Dehumidifier Sizes
DEHUMIDIFIERSSOLUTIONS
What Size Dehumidifier Do You Need?
A Guide To Choosing The Right Capacity
Humidity plays a significant role in creating a comfortable and healthy living environment. While some moisture in the air is necessary, excessive humidity can lead to various problems like mold growth, dust mites, and structural damage. Dehumidifiers offer an effective solution by removing excess moisture from the air, but choosing the right size is crucial for optimal performance and energy efficiency.
In this guide:
Understanding Dehumidifier Capacity:
Dehumidifier capacity refers to the amount of moisture a dehumidifier can remove from the air in a 24-hour period. This is typically measured in liters (L) per day or pints (pt) per day. The higher the capacity, the more moisture the dehumidifier can extract.
Factors Affecting Dehumidifier Size Selection:
Several factors influence the ideal dehumidifier size for your space:
Room Size: This is the primary factor to consider. Larger rooms require dehumidifiers with higher capacities to effectively manage moisture levels. Here's a general guideline:
Small rooms (up to 200 sq. ft. / 18.6 sq. m): Dehumidifiers with capacities between 2.6-5.2 L/day or 2.6-5.2 pt/day are suitable.
Medium rooms (200-400 sq. ft. / 18.6-37.2 sq. m): Opt for dehumidifiers with capacities ranging from 5.2-7.9 L/day or 5.2-7.9 pt/day.
Large rooms (400-800 sq. ft. / 37.2-74.3 sq. m): Choose dehumidifiers with capacities between 7.9-13.2 L/day or 7.9-13.2 pt/day.
Climate: Warmer and more humid climates require higher dehumidifier capacities compared to cooler and drier regions.
Severity of Moisture Problem: If you're dealing with severe mold growth or water damage, you might need a larger dehumidifier even for a smaller space.
Number of Occupants: More occupants generate more moisture through activities like cooking and showering, requiring a higher dehumidifier capacity.
Ventilation: Poorly ventilated spaces require a larger dehumidifier to compensate for the lack of natural moisture removal.
Choosing the Right Dehumidifier for Your House Size:
While room size plays a vital role, considering your entire house size can offer a broader perspective. Here's a simplified approach:
Small houses (up to 1000 sq. ft. / 92.9 sq. m): A single dehumidifier with a capacity of 7.9-13.2 L/day or 7.9-13.2 pt/day can often manage the entire house, depending on the factors mentioned above.
Medium houses (1000-2000 sq. ft. / 92.9-185.8 sq. m): You might need one or two dehumidifiers depending on the layout and moisture levels. A larger dehumidifier (13.2-18.9 L/day or 13.2-18.9 pt/day) for the main living area and a smaller one (5.2-7.9 L/day or 5.2-7.9 pt/day) for specific rooms like bathrooms or basements might be suitable.
Large houses (over 2000 sq. ft. / 185.8 sq. m): Multiple dehumidifiers are likely necessary. Consider using a combination of larger and smaller units strategically placed throughout the house.
Additional Considerations:
Dehumidifier Type: Compressor dehumidifiers generally have higher capacities but are noisier than desiccant dehumidifiers, which are better suited for colder environments.
Energy Efficiency: Look for dehumidifiers with an Energy Star rating for optimal energy consumption.
Noise Level: Consider noise levels, especially if you plan to run the dehumidifier in bedrooms or living areas.
Features: Some dehumidifiers offer additional features like automatic shut-off, continuous drainage, and humidity level settings. Choose features that best suit your needs.
Remember: These are general guidelines, and it's always a good idea to consult a professional or refer to manufacturer recommendations for specific situations. They can assess your unique needs and suggest the most appropriate dehumidifier size and type for your space.