A dehumidifier is a household appliance that helps to decrease the level of moisture in the air without affecting the temperature of the room.
How Dehumidifiers Work?
Dehumidifiers operate like refrigerators and air conditioners. The air that enters the cooling unit of the dehumidifier passes over cooling coils. During this process the air is refrigerated. Then the moisture from the air is condensed and the water is transferred into a holding tank. The air is reheated by the heat recovery system and is released into the room.
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Types of Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers come in an array of shapes and sizes. These include small-capacity, medium-capacity, large-capacity, and whole-house dehumidifiers. Small-capacity dehumidifiers decrease moisture levels in small spaces and can remove between 25 to 40 pints of moisture daily. Medium-capacity dehumidifiers are ideal for medium to large spaces and are capable of removing 45 to 50 pints of moisture on a daily basis. Large-capacity dehumidifiers as the name implies are suitable for large spaces. These energy-efficient appliances are capable of removing up to 75 pints of moisture per day. Whole-house dehumidifiers, on the other hand, can be used as portable units. These units can also be added onto central-heating and air conditioning systems. They can remove the moisture from spaces up to 3,000 square feet.
Benefits of a Dehumidifier
If you suffer from allergies, respiratory illnesses, or you live in a humid climate; having a dehumidifier is an important aspect of your daily life. Dehumidifiers:
Purify the air. When there is an excessive amount of moisture in the air, this creates the perfect environment for mold production. This can be very harmful to your health, especially for those who suffer from mold allergies. Furthermore, it produces an unpleasant scent. Ideal breeding grounds for mold growth include attics, basements, air ducts, boats, and RVs. Mold growth can lead to nasal congestion, skin irritation, and other grave health conditions. To prevent such production from occurring, you can use a dehumidifier. This will help to purify the air by removing any dust or allergens.
Help those with skin conditions. If you suffer with dry, itchy skin, a dehumidifier will come in handy in such a scenario. Dry, itchy skin may be caused by excessive moisture in the air, thus leading to irritation of the skin and nasal passages.
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Promote bodily cooling. During summertime most people experience discomfort due to the hot and humid conditions. This is especially the case if you do not have a cooling system in your home. Many may link the soaring temperatures to the discomfort surrounding them. However, the high humidity levels in the summer time is the main factor that leads to such discomfort. Having a dehumidifier in your home will assist in regulating your body temperature and keeping you cool.
Prevent damage to your home. Excessive moisture in your home can cause damage to its structure. Wood, and paper are highly susceptible to moisture. Therefore, if your home is wallpapered or constructed with wood, using a dehumidifier will assist in reducing potential damage to such materials.
Improve respiratory health. When high levels of moisture are present in the home, this gives way to indoor air pollutants. Such pollutants are known for triggering respiratory infections and asthma. Using a dehumidifier will allow you to breathe easier, thus minimizing the occurrence of asthma attacks and other respiratory illnesses.
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Dehumidifiers are an essential appliance to have in your home especially if your family has a history of allergies, asthma, or other respiratory illnesses. Investing in a dehumidifier will not only decrease the presence of pests that thrive in moisture-rich atmospheres, but also promote a healthier lifestyle for you and your family.
Air and Water Centre have recently produced a dehumidifier buyer’s guide for more information on choosing a dehumidifier.
