Basements are the most common location for dehumidifiers. Because of their low elevation and lack of air circulation, the air can moisten and stay moist for a long period of time. This causes mold and mildew to build up, which is not only an unpleasant smell, but also an unhealthy problem especially for people who have certain allergies.

Consider getting a dehumidifier. One of these units can wring all the moisture from the air in almost any size basement (although some larger basements might require two humidifiers.)

Choosing Your Dehumidifier

Some dehumidifiers feature a hygrometer, which measures room humidity. The hygrometer then sends a signal to the humidistat (also known as a hygrostat), which turns the compressor and fan on and off to regulate room humidity.

Dehumidifiers without a hygrometer and humidistat instead have manual humidity controls, which allow you to arbitrate how long the machine should stay on and off.

If you want a more precise humidity level with less effort, buy a dehumidifier that features a hygrometer and humidistat. If youre going for simplicity, choose a dehumidifier that has manual controls.

Operating Basement Dehumidifiers

Place your dehumidifier in the center of your basement, or where there is the most humidity. That way, youre removing humidity at its source. Aim the hot air discharge away from anything that is susceptible to excess heat, such as plants and paintings.

Set the controls the way you would like them. What humidity percentage do you want? Most people prefer about 45-percent. If the controls on your machine dont allow this, choose the middle setting to start out with. Adjust higher or lower as you become familiar with the settings.

When the reservoir bucket gets full, it will automatically shut off to prevent overflow. A light may come on. To empty the reservoir bucket, pull the bucket out of the unit, dump it out somewhere, and put it back in. When continually running the machine, you will have to empty it every one to three days.