When moisture is present in a basement, many homeowners do not realize that simply mopping up a pool of water or sealing a crack in the foundation is not a complete fix. For a comprehensive approach to basement waterproofing, homeowners also need to regulate humidity levels.
Dehumidifiers work to keep spaces dry by cooling and then heating air that is sucked into the unit. This way, excess moisture in the air condensates and turns to liquid water, where it is either collected in a reservoir or drained away.
Dehumidifiers provide a vital function in keeping homes dry and safe from the hazardous effects of basement mold and mildew. In today’s market, shoppers have many options to choose from. Read on for tips on how to choose a basement dehumidifier.
Types of Dehumidifiers
Residential dehumidifiers come in two different types: portable appliances and whole-home systems. For the purposes of basement waterproofing, a portable dehumidifier unit is likely to get the job done. The total square footage a portable unit can dehumidify can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so be sure to choose a model that is appropriate for the size of your home’s basement.
Whole-home dehumidifying systems are typically installed when the homeowner requires specific humidity levels in certain parts of the home. For example, indoor gardens can flourish in one part of the home where a higher humidity level is appropriate, whereas other parts of the home can be set at a lower humidity level to maximize comfort for inhabitants.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Dehumidifier
As mentioned above, the majority of homeowners will likely have their basement waterproofing needs satisfied by a portable unit. However, prospective buyers will soon realize that there are many different features and functions to choose from. Major factors to consider when purchasing a portable dehumidifier include:
- Size requirements. Every dehumidifier has a maximum operating capacity that is typically represented in square feet. It is important for homeowners to choose a unit that will be able to dehumidify the entirety of their home’s basement. Purchasing a unit with insufficient capacity can leave areas of your basement prone to the detrimental effects of moisture.
- Drainage. Dehumidifiers drain water either manually or automatically. In a manually draining unit, water collects in a reservoir attached to the appliance. Every so often, this reservoir must be removed and emptied, otherwise the dehumidifier will overflow. Automatic drainage units use a hose connector to drain water downhill to a basement drain. Some automatic units contain a condensate pump that can funnel water to a utility sink or sump pump system.
Special Features of Dehumidifiers
When choosing the right dehumidifier, size capacity and drainage are the two primary attributes that buyers need to keep in mind. From there, however, there are a number of additional features that homeowners are likely to appreciate. For example, some models come with an automatic humidistat installed. This component allows users to set a preferred humidity level and the appliance will automatically turn on and off, saving energy as well as mechanical wear and tear.
Another automatic feature that may appeal to some users is the automatic restart. Typically, in the event of a power failure, standard dehumidifiers will not turn back on unless an automatic restart component is installed. In addition, some models contain an automatic defroster that prevents ice from accumulating on the unit’s coils, which can hinder performance.
For finished basements or those that will generate a lot of airborne contaminants, dehumidifiers that contain a removable air filter are an appealing option. In addition to cleaning the air before recirculating back into the basement, an air filter can protect the appliance from damage caused by excessive dust and debris buildup.
Keeping your basement dry is critical, and dehumidifiers do an excellent job of this. While size and drainage are the most important features to consider when shopping for a dehumidifier, today’s technology allows for a level of choice and customization that was not possible a decade ago. By better understanding the options available, homeowners are now equipped to find the perfect unit for their basement waterproofing needs.
Zablocki Waterproofing is your resource for basement waterproofing in Milwaukee. We also offer expert foundation repair, drain tile systems, and more. Give us a call today with questions or to schedule a service call.
