Understanding HVAC Dehumidifiers: A Comprehensive Guide
We all know that high humidity can make us feel uncomfortable and sticky. However, did you know excessive humidity can cause more than discomfort? It can lead to mold growth, damaged furniture, and potential health problems. So how can you reduce the humidity in your home? One option is to invest in an HVAC dehumidifier. Please keep reading to learn the benefits of an HVAC dehumidifier, the different types available, and whether or not it is worth the investment.
What is an HVAC Dehumidifier?
An HVAC dehumidifier is a type of dehumidifier built into your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. These devices work hand-in-hand with your HVAC system to create a comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient indoor environment. They are designed to remove excess moisture from the air as it passes through the HVAC system before it is distributed through the house.
How Does an HVAC Dehumidifier Work?
An HVAC dehumidifier draws air from the return duct and passes it over a series of cold refrigerant coils. The cold refrigerant causes the water vapor in the air to condense on the coils, forming droplets of water. Depending on the system’s design, the water drips into a collection pan or drain. After the water has been extracted, the air then passes over the warm coils, which warms it back up to its original temperature before being circulated back into the home’s living areas via the supply duct.
Benefits of Investing in an HVAC Dehumidifier
Investing in an HVAC dehumidifier can help in keeping your home or office comfortable, healthy, and safe. The following are the benefits of investing in an HVAC dehumidifier.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
High humidity levels in the air can cause mold and mildew growth, leading to respiratory issues and allergies. HVAC dehumidifiers help reduce humidity levels and eliminate moisture, thereby providing better indoor air quality. This is critical for preventing the growth of harmful organisms and keeping you and your family healthy.
Increased Energy Efficiency
An HVAC dehumidifier helps reduce humidity levels, making your home or office cooler and more comfortable. As a result, you won’t need to use your air conditioner as frequently or for a longer duration, which can help reduce energy bills long-term. Moreover, HVAC dehumidifiers are energy-efficient. By investing in one, you can save on energy costs.
Protect Your Furniture
High humidity levels can cause furniture to warp, rot and even develop mold. Investing in an HVAC dehumidifier can protect your furniture from damage and help them last longer. Low humidity levels can also reduce static electricity buildup.
Prevent Structural Damage
High humidity levels can result in serious structural damage in buildings, such as weakened foundations, cracking walls, and peeling paint. In addition, it can also cause rusting in metal appliances. An HVAC dehumidifier can help prevent all of this and is a wise investment for those who want to preserve their property and avoid costly repairs.
Types of Dehumidifiers
If you’re in the market for a dehumidifier, you’ll quickly discover that there are several different types available. Read on for a comprehensive guide to the types of dehumidifiers on the market.
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers
These are the most commonly used type of dehumidifiers. They draw moisture-laden air over cool coils, condensing the excess moisture into water droplets that collect in a built-in container or drain. Refrigerant dehumidifiers are relatively affordable and effective at removing moisture in typical household settings with temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
On the other hand, desiccant dehumidifiers use moisture-absorbing materials such as silica gel or zeolite to remove excess moisture from the air. They are effective at removing moisture in colder temperatures and low-humidity environments. These types of dehumidifiers work well in low temperatures and can be used in more industrial and commercial settings.
Whole-House Dehumidifiers
As the name suggests, whole-house dehumidifiers are designed to dehumidify the entire house. They typically connect to the HVAC system or ductwork and are capable of removing far more moisture than a stand-alone unit. They are the perfect solution for those with larger homes or serious moisture problems.
Portable Dehumidifiers
Portable dehumidifiers are perfect for smaller rooms or areas where fixed units are not practical. This type of dehumidifier is extremely user-friendly and can be moved easily from room to room. The drawback, however, is that they do require regular maintenance and emptying of the collection tray.
Basement Dehumidifiers
Basements are notoriously moist, making them the perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. Basement dehumidifiers are designed to address this issue by removing excess moisture from the air. They are highly effective and can be installed permanently in the basement to remove moisture continuously.
Factors to Consider When Buying an HVAC Dehumidifier
Here are some things you should consider when buying an HVAC dehumidifier.
The Size of the Dehumidifier
One of the essential factors to consider when buying an HVAC dehumidifier is the size of the unit. You want to make sure that the dehumidifier is the right size for the area you want to dehumidify. If the dehumidifier is too small for the room, it won’t be able to handle the humidity levels effectively, and if it’s too big, it will waste energy.
Energy Efficiency
Another factor to consider when buying an HVAC dehumidifier is energy efficiency. A good dehumidifier should consume less electricity and save you money in the long run. Look for dehumidifiers with a high energy star rating as they are energy efficient and come with features like programmable timers and smart settings that can help you save on energy costs.
The Noise Level
The noise level of a dehumidifier is another factor to consider. If you plan to use the dehumidifier in your bedroom or living room, you wouldn’t want to settle for a device that creates a lot of noise. Choosing a dehumidifier with a low decibel rating or one with a noise-canceling feature is advisable. That way, you get to enjoy a quiet environment while still enjoying the benefits of the dehumidifier.
Maintenance and upkeep
When buying an HVAC dehumidifier, you should consider the maintenance and upkeep involved. Choose a dehumidifier that is easy to clean and maintain to avoid incurring extra costs in the long run. Look for models with washable filters and easy access to the unit’s interior for quick cleaning.
The Price
Finally, before making your purchase, you should consider the price factor. A dehumidifier’s price will vary due to its features, brand, and size. You should set a budget and look for a dehumidifier that fits within your budget while still meeting your preferences and requirements.
Get in Touch With Professionals Today!
Revival Heating & Cooling is taking action to improve air quality in homes throughout Washington County and beyond. We offer a wide range of services including ductless heat pumps, regular maintenance services, and oil/gas conversions. With these strategies, you can ensure your home is comfortable, efficient, and safe all year. Our experienced technicians have the knowledge necessary to help you achieve this goal. Contact Revival Heating & Cooling today to schedule a consultation.