But first, you need to know how to properly set up a dehumidifier and what are the best settings for a basement dehumidifier.
Setting up a dehumidifier in the ideal setting in your basement is quite difficult because it is necessary to change the settings according to the weather. You don't have to worry about it anymore because we are here!
In this article, we will teach how to set up a dehumidifier, the ideal setting for a dehumidifier in a basement, how long you should run a dehumidifier, and much more. So come along and learn all the important things about it without difficulty.
Settings For A Basement
During Winters
The relative humidity is low in winter due to cold air. So if you don't run in winter, it is good for you. You should set it between 30% and 50%. However, maintaining your basement's humidity level is still difficult, but keep in mind to never run a dehumidifier when the temperature rises above 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Moore
During Summers
Whereas in summer, the relative humidity is high due to the high temperature and the chances of mold formation inside the basement are high. Therefore, you need to adjust the settings to 50% or less.
Related Posts: Best Place To Put Dehumidifier In 2-Story House- 2023 Guide
Usage
Operating your basement dehumidifier is not as difficult as people think. In fact, most of them come with advanced technology including manual functions. Here's how to set up your basement step by step:
Choose The Right Location
If you want your dehumidifier to work efficiently, you need to choose the right place for it and you should choose the right unit according to the size of your basement. Because proper air flow is very important for its efficient functioning of it.
Adjust The Level
First of all, determine the humidity level. According to Energy Star, optimal relative humidity levels are between 30 and 50 percent. Whereas in colder regions, the humidity in summer is between 30 to 40 percent. If the humidity exceeds the standard level, the chances of the growth of mildew, mold, and dust mites increase.
Always Keep Doors And Windows Closed
If you keep your basement doors and windows closed, this will increase the efficiency of your unit. So keep all doors and windows closed when the unit is running.
See Our Blog: How To Make Dehumidifier Quieter? - Easy Guide For You
Emptied The Tank Regularly
For the constant running of your dehumidifier, it is important to empty the tank regularly because if the tank fills up with water it will shut down the unit immediately. You can empty the tank by using three different methods:
- Using gravity drainage.
- You can do it with manual methods as well.
- Condensate pumping is a good option.
According to the research conducted by our team, Of all the methods, gravity drainage is the best method.
Check Our Guide: Dehumidifier Not Draining Into A Bucket - Reasons & Solution
Clean The Unit Regularly
Always monitor the performance of your dehumidifier when you start it up and make sure the relative humidity level is maintained. Clean the unit's filters at the recommended manufacturing time because when the filter is dirty, the airflow from the unit is reduced. This will affect the overall performance of the unit and may damage the internal components.
It is very important to apply the necessary maintenance on time as this will save you from further damage to the unit and the unit will work more efficiently.
Too High Humidity
According to the research done by our team, 70% relative humidity in the air is very high value and can be dangerous for human health. It can also trigger mold and mildew growth in your basement.
You need to keep an eye on mold growth inside your basement because if you don't stop the mold growth, it will move from one surface to another. It can cause health problems like breathing problems for you and your family members and can destroy the overall structure of your home which will cost you quite a lot.
Our Guide: What Size Dehumidifier for Basement Do I Need?
Frequently Asked Questions
What setting should I put the dehumidifier on?
In general, most people feel comfortable when the relative humidity is around 45%. But the best setting for you to run your dehumidifier is between 30% and 50%. If the relative humidity in the air is too high or too low than the standard level, you may experience discomfort in both situations.
Do I need to run a dehumidifier in the basement in winter?
During the winter season, using a dehumidifier is not necessary as the temperature is low in winter and the air is quite dry. Generally, the main function of a dehumidifier is to remove excess moisture from the air and it works best in high temperatures. This is why you feel comfortable and cool when the dehumidifier is working.
Final Words
From the entire discussion, we can conclude that if you are using a dehumidifier in your basement you should first know the optimum settings, which according to most HVAC engineers is around 40%. If the relative humidity level in the air is around 70%, you can use a dehumidifier all the time because it can cause problems like mold or mildew growth and some serious health problems, the most common being respiratory problems.
But if the humidity level in the air is normal you should run the dehumidifier for about 4 to 6 hours daily. A humidifier also helps prevent existing mold and mildew growth.
Related:
