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The FAQs about Dehumidifiers

July 25th, 2019

Dehumidifiers provide countless benefits for your home and family, but many people have lingering questions they want answered prior to purchasing one. As you explore these FAQs, you will hopefully have all your questions addressed so you can move forward with prioritizing your health and comfort through dehumidification.

How do I tell if I need a dehumidifier?

Although dehumidifiers could be beneficial for most homes, there are some clear signs you are past due for one. If you have noticed mold, mildew, window condensation, water spots, uneven floorboards, or sticky air, you could improve your situation with a dehumidifier. Act quickly because excessive moisture can quickly cause major problems for your home and health.

Does a dehumidifier really improve my health?

Yes, it really can! Air quality is key to good health. Dehumidifiers manage the moisture that could have otherwise led to poor air quality, causing irritation, allergies, headaches, and respiratory problems, such as asthma.

How does a dehumidifier work?

Basically, the dehumidifier takes the sticky air, cools it, condenses it, and sends the drier air back into your home using its fan.

How long do dehumidifiers last?

On average, home dehumidifiers are predicted to last between 3-8 years depending on the system, usage, and maintenance. When you are choosing a specific dehumidifier, we can offer tips for maximizing the lifespan.

Where are dehumidifiers placed?

We have whole house dehumidifiers to keep your moisture at bay throughout your home. The following spaces are notorious for moisture though: kitchens, bathrooms, basements, bedrooms, workshops, and crawlspaces. Some people choose to dehumidify just one room. There are a variety of dehumidifiers designed for different sized spaces.

Can a dehumidifier make my house more comfortable?

Absolutely! Humidity is what can make even a 70-degree temperature setting feel uncomfortable. High humidity makes your home feel sticky and warmer than it actually is. Your home will feel significantly cooler when the humidity is controlled.

What factors should I consider when choosing a dehumidifier?

Capacity and coverage area are extremely important to ensure that you get a system capable of handling your needs. Additionally, energy efficiency should be considered for long-term savings.

Are dehumidifiers noisy?

Not really! Over time, dehumidifiers have become much quieter. Some older models might sound like a fan running, but the newer models are becoming hard to detect. Even the noisier ones still could be considered white noise.

What is the ideal humidity in a house?

The EPA has stated that the ideal humidity is between 35-50%. Too little moisture is damaging to your health as well so hitting this balance is key.

Can high humidity hurt my house?

More than you probably realize! Not only does high humidity cause your family discomfort, but your house itself is impacted. The wood features of your home will absorb moisture which can even cause structural damage long-term. Your furniture and walls could become moldy and musty. Also, moist conditions encourage pests, such as cockroaches and termites.

Do dehumidifiers encourage energy efficiency?

Yes, the Department of Energy has confirmed this one! Your home will be more energy efficient and the cost to cool or heat your home will be lowered.

How much does it cost to run one?

The monthly cost is dependent on usage, the energy efficiency of your dehumidifier, and your electricity rates. You could try calculating it yourself using the following formula or we can help you perform the estimate: Divide your appliance wattage by 1000 to get your used kilowatts per hour. Multiply this number by the kilowatts/hour rate on your electricity bill. Multiply this number by the number of hours used daily. Example: If your dehumidifier uses 650 watts and runs for 10 hours daily at a $0.15 per kilowatt-hour rate, your dehumidifier costs approximately $0.98 daily.

If you have any other questions about dehumidifiers or you are ready to schedule a dehumidifier installation, contact Ferguson Heating and Air Conditioning Company today!

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