Today’s homes are built for energy efficiency. In these tighter environments, there is moisture and VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). These homes are given more efficient air conditioners (single speed) that cool the home quickly and do so while using less energy than older systems. However, systems that run less also remove less humidity. In order to get better dehumidification, we find ourselves “over cooling” our homes.
So many times, air conditioning is not the total answer to making your home healthier and more comfortable. You want to maintain a relative humidity between 45-55% in the summertime. Every installation is different, and many times a whole house dehumidifier is the only solution. You can try to use portable dehumidifiers, however these solutions only treat just a single room and portable dehumidifiers require you to do maintenance and empty the water reservoir regularly.
Using a Whole House Dehumidifier
When you use a whole house dehumidifier, you will remove up to 135 pints of moisture per day; that is the equivalent of up to 16 gallons!
In summary, your whole house dehumidifier can:
- Provide better comfort, and allow you to be more comfortable at higher temperatures. Also, because you will be more comfortable at a higher temperature, you can save money on your utility bills.
- Keeping your relative humidity below 55%, you reduce the possibility of bacteria, viruses, fungi, mold, and dust mites from becoming more active. It also can reduce the effects of allergic reactions.
- Preserve you home! Too much moisture can create expansion in wood, and can lead to mold damage.
- Help in eliminating odors. How many times have you went into a room or your basement, and immediately were hit by the musty smell?
Personally, I’ve had wonderful success with a whole house dehumidifier in my home. I had some mold, and definitely had the musty smell issue in my basement. I installed an Aprilaire whole-home dehumidifier and my wife thought I was a genius. I was able to set my thermostat up 3 degrees higher and still be very comfortable this last summer, which saved us money!
You can learn more about whole house dehumidifiers from your local heating and cooling expert. In Franklin County, Missouri talk to Jim’s Heating and Cooling by calling 636-239-3581. You can also learn more about our humidifier solutions on our website.