture-absorbing desiccant material, such as silica gel, to extract water from the air. Desiccant models typically consume more energy and are generally considered less efficient and less reliable for long-term use. Desiccant technology is often used in portable dehumidifiers.
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Whole-House Dehumidifiers
Whole-house dehumidifiers are integrated with your HVAC system to provide consistent humidity control throughout the home. They work by pulling in humid air over an evaporator coil containing the refrigerant, which absorbs heat. As the air cools, condensation forms on the coil. The condensation is drained into a reservoir and eventually removed through the drain line.
Installing a whole-house dehumidifier requires a licensed professional to ensure it operates correctly and to comply with local building codes.
To control a whole-house dehumidifier, use a smart thermostat such as the Cielo Smart Thermostat, which lets you set your preferred humidity levels via the app or the device. Your dehumidifier will turn on and off based on your set humidity levels. You can also remotely set and monitor humidity levels using the Cielo Home app for added convenience.
Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier In Your Home
Here are some top benefits of using a dehumidifier:
- Maintains Ideal Humidity Levels: A dehumidifier helps maintain an ideal humidity range of 30% to 50%.
- Reduces Indoor Pollutants: High humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and dust mites. Lowering air moisture can reduce these pollutants, benefiting those with allergies.
- Enhances Comfort: Eliminates sticky, damp air, making indoor spaces feel more comfortable.
- Improves Energy Efficiency: Supports your air conditioner by reducing humidity, which can help lower energy bills.
