Excessive moisture can pose a serious threat to both your home and your health. Not only can dampness affect its structural integrity over time; it can also lead to widespread mold. This can lead to serious allergic and respiratory issues for your family members. Take steps to prevent this issue by installing a portable dehumidifier or hiring an HVAC contractor to install a whole-home model. Here are three ways to make the most of this valuable device.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Dehumidifier

1. Position It Appropriately

Location is key if you want to maximize your dehumidifier’s efficiency. If you’re using a portable device, it pays to situate it in an area that is especially humid and is appropriate to the size of your unit. You’ll need a larger unit to accommodate a spacious basement, which is likely prone to dampness. You might also consider placing your unit near poorly ventilated rooms that can experience steam buildup, like kitchens and bathrooms. If the entire house suffers from humidity, consider hiring an HVAC contractor to install a whole-home dehumidifier that provides more widespread results.

2. Empty It Regularly

Depending on the type of dehumidifier you have, you may need to occasionally empty the reservoir. Models installed by HVAC contractors are typically designed with pumps that push the water away. If your unit comes with a reservoir that must be emptied, make sure that you empty it after each use and before relocating it to another part of the house. This is the best way to ensure that it removes a sufficient amount of moisture from the air.

3. Vacuum Everything First

Before you turn on the dehumidifier, take the time to vacuum the home—especially the area where you plan to position the device. This will clear the area of any airborne contaminants that could clog your dehumidifier’s intake. Vacuuming the floors can will also reduce many of the surface contaminants that might otherwise infiltrate your indoor air.

4. Schedule AC Repairs

Is your air conditioner working properly? If it hasn’t been tuned up in a while, make sure that you have an HVAC contractor assess the system and resolve any AC repairs before it really heats up outside. Both the dehumidifier and the AC can work in tandem to improve the quality of your indoor air. Your dehumidifier removes moisture before it has a chance to infiltrate your home; this provides the air conditioner with a chance to efficiently cool your home instead of working to remove excessive moisture on its own.

Seeking a reliable HVAC contractor to tackle your AC and dehumidification concerns? Turn to the experts at Empire Heating & Air Conditioning in Rochester, NY. Offering more than 50 years of industry experience, the cooling and heating contractors can handle everything from AC repairs to installations. Visit them online for information, or call (585) 325-6768.