Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Basement Dehumidifiers

FAQs

Here you will find frequently asked questions regarding basement dehumidifiers. If you have a question that you do not see an answer to, go to the dehumidifier expert forum where you can search other people's questions or post your own question for an OscarAir air quality expert to answer.

Do basement dehumidifiers draw lots of power?

Some do and some don’t. This is an area where the customer needs to do some research. The amount of electricity used by basement dehumidifiers can vary widely. Look closely at the specs and look for a model that is Energy Star rated. The amount of energy your basement dehumidifier uses is generally a bargain compared to the benefits they provide your health and home.

Can basement dehumidifiers be ducted?

Many of the better models of basement dehumidifiers provide optional ducting. The Dri-Basement unit can be supply or return ducted or both. You can keep it well hidden in your finished basement. If you are interested in ducting, please feel free to call one of our dehumidification specialists to discuss your particular application.

How do I remove water from my basement dehumidifier?

You want to find a model that features a drain hose. Going downstairs frequently to empty dehumidifier drain pans in a real pain. Find a unit that has a drain hose that can release the water into a floor drain or laundry tub. Some basement dehumidifiers even offer a condensate pump to effectively remove water to your desired location.

Can I use a window air conditioner in my basement instead of a dehumidifier?

You could, but we would certainly not recommend it. The window air conditioner will cool the air, but not remove any of the moisture. Even with running an air conditioner, you could have relative humidity levels approaching 90%! Using this method without a dehumidifier will provide you with a cool and damp basement.

Can the dehumidifier be left on continuously?

Yes. Most good quality basement dehumidifiers are equipped with a humidistat. Just set the humidistat at your desired level and a sensor will automatically turn the unit off once a comfortable humidity level is achieved.

How do I locate mold in my basement?

Although there are no practical test kits for biological contaminants available for homeowners, there are sensory warning signs of mold growth. One of the first indicators may be smell. Mold emits a dank, musty odor that is irritatingly noticeable. Stains or spots on walls may be another sign of mold. Bubbles in paint and loose wallpaper are evidence that mold-promoting moisture may be present. Examine your carpets; wet carpets are an inviting environment for mold to flourish.

Are basement dehumidifiers portable?

Yes, some are. Units like the Dri-Basement feature casters that allow the unit to roll easily on a level surface.

Will a basement dehumidifier be able to handle a large basement?

It will if you choose the correct model. There are units on the market than can cover between 2,500 and 3,500 square feet of space. There are many things to consider to correctly size a basement dehumidifier such as the type of building construction, ceiling height, temperature, geography, amount of airflow, positioning of the dehumidifier, etc. If you have any questions about what size dehumidifier you require for your basement, please consult one of our dehumidification specialists.

Can dehumidifiers help prevent condensation on my basement windows?

Absolutely. All of that moisture hanging in the air is looking for a cold surface on which to condense. Cold window surfaces provide the ideal environment. A good quality basement dehumidifier will remove the moisture, leaving little or nothing to condense.

How does a dehumidifier work?

Simply put, a dehumidifier removes moisture from the air. It accomplishes this by using a fan, a cold coil and a hot coil. The fan draws air from the room over the cold coil to condense the moisture, which is removed via a drain hose or pan. The dry air then passes over the hot coil, returning dry air to the room.

Why does relative humidity affect my comfort level?

When there are high levels of relative humidity less moisture can be evaporated from your skin. We humans help cool our bodies when moisture is evaporated from our skin. More moisture means less evaporation, which is what makes it feel hotter than it actually is when it’s really humid. When your local weatherman tells you that the temperature is 88 degrees and the heat index is 103 degrees, they’re describing how hot it feels given a certain temperature and humidity level. In general, the relative humidity in your basement should be below 50%.

How do I know if it is too humid in my basement?

The easiest way to measure the humidity in a room is with an instrument called a hygrometer. Many times sight and smell are the best tools for determining high humidity. Damp, musky smells and wet basement walls and windows are major indicators of excessive moisture problems. Also look for damp carpets and cracked or peeling paint.

Free Report...

Our Customers

OscarAir, Inc. staff has a lifetime of experience satisfying over 6,000 Air Quality Customers! Here are a few you may recognize.

Polls

Why Are You Looking For a Basement Dehumidifier?

	Musty smell coming from basement
	Keep storage area dry
	Protect building structure
	Warped wood floors
	Improve air in basement rec room
	Improve air in bedrooms