Keep the Home Dry With a Dehumidifier
It is that time of year when the rainy season kicks in and homes become horribly damp. Many homeowners know this feeling, almost like they can sense moisture in the air and cannot figure out what to do. Well, lucky for them, this is where dehumidifiers come into play!
Dehumidifiers play a crucial role in home maintenance, especially in the spring months like these. Homeowners should understand how dehumidifiers function and the types of dehumidifier options available to them so that they can decide which is best to install in their homes.
What Is a Dehumidifier?
At its most basic level, a dehumidifier works to remove moisture from the air inside homes. Dehumidifiers essentially “process” warm air- they remove water and release cooler, drier air back into the home. One of the most significant benefits of this process is that dehumidifiers reduce the likelihood of mold accumulations that often result during damp rainy seasons.
Homeowners may notice condensation throughout their house (e.g., on walls, windows, or ceilings), and these deposits create prime conditions for mold growth. By limiting indoor humidity to ~30-60% with a dehumidifier, homeowners can control and limit the spread of mold in their homes.
What Are the Basic Types of Dehumidifiers?
- Refrigerant – uses a fan to suck warm air into refrigerated coils, which causes moisture to condense in a water tank and cooler drier air to be released back into the home
- Desiccant – uses a large wheel containing desiccant, which spins slowly and absorbs/condenses moisture as it comes in contact with warm air and deposits it in a water tank; lighter and smaller than a refrigerant dehumidifier and is capable of operating at much lower temperatures
- Whole House – uses the existing infrastructure to remove moisture from the entire home by integrating directly into the HVAC system and treating air as it passes through
Which Type Is the Right Choice?
As one might anticipate, the answer to this question is, ultimately, “it depends.” However, there are correct answers, depending on what homeowners are prioritizing. When it comes down to convenience and cost, refrigerant and desiccant dehumidifiers are the way to go. However, these often only dehumidify the rooms they are placed in, assuming they are small to medium sizes.
A whole house dehumidifier is ultimately the most surefire way to treat the entire home since it is installed directly into the HVAC system. These types of dehumidifiers are extremely effective at controlling the growth of mold and any related bug infestations. Moreover, whole-house dehumidifiers are highly efficient relative to portable refrigerant and desiccant ones, which can help homeowners to save on energy bills.
At the end of the day, homeowners need to understand what goals they have in mind and any restrictions they are working with in order to determine which type of dehumidifier is best for them.
About Mid Florida A/C
Mid Florida A/C of Melbourne, FL is a family-owned and operated company that has been providing quality solutions since 1980. They believe in exceptional HVAC service and professionalism, with 100% satisfaction guarantees for all of their customers. Give them a call for AC services in Melbourne!