In case you’re unfamiliar with dehumidifiers they have become one of the must-have devices for many homes and places of business. Home models of dehumidifiers are usually small and compact and something you can barely notice, larger models are available for commercial purposes such as offices or factories. Even though dehumidifiers have been around a long time it wasn’t until long after its invention in 1902 that the dehumidifier was recognized as having health benefits for humans.
A dehumidifier once a very easy installation process is completed can start to work immediately. By drawing in the warm air in the room and circulating the through its coils via a fan, the air has the moisture removed, and the fresh cool air is released back into the room. For a more technical description of how dehumidifiers work please click the link dehumidifiers explained. It wasn’t long before people began to understand the health benefits of a dehumidifier installed in your home and especially in bedrooms, children benefit the most from sleeping in a room with a dehumidifier installed.
What Are The Options When Choosing a Dehumidifier?
As when choosing any electrical appliance for the home it is best to choose the correct device that suits your needs. Whilst dehumidifiers are not really that expensive getting the correct one the first time can save you money and time. There are three main dehumidifier options, each suits different needs, here are the three explained:
- Desiccant Dehumidifier: Desiccant is something that we are all familiar with but few people are unaware that they come in contact with regularly. Every time you buy an electronic device or have clothes delivered you receive a small desiccant pouch, this is usually made from silicone and it helps to draw moisture from the product and prevents damage. The Desiccant Humidifier works on exactly the same principle. By drawing air into the dehumidifier and passing over or through the desiccant filter moisture is collected from the air and dry air is released back into the room.
These units are small and lightweight and are extremely useful in colder rooms such as garages or workshops. They work best in colder climates but can also be used anywhere.
- Refrigerant Dehumidifiers: This kind of dehumidifier works on much the same principle as a standard home refrigerator. By drawing the air from the room over a metal plate which kept cold using the standard refrigeration process, moisture is removed and collected in a tray which is emptied when needed.
These units are designed to work best in normal room temperatures and don’t perform well in colder climates. They can be used in cooler locations but are not cost-effective.
- Whole House Dehumidifiers: Designed to keep the whole house or office dehumidified, they have discreet vents usually placed in the ceiling. The main dehumidifier process takes place generally in the loft and forces the damp air outside, leaving the home free from excess moisture. The only real downside to this is the cost involved for the units and installation.
Depending on the environment that you live or work in one of these solutions will be best for you. If you’re still unsure ask a professional and be sure to give an accurate description of your living or working condition.
Dehumidifiers Can Help to Reduce Allergies And COPD Symptoms
When there is moisture in the air we breathe the air becomes heavier. This is not a big problem for most people, but for asthma sufferers, it can make breathing difficult. A dehumidifier can help relieve this problem by removing the moisture and thinning the air. Dehumidifiers should not be confused with treatment and under no circumstances be used as an excuse to reduce or stop taking the prescribed medicine. Other issues that dehumidifiers can help to relieve include:
- Environmental allergies include chest pain, sneezing fits, wheezing, eye irritations, and itching. These are some of the complaints that many of us suffer from daily. Dehumidifiers can filter the air not only of moisture but harmful particles too.
- The common allergy triggers, these include dust mites, pollen, cigarette smoke, mold, and animal dander. Removing these and other irritants from the air we come in contact allergies can be greatly reduced. Dust mites, in particular, need a relatively high humidity to survive.
The bedrooms and common areas of your home or workspace need the most attention.
It’s Not Just For Health Reasons But it Makes Financial Sense
Everybody is aware of the environmental destruction that we as a species have and are currently inflicting on the planet. And energy is the number one culprit, the demand is insatiable and only increasing each year as the population grows. Air conditioning is one of the worst offenders, using large amounts of electricity to homes, businesses, and pleasure venues at a comfortable temperature. Dehumidifiers can help the air conditioners do their job and by doing this reduces your electricity bill and help save the environment, a win-win situation for everybody.
When it comes to maintaining your home or office one of the main things to think about is mold. This can be a major financial problem to remedy and if it is not fixed seriously devalue your property if the time comes to sell. Dehumidifiers may not be able to fix the problem on their own but are great for preventing damage, especially in rooms like basements and garages. By removing the mold from the air you also help prevent the spread of the mold spores, this is also very good for you or your family’s health.
Dehumidifiers Can be Highly Portable And Inexpensive
There are many places you may find the need for a compact dehumidifier, and luckily as technology has progressed dehumidifiers have decreased in size and affordability. For a small portable dehumidifier, you can pay as low as $25. These units are ample for use on boats, in cars, in tents when camping, or even bringing one to leave in your hotel room when on vacation. Also ideal if your work environment is confined like a single office space and the employer has not provided one.
If you enjoy the crisp, cooler, and cleaner air that dehumidifiers provide it may be worth considering something to take with you if vacation abroad. In many European cities depending on the time of year, it may be something to consider packing. In Asia or South America where the climate can make the humidity levels very uncomfortable if you are not used to it. Also for people suffering from allergies, it may only be a 2 week vacation but having a trip spoiled by a reaction is never pleasant.
Summary
Dehumidifiers are a great investment if maintained properly they can last for a very long time. Continuing to give health benefits silently to your family, especially children and older people who are at risk of repository diseases or severe allergy reactions.
Health is not the only consideration, although should be number one. The value of your home or business is also very important and mold once set in is very difficult to remove and repair. And mold will also have a very negative impression on the value of your property should you wish to sell or lease.
