Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Dehumidifier

Portable dehumidifiers are valuable appliances that help maintain a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment. They work wonders in reducing excess moisture, preventing mold and mildew growth, and alleviating allergies. However, like any other appliance, using a room dehumidifier correctly is crucial to ensure it does its job effectively. In this article, we'll explore some common mistakes to avoid when using a portable whole house dehumidifier.

Choosing the Wrong Size

One of the most common mistakes people make when using a portable dehumidifier is selecting the wrong size for their space. It's important to choose a unit that is appropriately sized for the room you intend to dehumidify, such as a dehumidifier for basement. A dehumidifier's capacity is measured in pints of water removed per day. If you pick a unit that's too small for your room, it won't effectively reduce humidity levels fast enough. Conversely, an oversized unit might turn on and off frequently, wasting energy. To avoid this, measure your room's square footage and choose a dehumidifier with the appropriate capacity. 

Poor Placement

Where you place your dehumidifier can significantly impact its performance. Placing it in a corner or near walls and obstructions can restrict airflow, reducing its efficiency. Instead, position it in the center of the room to allow for better circulation. Most dehumidifiers have caster wheels and handles, making it easy to move them around for optimal placement.

Setting Incorrect Humidity Levels

Setting the dehumidifier to the wrong humidity level can be counterproductive. Too low a setting can make the air excessively dry and uncomfortable, while too high a setting won't effectively combat humidity-related issues. 

Ignoring Drainage Options

Many portable dehumidifiers offer various drainage options, such as a water bucket or continuous drainage using a hose or included drain tube. Neglecting these options can result in the inconvenience of frequently emptying the bucket or possibly worrying about overflow (when the tank is full and the unit is moved or does not have an accurate condensation cut-off mechanism). If your dehumidifier has a hose connection, consider using it to enjoy hassle-free, continuous drainage. Honeywell dehumidifiers typically come with a drainage hose connection, allowing for hassle-free continuous drainage, especially in damp or humid conditions.

Overlooking Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a critical consideration when choosing a dehumidifier because you may run the unit on for several hours at a time, to be able to pull out the moisture from your room, furniture, and curtains. Neglecting this can result in higher electricity bills and a more negative environmental impact. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified dehumidifiers that have the additional ENERGY STAR MOST EFFICIENT certification which indicates that the brand or model has passed some of ENERGY STAR’s most strict efficiency standards. 

Neglecting Maintenance

Like any other appliance, air dehumidifiers require regular maintenance. Neglecting to clean or replace the filter, empty the water bucket, or maintain the coils can lead to decreased performance and potential breakdowns. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations. Typically, dehumidifiers have washable filters and clear indicators for water levels, making maintenance a breeze.

Benefits of Choosing Honeywell Dehumidifiers

Now that we've discussed common mistakes to avoid when using a portable dehumidifier, let's highlight some of the benefits of choosing Honeywell, as a recommended dehumidifier:

Proven Quality: When you choose a Honeywell dehumidifier, you can be confident in its performance and durability. Manufactured with 11-stage safety and quality testing, they are protected from overheating for added endurance.

Energy Efficiency: Honeywell Dehumidifiers are ENERGY STAR MOST EFFICIENT certified, so you don’t have to look far to get one of the most energy-saving dehumidifiers available on the market.

Ease of Use: Honeywell dehumidifiers are designed with user-friendly features, including digital controls, easy-to-clean filters, and multiple drainage options, making them convenient for everyday use.

Versatility: You can choose from a wide range of dehumidifiers with different capacities and added features to suit various room sizes and humidity levels, ensuring you find the right fit for your specific needs.

Conclusion

Portable dehumidifiers are fantastic tools for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. However, to make the most of these appliances, it's essential to avoid common mistakes like choosing the wrong size, improper placement, neglecting maintenance, setting incorrect humidity levels, and ignoring drainage options. By using your dehumidifier correctly, you can ensure a more comfortable and healthier living space, free from excess moisture, mold, and mildew.