Are Basement Dehumidifiers Worth It? | Thiele

Are Basement Dehumidifiers Worth It?

Are Basement Dehumidifiers Worth It?

Dry air is more comfortable and easier for air conditioners and heating systems to process. Controlling humidity levels in your basement provides comfort throughout the other levels of your home. Beyond comfort, the proper humidity levels within your basement will impact the health and structure of your house. An ideal humidity level for a basement is 30-50%. When levels rise higher, the potential for biological growth rises.

In our most recent blog, the HVAC technicians at Thiele discuss the signs you need a basement dehumidifier and the benefits of installing one in your home.

Signs Your Basement Is Too Humid

There are clear indications of high humidity levels within a basement. Adding a dehumidifier to your basement has many benefits. A dehumidifier controls humidity within your basement. A dry basement maintains the structural integrity of your home. Proper and stable humidity levels reduce allergens, dust mites, mold and mildew growth.

High Humidistat Reading

If you suspect your basement is humid, a humidistat is an inexpensive device that measures the relative humidity. Humidity should be below 60% with a target of 30-50% for basements. This relatively inexpensive device can test and monitor the humidity in your basement.

Mold

Inspecting the walls, edges and corners of your basement for visible mold growth is important. A musty or damp smell indicates mold, and a visual inspection for mold spots often confirms your suspicions. Dehumidifiers prevent mold by controlling moisture problems.

Condensation

Like other rooms in your home, excessive humidity is often revealed through condensation on windows and walls. Moisture on windows is a telltale sign mold and other biological growth is impacting your home.

Water, Staining and Wood Rot

Excess moisture on floors is an obvious sign you need help controlling moisture levels. Staining on the ground may be caused by high humidity. If the floors on the ground level feel soft or sag, wood rot from excess humidity may be the cause.

Risks of a Damp Basement

Allergens

The health of your family is always a top priority. For family members suffering from allergies, controlling the humidity within your home is paramount. Symptoms including itchy or runny eyes, headaches, sinus congestion, sore throat, coughing and even rashes may be allergic reactions to mold, mildew, dust mites or other allergens that thrive in humid conditions. Damp air is quickly treated by dehumidifiers.

A basement dehumidifier will improve indoor air quality throughout your home. Controlling the relative moisture within your basement eliminates the conditions mold and other allergens need to grow.

Structural Damage

Moisture buildup can damage your foundation and rot wood in framing and floorboards. If floors feel soft, creak or warp on the ground floor, moisture within your basement may be to blame. The best basement dehumidifier protects the air in your home and preserves the structural integrity of your foundation, walls and floorboards.

When to Install a Basement Dehumidifier

Monitoring the humidity levels in your basement is a wise idea. Installing a basement dehumidifier at the first sign of excess moisture is the best practice to maintain indoor air quality, preventing dust mite and allergens and protecting your family’s health. If you notice any signs of humid air in your basement, contact Thiele in a timely manner.

Contact Thiele for all of Your Air Conditioning and Heating Needs

Our team will advise you of the best type of basement dehumidifier for your home. Since 1883, Thiele has been committed to Indianapolis and the surrounding areas. We are experts in controlling the indoor air quality including air conditioning, heating, humidity and air purification. When you need help with any HVAC question, you can depend on our team. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.