Dehumidifiers are handy devices for controlling indoor humidity and improving comfort. However, there's a lot of misinformation floating around about what they can and can't do. In this blog post, we'll debunk ten of the most common myths about dehumidifiers so you can make informed decisions about their use in your home.
Link to 1. Dehumidifiers Clean the Air1. Dehumidifiers Clean the Air
A common misconception is that dehumidifiers clean the air like air purifiers do. The truth is, dehumidifiers reduce humidity, which can help prevent mould, mildew, and dust mites, but they don't remove airborne pollutants. While a dehumidifier can make the environment less favourable for allergens to thrive, it doesn't actually filter out particles like dust, pet dander, or pollen.
If improving air quality is your goal, an air purifier with a HEPA filter is your best bet, while a dehumidifier should be used to manage moisture levels. Combining both devices can create an optimal environment for clean, comfortable air. Dehumidifiers and air purifiers serve different but complementary purposes, and using them together will give you the best results in terms of comfort and health benefits.
Link to 2. Dehumidifiers Are the Solution to All Humidity Problems2. Dehumidifiers Are the Solution to All Humidity Problems
While dehumidifiers can help manage excess humidity, they aren't a magic cure-all. Humidity issues often stem from underlying problems like poor ventilation, leaking pipes, or structural issues. A dehumidifier can alleviate symptoms but won't address the root cause of dampness. For example, if you have a leaking roof or poor insulation, a dehumidifier can only offer a temporary fix by reducing the humidity levels.
To truly solve humidity problems, you need to address the structural or mechanical issues that are causing them in the first place. Proper maintenance of your home, such as fixing leaks, sealing windows, and ensuring good ventilation, is crucial for long-term humidity control. Dehumidifiers work best when used as part of a broader strategy that includes these solutions..
Link to 3. Dehumidifiers Will Keep My Home Cool3. Dehumidifiers Will Keep My Home Cool
Many believe that dehumidifiers will cool their homes. Dehumidifiers remove moisture, making the air feel more comfortable, but they don't directly cool it. When humidity is high, sweat doesn't evaporate as efficiently, making you feel warmer.
By reducing humidity, dehumidifiers help your body cool itself more effectively, creating a more comfortable environment. However, they don't lower the temperature of the air itself. Dehumidifiers can make it easier for your air conditioner to cool the home, as the AC unit won't have to work as hard to remove moisture from the air. This can indirectly contribute to a cooler indoor environment, but a dehumidifier is not a substitute for an air conditioner. If your primary goal is to cool your home, an air conditioner is what you need, potentially complemented by a dehumidifier for optimal comfort.
Link to 4. Dehumidifiers Can Cause Cracks in Walls and Floors4. Dehumidifiers Can Cause Cracks in Walls and Floors
There's a belief that using a dehumidifier can cause cracks in walls or floors. In reality, dehumidifiers will not cause damage to cured plaster, paint, or concrete. They can, however, lead to issues with uncured plaster or paint by causing it to dry too quickly, resulting in a brittle finish. When drying plaster or paint, it's important to let these materials cure naturally to avoid brittleness.
Dehumidifiers can speed up the drying process, but this can lead to cracking if the materials haven't fully set. However, once plaster, paint, or concrete is fully cured, a dehumidifier poses no risk of causing cracks. Cracks in walls and floors are usually caused by structural issues, settling of the building, or poor construction practices rather than by dehumidifiers. Proper curing time and gradual humidity reduction are key to preventing any issues during the drying process..
Link to 5. You Only Need a Dehumidifier in the Basement5. You Only Need a Dehumidifier in the Basement
It's often assumed that dehumidifiers are only needed in basements, but humidity can affect multiple areas of a home, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Any room with poor ventilation and high moisture levels can benefit from a dehumidifier. Bathrooms, for instance, generate a lot of moisture from showers and baths, and without proper ventilation, this can lead to mould growth.
Kitchens, especially when cooking without adequate exhaust fans, can also experience elevated humidity levels. Laundry rooms are another hotspot for excess moisture due to the use of washing machines and indoor drying of clothes. Even bedrooms can suffer from high humidity if they are poorly ventilated. Using a dehumidifier in these spaces can help maintain comfortable humidity levels, preventing mould growth and improving overall comfort throughout the house.
Link to 6. Dehumidifiers Completely Eliminate Mould6. Dehumidifiers Completely Eliminate Mould
Dehumidifiers can reduce moisture and help prevent mould growth, but they don't eliminate existing mould. Mould needs to be cleaned and removed manually, while the dehumidifier helps keep moisture levels low to prevent future growth. Mould spores are resilient and can stay dormant until conditions are favourable again.
The best approach to dealing with mould is to first clean and remove all visible mould using appropriate cleaning products and methods. After that, a dehumidifier can be used to maintain a low-humidity environment, making it difficult for mould to return. Mould thrives in environments with humidity levels above 60%, so keeping indoor humidity between 30% and 50% will significantly reduce the chances of mould regrowth. It's also important to address the source of moisture, such as leaks or condensation, to ensure mould doesn't come back.
Link to 7. Dehumidifiers Are Only Useful in Summer7. Dehumidifiers Are Only Useful in Summer
Humidity is commonly associated with summer, but it can be an issue year-round, especially in the UK. In the winter, activities like cooking, showering, and drying clothes indoors can raise humidity levels. High humidity during winter can lead to condensation on windows and other surfaces, which can contribute to mould growth and damage to window frames or walls. Using a dehumidifier in the winter can help maintain balanced indoor humidity and prevent these issues. Additionally, excessive humidity in winter can make a home feel colder, as moist air retains heat less effectively.
A dehumidifier can help make your home more comfortable by balancing the humidity and preventing condensation. Maintaining proper humidity in the winter also helps protect wooden furniture and flooring, which can be damaged by too much moisture. Year-round humidity control is key to maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
Link to 8. Dehumidifiers Make the Air Too Dry8. Dehumidifiers Make the Air Too Dry
People sometimes worry that dehumidifiers will make the air excessively dry. Most modern dehumidifiers come with built-in humidistats that allow you to set a target humidity level, ensuring that the air doesn't become uncomfortably dry. Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50% for optimal comfort.
Extremely dry air can lead to health issues like dry skin, irritated sinuses, and static electricity. However, with the use of a humidistat, you can prevent this from happening by keeping the humidity within a comfortable range.
Many dehumidifiers also have an automatic shut-off feature that stops the unit once the desired humidity level is reached, ensuring the air doesn't get too dry. Proper use of the humidistat can help maintain ideal conditions, making your home comfortable without the negative effects of overly dry air.
Link to 9. A Dehumidifier Will Fix Structural Damp Issues9. A Dehumidifier Will Fix Structural Damp Issues
If your home has structural damp issues due to leaks or faulty construction, a dehumidifier will not solve these problems. It can help manage the symptoms, but a proper inspection and repair are needed to address the root cause of the dampness. Structural dampness can result from issues such as leaking roofs, damaged gutters, or cracks in the foundation. A dehumidifier can only reduce the moisture in the air, but it won't prevent water from entering your home through these structural defects.
To effectively deal with damp problems, it's essential to identify and repair the source of the moisture. This might involve fixing leaks, improving drainage, or adding waterproofing measures. Dehumidifiers are effective as part of a broader strategy, but they cannot replace the need for structural repairs when dealing with damp.
Link to 10. Dehumidifiers Are Noisy and Expensive to Run10. Dehumidifiers Are Noisy and Expensive to Run
Modern dehumidifiers are designed to be quieter and more energy-efficient than older models. Many units are specifically marketed for their low noise levels, making them suitable for living spaces and bedrooms. The noise level of a dehumidifier is typically measured in decibels (dB), and many models operate at a level that is similar to background noise in a quiet room. Some dehumidifiers even have a "sleep mode" that reduces noise levels for nighttime use. In terms of energy consumption, advancements in technology have made dehumidifiers much more efficient.
Many models come with energy-saving features like programmable timers, allowing you to set the dehumidifier to run only when needed. Additionally, running a dehumidifier can actually save money in the long run by preventing costly mould and moisture damage, which can lead to expensive repairs. Choosing an Energy Star-rated dehumidifier can further reduce electricity costs, as these models are designed to use less energy while providing effective humidity control.
Link to ConclusionConclusion
Dehumidifiers are valuable tools for managing indoor humidity, but understanding their capabilities and limitations is key to using them effectively. They aren't a magic fix for all moisture issues, nor are they a substitute for air purifiers or air conditioners. By using a dehumidifier alongside other solutions, like proper ventilation and addressing structural problems, you can create a healthier, more comfortable home environment. Whether it's summer or winter, controlling humidity is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality, preventing mould growth, and ensuring your home remains comfortable year-round.
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