Keeping optimal humidity levels helps protect your belongings and maintain a comfortable space. Excess moisture is common in the garage and can cause problems like mold, mildew, or rust – a quality dehumidifier helps you control and prevent moisture issues.
So you can develop the best humidity maintenance routine for your home, this post will explore key features to look for when choosing a humidifier for the garage. From energy use to extra features, you should wrap up with a clear idea of what you need.
Why a Good Dehumidifier is Important
Many homes, and garages in particular, face moisture level concerns. If humidity levels are too high, you might see damage to your tools, vehicles, and other stored items. So, a quality dehumidifier helps control moisture in a space to prevent damage to belongings or structures.
Dehumidifiers work by drawing moisture from the air, reducing overall moisture. This is especially important in garages and basements, where ventilation is often limited. Keeping the air dry, a dehumidifier ensures your garage or basement remains as safe and comfortable as the rest of the home.
Improved air quality is another primary benefit – especially if you use your garage for hobbies or work. Cleaner, drier air makes the space more pleasant and reduces the risk of respiratory issues caused by mold and mildew.
Things to Look for in a Garage Dehumidifier
Since every household and garage’s needs will be a little different, make sure to get an idea of what you’re looking for before investing in a dehumidifying system.
Capacity and Energy Use
Firstly, choosing a dehumidifier with the right capacity for your garage is critical. Capacity is measured in pints per day (PPD), indicating how much moisture the unit can remove from the air in 24 hours.
For small garages (up to 500 square feet), a dehumidifier with a capacity of 30-40 pints per day is usually sufficient. Medium-sized garages (500-1,000 square feet) typically require a unit with a capacity of 50-70 pints per day. For large garages (over 1,000 square feet) or areas with very high humidity, look for a dehumidifier with a capacity of 70-100 pints per day.
Energy efficiency is also important for keeping electricity costs down. Look for dehumidifiers with the Energy Star label, which signifies that the unit meets energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Portability and Size
Portability can be very important, especially if you plan to move the dehumidifier around your garage or other areas of your home. Consider units with wheels and handles for easy transportation. Plus, the size of the dehumidifier should fit well in your available space without obstructing movement or storage.
Noise and Drainage
The noise level of a dehumidifier can affect your comfort, particularly if you spend a lot of time in your garage. Look for models that operate quietly, typically under 50 decibels. Checking user reviews can help find this info!
Dehumidifiers can collect moisture in a reservoir or allow for continuous drainage. Manual drainage requires you to empty the tank regularly, while continuous drainage uses a hose to direct water to a drain. Some models come with built-in pumps for more convenient water removal.
Built-In Humidistats and Other Features
A built-in humidistat automatically regulates humidity levels by turning the dehumidifier on and off as needed. This feature helps maintain a consistent environment without requiring constant adjustments. It also contributes to energy efficiency by preventing the unit from running unnecessarily.
Finally, some modern dehumidifiers come with a range of additional features. Generally, they’ll include features that enhance usability and convenience. For example:
- Timers: Allow you to set the dehumidifier to operate at specific times.
- Auto-restart: Ensures the unit resumes operation after a power outage.
- Washable filters: Simplify maintenance and reduce the need for replacements.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your dehumidifier running smoothly and efficiently! Start by cleaning the filters every few weeks – this helps maintain good air quality and efficiency. If your unit doesn’t have continuous drainage, make sure to empty the water reservoir regularly, especially in humid conditions.
Inspect and clean the coils periodically to remove dust and debris that can accumulate and reduce efficiency. Ensure that the air intake and exhaust vents are clear of any obstructions to maintain proper airflow. Keep an eye on the humidistat to ensure it’s set to the desired level and adjust if necessary.
Before storing your dehumidifier for a season, clean and dry it thoroughly. When you take it out of storage, inspect all parts to make sure they’re clean and functional.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, your dehumidifier might need professional attention. If it runs continuously but humidity levels stay high, there could be an issue with the compressor or refrigerant. Unusual noises like grinding or squealing may indicate problems with internal components.
Water leaks from the unit or around it might signal a drainage issue that needs fixing. If the unit doesn’t turn on despite being correctly set up, there could be an electrical problem.
Frequent cycling on and off without reaching the desired humidity might mean a faulty humidistat or control issue. Visible damage like cracks, broken parts, or frayed wires should be addressed by a professional to prevent further damage and ensure safety.
Conclusion
Selecting the right garage dehumidifier is essential for keeping your space dry, comfortable, and safe.
Focus on important features such as capacity, energy efficiency, portability, noise level, drainage options, built-in humidistats, and additional features. Regular maintenance and timely professional help will ensure your dehumidifier operates efficiently.
To learn more about clean air dehumidifying systems or schedule an inspection of your basement, garage, or crawlspace, call Buckeye Basement Solutions in Columbus, OH, and the surrounding areas.
