Alternative to a Basement Dehumidifer

Identification

• Dehumidifiers are machines designed to remove excess moisture from the air inside your home. Basements are typically high in humidity and are a common place homeowners use these machines. The Environmental Protection Agency states that indoor humidity levels should ideally be between 30 and 50 percent. Keeping humidity levels within the normal range can keep mold growth at bay and keeps your living area cool and comfortable. Dehumidifiers may help reduce moisture but can cause a few problems. The most common problem with dehumidifier use is mold growth in the event that a homeowner forgets to clean the filter and dump out the water collected inside the machine. Mold growth can cause adverse health effects such as sneezing, nasal congestion, skin rashes, wheezing and difficulty breathing. Growing mold can damage your home's structure, destroying the material it grows on over time.

Reducing Moisture

• Reducing moisture in and around your basement can eliminate the need for dehumidifiers. Placing a sheet of plastic over a dirt floor basement, reduces the amount of water vapor that seeps through the foundation, keeping humidity levels low. It's important that all water is directed away from your home; homes that have clogged gutters and downspouts allow water to run into the basement, increasing humidity. Ground that slopes toward your home can also cause excess moisture and high humidity; regrading the ground so that it slopes away from your home prevents moisture from reaching your home. Any water leaks in your roof or around windows should be repaired to keep water from standing in your basement.

Chemical Agents

• If moisture problems are not severe, chemical dehumidifying agents, or desiccants, may be an alternative to running a dehumidifier. These products work by absorbing moisture in the air. Desiccants are often effective in closed in areas such as basements or closets. Some chemical agents are dangerous to children and pets because they contain toxic materials that can cause illness if handled or ingested, so they should be used with care. If moisture is excessive, chemical dehumidifying agents are not usually an effective means of control.

Signs

• When you reduce indoor moisture and humidity in your basement, your whole house feels more comfortable and uses less energy during heating and cooling. Combining moisture control and chemical dehumidifying agents often works well to reduce moisture. Some signs your home has moisture problems are a musty or earthy smell and water spots on ceilings and walls. Homes with moisture problems typically feel damp much of the day. Mold growth is another sign that indoor humidity is too high and water leaks or condensation are a problem in your home.