Residential Dehumidification
Excessive humidity in a home can cause various issues. It can make the air feel heavy and sticky, which in turn requires more heating or cooling to feel comfortable. Too much moisture in the air can also promote growth of mold, mildew and dust mites, and ruin furniture, clothing, electronics, and other household items. In addition to proper ventilation, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, a good solution is a portable or whole-house dehumidifier. Because dehumidified air feels cooler, thermostats can be set to higher temperatures during cooling season. Once can expect to save 5-7% on utility bills for every two degrees a thermostat is raised.
Common Signs of Excessive Humidity
- Must or mildew odors
- Condensation stains on walls or ceilings
- Condensation on windows
- Cracking/flaking paint or peeling wallpaper
- Consistently damp areas
- Need to lower the thermostat or run A/C more frequently to feel comfortable
Choosing between a whole-house and portable dehumidifier depends on individual needs. Benefits of whole-house units include humidity control throughout the home, less noise, and are up to four times more energy efficient that portable units. They are more expensive on initial purchase, but quickly pay for themselves in energy savings. Portable dehumidifiers are less expensive to purchase, but they are loud, less efficient, require frequent emptying, and can only dehumidify a limited area. Portable units are a good option for dehumidifying damp basements, but for most applications, whole-house units are usually the better choice.
About E.P. Homiek
E.P. Homiek Sheet Metal Fabrication & HVAC Supply, with two convenient locations in Lakewood, NJ and Union, NJ, provides one- to two-day turnaround on all residential and light commercial ductwork, as well as one- to two-hour emergency fabrication service, rapid delivery, and competitive prices. HVAC parts, supplies, and equipment lines include Goodman, Honeywell, Bryant, Bradford White, Crown Boiler, Daikin, Weil-McLain, Sea Breeze, Generac, Fantech, ZM, A.O. Smith, Hart & Cooley, Malco, Mueller, and many more.
