How to Dehumidfy a Basement

A high humidity level in your basement is more than just uncomfortable. It encourages the development of mold and mildew, which leads to stains and odor. Unless you take steps to control the air moisture level in your basement, mold and mildew will spread, causing damage to other surfaces. You can make your basement more comfortable and prevent damage and unpleasant smells due to fungus growth by controlling the air moisture level. Simple techniques and supplies can help you dehumidify your basement.

Caulk
Caulking gun
Dehumidifier
Fan

Instructions

- 1
  Check around the basement window and door frames to ensure air from outside isn't seeping in through a crack or gap in the caulking.
- 2
  Use caulk in a disposable caulking tube and fill in any spaces found around windows or doors to prevent humidity from coming in.
- 3
  Keep windows and doors closed. Although it might seem like a good idea to have your windows open, this can increase the moisture in the air.
- 4
  Draw moisture out of the air with a dehumidifier. Set the dehumidifier between 50 and 65 percent for the best and most comfortable air moisture level.
- 5
  Check the vent hose attached to your dryer to ensure it's not loose where it vents outside. Moist heat seeping in through a loose hose connection can add a lot of humidity to the air in your basement.
- 6
  
  Improved air circulation helps dehumidify the basement.
  
  Turn on an oscillating fan in the basement for three to five hours per day to move the air around. Air circulation is important to preventing moisture from hanging in the air.

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