What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need for Basement? | Having a clammy, sticky storm cellar can prompt a bunch of issues, like form development, stale-smelling scents, harm to decorations and different effects, and potential medical problems.
That is the reason why putting resources into a dehumidifier for your storm cellar is so significant.
In any case, with every one of the choices available, how do you have at least some idea of what size dehumidifier you want? In this exhaustive aid, we will provide you with a reasonable outline of the fundamental factors that ought to be considered to distinguish a fitting limit dehumidifier for your cellar.
Contents
How Basements Get Damp
Before jumping into sizing, it’s helpful to understand what causes dampness in basements in the first place. There are three main culprits:
- Groundwater intrusion – Water may puddle or flood construction materials if it comes into contact with cracks and openings in the foundation wall or floor.
- Condensation – When warm, humid air meets more excellent surfaces like basement walls, windows, or pipes, the moisture condenses.
- Outdoor air – Basements are prone to being damp because moisture-laden outdoor air quickly penetrates the excellent concrete foundation.
Factors That Determine Dehumidifier Capacity
With your measurements complete, several vital factors point to the appropriate dehumidifier capacity:
- Square footage – The basement’s size directly correlates to the pint capacity needed. The bigger the area, the larger the dehumidifier required.
- Dampness level – Use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity. Higher humidity equates to needing a unit with more excellent moisture removal abilities.
- Temperature – Colder basements need a more powerful dehumidifier to work effectively.
- Occupants – More people going in and out adds moisture. Adjust capacity upwards with heavy traffic.
- Air changes – Finished basements with fewer air exchanges need a more robust unit.
- Usage – Year-round use requires a sturdier model than seasonal use.
What Size Dehumidifier Do I Need for Basement?
Most dehumidifier capacities are rated in pints – that is, how many pints of moisture they can remove from the air in 24 hours. Use these general pint guidelines for your specific basement size and dampness level:
- 500 sq ft or less – Look for a 20-30 pint/day unit for low to moderate humidity. Up that to 35-45 pints for very humid spaces.
- 500 – 1000 sq ft – Aim for 35-45 pints if slightly damp. 50-65 pint capacity for wet basements.
- 1000 – 1500 sq ft – Choose 50-65 pint dehumidifiers for average moisture. 70-85 pints for highly humid spaces.
- 1500 – 2000 sq ft – Ideally, get a 65-85 pint appliance for moderate humidity. 95+ pints for very wet basement conditions.
- 2000+ sq ft – Start with an 85-95 pint dehumidifier for low humidity. Need a 100+ pint capacity for excess moisture issues.
Always err on the side of getting a unit with more pint capacity than you think you need. It will operate more efficiently and effectively in your specific environment. Plus, it allows room for adding more moisture loads.
Other Dehumidifier Features to Look For
In addition to size, keep these features in mind when selecting a basement dehumidifier:
- Pump – Units with a built-in or add-on pump will automatically drain water away to a sink or drain rather than filling the tank. This allows for continuous operation.
- Humidistat – Models with a humidistat let you set your desired humidity level, and the dehumidifier maintains it.
- Defrost – Units that defrost automatically are better for cold basements where frost can build up on coils.
- Wheels and handles – This allows you to quickly move the dehumidifier around for drainage and storage.
- Washable filter – Can be cleaned periodically rather than replaced.
- Auto-restart – If power is lost, the unit will turn back on and resume operation when electricity is restored.
Ideal Humidity Level for Basements
When shopping for a dehumidifier, you’ll see they allow you to set a target humidity level. So, what’s the right setting for a basement? Most experts recommend keeping the relative humidity between 30% and 50%. At this range, humidity is lowered enough to prevent musty smells, condensation, and mold growth but not so low as to dry out your sinuses or wood furnishings.
A humidistat lets you dial in a specific percentage, like 40% or 45% RH. If your dehumidifier doesn’t have preset options, start around 40% RH and tweak from there. During summer’s higher humidity, aim for 40%. In dry winter months, try 45% or 50% RH. The perfect humidity level takes some experimentation.
Where to Place the Dehumidifier
Choosing the ideal spot for your dehumidifier is just as crucial as purchasing the proper size. Here are placement tips:
- Set near the primary source of moisture, like laundry machines, HVAC equipment, or water heater. This lets it work directly on the dampness.
- Refrain from blocking airflow by putting it right against a wall or in a tight space. Allow adequate clearance for air intake and outlet.
- For unfinished basements, position them centrally to evenly distribute dry air.
- Raise the dehumidifier off cold concrete floors for maximum efficiency.
- Make sure it’s level for proper drainage and to prevent shutting off.
- Place near a suitable drainage area, preferably with a gravity drain.
- Set on waterproof material in case of leaks.
- Keep out of children’s reach.
Run the dehumidifier continuously rather than intermittently. Monitor with a hygrometer to ensure humidity stays in the target zone. Adjust location as needed.
Maintenance Tips
Once installed, be diligent about dehumidifier maintenance for optimum moisture removal:
- Clean the air filter monthly by vacuuming or washing. Clogged filters reduce performance.
- Empty water tank daily, or use a condensate pump for constant drainage.
- Clean debris and dust from coils and intake to support airflow.
- Make sure hose connections are sealed tightly.
- Keep the unit level for proper condensate drainage.
- Use a leak-proof drain pan in case of spills.
- Vacuum out the drain port to prevent clogging.
- Check settings and recalibrate hygrometers annually.
- At the end of the humid months, thoroughly clean all parts with mild soap and water.
By staying on top of maintenance, your dehumidifier will keep basements drier for longer.
Conclusion
Having an appropriately sized dehumidifier is the key to creating a comfortable, mold and mildew-free basement. Follow this guide to determine the required pint capacity based on your specific basement size, humidity levels, and usage needs. Finding the right dehumidifier ensures your space stays dry without overloading the appliance. Pair it with intelligent placement and consistent maintenance, and your basement will remain fresh and free of dampness issues.