Fall, winter, summer, what’s the best setting for your dehumidifier in your basement?
Always keep the humidity level in your basement in the recommended 30-50% relative humidity range.
If you find that the relative humidity levels are already in the 30-50% range, you don’t need to use your dehumidifier in your basement.
Below you’ll find how to set your dehumidifier in your basement, how to set your dehumidifier in any season and where to place your dehumidifier.
Let’s get started.
What To Set Your Dehumidifier in Basement in Summer?
The optimal relative humidity level for indoors is between 30-50%.
During the summer, you want to set your dehumidifier in your basement to at least 50% humidity.
If you spend time in your basement, then you’ll want to set your dehumidifier on the lower end to around 30% relative humidity so that your basement feels more comfortable.
If you only use a dehumidifier to reduce any damage to your belongings in storage, then around 50% should be enough.
You’ll find that using a dehumidifier in your basement will allow you to reduce dust mites, and condensation and keep you from overheating.
Remember to close the windows and doors in your basement so your dehumidifier can work optimally.
What to Set Your Dehumidifier in Basement in Winter?
During the winter, you should not need to turn your dehumidifier as in most places, you only have dry air.
In tropical climates where the relative humidity levels outside are high and increase the humidity level in your basement during winter, you may want to consider using a dehumidifier.
If you feel that the humidity is high in your basement, then measure the humidity levels before using your dehumidifier during the winter.
If the relative humidity levels are above 50%, then turn on your dehumidifier, if it’s below, then no need to waste electricity.
In rare cases, you may find that the warm air from your furnace condenses once it hits the cold floor of your basement. In this case, it’s advised to use a dehumidifier.
What to Set Your Dehumidifier in Basement in Fall?
During the fall, you may not need to use your dehumidifier in your basement.
If you live in a hotter climate with higher than normal humidity levels, you may need to use a dehumidifier.
The best way to measure the basement humidity in the air is with a hygrometer. Hygrometers are an easy-to-use device that will give you confirmation if dehumidifier use is necessary for your basement in the fall.
The numbers on your dehumidifier reflect your humidity level setting, so ensure you’ve set it correctly.
Where to Place the Dehumidifier in a Basement?
The best place to put a dehumidifier in your basement is near the source of moisture.
If you have leaks or a flood that you’re trying to dehumidify, then place the dehumidifier nearby so it can work effectively.
If you have high relative humidity all around your dehumidifier, then place it near the center of the room.
It’s best to keep your dehumidifier on the floor rather than raised and your dehumidifier must have ample room to exhaust.
Your dehumidifier brings in hot air to remove moisture, and if the vents are blocked then it will overheat and malfunction.
What Should the Humidity Be in a Basement During the Summer?
Without proper ventilation in your basement, you may suffer from high humidity.
Anything over 50% humidity can be harmful to your belongings and your health.
If you find that the humidity level is higher than 50% in your basement, you are at risk of mold growth, mildew, condensation, and even dehydration and overheating.
You may find that a dehumidifier is not enough in your basement if you are dealing with air leakage. A
ir leakage is when air leaks through the foundation, walls, or openings in an uncontrolled way.
If you find that your dehumidifier can’t keep up in your basement, you’ll need to seal off any leaks that you find.
The best way to remove humidity in your basement is by either using a window air conditioner or a dehumidifier or preferably both.
Air conditioners naturally reduce the moisture level in the air, and a dehumidifier will be able to control even the most humid basements.
When to Use a Dehumidifier in Your Basement?
If you find that the moist air is bothersome or that the humidity levels rise during the summer to over 50% in your basement, then you should use a dehumidifier.
If you store personal belongings that are at risk of mold growth like clothes, shoes, or even food, then you’ll want to ensure that you curb the humidity levels to avoid any spoilage.
Electronics can also become damaged as condensation is a risk when the humidity is high.
Even during winter, you may find that condensation forms from the hot air hitting the cold surfaces in your basement.
If you find that moisture is becoming an issue, it’s a good time to start using a dehumidifier.
How to Set Up Your Dehumidifier in Your Basement
If your basement is extremely damp, then you’ll want to consider purchasing a dehumidifier with an internal condensate pump.
You can also purchase a condensate pump separately to remove the water from your basement.
While you can use a continuous drain, unless you have a floor drain in your basement, that water must go somewhere.
A dehumidifier with a pump will help pump the water in an upwards direction so you won’t have to empty your dehumidifier manually.
Ensure that your dehumidifier is near the source of moisture in your basement.
If you don’t have any particular spots that are giving off a musty smell or look wet, place the dehumidifier near the center of the room.
Set up your drain how you like, either with a condensate drain or a continuous drain into a larger water tank.
Set your dehumidifier to 30-50% humidity and monitor your dehumidifier to empty the tank throughout the day.
Most dehumidifiers will shut themselves off at your preferred humidity level, if yours doesn’t have intelligent sensors, then monitor the humidity levels and ensure it doesn’t go below 30%.
Final Thoughts
No matter what season it is, you’ll always want the humidity levels in your basement to be from 30-50%.
You may find during the winter that the humidity level is lower than 30%, which is a sign you may want to use a humidifier to bring it back to the proper level.
If you’re concerned with setting up your dehumidifier, buying the right one, or have any questions, you can call on our HVAC technicians to come to give you a hand.
They can help bring the indoor air quality up to a level that’s safe for you and your family.
