When Do I Need to Install a Dehumidifier in My Home? | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier for trouble areas in your home can be a great tool for lowering humidity and possibly preventing microbial growth.

If you have ever had a mold infestation on your hands in the past, you know it is something that no one wants to deal with. Mold can be insidious and far-reaching, and once it becomes established, it is essential to have it properly remediated to prevent it from becoming a recurring issue.

For this reason, many people are hoping to be proactive in regard to preventing mold. Mold prevention is a much more sustainable strategy, and because we know that mold likes damp, humid places, addressing the moisture levels in an area is a great method for abating any growth. 

Can a Dehumidifier Help Prevent Mold? Mold thrives the best on areas that are damp, humid or otherwise have a high moisture content, which is exactly what a dehumidifier is designed to combat. A dehumidifier can be a great tool in reducing the overall humidity of the air, so if you have an area that is persistently damp or poorly ventilated, this can be a great tactic. That being said, if you are dealing with a water damage issue, such as previous flooding that was improperly addressed or a hidden leak, it is important to get proper restoration that addresses the root of the matter, otherwise the mold will likely keep returning. 

What Type of Dehumidifier Should I Choose? There are a lot of options when it comes to the types of dehumidifiers to choose for your home. Some models are portable and plug into a wall outlet, so they can be utilized in various areas of the home as needed—but these must be emptied regularly to remain effective. Other models, designed for garages, basements, crawl spaces and other areas notorious for high moisture content, can be installed permanently with a drainage system so they can kick on and off as needed. 

How Do I Know If I Need a Dehumidifier? If you are not sure if a dehumidifier is what you need in your home, measuring the moisture in the air with a hygrometer is advised. Ideally, humidity levels should remain below 50% throughout the home to discourage mold and mildew growth. *If you have discovered mold in your home, we are the team to call. We specialize in mold remediation and are here 24/7. Contact us today!