Basement Dehumidifiers
A breeding ground for dampness & mold
Basements are a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Unfortunately, most people use their basements as a dumping ground for storage using things like cardboard and paper. These are breading grounds for mold and mildew, and you will make dampness problems worse than they already are.
High humidity in your basement can cause structural wood rot and/or warping. You really need to take care of humidity’s root causes before you buy a dehumidifier.
After you have made all the necessary other changes, check the relative humidity level using a hygrometer. Your home (or even just your basement) should be near 45 percent relative humidity on average. If it is higher you will need a dehumidifier.
Things to look for in a basement dehumidifier include:
- Power cords long enough to reach your outlets.
- The right size of dehumidifier. You need to figure out how much water you need to suck out of the air in 24-hour periods. For example, if you have really humid conditions and a 500 square foot area, you would need a 16-pint unit. If it was only moderately damp you would need a 10-liter unit. Read more.
- Automatic shutoff and anti-freeze capability.
- A model with an air filter. Follow the manufacturer suggestions as far as replacing and maintaining filters, otherwise you will be doing more damage than good to your air if bacteria and mold are allowed to thrive.
- A low-maintenance model with a direct drain-off hose. Basement dehumidifiers fill pretty quickly, so the hose is a must. If you don’t have a dry sink in your basement, look for a model with a large-capacity tank (one that you can carry when full).
- Energy Star rated or high efficiency. Running a dehumidifier can add up.
- A whole home dehumidifier. This is likely the most effective, most convenient method if you can afford it. These are lower maintenance and can keep the whole home in the proper relative level of humidity.
- A unit with solid casters and handles. Chances are you will need to move the unit around the basement, and you want your dehumidifier to last.
- Humidistats, a fantastic invention. Look for a dehumidifier model with an easy-to-read display and also one that will adjust humidity levels accordingly.
- A good warranty from a brand you trust.

