Lower Humidity Levels And Unlock These Incredible Secret Dehumidifier Benefits Today

By: Brothers Equipment And Supply

Excess moisture in living and work spaces can lead to a host of problems.

From health-hazardous mould growth to musty odours to overall damage to your belongings, high humidity levels can start off small and spiral into a giant coil of problems and expenses.

One of the most effective ways to tackle high humidity is by using a dehumidifier.

In this article, we will discuss:

What are the main benefits of using a dehumidifier?

How do I identify if I have a high-humidity problem?

How do I prevent high humidity?

Let’s get right into it!

Dehumidifier Benefit 1: Prevents Mould Growth

Many small organisms possess easy-met needs for growth.  All it takes is just a little moisture and a food source (like dust, pet dander, etc.)  for unwelcome visitors like mould spores to flourish.

This is a serious problem for people with allergies or respiratory problems.  Mould, mildew, and fungus are all very common allergens, and they can cause a range of unpleasant side effects.  The most common ones are:

  • Itchy or runny eyes
  • Headaches
  • Sinus congestion
  • Sore throat
  • Chronic, persistent cough
  • Hives or rash

Dehumidifier Benefit 2: Protects Your Stuff

Excess moisture in the air can damage your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and clothes. By using a dehumidifier, you can protect your belongings and prolong their lifespan.

Dehumidifier Benefit 4: Improves Indoor Air Quality

Moist air in the basement can lead to the circulation of airborne allergens and irritants, such as dust mites and pet dander. By using a dehumidifier, you can improve the indoor air quality in your home and reduce the risk of respiratory problems.

Dehumidifier Benefit 5: Reduces Energy Costs

One of our favourite benefits of owning a dehumidifier is that it can also help reduce energy costs by making your air conditioning system more efficient. When the air in your home is less humid, your air conditioning system does not have to work as hard to cool the air.

Dehumidifier Benefit 6: Prevents Structural Damage

Excess moisture in your basement can lead to structural damage, including cracks in the foundation and walls. By using a dehumidifier, you can prevent this damage and prolong the lifespan of your home.

Dehumidifier Benefit 7: Enhances Overall Comfort

A damp basement can be uncomfortable to be in, but by using a dehumidifier, you can create a more comfortable living space. By reducing excess moisture in the air, you can create a more pleasant environment that is not only more comfortable but healthier too.

Dehumidifier Benefit 8: Improves Air Quality

A dehumidifier not only prevents the growth of mould and mildew.  There are other hazardous organisms that also enjoy the humidity found in basements. And, there are ones that are a more direct threat to you and your family.

According to a study published by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the prime humidity level in a house should be 50%. This is the most prohibitive level for microbes like bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

What Are The Common Signs Of High Humidity In My Building?

1. Condensation: If you notice visible condensation on cooler surfaces such as windows, mirrors, pipes, or toilet base, as well as in your basement, it might indicate high moisture levels. Check nearby areas if you find condensation on surfaces throughout your home to ensure that the moisture isn’t spreading.

2. Water Stains: Water stains and a crumbly surface on your ceiling can indicate excess moisture. Look for discolouration areas and visible damage on your ceiling finish by opening the curtains and using your home lighting to examine all areas.

3. Peeling Paint: A sign of high humidity is peeling paint on the walls and ceilings, particularly in bathrooms without proper ventilation, which can suggest high humidity levels.

4.  Mouldy Smells: If you detect musty, moldy, or mildewy smells in your home, it could indicate excessive moisture. Some people describe this odor as smoky. If you’re accustomed to the smells in your house, consider temporarily leaving and coming back inside to detect odors.

5. Damp Furniture And Surfaces: If your furniture or other surfaces feel damp or appear discolored, it could indicate a high level of humidity.

How To Prevent High Humidity?

1. To prevent high humidity levels and overall water damage to your home, improve the drainage around your foundation by extending downspouts away from your home, keeping your gutter system clean, and making sure the soil around your house slopes away from the foundation.

2. Properly vent your dryer by directing it outdoors. Whenever possible, hang your laundry to dry outdoors.

3. Install vent fans in your bathrooms and kitchens that vent outside your home instead of into your attic to prevent moisture buildup.

4. Repair leaking faucets, both inside and outside of your home, to save on your water bill and prevent further damage.

5. Quickly repair any leaks in your roof or walls and thoroughly dry any areas in your home that have flooded within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mould growth.

6. Have a professional perform maintenance and check-ups on your air conditioning system to ensure it’s functioning properly. If you need air conditioning repair, call for professional help promptly.

7. Install an A/C vent in the most humid areas of your home to circulate cooled air throughout your home.

8. Use a dehumidifier to reduce excess moisture in the air, which discourages mould growth and improves air quality.

9. Improve your home’s insulation by installing new windows such as double- or triple-pane ones, and storm doors.

10. To promote air circulation, leave room doors open and cover pots while cooking, when possible.

11. Purchase a home weather station that measures indoor humidity levels to stay proactive as they begin to rise.

If you have any questions about our article “Lower Humidity Levels And Unlock These Incredible Secret Dehumidifier Benefits Today” or where you can buy water damage equipment near you feel free to call us at 1-416-912-2205 or chat with us in near real-time on social media.