WHAT DOES A DEHUMIDIFIER ACTUALLY DO?
How does a dehumidifier work? It works rather easily by using the principle of condensation. Understanding this process isn’t just for curiosity, once you know how it works, you’ll be better equipped to care for your unit and prolong its lifespan in the Pacific Northwest climate. That’s less money spent replacing a dehumidifier that has quit before its projected lifespan is done.
Our Certified HVAC technicians break down the process step-by-step, showing you how to maintain peak performance and protect your investment.
PULLING EXCESS MOISTURE FROM THE AIR
A dehumidifier pulls the dusty and damp air from the room through its coils. To keep this process running smoothly, always check and clean its filters using warm, soapy water every two weeks or during periods of high humidity. If your coils look dusty, gently brush or vacuum them clean to keep the heat exchange necessary for condensation. Also, ensure at least 12-18 inches of free space on all sides, especially on the air intake vent and on the exhaust grills.
For a healthy and efficient operation, set your unit to maintain the ideal relative humidity for our local climate: 40%-50%.To prevent the dehumidifier from overworking, make sure your windows and doors are sealed to keep the moisture out. If you need fresh air, open your windows for 15-30 minutes only.
Condensation
Inside the unit, the warm, humid air is drawn across chilled cooling coils. As the air passes over these cold surfaces, the moisture in the air cools rapidly and condenses into liquid water droplets, which are then collected in a bucket or tank.
Because this stage relies on maintaining cold coils, make sure not to run the unit in an area that is too cold to guard against freezing. If there is a frost, turn off the unit and let the coil thaw completely before restarting.
Water Collection
After the moisture condenses on the cold coils, the resulting liquid water drips down into a removable bucket inside the unit. Once the bucket is full, empty it out, or in some models, the water is continuously pumped out via a drain hose.
Always prevent overflow by emptying the bucket immediately. If you are using a continuous drain hose, ensure the hose is clear so the unit doesn’t unexpectedly shut down.
Releasing Dry Air
After the air’s moisture has been collected, this now dry, more comfortable air is released back into the room.
If you are wondering how quickly a dehumidifier works, you may notice a difference in the air in a few hours, or it may take 24-74 hours or even longer, especially in very damp or large areas.
WHAT DEHUMIDIFIERS DO TO PROTECT YOUR HOME
IT STOPS MOLD AND MILDEW BEFORE IT STARTS
Our Pacific Northwest’s climate makes indoor spaces, especially basements and crawl spaces, prime targets for mold and mildew growth. The high moisture that soaks into drywall, insulation, and the wooden structure inside your walls and under your floors creates hidden havens for molds. A dehumidifier actively keeps your humidity below the danger zone to stop mold and mildew before they can even take hold.
DEHUMIDIFIER IMPROVES INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND REDUCES ALLERGENS
Dehumidifiers also help with dust and allergens. And, if you’ve experienced a lot of either in your home, you’ll be pleased to know that dehumidifying the air helps remove a lot of contaminants that kick up asthma, allergies, and other major respiratory issues. That helps you breathe easier.
PROTECTS YOUR FURNITURE AND HOUSE STRUCTURE
When the air gets too damp and the moisture too high, you’ll start to notice wooden floors warping and doors or windows getting stuck in their frames. This damage can be more severe as essential structural components, like vertical framing, beams, and support posts, can actually soften and deteriorate, which could compromise the integrity of your house over time. You might also see
aesthetic issues such as peeling paint and the rapid onset of rust and corrosion on metal fixtures.
A dehumidifier works as a proactive, protective shield for your property, helping to preserve your home and furniture from these slow, moisture-induced breakdowns.
DEHUMIDIFIER HELPS PREVENT PEST INFESTATIONS
When the climate inside is relatively dry, you keep pests such as roaches, fleas, spiders, dustmites, fruitflies, silverfish, and centipedes outside your home. You don’t have to worry about bug infestations when there isn’t excess moisture in the air.
Increase Energy Efficiency with Expert Dehumidifier Repair & Maintenance
Maximize your savings and get the best from your dehumidifier with Apex Air’s professional repair and maintenance services. Our certified HVAC technicians go beyond the basics to prevent costly breakdowns and premature replacements, guaranteeing you get consistent, fresh, clean air and a healthier indoor environment for your family.
Ready for a Drier, Healthier Home?
(360) 342-8109 Call now for a FREE estimate!