What Dehumidifiers ARE, and why they are important!

What is a dehumidifier? -A Dehumidifier, (DEE- hyoo-MIHD-uh-FY-uhr), is a device that removes moisture from the air. Dehumidifiers are commonly used in order to make homes more comfortable, to remove moisture from basements, and used when a room or area have been flooded by water and need drying out. A dehumidifier used in basements is an excellent way of possibly preventing mold and mildew growth.

A dehumidifier is just the opposite of a humidifier. Where humidifiers ADD moisture to the air, dehumidifiers simply remove moisture (humidity) from the air.

Why the need for a dehumidifier?- Warmer air can contain more moisture than cooler air can. On hot days, this additional moisture (humidity) can make people uncomfortable and feel warmer than they actually are. Reducing the amount of moisture in the air makes moisture on the skin evaporate more readily. People then feel cooler, even though the air temperature stays the same. Less humid air 50% to 55% is MUCH MORE comfortable than 70% or 80% to the skin and many say that it is easier to breathe in 50% humid air than it is in 70% at the same air temperature. If you live in a humid climate, such as Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Georgia and other southern states, a dehumidifier may make a big difference for you. Excess moisture and humid air can also possibly aggravate conditions such as arthritis and rheumatism and it also contributes to mold and mildew growth.

Lowering the moisture level of the air helps prevent problems in the home or offices. By removing moisture from the air, dehumidifiers protect areas from the damages of excess humidity. Most all owners of homes with basements below ground know how important a dehumidifier is in keeping the basement dry to prevent mold and mildew but there are many reasons why keeping indoor air less humid is beneficial.

Dehumidifiers can effectively help to prevent the mold, fungi and mildewing of stored valuables, prevent the rusting of tools, prevent swelling of floors, panel walls, drawers and doors, prevent furniture from creaking and much more..

Dust mites and and other allergens like warm, humid environments. Keeping the humidity low can be very helpful to allergy suffers. Mold and Mildew tend to collect wherever it is humid. Besides basements, kitchens and bathrooms are problem areas in many homes. So, removing moisture from the air in homes makes it less humid which helps in preventing mold, mildew and fungus growth and decreasing dust mite populations indoors and makes a much more comfortable environment to live in.

You've all seen it in the news, molds such as black mold, toxic mold, fungus mold, and slime molds. Are you aware that they are most often found in areas that have high humidity levels such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms or damp basements (especially after flooding). This is why it is important to try and prevent mold, fungus and mildew growth by using a dehumidifier.