Why is a dehumidifier needed?
At the first sign of mold or mildew in your home, you should consider purchasing a dehumidifier. This type of equipment is specially created to maintain a favorable level of air humidity. Next, we will consider the main models of devices, why they are needed and how to choose the most suitable one.
The content of the article
Is dampness in an apartment dangerous?
First of all, high humidity affects the room. An unpleasant smell appears, books, food, wall coverings and other things begin to deteriorate.
Important! The worst thing is mold fungi, which are extremely dangerous to humans. To get rid of them, you will have to put in a lot of effort.
The critical maximum of indicators is usually observed in the off-season, when the batteries in houses are turned off, and the street is quite damp and dank. During this time, the humidity level rises to 90%, while in winter it remains at 50%.
Attention! According to numerous studies, the most comfortable humidity range is 40-60%. With such indicators, a person is most active and able to fight many infections.
Why is a dehumidifier necessary?
The most effective way to regulate humidity levels is to use a dehumidifier. The device maintains a favorable climate by cleaning the air from dust and dangerous microorganisms.It collects excess water vapor in a special compartment.
The dehumidifier is used in apartments, houses, offices, industrial premises, spa areas and many other spaces. It helps solve a number of problems:
- Protects premises and increases their service life. Excess water vapor and its constant settling lead to swelling of wooden beams, the appearance of rust on metal, and a decrease in the thermal insulation of finishing materials. Plastering and painting do not help in this case. The foundation of the room may collapse, and the basements will be filled with harmful bedbugs, fungi and microorganisms.
- In warehouses it helps to keep vegetables and fruits, grains and other products intact. Otherwise, they may lose their consumer qualities.
- For home use, it prevents dampening of clothes, books, paintings, wallpaper and other things.
- Maintains computer equipment and household appliances in working order, since moisture ingress can cause a short circuit.
- Ensures uninterrupted operation of enterprises, since excess air humidity can cause failures and malfunctions in machines and mechanisms.
- Prevents household injuries: they are often caused by the formation of smudges on the floor.
The list of problems that can appear in over-humidified rooms can be continued for a long time.
Types of dehumidifiers
Most models have an automatic shut-off and anti-freeze feature. According to the characteristics of their work, the following types are distinguished:
1. Condensation. Ideal for apartments and the private sector. They work on the principle of an air conditioner. The mechanism consists of a cold and warm radiator, i.e. an evaporator and a condenser.Ventilating blades push air onto the evaporator, where it is cooled. The resulting condensate flows into a moisture collection tank. Next, the air masses enter the condenser, where they are slightly heated (3-5 degrees above the initial temperature) and blown back into the room. A significant disadvantage of the model is the need to constantly drain water from the container, since when it is filled, the device immediately turns off.
2. Assimilation. They are used only in industries where it is necessary to dry large volumes of air. The operation of the device comes down to a constant exchange of air masses, as a result of which humid air gives way to drier air, which is supplied from the outside. Experts note that such models are the least energy efficient, since a lot of valuable heat is removed along with the heated air. In climates where there is always a high level of air humidity, for example, on sea coasts, this device will not function.
3. Adsorption. The operating principle is related to the properties of certain substances. Inside the mechanism there is a sorbent that absorbs excess moisture. It needs to be changed periodically. A novelty of this type of dehumidifier is a device that operates using a two-chamber rotor that mixes the sorbent. However, these devices are effective only for small volumes. They are often used in dressing rooms, closets, and linen containers.
Important! By design, dehumidifiers can be either mobile or stationary.
Tips for choosing a dehumidifier
Before buying a particular model, it is necessary to clarify its technical capabilities and operating principle.
You should pay attention to the following characteristics:
- Performance.This is the main and decisive parameter, calculated in liters - the volume of moisture collected by the device for a specific time period. Experts advise multiplying the volume of the room by 0.7. However, it is always better to choose a model with a reserve. A device that is too weak, even with constant operation, will not be able to cope with a task for which it is not designed. And if you buy a dehumidifier with excessive power, the energy consumption will be unreasonably high.
- Air exchange. This is the amount of air passing through the mechanism per unit time. So, it is necessary that the device passes air through itself at least four times per hour.
- Noise level. This indicator is especially important for residential and office premises. Choose an average value in the range of 0-45 dB so that the device does not interfere with work and rest.
- Volume of the container for collecting condensate. It is necessary to estimate the approximate volume of water that will collect in the tank. After all, if there is a lot of it, and the reservoir is small, then you will have to be distracted often and drain the liquid.
- Size, weight and installation method. These indicators will depend on power and performance. In most cases, devices for home use are lightweight, compact, and easily attached to the wall.
- Additional functions. Pay attention to the presence of replaceable filters, auto-restart, air cleaning, tank full indication and other functions.
Reference! Manufacturers offer a large selection of devices in color and design. The product can fit perfectly into the interior of the room.
Modern dehumidifiers can solve many problems associated with excess humidity. After all, it is better to take care of the safety of your property and health in advance.