Florida is no stranger to heat and humidity. The added moisture in the air can make the outdoors uncomfortable and the last thing you want to do is have to deal with these same conditions in your indoor environment. In addition, moisture can be an erosive force that is bad for wood, drywall, and other main components of your home. A whole house dehumidifier can help remove moisture and solve your indoor air quality problems. Learn more about how these dehumidifiers work and how Comfort Caddies can help you choose and install the right HVAC solutions for your home.
What is the Purpose of a Whole-Home Dehumidifier?
One the most basic level, a whole house humidifier works to decrease moisture in the air, which will make your home more comfortable. Ideally, you want your home humidity levels to be in the 30-50% range. With a dehumidifier, when the humidity in your home surpasses a preset limit, the whole home dehumidifier will go to work removing moisture and reducing the humidity levels. The humidity is condensed on a coil and turned into a liquid and is routed out of the home. In some cases, it is sent to a collection pan, but it can also be sent directly to a basement drain.
While your air conditioner also works to remove humidity from the air, it doesn’t always cycle long enough to remove enough moisture. For example, if the temperature is in the 70s, your AC unit may not have to run that long to maintain the right indoor temperature. However, that doesn’t take into account the fact that the temperature may be 78 degrees with a 90% humidity level. The whole house dehumidifier can continue to remove moisture from the air when the AC isn’t running so that the air is both cool and dry.
When you hear the term “whole house dehumidifier,” you may be picturing a massive unit. In reality this device is about the size of a toaster oven. In addition, it can be added to your existing HVAC system. You won’t have to make any major overhauls to be able to enjoy a more comfortable home.
Advantages of a Whole House Dehumidifier
- More efficient home cooling. While your air conditioner works to cool indoor air and remove humidity, it can work more efficiently with the help of a whole home dehumidifier. In some cases, people have been able to raise their AC temp from 68 degrees to 76 degrees. Essentially, their AC doesn’t have to work as hard to enjoy a comfortable temperature and they are able to save on monthly utility bills.
- Cleaner indoor air. If anyone in your home suffers from respiratory issues, such as asthma, you know that high humidity doesn’t help. Everyone can breathe easier when humidity levels are under control.
- Prevent mold. Too much moisture can lead to mold growth, which can then cause a whole host of other problems for your home and your family. Keeping humidity levels low will keep your wood floors, carpets, and other home essentials clean and dry.
Whole-Home Dehumidifier Vs. Portable Dehumidifier
Many people are wary of purchasing and installing a whole house dehumidifier because they simply don’t want to pay the money. In many cases, they will choose to go with a portable model instead, but it is important to remember that the cost of running a portable model is much higher and they will wear out faster. With a whole house version, you will enjoy a quick return on your investment.
In addition, a portable dehumidifier will only remove moisture from a few rooms, so there will be different humidity levels throughout the home. A whole house model will treat your entire indoor space while also being tucked quietly away in the basement where it won’t be seen or heard.
Steps in Dehumidifier Installation
As mentioned, a whole house humidifier can be attached directly to your existing HVAC system. While every home will be a little different, essentially, the installation process involves adding the unit, installing a hose and/or PVC pipe that will guide the water out of the home, and create a duct loop that will send the dry air back into the home. For an expert installer, it can be a relatively quick and easy process. However, it probably isn’t something even the most determined DIYer will want to tackle, especially since this could void any warranty that comes with the unit.
Purchasing Your Home Dehumidifier
As you start shopping around the the right whole home dehumidifier for your home, here are a few things to consider:
- Pints of moisture rating. Dehumidifiers are often ranked according to how many pints of moisture they can remove during a 24 hour period. This can be an indication of the power and performance of the model.
- Coverage size. The square footage of your home will also determine the right model for you.
- Noise level. As you narrow down your options, read some customer reviews and see what other people have to say about the operational noise level. In general, whole house models are very quiet, but this is something to look into, especially if your HVAC system isn’t located in a basement.
- Drain system. Different dehumidifiers expel water from the home differently. Most homes in Naples, Florida, don’t have basements, so the water will be sent to a drain pan or directed a safe distance from the home.
- Cost. Installing a whole home dehumidifier will come with some upfront costs. However, it is important to keep in mind all the benefits of installing a whole home dehumidifier and the savings you will experience when it comes to lower utility bills and fewer maintenance and repair visits.
Choose the Right Dehumidifier Installation Company
Homeowners throughout the Naples, Florida, area turn to Comfort Caddies for all their HVAC needs, including whole home dehumidifier installation services. Our experienced professionals will offer prompt responses, accurate and transparent quotes, fast turnaround times, and high-quality work that will prolong the life of your systems. Call us today to schedule a consultation and work with the area’s premier provider to address all your HVAC needs.
