If you live in an area with high humidity, you’ve probably considered buying a dehumidifier. Irish homes are unfortunately known for mould, but are dehumidifiers worth the investment? We’re not a great auld nation for buying into ideas like this, but I’ve been running one for a few months now.
Here’s a look at what dehumidifiers do, how they can improve your quality of life, and whether they’re worth the price tag.
What does a dehumidifier do?
A dehumidifier in your home can be an excellent addition for many reasons. Not only does it reduce the number of airborne allergens like dust mites and mould, but it also prevents environmental damage like peeling paint and rotten wood, caused by excess moisture in the air
It’s essential to purchase a unit that is specially designed for your area, as this ensures that it will provide the precise level of humidity needed in your space. Additionally, having a dehumidifier can make it easier to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your house since cold air holds more moisture than hot air.
Therefore, having one in your home can help you create an environment with proper temperature control and clean air – which should come as no surprise when you consider all its benefits!
One massive benefit I found from using a dehumidifier is the dramatic reduction in the time clothes take to dry. It makes a lot of sense of course. Less moisture in the air means clothes dry faster. Let’s look more at how these machines work.
How a dehumidifier works
A dehumidifier works by taking the air in your home and passing it through a cooling coil which condenses the moisture. It’s just like moisture on an icy glass of water! The condensed water droplets then flow into a collection tray. Depending on the model, this then either drains away or stays in the unit until you can dispose of it.
This process removes excess humidity from the air and creates a much more pleasant living environment. For those of us who live in a humid climate, owning a dehumidifier can significantly improve our day-to-day lives – no more wondering why you feel so stuffy!
How long before a dehumidifier starts to work?
It can take up to two weeks of running for a dehumidifier to become perfectly in sync with your home. It often depends on the size of your home and the capacity of your machine. Once it’s up and running, you just need to remember to empty the reservoir.
The benefits of using a dehumidifier
Dehumidifiers are a great tool for improving health and well-being in the home. High levels of humidity can lead to health complaints such as allergies, sinus headaches, breathing problems, and asthma attacks.
By reducing the humidity with a dehumidifier, these health issues will improve – especially if you’re prone to allergies or suffer from a mould sensitivity.
I would wager that most people in Ireland have lived in at least one home with mould issues they turned a blind eye to.
Not only will this help create a healthier space overall, but it will also potentially means less money spent on trips to the doctor or store-bought medicines. Dehumidifiers are wiser health-wise (and wallet-wise) way to go!
Things to consider before buying a dehumidifier
Before deciding to purchase a dehumidifier, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
Initially, the cost of the actual purchase should be taken into account. Some expensive models can break the bank. Not only is it expensive to buy one, but can be expensive to run too! In other words, don’t forget about the long-term energy costs associated with running a dehumidifier.
I’ve been running the MeacoDry Arete One 10L Dehumidifier and Air Purifier in-one. I’m happy with it. It’s set to maintain a level of humidity in the home and does so. It’s not running constantly either. After initially getting the humidity right in the house, now it just turns on and maintains the level when it has to.
A basic rule of thumb for efficiency: look for models that have a reasonably good energy rating if possible. Similarly, consider the type of unit required, since various units are better suited for different spaces (e.g., small rooms vs giant living spaces). Also, ensure you read reviews on different models beforehand so you find out what others say who might have purchased and used them before. I can personally vouch for the Meaco I’m testing.
How to use a dehumidifier effectively
Using a dehumidifier effectively can help reduce the amount of excess moisture in your home that can lead to an uncomfortable and unhealthy atmosphere. Setting the humidity level is key – you want humidity to be around 30-50 per cent relative in order to ensure an optimal environment.
This prevents condensation as well as mould and mildew growth, odours, and even problems with static electricity. Try to stick to one setting for humidification; having the levels frequently change between too high and too low disrupts humidity and makes the dehumidifier’s job more difficult. With proper maintenance, using a dehumidifier can make your facilities more comfortable, making indoor spaces healthier and allowing you to breathe easier.
If you have asthma, allergies, or other respiratory problems, using a dehumidifier can significantly improve your breathing and overall health. If you don’t have any health issues, a dehumidifier can still prevent them by keeping the air in your home clean and free of mould spores and dust mites. You might also want to check out our review of Airthings to learn even more about the air in your home.
We hope this article has been helpful in deciding whether or not you need a dehumidifier. If you still have questions, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram – we’re happy to help!
